With so many wedding music options available, finding the most memorable live band for your wedding can quickly become challenging. Your choice of music will not only impact the mood of your guests but will also be ingrained in your memories of your special day, so of course you want it to be perfect. Here, we break down two of our top music choices for your dream day.

Jazz Bands

Hiring a live wedding band is often preferred over someone playing recorded songs. Not only does it add a personal and intimate touch to the atmosphere of your day, but it also brings about a certain upbeat energy that a playlist simply can’t match – particularly if you choose a genre that’s known to be rhythmic and improvisational, like jazz.

Get inspired by artists like Count Basie, Bill Withers, Miles Davis and Stan Getz.

If you’d like to create a jovial atmosphere, then a jazz band is the only way to go. Not only is jazz music innovative and versatile, but it’ll create an inescapable ambience that will have your guests partying all night long. With their ensemble of bass drums, piano, clarinet, trumpets, and other instruments, the evening will be both vibrant and lively.

A jazz band is also a great option if you’re hoping to plan an elegant, classy celebration. There’s no need to worry about your musicians following your black-tie dress code – jazz musicians tend to wear suits during their performances. Just make sure to equip your band with a list of your favourite songs  prior to the big day and you’re guaranteed an enjoyable performance.

Swing Bands

Swing music is loved by many due to its timeless nature. However, couples are often scared to book a live swing band because they’re worried people won’t know how to dance to it. So, when enquiring about booking a band, make sure you choose one that knows how to encourage your guests onto the dance floor.

There’s so much swing music out there that’s accessible and easy to dance to – whether you’re familiar with the genre or not. Whether it’s jive music from the 50s and 60s with its incredible energy and rhythm, or the Charleston groove from the 20s, your guests can simply move along to the music at a pace that suits them – after all, the 20s were all about freedom of expression.

Top Tops To Get The Most Out Of Your Wedding Music

Whether you choose a band through the suggestion of a friend or family member or find them on the internet, it’s key that the musician is experienced in playing the style you want, so that you can simply relax and enjoy on your special day.

When choosing any band, you should consider the following:

1. Experience: A track record of previous performances, reputation, and background.
2. Cost: What are the band's standard fees?
3. Demo: Listen to a video recording or demo CD to get a better idea of their live gigs.
4. Reviews: Read feedback and testimonials on social media sites to better understand the band’s reputation.
5. Know your venue: Especially with a jazz band, where there are multiple members, ensure your venue has space for them all to set up, and let the band know if there are any unusual access requirements, e.g. stairs that they’ll need to carry their equipment up. Giving them plenty of notice is the best way to ensure a smooth day.

Jazz and swing bands are two of the most popular choices for wedding music – but, there are plenty of other genres to choose from too. Make sure to do plenty of research into some of the musical acts on offer at the time of your wedding. With plenty of prior notice, your chosen act may be able to perform multiple genres or cover some of your favourite songs in a different style.

If you need any more advice, do turn to the experienced and friendly team at Berwick Lodge. Georgia, our wonderful coordinator, has her little black book of the very best suppliers and can share her knowledge and thoughts with you!