Frequently Asked Questions
As one of Essex’s most popular wedding and party bands, we often receive a number of questions from our clients in the run up to their event. Of course, we are more than happy to answer these, and we thought it would be helpful to list as many of the most frequently asked ones. If you have a question that isn’t on this list, or if you require clarification on any of the below, then please don’t hesitate to get in touch and we’ll aim to get back to you as quickly as possible.
What packages do you offer?
Details of all of our packages can be found at this link.
How much time do you need to set up?
We need between 1.5 to 2 hours to set up and sound check our equipment. As soon as our PA is set up we start the background music set the atmosphere and get your guests ready for our live performance!
What time will you arrive?
As part of our standard wedding and party band packages the band will arrive no earlier than 5pm to begin our setup. This can be later if it is more convenient to you, however please ensure that the band have at least 1.5 hours to setup and sound check.
As part of our premium wedding package, two musicians will arrive no earlier than 11:30am. We can arrive later if this is more convenient. They will set up the PA system ready for 2 acoustic sets later in the day. This will also be used for any speeches, pre recorded music or announcements. 3 additional musicians will arrive no earlier than 5pm to complete the setup ready for the live band sets in the evening. Please let us know if you are planning to have the acoustic sets in a different room to the live band in the evening, as we will need to set up a smaller PA system for this. We will also need enough time to transition from the acoustic setup to the full band setup.
We do aim to be as flexible as possible. If you require alternate timings to those listed above, then please let us know and we will be happy to discuss this with you.
How much space do you need to set up?
Generally, we require an area of about 5×3 metres to set up in, as we are a full five piece wedding and party band consisting of Vocals, Guitar, Bass, Drums & Keys. We have managed to squeeze into smaller spaces in the past, but please just bare this in mind when making a booking.
Do you require a stage to set up on?
If your venue has one then great! However it is not a requirement for us. We do however need a flat, hard surface to set up on.
Can you set up the night before my event?
Unfortunately we are unable to offer this, as being a wedding and party band in such high demand it is likely that we will have an event in which we need our equipment for the night before your event.
How long do you play for?
We perform 2 x 1 hour sets of great party band music, designed to keep your guests entertained all night! This can also be divided into 3 x 40 minute sets if you prefer. We have a wide ranging repertoire of songs suitable for all ages, so there will be something for everyone.
What time you start and finish?
We are a flexible functions and party band and aim to fit around your requirements as much as we can. As a guideline, we find the following timings work best for us as part of our standard wedding or party package:
- 5pm: Band arrival and setup.
- 6pm: Background music played through our sound system.
- 6:30pm: Band soundcheck.
- 6:45 – 8pm: Background music played through our sound system.
- 8pm – 9pm: Band Set 1 (including first dance for weddings)
- 9pm – 9:40pm: Playlist or DJ Service.
- 9:40pm – 10:40pm: Band Set 2
- 10:40pm – midnight: Playlist or DJ Service to finish.
The above timings can easily be changed to suit you and your event, and we aim to be as flexible as possible. We are more than happy to discuss this with you and fit in around your requirements. Please note that if you require us for longer than the stated times then additional charges may incur.
Do you have a list of songs you perform?
Our full repertoire list can be found here. We do our best to keep it up to date everytime we learn a new song.
How do I book the band?
Please fill in the form on our contact page or email us at 24karatband@gmail.com to submit an enquiry. Please try to give as many details about your event as possible such as location, timings etc and our guitarist Paul will be happy to talk you through the rest of the details of your event and provide you with a quote.
Once you are happy to proceed with the booking, we then ask for a non refundable 10% deposit upfront in order to secure the date, with the final balance payable either in cash on the night or via bank transfer before the performance date. Once the deposit has been paid, then the date is yours!
Can I provisionally book the band/ Can I pencil you in?
Unfortunately we don’t take provisional bookings as, given the level of demand for the band, we would have to turn away other clients. As mentioned above, we require a small deposit in order to book the band. However, if you have enquired about a particular date, you will be given first refusal if another enquiry comes in on the same date.
Do you have different line up options?
Our main line up is a five piece party band consisting of vocals, guitar, bass, drums and keys. We also have an acoustic duo available of guitar and vocals, perfect for background music during wedding breakfasts or drinks.
Can you provide a DJ service before and between your sets?
We will always play music through our PA system when we are not playing live. We can also provide a DJ service at an additional cost. For details on the differences between these two services, please see below.
What is the difference between the set playlists of background music and the DJ Service?
We will play a set playlist of general party music in between our sets when we are not playing live to keep the atmosphere going at every event we perform at. This will be pre-mixed so as to minimise the gaps in between music. If you would prefer us to use your own playlist for this service, then that is absolutely fine.
The DJ service is operated by a member of the band. We mix the songs live using our dedicated software and we are able to take requests on the night. While we do carry a large selection of music with us, please note that we may not be able to access you or your guests’ chosen music on the night if we have no internet connection at the venue.
Can I see you perform live?
You can find a regularly updated list of our upcoming public performances here. We also keep a regularly updated list on our Facebook page, which can be found here.
Can you learn song requests before the event?
We are happy to learn and perform your first dance for any wedding we are booked to perform at for no additional cost. If you would like us learn and perform any additional songs not featured in our repertoire, then this will incur additional charges in order to factor in rehearsal costs.
Do you have lights?
We have a fully professional lighting rig which will be included into your quote at no extra cost. You can see our light show in action in some of the videos on our media page.
What are your power requirements?
Please ensure that we have a minimum of two double 13 amp supplies near to our performance area (more is always helpful!)
What if my chosen venue for my event has a sound limiter?
We have played at numerous events at venues across the UK that have a sound limiter installed. This is no problem for us, as we have a limiter friendly set up featuring an electronic drum kit where we can control the volume to suit the restrictions in place at the venue. However, we would need to be made aware if your chosen venue has a sound limiter installed before the performance date, so that we can tailor our equipment to ensure the smoothest performance possible.
Does the band have Public Liability Insurance and a PAT Test Certificate?
Yes, we have public liability insurance up to £10 million. We also carry an up to date PAT test certificate with us at all times.
Do you have any recordings I can listen to or any videos I can watch of the band?
Yes, we have plenty of both. Please visit our media page to check out what we sound like.
Remember, if you would like anymore information on any of the above, or you have a question that doesn’t appear in this article, then please feel free to get in touch.
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