The Secret Sauce to Performing Multiple Events in a Weekend
Performing at one wedding or event can feel like magic—but performing at three (or more!) in a single weekend? That’s a true art—and a test of planning, stamina, and professionalism. Whether you're a singer, guitarist, pianist, or part of a duo, managing multiple back-to-back gigs isn’t just about showing up and playing your set; it’s about setting yourself up for a smooth, stress-free (and actually enjoyable!) experience.
Here’s your step-by-step “secret sauce” to keep the music flowing, the clients happy, and your energy (and sanity) intact:
1. Get Logistical Details Locked Down Early
It sounds obvious, but the biggest headaches come from overlooked logistics:
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Confirm addresses, parking, set times, dress codes, and contacts at least a week before.
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Save locations in your phone maps and plan your travel route between gigs, accounting for weekend traffic, road closures, or event-day crowds.
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If you use public transport or taxis, schedule them in advance rather than hoping you’ll catch one quickly between venues.
Tip: Keep all gig info—client contacts, setlists, and times—in a shared calendar or note-taking app you can check on the go.
2. Prep Physically (and Vocally!) Like an Athlete
Two or three gigs in a weekend can strain your voice and body:
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Hydrate well starting days before the weekend—not just the morning of.
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Warm up properly before each gig, and do gentle cooldown exercises after.
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Pack healthy, energy-sustaining snacks (nuts, bananas, protein bars) and stay away from sugary or overly salty foods that can affect your voice or energy.
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Prioritise sleep; late-night gigs can tempt you to stay up, but rest is your best secret weapon.
3. Communicate Clearly and Proactively with Clients
Clients love performers who make their day stress-free:
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Send a friendly confirmation message early in the week: “Looking forward to performing on Saturday! Just confirming arrival at 4 PM, first dance at 7 PM—let me know if anything changes.”
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If something unavoidable pops up (traffic, unexpected delay), communicate immediately—never leave a client guessing.
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Discuss setlists in advance to avoid last-minute song changes that can throw you off schedule.
4. Streamline Your Gear and Setlists
Dragging multiple instruments and bags to several venues can be exhausting:
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Create a “weekend gig bag” with spares of everything: strings, cables, batteries, tuners, in-ear monitors, etc.
Acoustic Backs And Tracks£3.99
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Use compact gear and lightweight stands where possible.
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Prepare slightly different setlists for each event but keep your warm-up songs and key crowd-pleasers consistent so you don’t have to relearn between gigs.
5. Set Up Prompt, Stress-Free Payment
Chasing payment after a long weekend is no fun:
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Invoice clearly, with payment terms stated upfront (e.g., “Payment due on or before the event date”).
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Offer secure and easy payment options: bank transfer, PayPal, even card readers if you perform at public gigs.
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Politely remind clients a few days before the event: “Just a friendly reminder, payment can be made by Friday—let me know if you need any details again!”
6. Look After Your Wellbeing Between Sets
Don’t underestimate downtime:
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Find quiet spots to stretch or sit between gigs.
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Limit talking loudly in noisy rooms—save your voice.
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If it’s hot, stay cool; if it’s cold, keep warm. Comfort = better performance.
7. Make the Most of Content Opportunities
Multiple gigs in a weekend = multiple chances to capture fresh content:
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Ask a friend, bandmate, or even a guest (with permission) to film a short clip or snap a photo.
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Share real-time stories or behind-the-scenes clips on socials—audiences love authentic glimpses of your weekend hustle.
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Tag venues and planners—it's great networking and visibility for future bookings.
8. Finish Strong and Reflect
After the weekend rush:
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Follow up with clients to thank them and ask for testimonials or reviews.
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Take note of what went smoothly and what felt stressful—then tweak your approach for next time.
In short: the real “secret sauce” isn’t one thing—it’s a recipe: clear planning, proactive communication, caring for your body and voice, smart logistics, and professional follow-up. Master those, and you’ll turn even the busiest weekend into a smooth, enjoyable, and successful run of performances.
