Backyard Weddings and Events: Your Questions Answered

As a wedding and events band, we often get questions about whether we can play at backyard events. The answer to that is YES! We have played at many backyard weddings, parties, and events, and have found that they can be absolutely spectacular.

Here are our answers to some of the common questions we get asked about backyard events. These answers also apply to any outdoor event.

1. Yes we would love to play at your backyard event!

2. The Two Cent Pros Band supply and set up all PA sound equipment for the event so you don’t have to worry about hiring any sound equipment. We even provide microphones for you to use for speeches etc.

3. We do not require a built-up stage. All we really need is a space to play and access to at least two power sockets. We can also supply all lighting (including coloured lights and/or fairy lights to make the space look amazing).

4. We are happy to play on grass as long as it is dry. Another great option is hiring a dance floor - great for the band and your guests!

5. The band can play under cover or in open air, though we may require you to provide a marquee if there is any chance of rain.

6. The Two Cent Professionals Full Band (10-12 members) usually needs around 4m x 5m space to set up.

7. The Two Cent Professionals also offers a Small Band option (7-8 members) for smaller events.

8. If you are worried about your neighbours’ reactions to the noise, just make sure you let them know ahead of time that you will be having a band play at your event. We have never found this to be a problem (in fact, we have had comments after backyard events from neighbours saying that they had a great time sitting outside listening to the music!)

9. We are very flexible with timing and are happy to fit in with your schedule for the night. Leading up to the event, we will organise start and finish times with you according to how much music you would like. We can also play your choice of background music and/or dance music.

10. In the case of a backyard or nearby wedding ceremony, we can also provide ceremony music, in-between background music, and/or a street-band-style band to accompany your guests from the ceremony venue to the reception.

See photos of what the band looks like when we’re all set up Here, browse our Packages and Prices Here, and Contact Us any time to inquire about your event.

12 Things To Check With Your Band Before Your Event!

To avoid any surprises on the day of your wedding or private event, here are 12 things to make sure you check before the big day!

1. Check that the band has a copy of your run-sheet for the event. Everything runs smoother when they know when you’ll be needing a background music with dinner, and when you’ll be needing microphones for speeches.

2. Make sure the band knows whether your venue supplies any equipment (PA, lighting etc.) so they know how much equipment they need to bring.

3. Let the band know if you’ll be using their PA or microphones for speeches etc. The Two Cent Professionals offer wireless microphones for you to use at no extra cost, but we need to know in advance whether or not to set them up for you.

4. Check that you have allocated a space for the band, and that it is the right size (The Two Cent Professionals usually need around 3m x 5m). Also make sure you leave space for a dance floor in front of the band!

5. Check that there are at least two power access points in the area the band is playing. All that equipment needs power!

6. Does the venue have any noise restrictions? Make sure the band knows!

7. Let the band know if you have any specific song requests at least one month before the event. The Two Cent Professionals write custom set lists for every event and love matching the song choices to your favourite genres and artists. The Two Cent Professionals will also arrange your favourite song for you, even if it is not already in their repertoire, at no extra cost. This is perfect for a First Dance song at a wedding, or a birthday boy/girl’s fav song.

8. Check that you have arranged food and drinks for the band members. Private events and weddings are a big commitment for musicians - they are there early to set up/soundcheck and stay late to pack up. Most bands ask that you provide them with a meal and drinks to keep them energized and make sure they give you the best performance! Remember to check for any dietary requirements.

9. Check what time the band is planning to set up and make sure the venue is open and expecting them. Also make sure the band and/or the venue staff know where in the venue the band should set up to avoid any confusion!

10. Make sure the band knows if your event has a theme! The Two Cent Professionals love dressing up - let us know if you want us to match your theme.

11. After your event, ask whether the band would like access/copies of any photos taken during the performance. They will really appreciate it!

12. Check whether the band has a feedback/review system so that you can let them know what you thought, and leave them a sparkling review for future customers!

10 Best First Dance Songs From The Two Cent Professionals

A bride and groom’s first dance is such a special moment, which is why we (Two Cent Professionals Wedding Band) always put the extra effort in to learn whichever song you choose, no extra cost.

If you are looking for First Dance song ideas, these are the best 10 songs we’ve been asked to play over the ten years we’ve been bringing music to West Australian weddings:

1. Your Song - Elton John

2. This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) - Natalie Cole

3. Make You Feel My Love - Adele

4. L.O.V.E - Nat King Cole

5. Annie’s Song - John Denver

6. Rest of My Life - Bruno Mars

7. At Last - Etta James

8. The Way You Look Tonight - Frank Sinatra

9. Can’t Take My Eyes Off You - Frankie Valli

10. It Had To Be You - Ray Charles

Have a different song in mind? With enough notice we will arrange any song for your special day at no extra cost.

Want to find out more about our band options? Click here.

Want to know more about our wedding packages? Contact us today to see if we have your date available and to learn more about what we offer!