Wedding Reception Forum

Live Band vs. Dj

My fiance and I are torn between having a live band or a DJ. We are feeling the live band more than the DJ.  We figure when people are eating we can have an Ipod playing in the background with music, and have the band start up around 6ish and play til Midnight.HOwever,  I've never been to a wedding that had a live band. How was it?

Re: Live Band vs. Dj

  • If the band can play a variety of music, I would opt for that.
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  • It depends on how you feel about certain music. I would never want a live band trying to sing any of my favorite songs because it doesn't sound right.
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  • I prefer a DJ because you can get a huge variety of music and you wont have someone trying to sing your favorite songs, it would be your favorite songs.
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  • I like both and I've been to both kinds of weddings that were an absolute blast.  What about doing a band and then having a set number of your favorite songs on an iPod between the band's sets?  
  • If you don't mind hearing covers of songs, rather than the originals, I think it's all about finding the right bandleader/DJ.  We found an awesome DJ that seemed like he would be great getting people dancing, and it was hard to top what he offered with a band, since a band needs to be musical talent + good hosting skills.  We ended up finding a band that we like a lot--we feel that the bandleader is equally charismatic, and the band is truly talented at a variety of music styles.  I think that it adds a little extra energy and fun to have a good live band, although it's totally not necessary, and I'd take a great DJ over a mediocre band.  
  • Personally, I have never seen a good dj for a wedding.  In my family, everyone books live bands.  I did a lot of research in my area and made sure to find one with a huge playlist and a variety of music.  The covers of songs sound like the originals with the band I chose.  I also made sure to pick a band that really gets the crowd moving, and I've never seen a dj that can do that as well. 
    Cost is also a factor, keep in mind a good band can cost significantly more than a dj.  Personally I thought it was worth it because entertainment can make or break a reception in my opinion. 
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  • I agree with PP that discussed preferring a DJ over a band. Plus, the DJ is nice to have for emcee purposes.
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