What kind of packages do you offer?
We offer flexible packages for events and weddings – from solo acoustic artists to full bands to DJs and sax. If you’re not sure what you need, we’ll help you figure it out.

What’s your most popular wedding package?
Most couples go with full Acoustic + DJ package, which covers the music for your ceremony, canapés and reception dance Floor package – live music early, DJ later. Best of both worlds.

What’s the booking process like?
Once you’ve chosen your artist and package, we’ll send through a simple contract and a 20% deposit request – payable via credit card (Stripe) or bank transfer. As soon as that’s signed and paid, you’ll get access to your client portal, where you can view your booking details, make payments, fill out your music brief, upload your runsheet, and more. It’s all super streamlined and simple – no clunky systems or confusing steps.

When is the final balance due?
Most clients choose to pay their balance over a few easy installments – we’ll set this up for you when you book. You can also opt to pay the remaining balance in full if you prefer. Either way, you’ll be able to see what you’ve paid and what’s coming up anytime in your client portal, with the full balance due 4 weeks before your event.

Can I choose the artist for my event?
Absolutely! Once you reach out to us, we’ll provide a list of available artists for your date. You can review their videos and select your preferred artist, subject to availability.

Can I mix and match artists to create a duo?
Typically, no. Our artists perform with their regular duo partners, who are well-rehearsed and experienced together. This ensures a seamless and professional performance. While some vocalists may work with multiple guitarists, your selection will generally be for one singer who comes as part of a pre-established duo.

Can we view song lists to help us choose an artist?
Most artists have song lists available on request, but these don’t always provide much insight when comparing artists. All our performers have extensive repertoires across various genres and tailor their set lists to the vibe of your event. This flexibility ensures a personalised experience, as no two weddings are the same! We recommend focusing on the artist whose voice you love most rather than trying to compare set lists.

Can we select songs for canapés and the early reception?
Yes, you can request a general song list to get an idea of what to expect. If there are a few favourites you’d like included, our artists are happy to accommodate 3–4 songs, provided they fit the vibe of the day. Keep in mind that additional songs may require extra rehearsals, and our artists don’t perform fully client-curated set lists to maintain the highest quality.

Are artists placed on hold once we start discussing details?
Unfortunately, we can’t hold artists without a confirmed booking. Once we’ve shared artist availability, we’ll work quickly to secure your preferred choice. However, as our artists are in high demand and may be booked by other clients in the meantime, we encourage swift decisions to avoid disappointment.

Will the artist(s) attend our rehearsal?
No, our artists do not attend rehearsals. This is because:

1. They have demanding schedules.
2. It’s not necessary. Our experienced artists are professionals who know exactly how to deliver a flawless performance on your wedding day.

Who will DJ during the reception?
In our Acoustic + DJ packages, you’ll have full-day music coverage from the ceremony through to the end of the reception. Typically, one of the duo members also serves as the DJ. However, occasionally a separate DJ may step in, depending on factors such as workload, travel,

Can I guide the DJ on what to play?
Absolutely! We welcome your input and love when couples share their musical preferences. While your DJ is a seasoned professional who knows how to keep the party going, a guide from you is incredibly helpful. They’ll do their best to incorporate your song suggestions and use your preferences to tailor the vibe of the evening to your taste.

Does the singer perform with the DJ during the reception?
In our Duo/Trio + DJ packages, the DJ segment is DJ-only. The duo or trio will perform live acoustic music for your ceremony, canapés, and early reception. After that, one member transitions to DJ duties for the dance floor, while the other members are free to wrap up their part of the day.

Can I add a saxophone to the DJ set?
Yes, you can! Adding a live saxophonist is a fantastic way to bring an exciting live element to your DJ set. Check out our blog for more information – additional charges apply.

Can we see a video of the DJ in action?
Unfortunately, we’re unable to share videos of our DJs due to copyright restrictions on the music they play. However, rest assured they know how to get the party started! For a sneak peek, check out our Instagram, where we often share fun snippets of our DJs in action, pumping up the dance floor.

Can we choose our DJ?
For our DJ-only package, the DJ is allocated to you, and all of them are highly skilled professionals trained by XO Sounds. They use top-notch DJ gear, follow our trusted DJ guide, and have years of wedding experience with glowing 5-star reviews.

Our DJs specialise in creating the perfect wedding vibe for diverse audiences rather than focusing on a nightclub or “name DJ” style. While they won’t be headlining Coachella anytime soon, they’re experts at reading the room and delivering an unforgettable wedding party!

Can I book a DJ for the entire wedding?
DJs are only available for the reception. Their role is to enhance the atmosphere during dinner and formalities and then get the dance floor pumping.

