Wondering if there are surcharges on bands/djs for weddings on special dates like this. We're thinking of a NYE wedding.
Question Asked: 7/03/2023
Wedding Date: 9/08/2018
(442) · Melbourne & Surrounding Areas, Mornington Peninsula & Yarra Valley/Dandenong
Posted: 21/08/2025
Answered by: 18 Experts
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No. Our cost would be the same. i don't believe there should be any difference to playing a wedding mid year or NYE :- we would charge the same rate for a NYE gig whether it be a wedding or not.
Great question — and yes, New Year’s Eve is one of the biggest nights of the year, so it does come with a slightly higher fee.
Because it's a premium date with high demand (and often runs past midnight), I typically apply a NYE surcharge to cover the extended hours, holiday rates, and the fact that most musicians are giving up their own celebration to be part of yours.
That said, I always make sure couples get great value — so the energy, service, and atmosphere are next-level. If you're planning a NYE wedding, it's guaranteed to be an epic party, and I’d be honoured to help you bring it to life. Happy to chat through custom packages for the night too.
Absolutely, we do charge more for New Year's Eve weddings. Given that it's our peak season, New Year's Eve tends to be our busiest night, which naturally reflects in the higher booking prices due to the heightened demand for our artists. If an agency isn't adjusting their rates accordingly for this date, it might raise a few eyebrows, hinting at a potential lack of demand. Nevertheless, you can trust that we remain committed to delivering a seamless and professional experience, ensuring your New Year's Eve wedding is nothing short of exciting and unforgettable.
Yes there is a surcharge for New Years Eve but happy to give you a quote for NYE.
Inferno Duet are available for New Years Eve Weddings. We do charge extra for this evening, its usually double the standard wedding cost. However our standard packages are already at an affordable cost.
(6) · Adelaide and Surrounds, including Clare, Barossa and the Fleurieu Peninsula
Posted: 26/03/2023
Hello,
I personally don't for my wedding packages, but there are other people who do. I can see it from both perspectives and I would imagine that if you are wanting people to dedicate a significant portion of their time for your night, then a surcharge would be reasonable.
H x
You will find some do and some don't.
Personally, whilst it IS a special night I would like to be with my own wife and kids, we don't charge more.
Our rates are satisfactory enough to use that income as a special treat a couple of days later when we can have our own "New Years Eve" party.
It is a special night of the year. However I don't charge much more over and above my standard Wedding fee.
Hi there, yes NYE is a premium night for musicians so you'll usually find the minimum fee per performer will be at least 25% higher. Many performers charge a minimum $1000 call out fee for NYE.
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That’s a great question! New Year’s Eve is one of the most in-demand dates of the year for weddings and events, so it’s common for entertainment suppliers (whether DJs or live bands) to charge a little extra for the night.
This helps cover higher demand, premium talent rates and the fact that performers are giving up a big celebration date themselves.
At Melbourne Entertainment Company, we’re upfront about any surcharges on peak dates like NYE and we’ll always make sure you know exactly what’s included. Many couples actually find it worthwhile, since having top-quality entertainment on such a milestone night guarantees the party atmosphere matches the celebration.
If you’re tossing up between options, here’s a guide that can help when considering DJs vs bands for a wedding:
https://melbourneentertainmentco.com.au/should-you-hire-a-dj-or-a-band-for-your-wedding/