7/17/06

DJ or Live Band? How to Decide


You've got all the pros and cons to consider when you're wavering between the horn section and the bubble machine.

Pros of Hiring a DJ

DJs are cheaper.

DJs will play your favorite songs the way you've always heard them, with no surprises.

You can get a much broader range of music from the massive CD collection of a DJ - he/she can switch from a waltz to rockabilly to two-step with no hitches.

Many DJs are adept at "feeling out the crowd" - noticing how your guests respond to certain music, and going with the flow of the party.

DJs have the equipment to fill any size room, filled with any number of guests, with the proper amount of sound.

Cons of Hiring a DJ

When you are hiring a disc jockey, you are at the mercy of a one-man music powerhouse. Be sure you meet with your DJ before you sign anything to make sure his/her performing personality is in line with the vibe of your reception.

DJs are notorious for bringing along enough sound equipment to support Aerosmith at the Garden. If you don't want disco balls and the bubble machine, say so before you write the check.

Pros of Hiring a Band

There is nothing more romantic, contagious, or fun than live music at a wedding.
You can hire a band that specializes in almost any kind of music under the sun and expresses your personalities perfectly. If you and your fiance are swing fans, you can get a band that does nothing but. The same with country, rock, or jazz.
Live music generates an element of elegance and old-world charm that is truly emotional and human.

Cons of Hiring a Band

On the average, bands are more expensive than disc jockeys.

Bands that play a broad range of music that will please every guest are harder to find. Not impossible, but more difficult.

If the band has to travel a lengthy distance to get to your wedding, there will be travel fees to pay for each and every band member.

It's hard to judge what that band will sound like in the site you've chosen - if there will be enough sound, or too much. Be sure the size of the band fits the number of guests attending.

Bands are harder to book than disc jockeys, since most of them perform in two or three different areas. If you find a band that you want, book them now.

Remember to do your homework. With a little effort you should be able to find the perfect music arrangement for your reception.

Need Help? Click Here for "How To Set Your Wedding To Music"

Until Next Time!

Jasmine :)

Source:Jennifer Baumann is editor of Wedding Gazette, the resource for real-world wedding planning that's packed with info on how to plan your budget, how to avoid killing certain family members, exhaustive theme ideas, plus tons of resources on finding favors, necessary accessories, gifts for your groomsmen, and much more. http://windsor.weddingwindow.com