For earlier parts of the day, such as the ceremony and canapés, an acoustic act is ideal. Acoustic artists offer flexibility, as they can easily set up in multiple locations without the need for extensive power or setup time. DJs, on the other hand, require power and over 45 minutes to set up their gear, making them a one-location option.

Our packages strike the perfect balance: an acoustic act to create a relaxed ambience earlier in the day, followed by an exceptional DJ to energise the evening and get everyone on their feet.

What is song learning?
Song learning is included in all our packages to ensure you hear those special songs that make your heart skip a beat during your wedding ceremony. This applies specifically to your three ceremony songs: the processional (walking down the aisle), signing of the register, and recessional (walking back up the aisle). Please note, the three chosen songs are for the ceremony only. For example, if you select only two live ceremony songs, you cannot allocate the third to a different part of the day, such as canapés or the reception. If an artist already knows a chosen song, it still counts toward the three-song learning quota. Additional song learning is at the discretion of your artist(s).

How many live songs can we choose?
You can choose three live songs for your ceremony, typically for walking down the aisle, signing the register, and walking back up the aisle. This song selection is included in all packages, and your artist(s) will learn your special choices.

Can we hear a recording of our aisle song in advance?
Pre-recordings aren’t included in our packages, as our artists learn and rehearse your songs in the lead-up to your wedding. If you’re torn between a live version or the original recording, we usually recommend sticking with the original to ensure it sounds exactly as you expect. That said, some of our artists are happy to record a quick demo of your aisle song ahead of time for an additional fee (this varies from artist to artist) – feel free to get in touch if you’d like to enquire.

What will we hear beyond our chosen three songs?
Beyond your selected ceremony songs, your artist(s) will perform an array of incredible tracks from their repertoire during their acoustic sets throughout the day. They’re experts at reading the room and tailoring their performances to suit the vibe and energy of your guests.

Are there any songs the artist(s) won’t perform live?
Our artists are highly skilled and can perform most songs across a wide range of genres. However, some songs may not translate well live – particularly those that rely heavily on instruments not available in an acoustic setup (e.g. piano or strings). Acoustic soloists and duos perform with just guitar and vocals, so songs that depend on other instruments or classical arrangements are best played via Spotify.

If a song is outside an artist’s comfort zone – whether due to style, complexity, or lyrical content – they’ll let us know, and we’ll work with you to find a suitable alternative. Songs with explicit lyrics or religious hymns may also be declined, depending on the artist’s preferences and experience.

Can your musicians play classical instrumental pieces?
Classical pieces (including fingerpicking-style guitar instrumentals) are typically played via Spotify. These works often require specialist training and preparation, which isn’t practical for our artists to perform live.

Why can’t your musicians perform classical pieces live?
Classical music demands specific techniques and years of specialised training. While our musicians excel across multiple genres, classical performance falls outside their expertise.

How does the timing work for the aisle song?
Don’t stress about the length of your aisle or the timing of your song. Our musicians will seamlessly extend, repeat, or shorten the song as needed to ensure it perfectly fits your procession. Live performances allow for this flexibility, making sure the moment is just right.

Can we use timestamps to time the aisle song?
While timestamps might seem like a helpful idea, they often lead to overthinking and unnecessary confusion. It’s best to keep things simple – let your bridal party begin walking when the music starts. Trust us, the song won’t end until everyone has made it down the aisle, and you can enjoy the moment without worrying about cues.

Will there be live music as guests arrive for the ceremony?
No, live music before the ceremony is not included in our packages. However, we do play pre-recorded background music to create a welcoming atmosphere. Years of experience have taught us that hearing live vocals before the bride’s entrance can diminish the impact of that magical moment when she walks down the aisle.

What happens during canapés?
During canapés, your artist(s) will play live acoustic sets to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Between sets, music will continue via Spotify, ensuring a seamless musical experience. If canapés take place in a different location from the reception, the artist(s) will transition to background music about 15 minutes before the move to allow time for packing up and setting up for the reception.

Can we see the artist’s repertoire list and choose which songs we want performed during the live sets?
We don’t offer fully client-curated setlists for our acoustic sets. While we’re happy to share an artist’s general song list so you can get a feel for their style, many of the songs listed still require some rehearsal and prep time to get performance-ready. Because our artists often have multiple weddings and events each week, it’s not feasible for them to learn a long list of specific requests for every booking.

That said, our artists are incredibly experienced at reading the room and selecting songs that suit the vibe in real time – which is part of what makes live music feel so special. Setlists also need to stay flexible on the day so the artist can respond to the energy of the guests and the flow of the event.

You’re more than welcome to flag a couple of favourite songs and we’ll always do our best to include them where possible.

