Ceilidhs or barn dances are great fun at weddings as they bring people together in a way that discos don't. There are, however, a few observations we have made over the last 20 years that we would like to share with you.
Scallywag and discos. If you are thinking of having as Disco as well, please have a look at the Discos link so that you understand some of the issues that arise when you put a Ceilidh band and a disco in the same venue.
If you can, book a venue that has everything in one room. The majority of people these days do not go to dances regularly and may be reluctant to join in. They are also most often the ones that you can't get off the dance floor at the end of the evening. The trick is not to give anyone the opportunity to escape early on.
Another problem is losing people. This occurs when you have the wedding early on in the day or at a church at distance from the reception and people have the chance to go back to their accommodation.
If they know the food isn't until 9:00 and they know you are having a ceilidh, they might not turn up until 9:00.
Make sure that you have something going on at 7:30 so that they have to be their. (maybe raffle the bridesmaids or something)
If you have booked us from 7:30 we will be there ready to set up at 6:30. One of the fundamental laws of the universe is 'Weddings run late'. The only wedding that I have ever been to that ran to to time was my own, despite the best efforts of my family.
If the reception is in the same room as the dance, you need to be aware that we need to set up before we can start and, if you don't finish speeches and coffee until 8:30, we will struggle to get started before 9:15 (right in the middle of the evening buffet).
We once were paid to play at a wedding in a marquee from 7:30, coffee finished at 9:00; it took 30 min's to break down the tables to create dancing space whereupon the DJ arrived back from the pub to do his final preparations before starting at 10:00. WE NEVER PLAYED A NOTE.
Marquees have a special place in our hearts. You should have a look at our Marquee link if you are having your reception in a tent.
I know that most of these things, to some extent, are out of your control but sometimes its good to be aware of what has happened to others. If you want to go through any of your timings for the evening, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Gordon
Testimonial
"Booked Scallywag for my husband's 50th..will certainly book again for any occasion! Everyone had such a great time - and they're still talking about it 4 months later! Thoroughly recommend!"
Jane from Bishops Lydeard
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