top of page

How much are Wedding Music Bands?

Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and you want every aspect of it to be perfect, including the music. One of the crucial decisions you'll face during your wedding planning is how much to budget for a wedding music band. In this article, we'll explore the cost of wedding music bands in the UK, how much you should budget for wedding music, and whether a wedding band or a DJ is more expensive.

 

How Much is a Wedding Music Band in the UK?

 

The cost of hiring a wedding music band in the UK can vary widely based on several factors, including the band's popularity, location, and the duration of their performance. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from £2,000 to £6,000 or more for a wedding music band.

​

Factors Affecting the Cost of a Wedding Band:

  1. Band's Reputation: Well-known and highly-rated bands may charge more for their services due to their reputation and demand.

  2. Number of Band Members: Larger bands with more members generally charge higher fees than smaller ones.

  3. Performance Duration: The length of time you want the band to perform, whether it's just for the reception or for the entire day, will affect the cost.

  4. Day of the Week: Weekend weddings are often more expensive than weekday weddings.

  5. Location: The cost of living and the overall market in your specific region can influence pricing.

  6. Additional Services: Some bands offer additional services like lighting, sound equipment, and MC services, which can add to the cost.

  7. Travel Expenses: If your wedding venue is far from the band's location, you may need to cover their travel expenses, which can increase the total cost.

It's essential to research and get quotes from multiple bands to find one that fits your budget and matches your musical preferences.

 

How Much Should You Spend on Music for a Wedding?

 

Determining how much to spend on music for your wedding depends on your overall budget and priorities. On average, couples allocate around 5% to 10% of their total wedding budget to music, including both ceremony and reception. 

​

Here's a rough breakdown of where your music budget can go:

  • Wedding Ceremony: If you want live music during your ceremony, budget for a solo musician or a small ensemble. This can cost between £200 to £800 or more, depending on the musician's experience and location.

  • Reception: The majority of your music budget will likely go towards the reception. As mentioned earlier, wedding bands in the UK can range from £2,000 to £6,000 or more. DJs are generally less expensive, with fees typically ranging from £500 to £1,500.

  • Additional Services: If you require extra services like lighting, sound equipment, or an MC, be sure to include these in your budget.

Remember that these are average figures, and your actual costs will vary based on your specific needs and preferences.

 

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Band in the UK?

 

The cost of hiring a band in the UK can vary greatly, as mentioned earlier. To provide a more specific idea, here's a rough breakdown based on band size:

  • Solo Musician or Small Ensemble: £200 to £800+

  • 3-Piece to 5-Piece Band: £1,000 to £4,000+

  • 6-Piece or Larger Band: £4,000 to £6,000+

Again, these figures are approximate, and you should obtain quotes from bands in your area to get a more accurate estimate.

 

Is a Wedding Band or DJ More Expensive?

 

The choice between a wedding band and a DJ often comes down to personal preference and budget. Generally, wedding bands are more expensive than DJs in the UK.

 

Pros of Hiring a Wedding Band:

  • Live, energetic performance

  • Personalised music selection

  • Interactive entertainment

 

Cons of Hiring a Wedding Band:

  • Higher cost

  • More specialised repertoire compared to a DJ's almost endless song library

 

Pros of Hiring a DJ:

  • More budget-friendly

  • Wide selection of songs

  • Continuous music without breaks

  • Genres that some bands can't play live

 

Cons of Hiring a DJ:

  • Lack of live performance energy

  • Limited interaction with guests

 

Ultimately, the decision should align with your vision for the wedding. If you prioritise a live music experience and can allocate a larger portion of your budget, a wedding band might be the right choice. However, if budget constraints are a concern, a DJ can still provide a great musical experience at a lower cost.

 

In conclusion, the cost of hiring a wedding music band in the UK can vary significantly depending on various factors. It's essential to budget wisely, considering your overall wedding budget, and obtain quotes from multiple bands to find one that meets your musical preferences and financial considerations. Whether you choose a wedding band or a DJ, both can create a memorable and enjoyable musical backdrop for your special day.

Every website has a story, and your visitors want to hear yours. This space is a great opportunity to give a full background on who you are, what your team does and what your site has to offer. Double click on the text box to start editing your content and make sure to add all the relevant details you want site visitors to know.

If you’re a business, talk about how you started and share your professional journey. Explain your core values, your commitment to customers and how you stand out from the crowd. Add a photo, gallery or video for even more engagement.

bottom of page