We've put together these Frequently Asked Questions off what clients ask us when they get in touch.
What's your standard set?
1900-2000: load-in, setup, and soundcheck
2000-2130: cutting the cake and first dance (if it's a wedding), then straight into ceilidh set
2130-2215: buffet break
2215-2300: a bit more ceilidh
2300-0000 DJ to finish the night
Sometimes we'll finish with an Orcadian Strip the Willow and Auld Lang Syne for the last 15 minutes, but that's entirely at your discretion. Generally, we're very flexible, but the above is a relatively normal kind of night.
Why have a ceilidh?
Celebrate your special event with a traditional, exciting, and fun night. We are one of the most upbeat, lively, and engaging ceilidh bands in the business. A ceilidh is a great way to break the ice: as with so many events (mainly weddings), many of the guests don't know each other, and a ceilidh is the perfect way for people to mingle, dance, and get to know each other in an inspiring, fun way.
There will be guests there who have never done a ceilidh, should I book a DJ instead?
No! It's No' Reel are expert at guiding even the most amateur dancers through the ceilidh dances - we've performed for many events where there haven't been any Scottish people in the room, and they've all still had a great time! Our caller is fantastic at explaining dances in a fun, engaging way so that everyone is up dancing.
What does the DJ package entail?
The DJ package is a brilliant way of giving your guests the perfect mix of ceilidh and disco music. Usually, the DJ comes to finish the night for the last hour or so, but we can be flexible with this. We encourage our clients to send us a list of 25-30 tracks that we will aim to include in the set, and it also gives us a good idea of the sort of music you're into!
How far will you travel for an event?
We regularly travel throughout the UK and Europe - there's nowhere we don't cover! We've been fortunate enough to play at some beautiful weddings in France, Spain and Italy over the last few years too, so if you're looking for a non-UK ceilidh, we're the band for you!
What time will you turn up, and how long does it take for you to set up?
We will arrive approximately 1 hour before we are billed to play to get set up and sound-checked. If you require us to arrive earlier than this, we will charge extra for early setups.
How do I book the band?
You can contact It's No' Reel Ceilidh Band by telephone, email, or by using our online form on our Contact Us page. We will get back to you as soon as possible. If you want to proceed, we have a contract that will need to be signed and returned, along with a deposit to be paid (typically 30-40% of the total fee). The remaining balance should be paid one calendar month before your event; these details will be clear on the documents.
What kind of music do you play?
We play fantastic Scottish and Irish tunes, which we play in an energetic, modern and fun way.
What equipment do you carry?
We carry professional PA gear (with a spare of pretty much everything!) and up-lighters to add an ambience to the dance space.
Can we come to see you before we decide to book you?
Whilst we endeavour to meet all of our client's needs and to be as flexible as possible, it is our strict policy not to allow prospective clients to visit other clients' events: we feel that such events are not the right platform for us to be promoting ourselves at. However, we hope the wide range of videos, recordings, and testimonials from previous clients give you a perfect idea of our professional service. There are several public events that we perform throughout the year where it is more appropriate for prospective clients to come and take a listen.
Do you have Public Liability Insurance, and is your electrical equipment PAT tested?
Yes, to both - certificates available on demand.