band vs. dj

smmrgrn

Does anyone have any opinions or advice about hiring a band or dj for the reception?

[Deleted User]

It depends on the feel you want. In my area DJs are $500-$1200 and bands start at $5000.

jenn.daniel

You can get more of a variety of music from a dj.

Lasairiona

A band can be hit or miss and they usually play their rendition of songs which may not be what you and your guests want to hear. Also they have to take breaks. Their songlist will be limited. A dj has access to thousands of songs performed by original artists as they were intended to be heard and does not have to take breaks. You can tell them during the interview process if you don't want them to talk and most will respect your wishes. If a song doesn't work for your crowd, they can quickly access something that does.

Lasairiona

Also djs are much cheaper if price is a concern.

ootmother2

A good live band makes a party so I say band.That said, a good DJ is better than a mediocre band if cost is a question

I <3 Seabass

A great band can sound amazing and play a wide variety of music. Also as far as breaks go most of the bands we met with had the members of the band stagger their breaks so there's always live music playing. Plus while a good DJ will definitely get the party going, IMO there's nothing like the energy of a live band, and I think it's more entertaining for guests who don't dance to watch a band play than watching a DJ spin records. After all that, we saw a lot of cheesy wedding bands in our search for a band and hands down I would choose a DJ over a bad band.

haven3

We had a band, it was a huge expense but it was the best decision ever! They were so entertaining and kept everyone from grandma to teenagers dancing all night!

munkii

If you can afford both (or a band with dj capabilities), get both.  We did and it was the best decision for our reception, hands down.  The band we hand plays all kinds of music, but they're a mariachi band--so modern dance music was out of the question.  Plus, having the dj meant having an emcee when necessary while the band was performing.  Just a thought.