The honest take
Second lines are one of the most joyful things you can do at a wedding. A brass band plays, guests wave handkerchiefs and parasols, the couple leads the procession. It’s participatory in a way that most wedding entertainment isn’t — everyone is in it, not watching it.
Works best with a genuine outdoor route between two spaces (ceremony to cocktail hour, or cocktail hour to reception room). A second line that goes in a loop around a car park loses most of its magic. Needs a minimum of 8–10 musicians to have the sound you want.
How it works
The band starts playing as the ceremony ends. The couple leads the parade. Guests follow, waving parasols or handkerchiefs (provided by the couple). The route ideally ends at the next gathering point. The band plays 20–30 minutes of upbeat jazz, funk, and traditional second line music.
Traditionally a New Orleans funeral custom repurposed as celebration — the “second line” was originally the people who followed behind the brass band.
What to arrange
The band:
- 8–12 musicians minimum for full effect. Smaller groups (5–6) work but sound thin outdoors.
- Look specifically for bands who advertise “second line” experience — the repertoire and format are specific
- Brass quintet/septet minimum; full ensemble (with tuba and drums) is better
The props:
- White handkerchiefs or parasols for guests — budget $1–3 per guest
- Traditionally white, but couples customize to match wedding colours
- Order at least 20% more than your guest count (people take extras, kids want two)
The route:
- Must be accessible (elderly guests, anyone in heels). Flat is better.
- 100–500 metres is ideal. Too short feels rushed; too long loses stragglers.
- Coordinate with venue — path must be clear
Timing:
- Most common: ceremony exit → cocktail hour entrance
- Also works: cocktail hour → reception room, or reception → grand exit
What it costs
Brass bands vary widely. Budget $1,500–$4,000 for a proper second line ensemble for 60–90 minutes (marching time + cocktail hour set). City rates in New York, Chicago, New Orleans are higher.
Checklist
- Book band early — good brass bands book 6–12 months out
- Walk the route with venue coordinator (surface, accessibility, obstacles)
- Order parasols/handkerchiefs — 1.2× guest count
- Brief wedding planner/coordinator on cue for band to start
- Confirm with photographer — second line is a great photo moment, needs to be expected
- Check noise restrictions (particularly for outdoor city venues)
Works well with
- Duck Herding Entertainment — both are “something the guests will talk about for years” moments
- Flash Mob First Dance — stack two surprises across the day