How much should you budget for wedding entertainment?

Short answer

There is no fixed amount for wedding entertainment. Your budget depends on your guest list, venue, and priorities. A good rule is to decide what matters most to you, then allocate funds accordingly. Entertainment can range from a simple playlist to a live band or DJ.

Entertainment covers many things: music during the ceremony, background music for the drinks reception, the first dance, the evening party, and possibly fun extras like a photo booth or lawn games. Start by listing what you truly want. If dancing is the highlight of your evening, spend more on a band or DJ. If you prefer quiet conversation, a playlist may be enough.

Ask your venue what they provide. Some venues have in-house sound systems or recommended suppliers. Others require you to bring everything. Check whether the entertainment needs power, space, and a licence for music. Your venue or supplier can advise on this.

Remember that entertainment is not just the band or DJ. It includes the ceremony musician, if you have one, and any equipment hire. You can save by using a playlist for the ceremony and a live band for the evening. You can also ask friends or family to help with music, but make sure they are comfortable and reliable.

There are no set percentages for wedding budgets. What matters is that you feel happy with your choices. Talk to your partner about what entertainment is essential, and be honest about what you can afford. It is better to have one great band than several average acts.