Live Band vs DJ?
It’s no secret that there are few other elements of a wedding that can make or break the entire celebration other than the music. And it’s for this reason why discriminating brides and grooms often lose countless hours of sleep deciding on their entertainment - DJ or Band?
The seemingly obvious choice for an upscale wedding is to hire a live band; however that can cause strife with those couples who really appreciate hearing the music the way they’ve heard it, by the original artists. Of course the next logical choice is to research a great DJ.
So what’s a modern couple to do? Go to the Sonoma Wedding Show!
Just some input regarding the wedding DJ vs Band issue. I have been DJing for 6 years now and the main difference I have noticed is that a wedding DJ will help run the time line, make all the announcements and work with the other vendors to keep things organized and running smoothly. A band will usually just play music. Depending on the event, live music can be great for the ceremony or the cocktail appetizer time. Another good option is to have the band play the second dance set after the cake cutting. For most weddings I believe having a professional DJ is the way to go.
Steve
Reply to this
I think a DJ is the way to go, they help run the day smoothly. Make announcements and tell you when events should take place. You know what the music will sound like and are usually much cheaper!
Reply to this
Normally I would say a DJ is defiantly the way to go but my best man had a band at his wedding that was just incredible. The name is LARRY LYNCH and the MOB and their web site is www.LarryLynchandtheMob.com very good, very classy and worth a check out!
Reply to this
Set a budget for entertainment. A live band tends to be more expensive than a DJ. For a 4-hour reception, a DJ can cost anywhere from $400 to $1,400, while a four-piece band can cost between $1,000 and $5000. (Note: the prices of both tend to go up, depending on reputation, demand and quality of equipment.)
Decide upon the length of the reception. Bands tire more easily than DJs and may not be able to work as long.
Consider the location of your wedding reception.
Is it too small to house a full band?
Does the establishment place restrictions on the types of music played?
Listen to them play. Sit in on an event, attend the band's auditions or ask for a recorded tape.
Check out the bandleader. Is he or she charismatic? One benefit of a live band is that sometimes the leader can double as a master of ceremonies. (Like the DJ would be doing)
Check out the DJs album collections. DJs typically have a much broader repertoire than a live band and can usually add any special songs you desire.
Consider your priorities and weigh the pros and cons of each. Then make a choice and book your entertainment. Bands and DJs can be booked a year or more in advance.
Reply to this
<b>Good entertainment is the key to a successful wedding celebration. How do you choose the appropriate entertainment for your wedding reception? The good news is, whether you choose a band vs a DJ, or vice versa, you really can’t go wrong.
Cost is typically the deciding factor when choosing between a band and a DJ. Although prices will vary, a good wedding DJ can cost between $600.00 and $1200.00, and a good, live band can cost between $1500.00 and $10,000.00.
If finances are not an issue, and you still don’t know which one to choose, here are some things you may want to consider before making your final decision:</b>
-- Bands are typically “showier” than a DJ. Since there are several band members, there is someone that each of your guests can identify with and watch. Bands also have a nice visual outlook because they are performing.
-- Bands do have a couple of limitations. Most bands have a limited repertoire of music, so if you want musical selections that span generations or genres, you may have a hard time finding one band that does it all. Bands also typically take breaks. This can cause the party to grind to a halt. Some bands will bring a DJ with them; others will put on a CD to play while they are off stage. Make sure you know which one your band will do and that you are confident that your party won’t die while the band is on break.
-- DJs can bring thousands of music selections with to a wedding. If you want a wide variety of music, a DJ may be the best choice for you. Some couples prefer to hear their favorite songs by the original artists rather than another band’s interpretation. Once again, a DJ would be the proper choice.
-- Unless you get a really good DJ, some DJ's can lack some of the “wow factor” that a band has because they don’t have several entertainers performing, but many DJs make up for that by having fun props and routines that they use. Some brides like this yet other feel it just does not fit at their wedding.
-- Whatever form of entertainment you choose, make sure to have a good contract and check references. When it comes to hiring a band, see if you can check out their performance in person. When you hire a DJ, make sure you like his (or her) personality. Make sure that the entertainer you choose knows how to perform at a wedding. He should be familiar with the activities that take place throughout the evening and he should feel comfortable leading your guests through those activities. Communicate with your entertainers about the type of music you like and the ambiance you would like for your reception. Put in writing any specific songs you would like to hear and give them an agenda to follow for the evening.
<b>The most important thing you can do to ensure a successful wedding reception is to relax and enjoy your wedding. Whether you hire a DJ or a live band, make sure to get out on the dance floor and have fun!</b>
Reply to this
both will do as long as they give great entertainment
Reply to this