I've found that too! We've budgeted £600 for a good band but the prices we are receiving are £950+ ... It's really off putting!

The problem with bands just starting out is that it takes about two years for a decent band to have enough good material to use...one of our groomsmen is in a band and they've been going a year and have 4 songs worthy of being listened to by the public... This is why it's difficult and u can't rely on college bands etc x

Our band was £700, they are well established and perform most weekends both at weddings and pub gigs .

When looking online, try and avoid agency sites as they tend to be more expensive, as do bands who are exclusively wedding bands.

Try going round to local gigs/ places where bands are performing - most bands online that I found were 1k plus, often this includes an agents fee, most 'local' bands were charging £400 - £700

I'm going to disagree on college bands or relativly new bands - we spend a lot of time going to gigs/band nights and have seen bands that have only been playing together for six months or so - provided they are competent on the instrument and have had sufficient time to practice, we've seen some excellent ones, however I would make sure that you see them 'in action' first - you don't want to be giving them there 'first gig''...also, a less expensive band may not have all the kit (lighting etc) so make sure you bare this in mind

Xx

I'd call, then follow up with an email so you have written proof of what's said xx

Our band is £1300. They are amazing, we found it really hard to find a decent one, one that we both agreed on, and most were coming in it £1500-£2000 plus, or were really cheap, in the end I told h2b to sort it, and I'm well pleased with his choice. I prefer live music to a dj, as there is entertainment with it,they are doing iPod sets in between and after and are doing 2 x 60 minute sets.

My h2b is in a band with my dad and his groomsmen so they will be playing for a bit at our evening... Bands r very expensive because they have to travel to wherever the event is, insurance, price is usually per player...

So far i've been quoted 1400, an 1700 :S

Head ache! I want a good band, but this seems a bit steep!

iv booked a fantastic band i saw at my friends wedding £600 for the around two hours

and a magician that we had at our engagment . sam fuller. he was £260 for again two hours thou he doesnt charge extra if over runs.
we also have a violinist for the entrance hall. so any links to please just contact me. xx

Have found a few bands now and have emailed for more informations but they are coming around £700-900

The only thing with using someone like that is if they are ill or just flake you have no back up!