Any input on a DJ vs. a band for reception?

AprilRoberson

I'm a bit perplexed as to which option I should go with for the reception entertainment.  My first feeling was to hire a DJ, since they won't be genre-specific and can play many different things.  However, the guests at my wedding (about 100) are not really the dancing crowd, and I'm worried that with a DJ they would feel pressured to dance and that might make the evening awkward.  Also, I've been to some weddings that have had a DJ and when people weren't dancing the DJ could get downright pushy about it.  On the other side of the coin, if I hire a band I am limited to generally one genre of music which may or may not be to everyone's taste.  Also, they may not know the song for the first dance, or for the father/daughter dance.

Can anyone give some input on this dilemma?  Or just suggestions in general?

dramaqueen2985

I don't necessarily think that hiring a band would limit you to one genre of music.  There are tons of wedding bands out there that have a lot of different genres in their repertoire.  They play relaxing dinner music when people are eating, and when it's time to party, they will play more upbeat dance music.  

Your worry about not knowing the first dance or the father/daughter dance song is easy- the band you hire will learn a few songs for your wedding.  My band already knows my first dance, but I made three song requests and they are obliging.  

I think that having a band is so great; it's so much more personal and they make the wedding so much fun and so memorable!