Planning a wedding in Scotland’s capital means choosing a venue with real character — whether that’s a five-star city hotel, a romantic castle, or a relaxed barn on the outskirts of town. But once you’ve secured the venue, the next big decision is the music.
The right wedding bands Edinburgh couples choose don’t just “play songs” — they shape the entire atmosphere of the day. The style of band you book should complement your venue, your timeline, and the kind of celebration you want to create.
Here’s a practical local guide to pairing popular Edinburgh venue styles with the perfect live wedding band and setlist ideas.
City Centre Hotels: Polished, Elegant & High-Energy
Edinburgh’s city centre is home to some of Scotland’s most iconic wedding venues. Spaces like The Balmoral Hotel and Prestonfield House offer grand interiors, large function suites, and elegant settings ideal for a stylish evening reception.
These venues are perfect for couples who want a classic wedding that transitions into a full-scale party. High ceilings and professional lighting setups mean you can comfortably book a larger band without worrying about space or sound.
Best band style: Funk, soul, pop party bands
Why it works: Big rooms suit big energy.
Bands like Goldstar or The Stylists thrive in these settings, delivering polished performances that feel like a live show rather than background entertainment.
Setlist inspiration:
“Uptown Funk” – Bruno Mars
“Valerie” – Amy Winehouse
“I Wanna Dance With Somebody” – Whitney Houston
“Mr Brightside” – The Killers
In these venues, couples often want the dancefloor full from the first song — and an experienced live band can make that happen.
Historic Venues & Castles: Romantic & Timeless
Edinburgh is famous for its history, and many couples choose venues that reflect that grandeur. Locations such as Dalhousie Castle and The Cragie Hotel provide a dramatic backdrop for a wedding that feels truly unforgettable.
These settings call for a band that can move seamlessly from elegant early-evening sets to energetic party music later on.
Best band style: Modern classics with a timeless edge
Why it works: Historic venues suit music that enhances atmosphere without overpowering it.
A band like Amber Lights can offer softer daytime vibes before building into a lively evening set.
Setlist inspiration:
“Can’t Help Falling in Love” – Elvis Presley
“Stand By Me” – Ben E. King
“Shut Up and Dance” – Walk the Moon
“Sweet Caroline” – Neil Diamond
Castle weddings often feel magical — the right live band makes the evening feel just as memorable as the ceremony.
Barn & Rustic Venues: Relaxed, Fun & Full of Character
Barn weddings continue to grow in popularity around Edinburgh. Venues like Wedderlie House offer countryside charm with a laidback atmosphere.
These spaces suit couples who want a fun, informal celebration where guests can truly let loose.
Best band style: Indie, rock-pop, folk-inspired party music
Why it works: Barn venues create an intimate setting where singalong anthems shine.
Bands like The Jammy Devils are ideal for this type of wedding. Their lively, interactive performances help create that “everyone on the dancefloor” moment that rustic weddings are known for.
Setlist inspiration:
“Wonderwall” – Oasis
“Use Somebody” – Kings of Leon
“Don’t Stop Me Now” – Queen
“Summer of ’69” – Bryan Adams
In barn settings, personality matters just as much as musical skill — couples often choose bands who know how to work a crowd.
Modern & Industrial Venues: Contemporary Party Atmosphere
For couples planning a stylish, modern wedding, Edinburgh also offers industrial and contemporary spaces such as The Mash House and Vittoria on the Walk’s VITTA Venue.
These venues naturally lend themselves to a bold, energetic party vibe.
Best band style: Chart hits, dancefloor anthems, high-energy pop
Why it works: Modern venues suit a fast-paced set that feels like a live gig.
Bands like Franco bring exactly that — slick, upbeat performances that keep the momentum going all night.
Setlist inspiration:
“Don’t Start Now” – Dua Lipa
“Blinding Lights” – The Weeknd
“Sex on Fire” – Kings of Leon
“I Gotta Feeling” – Black Eyed Peas
If you want your reception to feel like a proper night out, these venues — paired with the right band — are a winning combination.
Outdoor & Scenic Venues: Acoustic by Day, Full Band by Night
Some of the most stunning wedding settings in Edinburgh include outdoor or garden venues like Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh or estate venues such as Hopetoun House just outside the city.
These weddings often benefit from a two-part music approach:
Acoustic or stripped-back live music during drinks reception
Full band performance in the evening
Bands that can offer both — such as Amber Lights or Goldstar — give you flexibility without needing multiple suppliers.
Daytime acoustic ideas:
“Perfect” – Ed Sheeran
“Somewhere Only We Know” – Keane
“You Are The Best Thing” – Ray LaMontagne
Evening party favourites:
“Signed, Sealed, Delivered” – Stevie Wonder
“Mr Brightside” – The Killers
“Don’t Stop Believin’” – Journey
This structure creates a seamless wedding soundtrack that evolves naturally throughout the day.
Choosing the Right Wedding Bands Edinburgh Couples Recommend
No two Edinburgh weddings are the same. The best wedding bands Edinburgh has to offer are those that match your venue style, your guest list, and the atmosphere you want to create.
Before booking, think about:
The size and acoustics of your venue
The type of crowd you’ll have
Whether you want interactive entertainment
How music fits into your wedding timeline
When venue and band align perfectly, the result isn’t just good music — it’s an unforgettable experience that your guests will talk about long after the last song ends.
If you’re planning your Edinburgh wedding, start by exploring bands with Music for Scotland that suit your venue style, and book early to secure your ideal date.
