Live music at The Grain Store: a guide for couples

Music can shape the whole feel of a wedding, and The Grain Store gives a band a room that suits it well. A little planning before you book makes a real difference on the day. Here is what to think about, from the size of the band to the practical details musicians will want to know before they arrive.

If you are starting your search, FixTheMusic’s round-up of Devon wedding bands is a good place to begin. The Moorland Sons, The Sidekicks and Rebel Hearts Duo are all featured there, and each would suit the space in a different way.

1) Why the barn suits a full band

The barn does not have a sound limiter, so it can take a full band with a complete sound and lighting set up. That is a real advantage for couples who want a proper party atmosphere. A full party line up works well here, and a smaller group is just as good if it fits your guest list and your budget better.

2) Where the band sets up

Bands usually set up in the back right-hand corner of the barn. There are three power sockets there, and they are on their own circuit, so the band has a dependable supply for its equipment. Pass this on early, along with their arrival time.

3) Music outside

If you would like music during welcome drinks, there is power outside in the courtyard and the garden. That makes acoustic or roaming music easy to arrange, so your guests can enjoy live music as they arrive and mingle before the main event. It is a simple way to set the mood for the rest of the day.

4) Your point of contact on the day

Couples can put bands in touch with us before the wedding, so the band can have all of its questions answered before it comes to the venue. On the day, we act as the point of contact when the band arrives and needs to know where to set up. That means there is always someone to speak to on arrival.

5) Building in time for setup and breaks

Bands need time to set up their equipment, and they will need breaks between sets. We tell couples to build both into the running order for the day. If the timings are planned from the start, the music flows smoothly and the evening keeps its momentum.

6) Booking early

Popular bands for summer weekends get booked well ahead, so plan your search early. Summer Saturdays fill first, which is why the earlier you start, the wider your choice will be. If you have a date in mind, contact a few bands at once rather than waiting on one reply. That way you can compare availability, prices and styles side by side before you commit to anyone.

7) Styles that suit the barn

The barn suits a range of styles. Brass bands with vocals and folk or indie acts both sit comfortably in the room. A short rock set followed by a DJ also works well, keeping the energy high once the band has finished. When you are choosing a style, think about your guests as well as the room, because the best choice is the one that gets everyone on the dance floor.

8) Planning the music for your day

Live music at The Grain Store can be simple to arrange, from the welcome drinks through to the last dance. With a clear plan for the setup, the power, the running order and the style, you can focus on enjoying the day. When the band knows the setup in advance, they arrive ready to play, and that leaves more time for the celebration itself. If you have questions about the venue, get in touch with us and we will be happy to help.