How to Negotiate for a Live Band at Your Wedding

Negotiating with a live band to play a wedding can help the new couple save some money. Listening to different bands perform live will help the couple decide which one to book. Having a second choice is important to contact if the couple cannot negotiate a good price with the first band of choice.

• Go over your wedding budget to determine how much you can spend on a live band. Make a list of the songs that you want the band to play at your wedding reception. Keep the list with you to give to a band when you meet to discuss the wedding music.


• Ask people you know for a live band recommendation, if you do not already have at least two choices in mind. Find out where you can listen to the bands play live. Check your schedule to make sure that you can attend the different performances.


• Listen to the live bands on your list and decide which one is your favorite. Approach the band’s manager or booking agent to discuss having them play at your wedding reception. Find out how much the band charges for a wedding to determine if the cost is within your price range.


• Verify that the band is available to play on the day of your wedding. Negotiate the price with the band if there are no scheduling conflicts. Make a low offer to see how the band’s representative reacts. If you do not at least get a counteroffer from the representative, consider approaching a different band.


• Repeat the negotiation process with the other bands that are on your list. If you can agree on a fair price with one of the bands, sign the necessary paperwork to reserve them for your wedding. Contact any other bands that you spoke with and let them know you already booked a different group.