Paul of Entertainment Nation joins us to give some expert advice on planning the live entertainment for your special day.
Are you currently in the throes of planning your dream wedding? If so, then you’re probably starting to think about the kind of music that you’d like throughout the day.
At Entertainment Nation, we specialise in booking the right acts for weddings of all different sizes, themes, and venues. We’re used to speaking with couples and listening to their questions, concerns and desires, before helping them reach a decision and hire that perfect fit.
One of the most common questions we get asked is:
"What parts of our day do we need live entertainment for?”
Silhouette of bride dancing on the dance floor.
Thinking about the parts of the day that you want to cater for with live entertainment is a really good place to start, but there’s no textbook answer. It really depends on your personal taste and how you see your day panning out. But here’s a run down of popular choices and recommendations.
The Ceremony – This bit is really important, what will work best for us? If you’re a bit of a traditionalist at heart and are looking forward to a full church service, there are a few options. A lot of couples choose to have an organist or a classical singer play as they walk down the aisle - this really makes the most of the beautiful acoustics in a church. Having the same musician performing again over the signing of the register and when you’re leaving the church can be a really nice touch.
If you want something less formal and a little more contemporary, maybe opt for an acoustic guitarist/vocalist to play you through your nuptials.
Drinks Reception – What to choose?
This largely depends on the ambience you’re hoping to create. If you’re getting married in a beautiful manor house in the height of summer, you could consider hiring a string quartet or a jazz trio to play on the lawn. These musicians create a sophisticated but relaxed soundtrack for the afternoon, while being easy to talk over.
An acoustic soloist or duo is a modern choice for couples who would like to hear well known songs played with a laid-back feel. Alternatively, a vintage themed band is popular at the moment, with vocalists performing pop and rock hits in a quirky vintage style.
Wedding Breakfast - Do I need live music?
The key word for this bit of your day is ‘atmosphere’. You need to make sure that your choice merely adds to your meal, without being overbearing.
Instead of live entertainment, you might want to compile a playlist of special songs, which means that the ballads that you really love can play a special part in the day without them killing the atmosphere later when it’s party time!
Evening Reception - The fun bit, we need something incredible! The serious bits are out of the way by now (apart from the first dance of course!) and it’s time to let your hair down, loosen the cravat and party with your nearest and dearest. Whatever you choose needs to have an impact!
The leading choice for most couples is to book a high energy party band who will play an immense selection of your favourite songs.
Keep in mind that the repertoire of party bands can vary. Lots play hits from different decades and genres so there is something for all guests to enjoy, whereas some have more specific setlists and focus on genres such as indie, rock, or modern pop. If you look around, you’ll find one perfect for you and your family and friends – most bands will be very clear about their genre and setlist, and if you book through a site like ours, we let you search specific genres to easily find the perfect fit.
If party bands don’t float your boat, you may want to consider hiring a swing band, a themed act such as an 80’s tribute, or a soul and Motown group. If these options seem a little too raucous for you, why not book an acoustic wedding band who will still play the songs you want to hear but with a little less of a ‘hard-hitting’ approach.
Something different:
Remember that this is your day, and you don’t need to play by the rules. If traditional is not your style, don't be afraid to think outside the box. We’ve had a lot of enquiries for beatboxers lately, and there’s also non-musical options like hiring a fire artist, a close-up magician or a caricaturist to entertain your guests throughout the night.
Most importantly, Have Fun! Don’t let the entertainment booking process be a stressful one. There’s so much that you have to plan, and entertainment can be a fun decision!
Try and enjoy listening to the preview videos of the bands or acts available, there’s some great talent out there! And if you do need a hand, come to the site for a browse, or even give us a shout. We’d be happy to chat over your budget and suitable options anytime.
Good luck with the planning, and many congratulations! Website: http://www.entertainment-nation.co.uk
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