When it comes to planning a wedding, there is a lot to do! From finding the perfect venue to selecting a beautiful dress, the list can seem endless. Fortunately, choosing a wedding entertainer for your special day doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming. The right entertainer can set the mood, keep your guests engaged, and create unforgettable memories.
In this article, we’ve listed tips to help you choose the best entertainer for your wedding, ensuring that your celebration is as joyous and seamless as you’ve always dreamed. Whether you envision a live band, a charismatic DJ, or a unique performer, these guidelines will help you make an informed decision that perfectly complements your style and theme.
1. Who is the audience?
One of the main criteria for choosing any kind of entertainer is the audience. Who do you want the performer to entertain? For most forms of entertainment, it can be grouped into three categories:
1. Kids
Most activities at a wedding are tailored for adults. However, if a lot of your guests have children, it can be a nice touch to book an entertainer specifically for them. For example, a face painter or balloon modeller can keep the little ones entertained while the adults enjoy the main events. Not only does this provide fun and engaging activities for the children, but it also gives parents a chance to relax and enjoy the festivities. Plus, you’re guaranteed some very cute pictures to add to your wedding album!
2. Adults
An entertainer hired specifically to entertain adults can be a highlight of the evening and leave a lasting impression on your guests. For example, booking a comedian to perform after dinner can provide laughter and joy, creating memorable moments for everyone. A skilled comedian can tailor their performance to suit the tone of your wedding, ensuring that their humour resonates with your guests and adds a unique touch to your celebration.
3. Families (both)
Certain forms of entertainment appeal to children and adults alike. For example, singers or magicians will perform for everyone, Certain forms of entertainment appeal to both children and adults alike. For example, hiring singers or magicians can provide a shared experience that delights guests of all ages. A talented magician can captivate everyone with their tricks, while a singer can bring people together on the dance floor. This type of entertainment is ideal if you’ve invited a lot of families, as it ensures that everyone feels included and engaged throughout the event. Additionally, these performers can often adapt their acts to suit the dynamic of the crowd, ensuring that everyone has a fantastic time.
2. What is the entertainment format?
Think about the type of entertainment you want for your wedding. Do you prefer something interactive that guests can choose to participate in, like a photo booth? Or do you want entertainment that involves everyone and creates a collective experience?
When it comes to weddings, there are three main types of shows, each creating a different atmosphere:
1. Stage shows
This is a formal show done, on stage, for all your guests to see (for example, a wedding band or singer). These can last anywhere from 30 min to several hours. It all depends on what you want. This is an ideal form of after-dinner entertainment.
2. Walk Around
The entertainer will walk among your guests, entertaining small groups at a time. For example, close-up magicians. This is an ideal format for the reception.
3. An Entertainer Booth or Stand
For this format of entertainment, the wedding entertainer holds a booth or a stand that people come up to. For example, caricaturists often hold a static stand. It’s a more casual form of entertainment which gives your guests the option to participate or simply observe.
3. When do you want the entertainer to perform?
During the wedding, when do you want the entertainer to perform? The three most common times are:
1. Reception
The entertainer can perform for your guests during the reception and as they arrive at the venue. This sets the tone for the day, creating an immediate sense of excitement and engagement. For instance, a string quartet or a jazz band can provide elegant background music as guests mingle and enjoy cocktails. Alternatively, a roaming magician can surprise and delight guests with close-up tricks, breaking the ice and sparking conversation.
2. Dinner
You can also hire an entertainer to perform during dinner. For example, you can have a band play in the background, providing a pleasant ambience that enhances the dining experience. Another option is to have a magician perform at the tables between dishes, offering a personal and interactive form of entertainment that keeps guests engaged throughout the meal. This can also include solo musicians, caricature artists, or even poets who create customised pieces for the guests.
3. After Dinner
The third option is to have the entertainer perform after dinner. This is typically the time when the celebration kicks into high gear, and entertainers can help maintain the energy and excitement. Musicians and DJs are often booked to animate the dance floor, ensuring guests have a great time dancing the night away. However, this format doesn’t apply just to music. You can also book a comedian to provide laughter and fun, or a magician to dazzle the audience with a full stage show. This post-dinner slot is ideal for performances that can be enjoyed by a larger group and serve as a highlight of the evening.
4. What’s the tone of the entertainment?
A jazz band and a rock band will completely change the atmosphere on the dance floor. The same applies to all forms of entertainment. Each entertainer will provide a unique atmosphere for the party. Keep in mind the party atmosphere you want and choose an entertainer accordingly. Here are some examples:
- String Quartet or Jazz Band: Perfect for an elegant and sophisticated wedding, providing a touch of class during the reception and dinner (hire a musician here).
- Magician or Photo Booth: Ideal for a fun and interactive experience, with magic tricks to surprise guests or a photo booth for whimsical photos and memorable keepsakes.
- DJ or Live Band: Great for creating a lively and energetic atmosphere, getting everyone on the dance floor and keeping the energy high throughout the night.
- Solo Acoustic Guitarist or Singer: Creates a soft, romantic atmosphere, perfect for an intimate wedding or during a candlelit dinner with personal love songs.
- Caricature Artist or Fire Performer: Adds a quirky and unique touch, with caricatures providing entertainment and souvenirs, or a fire performer adding surprise and excitement to an outdoor evening reception.
