A live band or DJ can be an important part of your wedding day, especially if you are the type of couple who likes to dance and have a good time. However, choosing between the two can be tough since they both offer their own benefits and drawbacks in terms of style, quality and cost. So which one should you choose? Here’s what you need to know about live bands vs DJs and how it will affect your wedding planning process…
Both Have Pros and Cons
If you’re trying to decide whether you should have a live band or DJ at your wedding, it can be hard to choose. While there are advantages and disadvantages to both of these options, it boils down to your personal preferences and budget. Let’s talk about what each of these options has to offer. A live band has benefits beyond helping set the party tone—namely, live music is also great for wedding ceremony background music, and impromptu dance sessions. Plus, hearing your favorite songs performed by a professional musician is something guests will remember years later. Although live bands are more expensive than DJs, they tend to bring more energy and enthusiasm to their performances. They’re also typically available immediately—unlike DJs—which can be an important consideration if you’re planning a short engagement. DJs use both recorded music and sometimes other types of entertainment (light shows, video clips) to create atmosphere at your event. Determining whether to go with a DJ or live band really depends on what kind of vibe you want for your wedding; if you want something energetic and up-tempo, then a live band may be better; if you want something more chill and laidback, then maybe consider a DJ instead.
What Do Guests Think About Live Bands vs DJs?
The answer to whether you should have a live band or a DJ at your wedding depends on what you’re looking for. A new study revealed that guests prefer live bands over DJs by more than a two-to-one margin, but what’s important is that everyone has fun and gets out on the dance floor! Whether it’s live music or tunes from an iPod playlist, when it comes to weddings, it all boils down to one thing: Are people having fun? If so, it doesn’t matter if you have rock stars playing electric guitars in front of thousands of adoring fans or a guy (or gal) pressing play on his laptop behind a pair of gigantic speakers. It might even be less about what guests want and more about your personal preferences. There are some things to consider like guest experience, cost, convenience and aesthetic that can help shed light on which option is best for you and your future spouse.
Price Considerations
When it comes to hiring live entertainment, your budget is likely one of your most important considerations. If you have a tight budget, a DJ may be more appropriate. DJs often cost significantly less than live bands, and their services are usually provided on an hourly basis, which can make your planning process much easier. On average, DJs charge between $750 and $1,000 per wedding event, but rates vary widely depending on location and experience. A live band will generally set you back twice as much—and sometimes considerably more—but if your budget allows, they’re worth considering as well. Many musicians that specialize in weddings also offer free consultations that give you an opportunity to meet them in person before making a decision about whether they’re right for your celebration; check with local groups in advance to see if they provide these services.
If It’s Not About the Music, What Is It About?
With so many factors to consider when planning your wedding day, finding a live band or DJ might not even be your biggest headache. Still, music can play an important role in setting the tone for your event, and it’s important to find something that suits both you and your future spouse. If you want to make sure that The Way You Look Tonight is actually played as everyone’s dancing their last dance, here are some things to consider. First, sit down with your partner to brainstorm – will most of our friends have any musical preferences they bring into play at weddings? What would we hate seeing during our first dance? Will there be specific songs we must have included on our playlist (think: chicken dances)? Once you’ve laid out what types of tunes are available within these parameters, weigh them against each other and make your choice.
The debate about whether you should have a live band or hire a DJ for your wedding is an old and well-worn one. Many people say it comes down to personal preference, with little separating these two options. Whatever you choose, you and your guests are sure to have a grand time!
