What sets the tone for your wedding and keeps people moving from one event to the next? Music!

Should you choose a wedding DJ or band? If you’re on the fence, this blog will help you decide which is the perfect vendor for your wedding.

What is the difference between a DJ and a band?

The answer’s fairly simple: a DJ plays and mixes music from a library, while a band consists of musicians playing physical instruments live.

But a lot of people get DJs wrong. A great DJ doesn’t just make a playlist and hit “play.” They create smooth transitions between songs, choose songs based on the vibe and energy of the guests, and generally make sure everyone’s having a great time.

Both DJs and bands are live performers. The performance just looks different!

Before you decide: a few things to consider

There are a few things to consider when choosing your wedding music vendor. Here are our top 4!

1. Your budget

DJs are generally less expensive than a band overall. Prices for live musicians vary greatly based on the number of performers, their experience, etc.

2. Your vibe

The music played at your event sets the tone for the whole thing. A band might be better than a DJ if you’re looking for only one or two genres. A DJ would be better suited if you’d like a variety of music played: maybe classical for the ceremony, jazz for cocktail hour and dinner, and pop or hip hop when the party starts!

3. Your venue space

Multi-person bands need ample space to set up and perform (and in multiple locations if you’re hiring them for the entire event). The space needed is determined by the number of people and the instruments and equipment they’re bringing. DJs take up way less space, so if your venue doesn’t have a lot of extra room, a DJ might be a better choice.

4. Your Music selection

“What kind of music should I play at my wedding reception?”

We get this question all the time, and our answer is - whatever you want! We do suggest you consider your guest demographics, though. Kids and older guests will likely have different tastes than your 20s-40s crowd.

Wedding Band vs. DJ: Pros & Cons

The pros and cons of wedding bands and DJs really come down to your preferences. This list can help you decide!

Wedding Band - Pros

Hiring a band gives you a totally unique experience because no 2 bands will play a song the same. You can take the time to research and find a group you really enjoy listening to!

Wedding Band - Cons

Whereas a DJ can set up a song and let it play, musicians need more timed breaks, which may mean your reception is quiet for a few minutes every once in a while. Typically, musicians take a 15-minute break every hour or so.

Bands have a limited library of music to choose from. Check with the band you’re considering to see if they know and can play all of your favorite songs! Some bands may learn special music ahead of your big day if you request it.

Wedding DJ - Pros

Overall, a DJ has more flexibility to change songs, adjust the volume, and keep guests engaged and entertained. With a DJ, there are also no gaps between songs.

DJs can also take requests, which a band could do if they knew the song, but it’s not guaranteed.

Wedding DJ - Cons

No matter how great a DJ is, you still won’t get that live musician viva you get with a band. Don’t get that live musician vibe

Is it worth getting a DJ for your wedding?

We may be biased, but we think so!  A DJ does so much more than play music – they’re your MC, party starter, timeline-keeper, and so much more.

If you’re really intent on having live musicians, we get it. But you can always have both!

If you’d like to learn more about our services, head to our website. We’ll bring the party to your event!