A Wedding at Kew Gardens

Olivia & Ben's Wedding in The Orangery at Kew Gardens

Olivia and Ben went all out for their wedding at Kew Gardens. Not only did they book our brilliant 5-piece band with sax for their evening party, but they had our two sister acts, The Guitar Duo, and The Strolling Tones for their wedding ceremony and drinks reception. They wanted music in all parts of their day, from the moments guests arrived at The Nash Conservatory to enjoying their first drink in the Price of Wales Conservatory and right up to the end of the night.

We worked with them to create a package of entertainment that worked for them, and reflected what they wanted for their day.

The Flow and all-important logistics

Getting the flow of the day right at Kew Gardens is really important. Because the gardens are open to the public, the day starts a little later. We started by making sure that the logistics for the 3 different acts were all in place, so that the flow from one performance to the next was seamless and any moving of performers was kept to a minimum. This allowed Olivia and Ben to just enjoy their day and meant that we were relaxed and in control.

Summer Weddings & Timings

We know that you want to party, dance and sing along with the band, that is quite literally what we are here for. Something that couples often forget is to build in a little breating room between the end of dinner and the start of the evening. 
This does 2 things:

Firstly, it allows your photographer (in this case the wonderful Emmie Scott) to take you both outside for some sunset photos and pictures. This is a great time for a few extra pictures when it is beautiful light, and often the pictures that we love to see in galleries and the ones you will naturally gravitate to. Kew Gardens has some of the most glorious picture spots and the terrace outside the Orangery where you will have your evening party is stunning at twilight!

Secondly, take a beat. Let your food go down and maybe slip into a pair of more comfortable dancing shoes. There is always a natural lull after dinner, so rather than worry about it, or feel like you are gong to lose out (you won't, we have you covered) lean into that extra 20 mins of chill out time.

Picking The Right Band for Kew

Yes, we are going to be biased here, the answer is AKA. The reality is that with such a historic building, and with elements like load in, the logistics of the day, and the sound level guidelines, Kew needs a band that has played there before. At Kew we work regularly with the production team at Storm to ensure that the sound and lighting equipment is just right, and you aren't paying for more than you need, just what works brilliantly in the space.

We have also worked there enough times to know how to get in to each space, what the Kew event team will need from the band before the day, and most importantly, how to make sure that the set up behind the scenes goes smoothly and quickly. Silly things like knowing where the loading bay entrance is, where to park and the fact that it is easier to carry guitars in on backs from Elizabeth Gate make all the difference.

The Orangery is a fabulous space, and bands that work there particularly well are ones that work with the space rathe  than fight it. Our 4, 5 and 6 piece bands are absolutely perfect to give you the best sound on the dance floor with no feedback or sound issues whilst making sure that the guidelines for Kew are managed and kept well within. Larger 8+ piece bands will struggle and will be fighting the space sonically.

Their Wedding Suppliers

Music Planner - Gecko Live

Photography - Emmie Scott Photography

Venue - Kew Gardens

Catering - Blue Strawberry

Production - Storm

Trees - Twilight Trees