A super informative and helpful article by our friends at Entertainment Nation

The simple answer is: yes, you can! There is a little more to it than that though, so read on and we’ll fill you in on everything you need to know about planning live music at your micro wedding.

We’ve all had enough of lockdowns and social distancing and want to get back to times that are precedented… but we’re not quite there yet. That’s fine though, because carefully planned micro weddings are the perfect, intimate way to bypass the delays and get married (at last!). And there’s nothing to stop you having a bigger celebration after all this is over!

What do I need to know about hiring a band for a smaller wedding?

To give you the lowdown on planning your micro-wedding entertainment, we spoke to one of the resident experts at Entertainment Nation: Kelly. Kelly has helped hundreds of couples throughout the turbulence of the past 12 months (thanks to everyone for the patience and understanding), so she knows a thing or two about arranging a band in the current circumstances. Over to Kelly!

“Practical advice would be that couples need to consider everyone’s safety. They should make sure there is enough space so that social distancing can be practiced and there can be at least two or three metres between the act and the guests.

“Couples should also be aware of any rules that the venue has, as we find that venues differ in how they interpret the guidelines. Also, it’s worth bookmarking the government’s current guidance on weddings, which is regularly updated here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-for-small-marriages-and-civil-partnerships/covid-19-guidance-for-small-marriages-and-civil-partnerships

“While looking at potential acts don’t discount anyone. After the year we’ve had, bands have had to get creative to keep doing what they love. If you see a band you like, even if it’s a 10-piece Soul and Motown show band, they can be flexible, offering reduced line-ups and more laid-back acoustic sets, so get in touch to find out what the band can offer.

“Finally, make sure that you read reviews of your chosen act or agency before booking. You’ll want to work with suppliers who offer flexibility in case things need to be rearranged (again). If you need any advice, the team and I over at Entertainment Nation are always happy to help.”

What styles of wedding band work best at micro weddings?

Smaller, acoustic acts with less equipment tend to work best at micro weddings – singer-guitarists, saxophonists, strings. And as Kelly mentioned, most bands will be happy to tailor their line-up and instruments to suit your occasion, so if you watch a band and fall in love with a particular vocalist, for example, reach out and ask how the act can cater to your occasion.

Acoustic Singer-Guitarists, Duos and Trios

If there’s an ideal wedding band for your micro wedding, it’s an acoustic singer-guitarist, duo or trio. These acts possess the versatility to perform songs from almost any genre but won’t overwhelm in a smaller setting with fewer guests; instead, they’ll supply upbeat vibes that perfectly compliment the conversations of your nearest and dearest. They’re compact enough to fit in with most venues and are especially at home as outdoor wedding entertainment.

Saxophonists

We’re seeing a lot of demand for sax players for weddings of all sizes. The sax is an adaptable instrument, so whether you’re looking for a jazz accompaniment, soulful pop and rock covers, or Ibiza-inspired dance melodies, a saxophonist is a fine choice. Wedding sax players will often play along to professionally recorded backing tracks, giving you the best of both worlds: a textured sound from a single performer.

Strings

To amplify the emotion of your perfect moment, consider the beautiful harmonies of a string act. Whether performing the music of the maestros or string covers of modern music, these classically trained performers bring elegance and ensure a relaxed and romantic atmosphere. With little in the way of bulky equipment, a classical trio or quartet will fit right in at your intimate and sophisticated affair.

Where can I hire a band for my micro wedding?

The team over at Entertainment Nation have a wealth of experience in supplying entertainment for weddings of all sizes. Have a browse of the acts on offer and get in touch to discuss your precise requirements – Kelly and the team are on hand to help you find your perfect act.