What songs will a wedding band perform?

Professional wedding bands usually have extensive song lists - they're experienced musicians and will cater the songs they play to fit the mood of the wedding reception party and whatever your playlist requirements were. A wedding band's first priority is hitting the right tunes at the right time, getting your guests dancing, and making sure the evening is unforgettable. Unlike a pre-organised Spotify playlist, wedding bands will 'read the room', providing the right musical atmosphere to suit the moment. Make sure you tell the band the song you'd like them to play for the first dance well in advance - they might already know it, but best not to risk it!

When should I get the band to perform?

After the wedding dinner is usually your best bet. The band will normally set-up during dinner, and be ready to start the party when you are. If you're after something low-key, getting the band to play background music is not unheard of, just simply let them know beforehand.

Will the wedding band provide all their own equipment?

Wedding bands will come well-prepared with all their own equipment: lights, PA system, music gear, and sometimes even a sound assistant! To give them a break between their sets, they will also often provide a DJ service, which will keep the guests happy and the dancefloor moving and grooving.

How to Wedding on a Budget Check List [2023] – Best Live Wedding Bands & Musicians in Los Angeles, CA

So I guess you’re wondering who pays for what, right?

Traditionally the brides family pays for the whole shebang. Today, however, it’s common for the groom’s family to contribute as well, or for the couple to fund the wedding on their own.

Though your families may elect to help you out, they are in no way obligated to do so. When your engagement is announced, have that conversation with your family and your future in-laws so you can budget accordingly.

To keep from breaking the bank (after all, who wants to start a marriage tens of thousands of dollars in debt?), make sure you and your partner agree on your priorities before committing to anything. Building in a 5 percent cushion just in case will also save your sanity when the actual costs inevitably come in a little higher than expected.

Expect to spend about half of your budget on the reception (including the venue and catering) and about ten percent each on clothes, flowers, entertainment and photography, with the remainder going toward invitations, wedding rings, transportation and gifts.

The average couple spends somewhere around $25,000 on their wedding, even before factoring in the engagement ring or honeymoon.

Whether you’re planning an intimate wedding or a more lavish affair, one of your first steps in planning your wedding should be to set up and stick to a basic budget.

Here are some expenses to consider:

WEDDING ATTIRE

Bridal Gown
Headpiece, Veil
Undergarments
Accessories
Shoes
Groomâ€™s Apparel
Attendantâ€™s Outfits
Wedding Rings

CEREMONY

Church/Site Rental
Officiant Fee
Marriage License

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS

Attendantsâ€™ Gifts
Transportation
Rehearsal Dinner
Honeymoon
Hotel Accommodations

STATIONERY

Invitations
Announcements
Reply Cards
Thank You Notes
Mailing Cost

FLOWERS

At Ceremony
Bridal Bouquet
Attendants
Parents
At Reception

RECEPTION

Hall/Site Rental
Food
Beverages
Music/Entertainment
Wedding Cake
Rentals
Gratuities

PHOTOGRAPHY / VIDEOGRAPHY

Engagement
Wedding Ceremony
Reception