A serenade with video (serenata con video) is one where someone records the moment to keep and share it. On Serenattia a video included in the service is not promised, but you can plan for it: choose the musician, say that there will be a camera and ask a trusted person to film from a good angle.
Can you ask for a serenade with video?
Yes, you can record it, and it's highly recommended. The person's reaction, the first chords and the ending with applause are the center of the story. What's worth clarifying is who films: on Serenattia you hire the musicians, and the video is something you organize with a friend, a relative or your own phone, always agreeing on it with the musician beforehand.
We don't offer professional recording as part of the service, because it isn't something we can guarantee. What we do is help you get the moment ready to be recorded: music, time and place well defined. Check the available musicians in the booking section.
Why is it worth recording a serenade?
A serenade is a short, very emotional moment. If nobody records it, it stays in the memory of those who were there. If it's recorded, it becomes something they can rewatch on their anniversary, send to family who live far away or keep for when they need to remember why they love each other.
- For the recipient: seeing yourself surprised is a memory you can't catch in the moment.
- For the giver: it's proof that the effort was worth it.
- For the family: if they couldn't attend, they experience it anyway.
How do you plan a good recording?
With a few simple decisions the video comes out better than with any improvisation:
- Choose who films. A friend with a steady hand is better than someone who also wants to sing.
- Prepare the phone. Battery charged, free storage space and airplane mode if you don't want notifications.
- Film horizontally. The group and the person's face fit at the same time.
- Mind the light. If it's night, find a lamp or the streetlight behind the camera, not in front of it.
- Position the musicians. Ask them to face the door or the person, with room to move.
- Start recording early. The seconds before, with the person knowing nothing, are the best.
Agree with the musician that you'll be filming and ask whether they have any requirements. It's easier to resolve beforehand than on the day of the event.
What do I do with the QR if I'm busy with the camera?
On Serenattia the payment is released when the client scans the musician's QR code before they play. If you're going to be with the surprise or with the camera, scan the QR as soon as the group arrives and before they start. You can also leave a trusted person in charge. It's a short step and it's the one that protects your payment: if the group doesn't show up, the money isn't released.
How much does a serenade cost and what does the price include?
The price is set by each musician and is visible on their profile. As of October 2026, the lowest price posted in these cities, before the service fee, is:
| City | From (MXN) |
|---|---|
| Puebla | MX$1,300 |
| CDMX | MX$1,500 |
| Mérida | MX$1,700 |
| Cancún | MX$1,800 |
| Playa del Carmen | MX$2,000 |
| Toluca | MX$2,200 |
| Querétaro | MX$2,400 |
| Monterrey | MX$2,500 |
| Cuernavaca | MX$3,600 |
| Guadalajara | MX$4,000 |
A 10% service fee is added to the rate, with a minimum of MX$200, and the musician receives 100% of their rate. If you need an invoice, the 16% VAT goes on top. Check the index of music prices in Mexico to compare.
Which genre looks best on video?
All of them can look very good, but each gives a different image. Mariachi fills the frame with costumes, trumpets and movement. The trio is more sober and sounds clean, which helps with audio. Norteño and banda bring party energy. If audio worries you, a small group usually records more clearly on a phone. The nice thing is that you can choose the way you'd choose a flower: according to what you want the video to say.
How to assign roles so someone films without losing the emotion
Ideally the person organizing the surprise isn't the one filming, because they'll be watching the reaction, the musician and the timing. Designate a trusted person with a steady hand and a phone with enough storage. Before the day, ask them to do a light and sound test at the location.
- Whoever films: stands at a distance that lets them see the group and the person being honored.
- Whoever greets the musicians: takes care of the door and of everything starting on time.
- Whoever organizes: concentrates on the surprise and on enjoying the moment.
Recording tips that improve the result
- Film horizontally so the musicians and the reaction fit.
- Avoid getting too close, because the sound can saturate with the instruments.
- If it's night, look for an area with soft light and avoid strong backlighting.
- Take a short shot of the entrance and another of the final reaction, in addition to the full song.
- Ask the musicians for permission if you want to post the video on social media, so they know how it will be used.
Remember that the video is a decision for you and the attendees. If there are people who don't want to be on camera, respect that. Also, protect the privacy of neighbors and minors before sharing on social media.
In the end, a short video with the person's real reaction is usually worth more than a complicated production. Save it on your phone and in the cloud so you don't lose it.
Frequently asked questions
Does Serenattia record the serenade video?
We don't offer recording as part of the service. You organize who films, with your phone or a trusted person, and agree on it with the musician.
Do musicians allow recording?
The recommendation is to say so before booking and confirm it with the musician, so there are no surprises on the day of the event.
When is the payment released?
When the client scans the musician's QR code at the event, before they play. Until then the money is held in escrow.
How much is the service fee?
It is 10% on the rate, with a minimum of MX$200. The musician receives 100% of their rate.
Choose your musicians on Serenattia and book with the payment held in escrow.