A good timeline keeps energy up and lets your band do its best work. This sample assumes a five-hour evening. Adjust it to your venue, your guests, and your priorities.
Sample timeline
- Cocktail hour (60 min): Relaxed live music, such as jazz, while guests mingle and you take photos.
- Grand entrance (10 min): The band introduces you with a song you pick.
- First dance and family dances (15 min): Tell your band whether you want a full song or a shortened version.
- Dinner and toasts (60 to 75 min): Background music at conversation volume. Keep toasts short.
- Cake cutting (10 min): A natural moment to start the party.
- Dance sets (about 2 hours): Two or three sets with short breaks, so the floor stays active.
- Last dance (5 min): Choose a song that sends everyone off together.
Tips that make a difference
- Open the dance floor right after dinner, while guests are still seated nearby.
- Avoid a long gap between toasts and dancing.
- Give your band a short do-play list and a short do-not-play list.
- Share your timeline with the band and venue at least a few weeks ahead.
Wondering about total playing time? Read how long a wedding band plays, and whether you want a band or a DJ.
Planning a Twin Cities wedding? Meet The Dap Squad, a Minneapolis wedding band with a 5.0 rating across 121 reviews on The Knot, or check your date.
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