How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Live Wedding Band?

When planning your wedding, few decisions will shape the atmosphere of the day quite like your choice of entertainment. Music is more than just a background element,  it’s the heartbeat of your celebration, setting the tone from the very first note as your guests arrive, right through to the final encore on the dance floor.

It’s no surprise that one of the first questions couples ask is: “How much does it actually cost to hire a wedding band?”

The answer depends on a few factors.  The size of the band, their style, where they’re travelling from, and the kind of experience you’re hoping to create. At Tailored Entertainment, we work with acts across every genre, from acoustic soloists to full luxury showbands, so we’re in a great position to give you an honest, up-to-date guide to what you should expect to budget.

Why Invest in a Professional Wedding Band?

We know that couples are often surprised at the cost of live music. It’s tempting to compare a professional act to a local bar band or a group of friends who’ll play for free. But your wedding deserves something different.

When you book through Tailored Entertainment, you’re not just paying for music you’re paying for professionalism, reliability, and peace of mind. That means:

• Expert musicians who perform week-in, week-out at weddings and events.
• Top-tier equipment with full PAT testing and public liability insurance.
• A DJ playlist service included, keeping the party going between live sets.
• A dedicated booking team and backup musicians to cover every eventuality.

It’s the difference between a fun jam session and a flawless evening of entertainment that you (and your guests) will remember for years.

Guide Prices for Live Wedding Entertainment

Here’s what you can expect to budget in 2025 for different types of wedding acts:

• Soloists – from £300
  Perfect for ceremonies or background music during drinks receptions.
  
  
• Duos – from £500
  Small but versatile, duos offer beautiful harmonies or stripped-back versions of your favourite songs.
  
  
• Standard 3–4 Piece Wedding Bands – from £1,250
  The classic wedding line-up: two live sets, full sound & lighting, and a DJ playlist until the end of the night.
  
  
• Alternative & Festival-Style Bands – from £1,000
  Indie, pop-punk, and festival-inspired acts that bring a more unique energy.
  
  
• '80s Theme Bands – from £1,000
  A nostalgic throwback with singalongs guaranteed to fill the floor.
  
  
• UK Garage Bands – from £1,500
  For couples looking to bring an old-school flavour to their big night.
  
  
• Showbands – from £1,500
  Larger line-ups for big, high-energy performances.
  
  
• Brass Bands – from £1,500
  Perfect for festival vibes or outdoor summer weddings.
  
  
• Luxury Wedding Bands – from £3,000+
  Designed for high-end weddings and large-scale events, complete with expanded line-ups, bespoke setlists, and enhanced production.

Quick Comparison Table

What’s Included in the Price?

Most bands booked through Tailored Entertainment include:

• Live performance – usually 2 × 60 minutes or 3 × 40 minutes.
• Full production – professional PA system and lighting.
• DJ service – a playlist before and after live sets to keep the dance floor full.
• Support team – a dedicated booking coordinator to guide you through the process.

You can also add extras such as acoustic roaming sets, ceremony music, or late finishes to make the entertainment fit your plans perfectly.

Tips for Choosing Your Perfect Wedding Band

Finding the right wedding band isn’t just about budget — it’s about matching the music to your unique style, venue, and guestlist. Here are seven key tips to help you make the perfect choice:

• Think About Your Guestlist
  Your band needs to appeal to a wide age range. While you might love indie rock or 2000s R&B, remember you’ll want your older guests dancing too. Many bands can strike a balance with setlists that mix eras and genres.
  
  
• Match the Band to Your Venue
  A grand ballroom will suit a luxury showband with brass and multiple singers, but a rustic barn may be better with an acoustic folk band or festival-style act. Always check with your venue about space, sound limiters, and load-in access before booking.
  
  
• Decide What Atmosphere You Want
  Do you want a chic and glamorous event with a soulful soundtrack? Or a wild, festival-inspired night under the stars? Pinpoint the vibe first, the music will follow.
  
  
• Check Out Videos & Reviews
  Our artist pages all include high-quality live videos and verified testimonials. Watching the band in action is the best way to picture them at your wedding.
  
  
• Look at Their Social Media
  Promo videos show a polished side, but social media often captures the real magic. Bands post clips from actual weddings, behind-the-scenes rehearsal footage, and live crowd reactions. This gives you a sense of their consistency, energy, and how they connect with audiences week in, week out.
  
  
• Consider the Extras
  Many acts offer upgrades like acoustic sets for your ceremony, sax-and-DJ combos for after-parties, or roaming bands that play amongst your guests. These add-ons can elevate the whole day’s soundtrack and make the entertainment feel seamless from start to finish.
  
  
• Book Early
  Our most in-demand acts often book up 12–18 months in advance especially for summer Saturdays. As soon as you’ve secured your venue, lock in your entertainment to avoid disappointment.

Wedding Band FAQs

Final Thoughts

Your wedding entertainment is one of the best investments you’ll make for your big day. Whether it’s a soulful soloist for your ceremony, a fun festival-style band for your reception, or a dazzling showband to blow your guests away, Tailored Entertainment has an act to suit every taste and budget.

Explore our full roster of wedding bands, and let us help you find the perfect soundtrack to your celebration.