According to wedding stats, during wedding planning brides largely report their most important priority to be their dress and attire.
However, within one week of their reception 78% of brides said that in hindsight, they would have made the entertainment their top focus. Considering that the same source states that 81% of wedding guests say the thing they most remember is the reception entertainment, this makes sense!
These findings make it crystal clear that the type of entertainment you choose for your wedding is very important.
Which brings the question, should you go with a live band or a DJ for your special day?
The choice can seem tricky, however, there are a number of things you can factor in that will help you to make the perfect decision.
Read on to find out what these are.
Take Into Account Your Budget
The very first thing you need to think about when planning your wedding entertainment is your budget.
According to research, the average wedding costs around $33,931. While your budget might be lower or higher than this average, the numbers show that weddings are not cheap affairs.
What's more, the one area where you probably shouldn't skimp is on your entertainment, as this will set the tone the way only music can.
Live bands cost more to hire than DJs, as they comprise of more artists, instruments, and more equipment. If you wish to keep costs down, a DJ could help to achieve this for you.
On the other hand, if you have your soon-to-be-wed heart set on a live band, take a scrutinizing look at your budget to see if there are any cost areas that can be adjusted to accommodate your wish for that amazing orchestra or that soulful jazz band.
Consider the Type of Tone You Want to Set
DJs and live bands will lend very different tones to your reception.
DJs imbue events with a modern, fun, party bash feel. Live bands, on the other hand, lend a classic, human touch.
Live bands are a great choice if you have a themed wedding, and want the music to tie into this seamlessly. For example, an orchestra or string quartet is ideal for setting the tone if you are planning a classic and romantic style wedding.
If you enjoy blues, jazz, or rock vibes then having a live band rendition your favorites can really add the right integral feel.
On the other hand, if you love 70s style disco tunes or hip-hop beats, a wedding DJ will be able to deliver this to perfection.
Find out How Much Space There Is
The next thing to think about is how much space is available at your venue for entertainment.
Live bands require a lot more space than DJs, as they come with amplifiers, instruments, speakers, and of course musicians. If you wish to have a band for your day, then be sure to check whether your venue can accommodate the additional space needs comfortably.
You will also want to find out whether there are any power restrictions, as you definitely don't need to have the power trip mid-first dance, or any other time come to think of it!
Think About How Many Guests Are Dancers
Another great factor to consider when deciding between having a wedding band or DJ is how many of your guests will dance.
If just about everybody is gonna shake it up on the floor, then having a DJ or a live band might not even matter, as long as the music is amazing.
However, what about if there are quite a few guests who are probably not going to dance? If this is the case, then you might want to consider a live band.
Live bands are entertaining whether you are dancing or not, and can create an engaging focal point for any guests who aren't so confident rocking out to the beats.
Decide Whether You Want Unique Renditions or Original Tracks
Another point to think about is whether you want unique music renditions or original tracks.
Having a live bad means that all the songs at your wedding will be 100% unique. Nobody ever will have danced or kissed to that version of "All of Me".
At the same time, a DJ can spin the originals of your favorite tracks. The familiarity of this can be important, especially if you have a long list of requests and a very specific ear and music taste.
Still Can't Decide Between a Live Band or a DJ? We Have Both
Deciding between a live band or a DJ can be super tricky, as both styles of entertainment hold special appeal.
If you really can not make up your mind between live music or a killer wedding DJ, then don't forget that you can also consider having both. Live bands can be ideal for kicking the reception off and setting a romantic tone for the day. A DJ can then keep the party rocking into the evening while you and your guests tear up the dance floor.
At the end of the day, whether you go with a live band, a DJ, or a combo of both, it is really up to you, your budget, needs, and tastes.
If you have made up your mind on what you want for your wedding, then we recommend that you head on over to our services page, where you can find all of our entertainment options, including a selection of both DJs and live bands to suit every taste.
Reach out to us for a free quote, or contact us if you have any questions. We will be happy to help!