How much does a wedding band cost to hire?

​

Spoiler alert: It's more than a Spotify subscription, but worth every penny!

​

​

So, you've got the ring on your finger and the big day on the horizon. Now, let's talk about the music that’s going to get your guests onto the dance floor...and keep them there! 

 

A live wedding band is the secret sauce to making your celebration unforgettable, but how much are you actually going to have to fork out for one in 2025?

​

NOTE: Before we get into this, there's something really worth remembering! You only get one shot at your wedding day and no-one has ever said "We had an amazing wedding day, because we saved SO much money!". Money will always come and go, but this is a day that you, your family and friends will remember for the rest of your lives! So make it the perfect day you've always dreamt of and have no regrets!

​

​

The Average Wedding Band Price.

​

In 2025, expect to pay somewhere between £1500 and £2000 for a regular wedding band in the UK. Of course, there are cheaper and there are more expensive options and the actual price will vary depending on factors like the size of the band, the time of year, travel costs and a few other details.

 

Usually, the popularity of the band will have a big factor on the price. If the band are getting booked 5 days a week, their price will be higher than a band who have more availability.

 

It’s basically like getting a custom-tailored suit—one that plays killer tunes instead of fitting your waistline. If you’re looking to maximise your entertainment budget, now’s the time to start thinking about how you’ll organize this part of the big day. Procrastination is not your friend here!

​

​

What You Get for Your Money.

Here’s the deal: The number of musicians in a band directly correlates to the cost. More band members = more mouths to feed (and more talent to pay). Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Solo Musician: £300 - £500+
  Perfect for an intimate gathering or if you’re working with a tight budget. You can get everything from a solo guitarist strumming a love song to a pro vocalist with a backing track. Many of these artists also offer packages to cover multiple moments throughout the day—ceremony, drinks reception, and beyond.

• Duos and Trios: £600 - £1000
  Want a little more flair without overloading your budget? A duo or trio could be your sweet spot. Plus, you can add extras like a sax player or percussionist to really step up the atmosphere.

• Full Band (4+ Members): £1300 - £1800
  This is where the party really starts to happen. More musicians means more energy, more variety, and, of course, a bigger price tag. But hey, you're investing in an unforgettable experience!

How to Get the Best Bang for Your Buck: Wedding Band Hacks

Looking to save a little cash? You’re in luck. Here’s how you can cut costs while still enjoying top-tier entertainment.

1. Smaller Line-Ups = Smaller Price Tags
   Sure, a 5-piece band might sound appealing, but a trio can deliver a fantastic performance and cost you significantly less. It's a win-win!

2. Package Deals Are Your Friend
   Many wedding bands offer combo packages that include ceremony music, acoustic sets, and DJ services. Booking everything from one band is often more cost-effective than hiring separate musicians for each part of the day.

3. Book Early... or Not
   If you're a planner (and who doesn’t want to be?), booking over a year in advance might lock in better rates. On the flip side, if you’re a risk-taker, last-minute bookings could score you a bargain. The early bird or the daring last-minute shopper? It’s up to you!

4. Choose a Local Act
   Want to avoid travel fees? Look for bands that are based locally. Local talent can save you money on transport costs and will have the added benefit of being more familiar with the venues in your area.

5. Off-Peak = On-Point Deals
   If your wedding is in the winter months (say, January to March) or on a weekday, you might find that wedding bands offer a nice discount. These off-peak times can be a goldmine for budget-conscious couples.

The Extras: Why Not Go All-In?

Got a bit more wiggle room in your budget? Consider these add-ons for an extra-special touch.

• Ceremony Music: £250+
  Set the mood with a solo guitarist, pianist, or duo. A little music during your vows can really elevate the emotional factor.

• Drinks Reception Music: £400+
  While your guests sip champagne, why not add an acoustic duo to keep the vibe chill and upbeat?

• DJ Service: £150+
  Many bands offer a DJ service alongside their live music. It's a cost-effective way to keep the party going with personalized song requests, and it'll probably save you money compared to booking a separate DJ.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Break the Bank, But Don’t Skimp on the Fun

So, how much will a wedding band really cost? The answer is: it depends. But now you’ve got the inside track on how to navigate the pricing maze. With a bit of savvy planning, you can snag an unforgettable band that suits your budget. And when your guests are dancing the night away, you’ll know it was all worth it.

Ready to start your search for the perfect wedding band? Dive into our impressive roster of talented bands—across every price range. And if you have any questions, feel free to drop us a line. The music is calling! 🎶