The Booking Timeline Dilemma
Browse any wedding planning forum and you'll find panicked posts: "Is 6 months too late to book a band?" The answer depends on several factors, but here's what experienced couples wish they'd known.
The Magic Number: 10-12 Months
Most successful bookings happen 10-12 months before the wedding. This isn't arbitrary - it's when you have venue confirmation but aren't overwhelmed with other planning. Popular bands often book 18 months out for peak season Saturdays.
Peak Season Reality Check
June, July, August, and September Saturdays are gold dust. If you're planning a summer Saturday wedding, start your band search immediately after booking your venue. One forum user shared: "We waited 8 months thinking we had time. Every band we loved was booked. We ended up choosing our fourth choice."
Off-Peak Advantages
Friday weddings, Sunday celebrations, and off-season dates offer more flexibility. You might secure a premium band 6-8 months out for a March Friday wedding. Plus, many bands offer reduced rates for off-peak dates.
The Deposit Game
Most bands require a 20-30% deposit to secure your date. This is non-refundable but protects both parties. Don't panic about paying this early - it's standard practice and locks in your entertainment.
Red Flags When Booking Late
- Bands immediately available for peak dates (why aren't they booked?)
- Massive discounts for last-minute bookings (desperation or quality issues?)
- No reviews or references from recent weddings
- Reluctance to provide video footage
The Backup Plan
If you're booking less than 6 months out: 1. Contact multiple bands simultaneously 2. Be flexible on set times and song choices 3. Consider newer bands building their reputation 4. Ask venues for last-minute cancellation lists
Forum Wisdom
"Book your band before your flowers, before your cake, before almost everything except your venue. A great band makes your wedding; bad entertainment ruins it. We booked 14 months out and still missed our first choice." - Reddit user