Can our first dance song be performed live?
Live performances of first dance songs are not included in our standard packages. From our experience, using the original recording creates a smoother transition from the formalities to the high-energy dance floor portion of the evening. Additionally, if you’ve been rehearsing to a recorded track, a live performance can introduce variables that might throw off your timing. Stick with what you’ve practised to ensure a flawless moment.

What music is played between live sets?
During set breaks, pre-arranged music will play via Spotify. If you have specific preferences, you’re welcome to send us a Spotify playlist when filling out your event questionnaire.

What is the Spotify guide, and how does it work?
The Spotify guide is a fantastic tool for sharing the type of music you’d like for your event. While it’s not meant to be a strict setlist, it gives your artist or DJ an excellent sense of your taste and the vibe you’re aiming for. Our artists and DJs use these playlists as inspiration but also adapt to the energy of the night to keep the dance floor packed. If you prefer to stick strictly to your playlist, we can make that happen—just let us know in advance.

How can I share my Spotify playlist?
Open Spotify, select your playlist, and click the “…” icon near the play button. Choose “Share” and then “Copy link to playlist.” Make sure your playlist is set to Public before sharing.

What is full audio production, and why is it important?
Full audio production includes all the essential equipment needed to ensure top-quality sound, such as microphones, speakers, and DJ decks. High-quality audio production is vital for creating a seamless experience and ensuring everything sounds amazing throughout your event. For a quick overview, check out this video.

Can you provide audio production for our celebrant or pastor?
Our packages don’t include audio production for celebrants or pastors, and it’s not feasible to connect an additional microphone to the artist’s PA system. This is because:

1. All input channels are already used by the musicians.
2. Most portable PA systems used by our artists aren’t compatible with wireless microphones.
3. The musicians’ setup location is typically separate from where the celebrant needs sound.
   To ensure everyone hears your ceremony and vows clearly, we recommend arranging a dedicated audio system for your celebrant.

Can your artists perform unamplified?
No, our artists require minimal amplification for performances. This avoids vocal strain, ensures proper sound projection, and maintains a professional quality. A small busking amp or equivalent setup is the minimum requirement and must be allowed by your venue.

How do I choose the right setup location for the musicians?
Choose a location that isn’t directly next to tables with elderly guests or others who might be sensitive to sound. Proper placement can greatly enhance your guests’ experience. Limit the number of location changes for the audio setup. A typical arrangement involves one location for the ceremony and another for the reception. Additional logistical setups can be challenging to coordinate. Also, consider the environment—if your event is outdoors during cooler months, provide heaters or windbreaks to ensure your musicians can perform comfortably.

Do I need to arrange anything for the setup?
While we provide all necessary equipment, a table for the mixer and DJ decks is helpful and can often be sourced from your venue to match the décor. If that’s not possible, let us know, and we’ll bring a trestle. Stools for canapés and early reception sets are also appreciated if available.

What are in-house systems and decibel limits?
Many venues have in-house audio systems that all artists are required to use. While this works well, it means the venue manager controls the volume and vibe, not the artist. Venues like Watsons Bay, Berry Homestead, GrowWild, and Bendooley Stables have such requirements, and the artists must adhere to the venue’s rules.

Do you provide lighting setups?
Our artists include simple fairy lights for a romantic and cohesive aesthetic. For more elaborate lighting, you’ll need to hire from an external company. If you do, the hired equipment must be managed by you or a designated person to avoid damage. Alternatively, you can arrange for a technician from the rental company to oversee the setup and ensure everything runs smoothly.

Will the artists provide an extension lead if needed?
Yes, if the extension lead required is no longer than 20m, our artists can provide one. For longer leads, you or your venue will need to arrange this. Just let us know in advance by including it in your artist brief.

What time will the musician(s) arrive?
Musicians typically arrive 1.5 hours before the ceremony start time to allow for setup and sound checks. If you’ve booked a reception-only package, your artist(s) will arrive about 1 hour before their scheduled start time.

How long is an acoustic set?
Acoustic sets usually run between 35 and 45 minutes. However, at weddings, flexibility is key—formalities, speeches, and other moments can affect timing. Some sets might last over an hour, while others may be just 15 minutes to allow guests time to refresh their drinks. Every wedding is different, and we adapt to suit your day. With our “music in the air all day” approach, there will always be something playing, whether it’s live or through the speakers during short breaks.

How long does the Duo/Trio + DJ package last?
The Duo/Trio + DJ package covers approximately 7 hours, which aligns with the duration of a standard wedding. For events lasting longer than 7 hours—such as a 2pm ceremony with a midnight finish—additional charges may apply, as outlined in our package details. A few extra minutes here and there won’t be an issue, but significant overages will incur surcharges.

