(Crossposting this on the Maryland and Baltimore boards)
We decided we would like to have a string quartet/trio for the ceremony only. Our reception venue is about half an hour away from the church, so we won't be having them travel there for the cocktail hour (our DJ will handle that part).
That being said, what is a reasonable price? I've been quoted anything from $500 to $800 for a quartet, slightly less for a trio. We want all strings, no flutes or guitars or harps.
I've read a lot of good reviews for Antares, but they were at the high end of the price range. Chesapeake Strings also had some decent reviews.
Who have you worked with in the past and would you recommend them? Is $800 reasonable for an hour of work? And do I need to tip them on top of that?
Thanks in advance.