Start a wedding and private event band

Engaged couples, parents planning milestone parties, corporate event managers, country clubs and wedding venues.

A package price per event covering a set number of hours, with add-ons such as a ceremony set, extra hours, a DJ break between sets or a custom first-dance song. Deposits secure the date.

• Wide repertoire across decades and genres
• Professional communication with clients
• Running a show smoothly, including sound and timing
• Basic sales and contract handling

• Use a written contract with a deposit, cancellation terms and a backup plan if a member is sick
• General liability insurance is often required by wedding venues, so check what they ask for
• Check whether you need a local business license, and look into sales tax rules for services in your state
• Check who pays for music licensing at the venue, as it differs by place
• Peak season is busy and weekends are often taken, so check everyone can commit to dates

Startup costs are typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on your sound system, instruments and how polished a presentation you want. Check what wedding venues ask for, such as general liability insurance, so you can budget for it.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on how many events you book and your package prices. Peak season is busy and weekends are often taken, so check that every member can commit to dates.

Check that you have a written contract with a deposit, cancellation terms and a backup plan if a member is sick. Also check local business license and state sales tax rules for services, venue insurance requests, and who pays for music licensing.