I'm in UK and haven't called a wedding for a while, so can't quote figures. But when asked my fee (often by band leader) i say I'm happy with what the musicians are getting (unless they are doing it free for someone i don't know).

The thing that makes weddings different from other gigs is the hanging about. Never go to plan. Once we were hauling our gear down a steep garden path to set up in the marque at midnight (advertised finish time), after sitting around for hours.

I enjoy calling and don't need the money but it's not good to undercut those who do need it or to feel taken for granted. We were at a wedding once when there was a break in the ceilidh for fireworks. The bride was standing nearby "we had some money left over so we thought we'd have this". Cost considerably more than the 6 of us were paid. Hmmm.

On Nov 10, 2025, at 1:32 PM, Joseph Erhard-Hudson via Contra Callers <contracallers@lists.sharedweight.net> wrote:


Hi all,

A good friend I made through contra dance has asked me to call some dancing at her wedding reception