Booking a wedding band is a significant investment. The right questions help you avoid disappointment and find a band that genuinely fits your wedding. These are the questions we wish every couple would ask — and the answers that should reassure you.
1Are the musicians I see in videos the same ones who'll play my wedding?
Some agencies use different lineups for different bookings. Make sure the people you're evaluating are the people who'll show up.
2How long have you been playing together as a band?
Chemistry matters. A band that's played together for years will be tighter than a group of session musicians assembled for your wedding.
3How many weddings have you played?
Experience at weddings specifically matters. A great covers band that's never done a wedding won't know the flow, the timing, or how to work with a venue coordinator.
4Can I see you perform live before booking?
Videos can be misleading. A live showcase or public gig gives you the real picture. Be wary of bands that don't offer this.
Red Flags
- "Our lineup varies depending on availability"
- No opportunity to see them live
- Reluctance to share recent, unedited videos
- No verifiable reviews from the past year
5Have you played at my venue before?
Venue experience means they know the space, the acoustics, load-in requirements, and often have relationships with venue staff.
6What time do you arrive and how long is setup?
Most professional bands need 60-90 minutes to set up. Make sure this fits your venue's timeline and won't disrupt your drinks reception.
7Do you bring your own sound and lighting?
Professional bands bring everything they need. You shouldn't have to arrange or pay for additional equipment.
8Do you have public liability insurance?
Most venues require this. A professional band will have it and can provide documentation.
9What do you need from the venue?
Typically just power outlets and a clear performance area. Bands that require elaborate provisions may cause complications.
10Can I see your song list?
You should know what songs they can play. A varied repertoire (100+ songs) covering multiple decades suggests versatility.
11Will you learn a special song for our first dance?
Most bands will learn one or two songs with enough notice (usually 4-6 weeks). Some charge extra, some include it.
12Can we give you a "do not play" list?
You should be able to veto songs you hate. A professional band will respect this and have plenty of alternatives.
13How do you handle requests on the night?
Good bands take requests but use judgment about what fits the moment. They shouldn't just play whatever anyone shouts.
Good Signs
- They ask about your music taste before you ask them
- They're happy to learn a first dance song at no extra charge
- They have a clear, extensive song list they share readily
- They explain how they read the room and adapt the setlist
14What exactly is included in the price?
Clarify: How many sets? How long? Is DJ service included? What about travel? Meals? Overtime rates? Get everything in writing.
15What's your deposit and payment schedule?
Standard is 25-50% deposit to secure the date, with the balance due before or on the day. Be wary of bands asking for 100% upfront.
16What's your cancellation policy?
Understand what happens if you need to cancel or postpone. Good bands had flexible policies during COVID and should still be reasonable.
17Do you have a written contract?
Always. A contract protects both parties. It should cover date, times, location, price, what's included, and cancellation terms.
18Who coordinates with the venue on the day?
You shouldn't have to manage your band. They should liaise directly with your venue coordinator or wedding planner.
19How do you dress?
Most bands wear smart/formal attire. If you have a theme or preference, ask if they can accommodate it.
20What happens if a band member is ill on the day?
Professional bands have contingency plans — trusted deps (substitute musicians) they can call on. Ask what theirs is.
Use This Checklist
Save this page or print it out to use when you're comparing bands. The answers will help you make a confident decision.
How We'd Answer These Questions
In case you're wondering how The Beat Boutique stacks up:
- Same four musicians every time — Pete, Steve, Carl, and Ben. No substitutes.
- 500+ weddings together — We know the flow, the timing, and how to read a room.
- Live showcases in Dublin — See us before you book, no obligation.
- 200+ song repertoire — From Ed Sheeran to The Dubliners to Dua Lipa.
- We learn first dance songs — Included in the price, just give us notice.
- Full insurance and contracts — Professional from start to finish.
- We coordinate directly with venues — You won't have to manage us.
Ask Us Anything
Got questions? Come to a showcase and chat with us afterwards, or just get in touch. We're happy to answer everything on this list and more.
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