You’ll soon discover there are countless wedding venues in Northern Ireland which have everything you’re looking for and more! Aswell as lots of popular venues that you may already know, you might be surprised to find some hidden gems too!
I’m very fortunate to have performed at most wedding venues in Northern Ireland over the years, so I thought I’d share a few top tips with you, if you’re considering having live music at your wedding!
1. Check space requirements and preferred setup areas with your musician
Some instruments such as pianos will require more space, so it helps to know the exact details in advance so you can allocate a setup area which will be suitable. During your venue visits, also check for nearby power outlets, as extension cables are not always permitted in case they pose a trip hazard. Your musician may also have a preference re their positioning for ceremonies, so they have a good line of sight for your entrance etc.
2. Discuss outdoor options with your venue – power outlets, canopies & cover for musicians, protection from elements
Most venues have power outlets available for outdoor weddings, but not all venues provide a covered area for musicians. It’s always better to check this in advance as professional instruments and sound equipment cost thousands of pounds, therefore a musician will need to take extra precautions when using it outdoors, as exposure to rain or sun can both be damaging, and potentially dangerous if there is electrical equipment.
3. Understand your backup plan if you’re having an outdoor wedding
Especially for ceremonies, it’s good to set a specific time when the venue will decide whether an outdoor wedding is the best option or if you need to proceed with plan B if the weather isn’t reliable. Whilst some musicians can relocate indoors quickly (in 20 mins) others will need at least an hour to pack up equipment and move to a new setup area, so it’s good to factor this in when you’re planning your schedule.
4. Check access times and loading areas with your venue
Depending on setup times, your musician may choose to arrive at your venue a couple of hours early so it’s worth checking if you need to arrange access on their behalf (if it’s a church wedding) or if the venue will already be open that morning (hotels are usually accessible anytime). For heavier, bulkier instruments and sound equipment such as pianos, it’s also good to ask if there is a loading area close to your wedding suite to make transporting of equipment easier.
5. Discuss ceremony room layout and seating format with your venue
It’s always a good idea to communicate this to your musician when it has been finalised with your venue. Some musicians may be happy to sit at the back if they feel they still have a good viewpoint, but others will prefer to be located at the front where they can clearly see the top of the aisle and also be within earshot of your Officiant. Whilst most musicians prefer not to be front and centre, an area to the front left / right hand side is usually the most suitable.
These are just a few tips to help you during the planning stages, so you know what to look out for when you’re visiting your venue and what to consider when you’re finalising arrangements with your musician.
Still searching for a musician for your wedding?
If you haven’t booked your wedding musician yet, here’s 3 quick questions you should ask to help you decide if they’re a perfect fit for your venue –
1. Are they insured for all venues?
Your venue may request a copy of their Public Liability Insurance, and all professional musicians should be able to provide this in advance.
2. Do they use amplification?
An intimate ceremony in a small room may not require additional amplification, but a large outdoor wedding will usually require a professional sound system to project the music more effectively in an open-air environment.
3. Have they experience of performing at your venue?
Whilst this is not essential, it might be helpful if they’re familiar with the venue and the various options for indoor / outdoor weddings especially when it comes to the setup and logistics.
Hopefully this gives you all the info you need to start planning your music, so whether you’re tying the knot in a grand hotel or the great outdoors, you’ll be able to co-ordinate all the finer details like a pro!
If you’d love to have live piano music at your wedding, but you’re not sure if it’s possible depending on your venue and location, please get in touch and I’ll happily answer any questions and chat with you about your options! You can also download my digital guide for engaged couples if you’d like to find out more about my wedding services.
Join me on Instagram for lots of wedding music tips, ideas and inspo! I’d love to see you there!
Have I performed at your wedding venue recently?
Some of the stunning wedding venues in Northern Ireland I’ve had the pleasure of performing at recently include: Drenagh Estate, Magheramorne Estate, Belle Isle Estate, The Carriage Rooms at Montalto, Larchfield Estate, Beech Hill Country House, Mussenden Temple, Cultra Manor, Ulster Folk Museum, The Wool Tower, Galgorm Resort, Titanic Hotel, Orange Tree House, Kilmore Country House, Lough Erne Resort, Corick House Hotel, Clandeboye Lodge Hotel, Slieve Donard Hotel, Glenarm Castle, Old Court Chapel, Belfast Castle, Ballygally Castle Hotel.
