Hiring a DJ or a Band for your dream wedding:

Music is an essential part of any wedding, and you definitely want to hire the best musicians possible. Music can set or ruin the mood at your wedding, so we suggest researching how both DJs and live bands will help/hurt your special day. Music is one of the most important things at a wedding, so hire the best!

What is your taste in Music?

Since music is so important for a wedding, you should consider your musical taste when hiring musicians or DJs. They will set the tone and ambiance for your big day. Are you more into rock n' roll or do you prefer hip-hop? Are there certain songs that are special to you? Music tastes are very important because you will want the music at your wedding to fit the vibe you're envisioning. A list of songs is always a great idea about DJs?

What are some of the reasons for hiring a DJ for your wedding?

First, a DJ can set up anywhere quickly, as they just need speakers and a few pieces of equipment to play the music. This is great if you have a tight schedule on where to get ready or if you have outdoor weddings that change locations often. Additionally, DJs are very flexible with what types of songs they play, and they can change songs quickly without needing a break. Many DJs will have almost endless lists, music can be available at a request, so let the dancing begin!

Second, DJs can come at a decently low cost if you find the right one. Music is their passion as well as a business and undoubtedly they will want to make a little extra cash at your wedding, so you might be able to get a DJ for less. Just consider a well-earned gratuity at the end of the party! Also, consider there are some DJs who just buy all of their music and do not take requests. They will play anything as long as it's hip-hop, rap, pop, or their specified genre. Some do not play slow songs and will move you to the dance floor quickly.

Third, DJs can make your wedding fun! If you want people out on the dance floor and dancing all night long, then a DJ is perfect for you. Check out websites and social media sites to find posts of their performances so you can see ahead what to expect.

If you want a wide range of genres, styles, and artists to choose from, a wedding DJ is an ideal solution. While the average cost of a wedding DJ varies greatly, the average amount spent by couples in this category in 2019 was $1,200.

Is a Band the Right Choice for My Wedding?

In general, DJs are less expensive than bands. In many cases, there are only one, maybe two people, whereas if you hire a band to play at your wedding, they will likely have more members.

A band can be very versatile with what songs they play. Bands are not limited to just pre-recorded music; bands can sing, and bring their own instruments, as well as electronics and backup tracks. This is great if you want a one-of-a-kind band that has never performed your favorite song before - the band will learn the song just for your wedding day! Music is going to be a pretty definite part of the expense of your wedding, so you might as well pick a band that's more unique and personal. In addition, most people default to hiring a DJ because it is easier and less of a hassle than finding and booking a band for your wedding. Hiring a live band could create for you a more personalized unique event!

Wedding DJ vs a Wedding Band?

A DJs music will not be live, so if you are looking for that feel then a band is probably the better choice. Since some DJs are responsible for making their own playlists there may also be less variety in the songs, compared with bands who know how to play many different genres. Some people do not like the idea of the music being on the "DJs playlist" and feel they will miss out on special/romantic dances (i.e first dance), since everything is already planned out by them. Additionally, If the DJ does not know how to mix songs well or has an inappropriate song for that company on their playlist then things could get awkward during your wedding. Let’s avoid those kinds of memories please, and plan ahead!

If you do go with a DJ, make sure they are reputable and can provide references from past weddings that they have done before. Having good equipment is also important as the music quality should sound great! Overall, hiring a DJ for your wedding may give you less of a hassle because of less equipment, and can cost less money. A DJs Performance in most cases will be timely, especially when you’ve done your research and have a plan. 

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On the other hand, it can be difficult to find a band that fits what type of music you want them to play that will also fit your budget. They may only perform particular songs or may not be able to learn new songs by any artists, just ones from their genre. In addition, hiring a live band requires more planning and money because in many cases it is a larger group of people. A lot of these artists will be traveling with all types of equipment and instruments, usually, each member needs to be paid separately. Band music will likely take up more time out of your night as they will need more breaks, time allotted for them/you/venue to set up and tear down their equipment, versus most DJs who do this on their own.

Hiring both a DJ and hiring a band for your wedding has their pros and cons depending on who you are as a couple, and what type of music you prefer.

Many people decide to hire both so they can switch between different genres and styles throughout the night. This will be something you will want to coordinate well since most bands need time in between playing songs to set up the equipment needed for the next song. Music is extremely important during weddings, it inevitably sets the mood for everyone from how formal it should be to whether people will dance, or not!

Many Wedding Venues will provide music as part of their service.

As part of their marketing strategies to find more potential clients, they may offer Music Packages that are cheap or free. Even if it seems too good to be true, think about what you need before contacting them - because Music is an important part of your wedding, so don’t settle for anything except the best! Music will be primarily necessary during the reception where the majority of guests are dancing and mingling, as well as for the after-party where those guests will be dancing and still socializing. Music is not only important during these parts of your wedding as it sets a tone for each part as well. Music before the event should also be considered such as when guests first enter and food is being served, although this may vary from venue to venue.

In the end, no matter who you hire there will be positives and negatives to what they provide

Depending on your needs and preferences it may be best to have a combination of a DJ and a band or just one type! Music during a wedding celebration influences whether or not people dance and how formal the event should feel. It is best to make sure you know exactly what music you want to be played throughout your wedding before contacting wedding venues and other wedding companies - this way, if prices seem too high or low, you can determine which one suits your needs from the beginning. There are many options out there to choose from, if your options seem too expensive or don’t feel right, it is best to keep searching until you find the perfect match for you! Go with that option! Music is essential from the moment your guests walk in, sit down, through the food and dancing - as well as for the rest of your wedding - think carefully about what you need before reaching out.

Happy Hunting!


Hannah Bargas