TOP 10 Wedding Band Questions (2025)

1. Is the Band Available?

Checking Availability Early

Before you get your heart set on a band, it’s essential to check if they’re available on your wedding date. Popular bands are often booked well in advance, especially for summer weddings. It’s a good idea to have a few potential dates in mind and contact the bands you’re interested in as early as possible.

How to Secure Your Preferred Band

Once you find a band you like, don’t hesitate to reach out. Ask about their availability and be prepared to discuss potential dates. This step is crucial because bands often book out quickly, particularly those with stellar reputations.

2. How Much Do They Charge?

Understanding Pricing

The cost of hiring a wedding band in Ireland varies, but the average price is around €2500. However, this figure can fluctuate depending on the band’s experience, reputation, and the time of year. Some bands may charge more for peak dates or offer discounts for off-season weddings.

What’s Included in the Fee?

Make sure to clarify what’s included in the quoted price. Does it cover the entire evening’s entertainment, including setup and breakdown, or are there additional costs for travel, accommodation, or extended playing time?

3. Can I See the Band Live?

The Importance of a Live Performance

Seeing a band live is one of the best ways to assess their performance style and how they engage with the audience. Some bands regularly play pub gigs or offer showcase events where you can see them in action. If attending a live event isn’t possible, many bands have live footage available online.

Why Some Bands Don’t Do Showcases

While showcases are common, not all bands offer them. Some bands, especially those that specialize in weddings, may prefer to avoid them because they believe the lack of atmosphere at a showcase doesn’t accurately represent the energy they bring to a wedding.

4. Is It the Same Lineup Every Night?

Consistency Matters

When you see a band online or at a showcase, you want to be sure that the same musicians will be the ones performing at your wedding. Some bands have multiple lineups or use substitute musicians, so it’s important to confirm that the exact lineup you’re booking will be the one that shows up on your big day.

How to Ensure Lineup Consistency

Ask the band directly about their lineup. Ensure that the musicians you see or hear in videos are the ones who will be playing at your wedding. This can help avoid any last-minute surprises.

5. How Do I Secure the Date?

Booking Your Band

To secure your wedding date with a band, you’ll typically need to pay a booking fee. This fee is usually about 10% of the total cost and is deducted from your final balance. Keep in mind that this fee is often non-refundable, as the band will close off that date to other couples.

Understanding the Booking Process

Make sure to ask about the booking process and any important deadlines. Some bands may also require a signed contract to finalize the booking. This contract will detail the terms of the agreement, including payment schedules and cancellation policies.

6. Can You Send Me a Setlist?

The Role of a Setlist

Most wedding bands will have a setlist available on their website or upon request. This list will give you an idea of the songs they typically play, ranging from classic hits to modern chart-toppers. However, some bands prefer to tailor their setlist to the crowd on the night, ensuring the dance floor stays packed.

Why It’s Best to Trust the Band

While it’s natural to want input on the music, it’s often best to trust the band to do what they do best. Experienced wedding bands know how to read a room and select songs that will keep everyone entertained.

7. What Time Will Our First Dance Be At?

Typical Wedding Day Timelines

Timing is everything when it comes to weddings, and knowing when certain events will happen can help the day run smoothly. Here’s a rough timeline for a typical Irish wedding:

Meal Starts: 5:30 PM
Band Arrival: Between 7:30 PM and 8:00 PM
Meal and Speeches End: 8:30 PM
First Dance: Approximately 9:30 PM
Evening Food: Around 10:45 PM to 11:00 PM
Band Hands Over to DJ: 12:30 AM
Disco Until: 2:00 AM

Adjusting the Schedule

Every wedding is different, so it’s important to discuss the timeline with your band and venue. They can help you fine-tune the schedule to ensure everything flows seamlessly.

8. Our Venue Said You Have to Use Their In-House PA System?

In-House PA Systems: Pros and Cons

Some venues insist that you use their in-house PA system. While this might seem convenient, it can lead to issues. Most bands are more comfortable using their own equipment because it’s tailored to their sound and performance style.

Why Bands Prefer Their Own Equipment

Using their own PA system allows the band to control the sound quality, ensuring it’s perfectly tuned for your venue. Additionally, setting up and sound-checking can be done more efficiently with familiar equipment, reducing the risk of technical glitches during your wedding.

9. Can You Learn Our First Dance?

Personalizing Your First Dance

Your first dance is a special moment, and many couples want a particular song that holds meaning for them. Most wedding bands are happy to learn a new song for your first dance, provided you give them enough notice—typically around two months.

How to Make a Request

When making your request, provide the band with all the details, including the version of the song you prefer. This gives them plenty of time to perfect it and ensure it sounds exactly as you envisioned.

10. What Time Should the Evening Food Be?

Timing the Evening Buffet

Evening food is a great way to keep your guests energized and ready to dance the night away. The ideal time for the evening buffet is usually about an hour to an hour and 15 minutes after the band starts playing.

Why Timing Matters

Serving food at the right time keeps the party atmosphere alive and gives guests a chance to refuel without missing out on the dancing. It’s always a good idea to coordinate with both your caterer and band to find the perfect timing.

Conclusion

Choosing the right wedding band is a key element in creating an unforgettable wedding day. By asking the right questions and understanding what to expect, you can ensure that your band will keep the dance floor packed and your guests entertained all night long. Remember, the best bands get booked early, so start your search as soon as possible and trust in their expertise to make your wedding day truly magical.

FAQs

1. How far in advance should I book a wedding band?
It’s recommended to book your wedding band at least 12 to 18 months in advance, especially if your wedding falls on a popular date.

2. Can a wedding band also provide DJ services?
Yes, many wedding bands offer DJ services as part of their package or as an add-on, allowing for a seamless transition from live music to a DJ set.

3. What if the band I want is already booked?
If your preferred band is unavailable, ask them for recommendations. Many bands have networks with other reputable musicians who may be available.

4. Do I need to provide meals for the band?
It’s not expected that you supply a meal for your wedding band in Ireland

5. Can I customize the band’s setlist?
While you can suggest a few must-play songs, it’s generally best to trust the band to choose the right music to keep your guests dancing.