The Great Wedding Debate

With weddings back on the menu, it’s time to have the great wedding debate, which is better hiring a DJ or a band? I personally feel like I would prefer a live band but also want a DJ because I have way too many songs I want played on my wedding. I have attended a number of weddings in my 30+ years on planet earth and I have had both, and the experience was hit and miss. Unless I totally know the band, I would opt for a DJ as I could help with creating the playlist of songs that I want played at my wedding.

Music is an absolute must at every wedding reception, I have attended weddings where music died and the wedding sounded like a cafeteria with people talking over each other it was horrid. Sometimes it’s difficult for couples to decide between a DJ or a band to play on their wedding night. On the one hand, a DJ is more flexible and affordable, but a band is more lively and gets the crowd dancing. Both choices are good options and offer a variety of pros and cons, but in the end, it depends on personal taste. 

Hiring a DJ

Hiring a DJ instead of a band has a few pros and cons that the couple should consider before making a commitment. 

Pros

1. The Music Can Vary in Style

Most DJs are a lot more flexible in terms of music choice and volume. Most wedding DJs can create a personal setlist that includes all genres and caters to all generations on the guest list. DJs aren’t just for the reception, as they can play softer music during the ceremony. 

2. Lower Cost

The wedding venue and specific requirements for the event usually determine the cost of a DJ. If the wedding is large, then DJs most likely charge more. However, on average, a DJ is cheaper than a band, ranging between $1,200 to $1,800 for four hours of entertainment. 

3. All-in-One Entertainment

For couples looking for a wow factor, a DJ is an excellent choice because they have more lighting and instrumentals options. They can add strobe effects, disco lighting, or even a projected monogram.

Many professional DJs nowadays also offer photo booth rentals. Instead of hiring two separate vendors for these services, both come as an inclusive rental package, which is more convenient and likely cheaper.

Cons

1. Equipment Failure

One of the biggest cons of hiring a DJ is possible equipment failure. Although it’s a rare occurrence, DJs often work from a computer that can easily malfunction. If the equipment fails, there are fewer options to continue the entertainment, which can be risky. 

2. Only One Person

Unfortunately, in most cases, DJs work solo, which means the energy of the room is entirely up to one person. Therefore, couples should have several meetings with the DJ to make sure their personality matches preferences. An experienced DJ should have no problem interacting with the guests and understanding the couple’s every need.

3. Less Room for Change

There is less room to switch up the setlist at the last second because DJs will typically go over the couple’s setlist before the big day. It’s best to make sure the setlist is 100 percent ideal, so this issue doesn’t arise. 

Opting for a Band

Bands are another great option for musical entertainment at weddings. However, this can lead to a much different atmosphere.

Pros

1. More Lively

Hiring a band guarantees a more lively and energetic experience. This is usually because multiple band members have unique personalities, so the guests are sure to have a grand time interacting with and watching a band play.

2. Get People Dancing

There’s a high chance that bands can get the wedding guests dancing a lot quicker than a DJ can because they often play a mix of songs from different decades—most being crowd favorites. Brides should think about the comfort of their dress for this part. The best wedding dresses are also easy to move in so they can enjoy dancing all night.

3. Visual Interest

Bands offer more visual interest at weddings. They give the guests a distraction and something to watch as the night progresses. Bands are also great options for older family members who might stay seated over the night and can’t dance. 

Cons

1. More Expensive

Unfortunately, among all the pros, hiring a band is a much more expensive choice. On average, a band will cost $4,000 for three hours plus a 10 percent tip. Make sure to always consider the wedding budget before purchasing a band because it can get pricey. 

2. Need More Breaks

More often than not, bands have a well-needed rest period between sets, which can sometimes take away from the energy in the crowd. It also means having no music for that period, which can make guests feel awkward. 

3. More Equipment

A band comes with more equipment like microphones, instruments, and speakers. This takes a long time to set up and takes up more space overall. 

There is No Right or Wrong Choice

Whether the bride or groom chooses a DJ or a live band, there is ultimately no right or wrong choice. The music style preferences and budget determine what is best for the wedding. After all, the wedding reception is there to entertain the guests, which is what both a DJ and a band do best.