Why do your packages only cover until 11pm?
Our wedding music packages conclude by 11pm, which is the standard across most Australian venues and is crucial for the safety and wellbeing of our artists. Late-night travel can be risky due to fatigue and reduced visibility, and we prioritise our team’s safety.

Additionally, weddings tend to lose momentum after 11pm. In our experience, guests often feel tired or have had a bit too much to drink, leading to a noticeable dip in energy. To ensure your celebration ends on a high note, we recommend wrapping up the party by 11pm for a memorable finale with all the excitement intact.

What if we don’t have a fixed end time for our wedding?
Our packages are designed to conclude by 11pm. If your wedding extends beyond this time, a late-finish surcharge will apply. To keep the music going after the DJ wraps up, we recommend having a backup plan such as a speaker and a Spotify playlist. This way, you can continue celebrating into the early hours without worrying about additional costs!

Are we able to arrange a face-to-face meeting in the lead-up?
Due to the high volume of weddings and events we manage each year, we’re unable to meet couples in person to discuss their weddings. However, we’re confident that our comprehensive email communication, FAQs, and blogs provide all the information you need to feel prepared and at ease. We prefer email communication as it creates a clear paper trail of requests and details. Feel free to email us as much as needed!

Can we contact our artist directly in the lead-up?
We know it can feel easier to go straight to your artist, but everything runs more smoothly when communication comes through us. It helps us stay across every detail and ensures our artists can focus on preparing for your day. You’ll still get everything you need — just with one clear point of contact.

How do we get in touch with the artist on the day in case of an emergency?
We understand that having an on-the-day contact is essential. On the morning of your wedding, you’ll receive an email at 7am with the XO Sounds contact number and your artist’s direct phone number. You can also include additional contacts (like a family member, event coordinator, or venue manager) in your artist brief to ensure communication is smooth.

Can we schedule a phone call to discuss details?
We handle all booking details in writing through your artist brief to make sure nothing gets missed or miscommunicated — it’s how we stay organised with over 300 weddings and events each year. This also means your artists have one clear source of truth to refer back to.

That said, if you’d simply like a quick phone chat for peace of mind (rather than to go over details), we’re happy to arrange that — just let us know.

What can I expect from your booking system?
We’ve refined our booking system over many years to ensure everything runs smoothly on your big day. Our team previously managed 800+ weddings and events each year across Australia, and now with 300+ weddings annually under XO Sounds, our process is well and truly tried and tested. You can trust the system, our team, and our artists – you’re in safe hands!

What happens if extreme circumstances prevent my selected artist from performing?
While extremely rare, unforeseen events such as illness or emergencies can occasionally prevent an artist from performing. If this happens, we’ll arrange a suitable replacement immediately, ensuring your wedding day isn’t affected. If a replacement is needed within seven days of your wedding, you’ll only be informed after we’ve secured a substitute. This approach minimises unnecessary stress during your wedding week, allowing you to relax knowing we’ve got it handled.

What are your office hours?
We typically respond to emails from 11 am to 5 pm on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. On weekends, when we’re often busy performing at weddings, response times may be slower. If you email outside these hours or over the weekend, please allow some extra time for a reply.

How can we find out more about what to expect on the day?
For a detailed look at how everything will flow on the day, check out our blog. You’ll find helpful articles about our packages and what to expect.

What’s your payment process?
We require a 20% deposit to secure your booking. Your artist is only confirmed once the deposit has been received. The remaining balance will be due closer to your wedding, and we’ll send you a final invoice about one month beforehand. Payment is due before the wedding day.

Important: Please do not make any additional payments without receiving an invoice. Extra payments can cause confusion and delays in allocating funds. Simply pay the deposit and then the final balance once prompted by the final invoice.

Yes, a meal must be provided for each musician or DJ for any package that takes place over a reasonable dinner period (typically between 5:00 pm and 8:30 pm). Below is a guide to help you determine how many meals are required based on your package. If your package timings differ or are unusual, please contact our detail coordinator for clarification.

• Ceremony-only packages: No crew meals required.
• Ceremony + canapés packages: No crew meals required, though it would be greatly appreciated if the artist(s) could enjoy a canapé or two.
• Solo + DJ package (full wedding): 1 crew meal.
• Duo + DJ package (full wedding): 2 crew meals.
• Trio + DJ package (full wedding): 3 crew meals.
• Full band package: 5 crew meals.

If your package includes a saxophonist, whether they require a meal depends on their start time and when your venue serves crew dinners. Generally, if the sax player begins at 8:30 pm or later, they will not require a meal.

Does my artist have dietary requirements?
Please check with our event detail coordinator to confirm any dietary needs for the

If you’d like an overview of how everything will flow on your big day, head over to our blog! You’ll find helpful articles detailing how our packages work and what to expect, ensuring you feel prepared and confident.