Wedding entertainment isn’t just about the evening party. From the moment guests arrive to the last song of the night, the right music and acts set the mood for the whole day. Here’s how to choose – and whether you need a band, a DJ or both.
Start with the shape of your day
Most UK weddings have four entertainment moments. You don’t need something for every one, but it helps to think them through:
- The ceremony – walking down the aisle, signing the register and the recessional. A string quartet, harpist, pianist or classical singer works beautifully.
- The drinks reception – usually 60–90 minutes while photos are taken. Relaxed acoustic music, a saxophonist or a close-up magician keeps guests entertained.
- The wedding breakfast – background music during the meal, or a wedding comedian to break the ice before the speeches.
- The evening party – the first dance and the dance floor. This is where the band-or-DJ decision comes in.
Band, DJ or both?
Why choose a live band
- Nothing beats the energy of live music – it turns a reception into an event.
- A good band reads the room and gets every generation dancing.
- It gives guests a “show” to watch as well as dance to.
The trade-offs: bands cost more, need more space and power, and play a set repertoire (though most will learn a special song for you).
Why choose a DJ
- Any song, any genre, exactly as you know it – including those requests from Auntie Sue.
- More budget-friendly, and easier to fit into smaller venues.
- A good wedding DJ also acts as an MC, keeping the evening running to time.
The trade-off: you lose the “wow” of live musicians, which is why many couples combine the two.
The best of both
The most popular option at our weddings is a band for the main evening sets, with a DJ or the band’s own playlist filling the breaks and taking the party through to the end of the night. Some bands offer a “DJ plus live” package, with a singer or sax player performing over DJ sets – a great middle ground on a tighter budget.
If you’re weighing up the cost, see our guide: How much does a wedding band cost in the UK?
Five questions to ask before you book
- What does my venue allow? Check for sound limiters, finish times, power supply and where the act will set up. Some venues have strict rules on volume.
- How many guests, and what ages? A mixed crowd usually wants a mix of classics and current hits.
- Can I see or hear them live? Ask for recent videos – not just a polished studio recording.
- Are they insured and PAT-tested? Most venues require public liability insurance and safety-tested equipment.
- What happens if they’re ill? A good agency will have a plan B, so your day isn’t left to chance.
Little extras that make a big difference
- Photo booths – a great icebreaker and a fun keepsake.
- Caricaturists – brilliant during the drinks reception.
- Light-up letters and dance floors – instant atmosphere, and great in photos.
A simple timeline
- 12–18 months before: book your evening band or DJ, especially for a summer Saturday.
- 9–12 months before: book ceremony and drinks reception musicians.
- 2–3 months before: confirm your first-dance song, set times and any special requests.
- 2–4 weeks before: share final timings, venue contact details and parking information with your acts.
Our free wedding checklist can help you keep track.
Let us put it together for you
With 20 years’ experience booking weddings across the UK, the Jokers team can plan your entertainment from the first note of the ceremony to the last dance. Browse our wedding entertainment, or send us your date and venue for free, no-obligation recommendations.
Or call us on 0208 016 9581 (Mon–Fri, 9am–5:30pm).