5. Does the venue fit the entertainer?
Your wedding venue will impact a lot of your choices. While most forms of entertainment are flexible, it’s important to consider the space you have. Ensure the entertainer you choose can comfortably fit and perform in the designated area without disrupting the flow of the event.
1. Performance Space
Depending on the entertainer and the format of the show, they will need different amounts of space. Some performers might require a stage while others just need a table. Get in contact with the performer or the booking platform as this is specific to each entertainer.
2. Set-Up Time
Before booking an entertainer, consider how their set-up time will fit in with the flow of the evening.
- Does the entertainer need set-up time?
- Do they need a dedicated space to set up?
- If they arrive during the evening, will they be able to set up their act without getting in the way of your guests?
- If the entertainer arrives earlier, can the venue give them the required set-up time?
Every venue is different. Don’t be afraid to ask how early the entertainer can arrive.
3. Acoustics
This mostly applies to DJs & musicians. When it comes to acoustics, most modern rooms are fine, but it’s worth checking that the amplifying equipment the entertainer uses is suitable for the room.
In addition, does the venue have any noise restriction limits (such as a sound limiter)? This might influence the band or musician you choose. If you aren’t sure, this is something you should ask the entertainer (and the venue) directly.
It is also worth noting any time restrictions on loud music at the venue.
4. Electricity Requirements
If the entertainer is bringing equipment that requires electricity; make sure the venue can accommodate the set-up. In most cases, you won’t have any problems but a non-standard set-up can be a fire hazard.
Note: if the entertainer only needs an amplifier to speak, they can usually work from battery packs.
5. Specific venue requirements
Some venues have strict rules about fire, animals, and other potential hazards. If you’re hiring a variety entertainer, make sure their act complies with the venue’s policies. (Although, a fire eater forced to mime their act due to restrictions might still be quite entertaining…)
6. Quality of entertainment
When hiring an entertainer, you want to ensure that he or she is excellent at what they do. Unfortunately, this is often easier said than done.
At first, making an informed decision online can seem tricky. However, here are a few tips to help you decide:
1. Try to see them in action
The best-case scenario is to see them perform live before your wedding. That way, you’ll know exactly what they can deliver. However, this isn’t always possible.
The second best option is to look at videos and pictures of them online. Most entertainment websites will have some form of digital gallery that you can look at. If you’re hiring an entertainer through PartyWizz, you’ll find pictures and videos on the profiles of each of the individual entertainers.
2. Check for Third-Party Reviews
Before booking an entertainer, it’s a good idea to check for third-party reviews. If you’re hiring an entertainer through a platform like PartyWizz, you will find reviews on the profiles of each of the individual entertainers.
If PartyWizz isn’t available in your area, check for reviews on social media, Google and review platforms. Unfortunately, always keep in mind that public reviews can be fake. It’s always worth reading the comments and making sure the reviews are authentic.
7. What’s included in the entertainer’s fee?
Before making your reservation, take the time to understand what’s included in the entertainer’s fee. Entertainers, generally offer different show packages that contain different features. Take the time to understand which one suits you best. Here are a few questions to ask:
- How long will the entertainer be there?
- What is the show format?
- How long will the show last?
- Are travelling costs included?
- Do they have any special requests? (For example, if musicians are hired to play outside, they often require a tent in case of showers.)
- Do you have any special requests for the entertainer?
- Are there any additional charges?
When making a booking on the PartyWizz website the total price is automatically calculated based on factors such as location and duration so there will be no nasty surprises.
8. Are they available?
It sounds obvious, but don’t let this one slide. Once you’ve made up your mind on an entertainer, make your reservation as soon as possible. Wedding entertainer calendars fill up fast. Especially, if you’re getting married during a busy time of year.
9. Have a contract or agreement
Professional entertainers should provide you with a written contract or agreement. It will outline everything you’ve agreed on. It doesn’t have to be lengthy or overly formal but make sure everything is written down.
At PartyWizz, we provide a general agreement between the booker and the performer. When confirming the booking, both parties agree to these terms and conditions.
10. Get in contact before the show
We always recommend getting in touch with the entertainer a few days before the wedding. In fact, they might be the one to call you.
At that time, you’re probably going to be extremely busy but the call doesn’t need to take long! A casual chat with the entertainer over the phone, making sure you both (still) agree on the details will give a lot of peace of mind on the day.
11. Have a back-up plan
Unfortunately, we’re at the mercy of unforeseeable events. Although you most likely won’t need your backup plan, it’s always better to have one. In particular, if the entertainer is central to the party.
For example, check with the venue if they have a spare amp and be ready to plug in your playlist if the DJ’s car breaks down. Keep it simple and keep the fun going.
When making the reservation, it’s also worth checking with the entertainer if he or she provides a back-up plan. If they can’t make the event, do they offer a full refund? Make sure this is also stated in the contract.
I hope these tips have been helpful in guiding you towards choosing the perfect entertainer for your wedding. Remember, thoughtful planning ensures that your special day is filled with joyful and memorable moments.
About PartyWizz
PartyWizz helps you book the best wedding entertainers and services in UK and Ireland. From magicians and wedding singers to DJs and photographers, you’ll find those in your area in just a few clicks. Whether you’re planning a big or small reception, at home or in a venue, go to PartyWizz to find the perfect service providers for your special day!
