Wedding Questions written by Craig Mitchell of the Funk City Band.

This is part of a series. For more info and other wedding Questions you may not have thought of…try these links: 

Wedding Questions 1,  Wedding Questions 2, Wedding Questions 3,

Wedding Questions 4, Wedding Questions 5 (this page), Wedding Questions 6,   

Written by Craig Mitchell of the Funk City Band.

Wedding Entertainment Details That Actually Matter (Contracts, Music & More)

There’s a stage in wedding planning where things get a bit more… real. You’re no longer just imagining the day, you’re locking things in. Contracts, decisions, details you don’t want to get wrong. And weirdly, it’s often the smaller questions that carry the most weight. What exactly are we agreeing to? Will the band play requests? What happens when people aren’t dancing yet?

If you’ve already started looking at options like a 3-piece band or a bigger 7-piece line-up, these are the kinds of questions that naturally follow. Not flashy, but important. The kind that shape how smooth, relaxed, and genuinely enjoyable the day feels.

So here’s a clear, honest breakdown. No overcomplication. Just what you actually need to know.

1. What to Include in a Wedding Entertainment Contract

Contracts aren’t the exciting part… but they quietly protect everything.

At a minimum, you want clear timings. When the band arrives, when they set up, when they play, and when they finish. It sounds obvious, but having it written down avoids confusion later.

Then there’s equipment. Is sound and lighting included? Are they bringing everything needed, or does the venue provide anything? This is especially important if your venue has restrictions.

Fees and payment terms should be completely transparent. Deposit, final balance, and what happens if plans change. Cancellation terms matter more than people think, just in case something unexpected happens.

And finally, expectations. Number of sets, breaks, DJ-style music between sets. A good contract doesn’t feel complicated… it just makes everything clear.

2. How Do Wedding Bands Handle Song Requests from Guests?

Short answer… yes, absolutely. Most professional bands are happy to take requests.

During live sets, it depends on what’s already rehearsed. Bands usually work from a set list they know inside out, because that’s how they keep the quality high. But between sets, or through DJ-style playlists, requests are much more flexible.

And honestly, this is where things get fun. Guests love hearing something they’ve asked for. It makes the night feel interactive, not just performed.

If you want a mix of structure and flexibility, something like a 4-piece band that also offers a DJ-style service is ideal. You get polished live music and the freedom to adapt as the night unfolds.

The key is balance. A good band will take requests… but also guide the night so the energy keeps building.

Wedding Questions continued….

3. Table Games and Activities as Wedding Reception Entertainment

Not every moment of your wedding is about dancing. And actually, that’s a good thing.

During the meal or quieter parts of the reception, table games can really help. Nothing too forced, just simple things that spark conversation. Quiz cards, little challenges, even personalised games that tie into your story as a couple.

It gives guests something to do while they’re settling in. Especially if they don’t know each other well yet.

We’ve seen this work best when it feels optional. Something people can dip into, not something they’re made to do. It keeps the atmosphere relaxed.

And then later, when the party music kicks in, you’ve already broken the ice. The dance floor fills more naturally. 

4. Jazz Band vs Rock Band for Wedding Reception

This is one of those choices that really shapes the feel of the evening.

A jazz band brings a softer, more sophisticated vibe. Perfect for drinks receptions or early evening when people are still chatting, moving around, easing into things. It’s elegant, understated, and works beautifully in the background. It’s very stylish but no as easy to dance to. 

A rock or party band, on the other hand, is about energy. Big songs, full dance floors, that moment where everything lifts and people just go for it. It’s less about subtlety, more about impact.

Most couples don’t actually choose one over the other completely. They blend. Maybe acoustic or jazz-style music earlier in the day, then a full band in the evening. You can see how that builds through the different options on our videos and media page.

If you’re unsure, think about how you want the night to feel at its peak. That usually tells you which direction to lean.

When you step back, all of this comes down to clarity and feel. Knowing what you’re booking, trusting the people you’ve chosen, and creating a flow that makes sense for your day. In our experience it should just feel right. 

If you want to talk things through or just sense-check your plans, you can always reach out at info@funkcitypartyband.co.uk . No pressure, just honest advice. Or simply fill in the form below. 

Ready to Chat?
If you’re having a party you probably want a brilliant band that actually gets the vibe and gets people dancing. This is really important to us. If that sounds good— get in touch. We’d love to be the FUN part of your night. If you have a wedding or event we are local to Bath, Wiltshire, Bristol, Somerset and Reading too although we travel absolutely everywhere. *Except the moon*. When people dance too much in zero gravity they have a tendency to float off which can cause problems with our insurance.

Written by Craig Mitchell Funk City band. 9000+ event rocked since 2004 inc. over 600+ weddings. You’re in very safe hands. 

If you want to see more videos of our band there are loads of the different band options on our YouTube page. Enjoy!

Or Simply call Craig on 07754265836 or email info@funkcitypartyband.co.uk 

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