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How to Budget for a Wedding String Quartet

How to · Event

How to Budget for a Wedding String Quartet

Lock in your ceremony music early and spread the cost over your engagement period to keep your wedding budget manageable.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $800 before anything else
Across the 0% window $44.44/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $800 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

That moment when the music swells as you walk down the aisle sets the entire tone for the ceremony. Since the best groups book up fast, you should lock in your quartet at least six months out if you aren't doing a Saturday date.

A quartet usually runs about $800, which can be a big hit to your bank account all at once. Planning ahead lets you manage that expense without draining your savings before the big day.

The 18-month window is a deadline, not free money. If you have a remaining balance after the 18 months are up, you will start paying interest on whatever is left, which will quickly cost you more than the original price of the music.

The steps

  1. 01

    Secure your date early

    Contact your top choice six months before the wedding to ensure they are available. Good musicians fill their calendars quickly, so don't wait until the last minute.

  2. 02

    Review the contract

    Read the agreement carefully to see what happens if your wedding is postponed. Make sure you understand the cancellation policy before putting down any money.

  3. 03

    Use the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card

    You can use the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card to cover the $800 fee. This card offers 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening.

  4. 04

    Set a monthly payment plan

    If you spread the $800 cost over the 18-month intro window, you are looking at paying $44.44 per month. Set up an automatic payment so you never miss a due date.

  5. 05

    Confirm the repertoire

    Finalize your song list at least a month before the wedding. This gives the musicians time to practice any specific arrangements you have requested.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Should I pay the quartet in full upfront?

Most musicians require a deposit to hold the date and the remainder due shortly before the wedding. Ask for their specific payment schedule before you commit.

Do I need to tip the musicians?

Tipping isn't always expected, but it is a nice gesture for great service. $20 to $50 per musician is a common range if you decide to tip.

What happens if I cancel my wedding?

Most quartets keep your deposit as a cancellation fee. Check your contract to see how close to the date you can cancel without owing the full balance.

Do I need to provide lunch for the band?

If they are playing for a long time or staying through the reception, it is polite to include them in the meal count. Check your contract for any hospitality requirements.