Music: Band or DJ?
You hope that your guests will dance the night away at your wedding. The right kind of musician can make that happen. (expert advice)
What reception is complete without a wedding band or DJ playing goodies-but-oldies and the latest hits? Whether you choose the live strumming of guitars or the energetic flip of records, guests are expecting to dance the night away and hear a little mood music while celebrating your nuptials. So, before you choose between a wedding band or DJ, it is important to consider all of the factors that will affect your final decision. I suggest you take a look at the following:
Budget: As you juggle the ups and downs of your budget, keep in mind that there is a difference in price between hiring a wedding band or DJ. The services of DJs usually start around $1,000 for a four-hour reception. However, live bands are known to ask between $3,000 and $20,000 for providing the same services as a DJ.
Length of Event: How long do you plan to dance the night away? Choosing a wedding band means that you're going to encounter intermissions and breaks. Most bands do not play continuously throughout a four-hour long event. Prepare for prerecorded fillers, while the wedding band takes a breather. Receptions scheduled to exceed four hours may benefit from the musical assistance of a wedding DJ.
Type of Venue: The size of your venue will affect your choice regarding a wedding band or DJ. Sometimes, your reception location is simply too small to accommodate the instruments and equipment of a wedding band – let alone adequately contain the sound. What if a DJ is unable to play at the reception hall of your choice? Some facilities impose restrictions. This is an important point to note.
Your Guests: Your general crowd will play an important factor in deciding whether to go with a wedding band or DJ. If you are in your 20's, perhaps a wedding DJ is necessary to liven up the atmosphere, whereas a live band may cater best to guests in their middle ages. On the other hand, live music has a tendency to pump up crowds and get them motivated to dance.
Special Requests: Depending on the wedding band or DJ you select, you may or may not be able to get all of your requested songs played. Will your wedding band be able to play special requests made by guests? How long will it take for a DJ to locate an impromptu request? What if a record breaks, CD skips, or an amp blows a speaker? Ask your potential wedding band or DJ if they have a backup plan.
Photos by Jennifer Skog
