The Pines Weddings & Events – Music

Wedding Music & Entertainment in The Pines

Music sets the tone for your entire celebration. From the first notes as you walk down the aisle to the last song of the evening, the right entertainment creates unforgettable memories for you and your guests.

Whether you’re planning an elegant ceremony in Pinehurst, a rustic barn wedding near Carthage, a garden celebration in Southern Pines, a lakeside gathering in Seven Lakes, or a reception in Sanford, The Pines Weddings & Events helps you discover talented local musicians, DJs, bands, and entertainment professionals serving Moore, Lee, Hoke, Richmond, Chatham, Montgomery, Cumberland, and surrounding counties.

Whether your style is timeless, country, beach, rock, jazz, classical, Motown, bluegrass, or today’s biggest hits, there’s entertainment that fits your vision and your budget.

Use the Table of Contents below to quickly navigate to the information you’re looking for.

Find Wedding Music for Every Moment

Your wedding day includes several moments that each deserve their own soundtrack.

Ceremony Music

Create a beautiful atmosphere with:

String quartets
Solo violinists
Pianists
Harpists
Acoustic guitarists
Vocalists
Flute or cello performers

Popular ceremony music includes traditional classics, contemporary love songs, movie themes, and personalized selections.

Cocktail Hour

Keep guests entertained while photographs are being taken with:

Acoustic duos
Jazz trios
Saxophone players
Piano performers
Light instrumental music
Singer-songwriters

Reception Entertainment

Once dinner is over, it’s time to celebrate.

Choose from:

Wedding DJs
Live bands
Party bands
Country bands
Classic rock bands
Beach music bands
Variety bands
Cover bands
Dance bands
Solo entertainers

Many couples even combine a DJ with a live musician for an unforgettable experience.

Specialty Entertainment

Looking for something unique?

Consider:

String lights & silent disco
Steel drum bands
Bluegrass bands
Gospel choirs
Bagpipers
Mariachi musicians
Brass ensembles
Swing bands
Jazz bands
Karaoke
Interactive entertainers
Fire dancers (venue permitting)
Cultural performances

Live Band or DJ?

Live Band

Perfect for couples who want:

High energy
Live interaction
Memorable performances
A concert-like atmosphere

Pros:

Incredible stage presence
Great audience engagement
Unique experience
Live vocals and instruments

Things to consider:

Higher cost
More space required
Breaks between sets (unless combined with a DJ)

Wedding DJ

Ideal for couples who want:

Unlimited song choices
Seamless transitions
Professional announcements
Affordable entertainment

Pros:

Wide music selection
Easier to customize playlists
Keeps dancing going all night
Typically requires less space

Why Not Both?

Many couples hire:

Live musician for the ceremony
Acoustic music during cocktail hour
DJ for dinner and dancing
Saxophone or percussionist to perform alongside the DJ

This creates an unforgettable experience.

Music for Every Style

No two weddings are alike.

Choose music that reflects your personality:

Country
Beach Music
Classic Rock
Pop
Folk
Indie
Jazz
Blues
Bluegrass
Gospel
Classical
Christian
Motown
R&B
Soul
Latin
Swing
Oldies
Top 40
Alternative
Americana

Entertainment Beyond the Dance Floor

Music isn’t the only entertainment available.

Consider adding:

Lawn games
Cigar roller
Photo booth
Audio guestbook
Magician
Live painter
Caricature artist
Champagne wall
Sparkler exit coordinator
Cold spark machines
Dancing on the clouds
Uplighting
Monogram lighting

Local Wedding Musicians & DJs in The Pines

The Pines Weddings & Events is building one of the area’s most comprehensive resources for wedding entertainment throughout Lee, Moore, Hoke, Richmond and beyond counties.

Whiskey Pines

Based in Southern Pines, Whiskey Pines is one of the Sandhills’ most sought-after bands for weddings, private events, and celebrations. Known for their high-energy performances and exceptional musicianship, the award-winning group blends Americana, country, rock, folk, and classic favorites into an unforgettable live music experience. Whether you’re planning an intimate ceremony, lively cocktail hour, or a packed dance floor at your reception, Whiskey Pines delivers a versatile setlist spanning the 1960s through today’s hits. Available as an acoustic duo or full band, they bring professionalism, crowd engagement, and local charm to weddings throughout Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Aberdeen, Sanford, and beyond. See where they are planning next on their webpage here.

Mary Stone

Singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and DJ Mary Stone brings energy, versatility, and personality to weddings and special events throughout Pinehurst, Southern Pines, and the surrounding Sandhills. Whether you’re looking for beautiful live acoustic music for your ceremony or cocktail hour, upbeat entertainment for your reception, or a professional DJ to keep the dance floor full all night, Mary offers a customized experience to match your celebration. Known for her engaging performances on guitar, keys, and cajón, she performs a mix of country, rock, indie, pop, and crowd-favorite mashups. In addition to performing, Mary is a passionate supporter of the local music community and can also help connect couples with other talented musicians for their special day

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Frequently Asked Questions

Should I hire a DJ or a live band?

Both are great options. DJs offer unlimited music and lower costs, while live bands create a unique, high-energy experience. Many couples choose both.

When should I book wedding entertainment?

Most popular entertainers book 9–18 months in advance, especially for spring and fall weddings.

How much does wedding entertainment cost?

Costs vary depending on experience, travel, hours, and the size of the performance.

Typical ranges:

Ceremony musician: $300–$1,000+
DJ: $900–$2,500+
Live band: $2,500–$8,000+

Can musicians perform outdoors?

Yes, but they often require shade, power access, and protection from weather. Always discuss outdoor setup with your venue.

Can we choose all of the music?

Absolutely. Most entertainers encourage couples to create playlists, request favorite songs, and provide a “do not play” list.

Do wedding bands take breaks?

Yes. Most perform in sets with short breaks, often using recorded music in between. Some bands include a DJ service to keep the music going continuously.

What songs should we choose for our wedding?You’ll typically want music for:

Processional
Recessional
Cocktail hour
Grand entrance
First dance
Parent dances
Dinner
Cake cutting
Bouquet and garter (if applicable)
Last dance
Exit

Do entertainers provide microphones?

Most DJs and many bands provide wireless microphones for your officiant, vows, speeches, and toasts. Be sure to confirm what’s included.

Can guests request songs?

Many DJs welcome guest requests, while others prefer to follow the couple’s approved playlist. Discuss your preferences before the wedding.

Do I need separate music for the ceremony and reception?

Not necessarily. Many DJs and musicians offer packages that cover both the ceremony and reception, making coordination easier and often more cost-effective.