Stage for Band

I really wanted a stage for my band but the price of over $2,000 for the stage wasn't worth it to me. I also had a 9 piece band (5 piece for dinner) and when they were all set up and performing, I actually preferred them on the floor. It felt more vibrant and energetic that they were right there with us. I didn't have a barrier. I did add a backdrop just to frame them a bit.

I was hoping you would chime in! I have definitely been considering the vibe as well, and if a stage is too corporate.

I think a stage is more suitable for a concert where the focus is on the band and people are in attendance specifically to see the band. But for a wedding, the focus is in the couple and the band is more background entertainment rather than the main reason why people are there. For that reason, I wouldn't put the band on a stage. Also it seems like a really high price for something that is non-essential.

I'm a singer in a wedding band and we're almost never set up on a stage. We didn't rent a stage for the band we hired for our wedding, but they bring their own drum riser to elevate the drummer. That always looks cool if it's available, but as a musician, I can tell you it's not necessary, and doesn't really add anything in terms of our playing capabilities.

Just FTR though, that seems like a pretty great price to rent one that big, especially if assembly is included.

Thanks for this! I was told in relation to the wedding stage dilemma let the band be heard and not worry about it being seen!

I was hoping you would chime in! It even includes a 1am tear down. Thanks for the professional input, it definitely put me at ease.

Of all the weddings I have attended almost all of the bands are on a stage. I think I like it better this way - but I honestly do not think I would spend the money for a stage though.

The last wedding I went to the band was on the floor and it was just fine. The singers were able to interact with the crowd and we all had a great time.

I do not think that you need to have your florist create a "barrier" - their equipment will do that. I do think a backdrop or something similar would be a nice touch though.

Our venue comes with a stage, but I don't think it would be a big deal to not have one!

Also, where is your venue? We have a view of the Washington Monument too, from the VA side.

We are at DAR, right along the mall.

Where are you, ToT?

Oh I love DAR! Such a lovely venue. My high school somehow had our graduation at DAR, made me feel like a fancy 18 year old. Your wedding will be beautiful there.

We're at Army Navy Country Club in Arlington, close guess!

Our band will not be on a stage. I didn't like how much we were paying for the band itself, I certainly wasn't going to spend more money to rent a stage.

Our band is on a stage, but our venue has a stage already in it so we did not have to pay extra for it. I wouldn't have paid extra for them to have a stage. The band should be able to work any configuration!

Oh, also, I've been to a wedding at DAR two years ago and it was beautiful! The dancing was on a terrace also, though they had a DJ. I wonder if it was the same set up. I don't think you need a stage there, but you are the bride so I think you should do whatever you want!