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Step 1
Consider the benefits of having a live band perform at your wedding reception. With a first-rate band, the experience for you and your guests may be richer, more exciting and more energizing than having a DJ, since the music is performed live in the room. Some people consider a live band to be slightly classier and more personal than a DJ who plays the same versions of songs guests hear daily on the radio.
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Step 2
Research wedding bands that perform in your area to get an idea of the style of music they are accustomed to playing. It's very common for a band to specialize in one or two specific genres, such as rock or jazz, so it's important to choose a band with a style that you and your guests will enjoy hearing during the entire reception. Most importantly, be sure that the band is willing and able to learn how to play your "first dance" song and any other specific songs you would like to hear at your reception.
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Step 3
Determine whether the cost of booking a live band as entertainment for your reception will fit into your wedding budget. Live bands can be fairly expensive and almost always cost more than DJs. You'll need to decide whether the added expense is worth it to you.
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Step 4
Investigate wedding DJs to choose an alternative--or supplement--to a live band. Many people prefer DJs as entertainment because they can hear the songs they love performed by the original artists, rather than covered by a live band. Also, a DJ is likely to have a library of thousands of songs to choose from, unlike a live band that would generally only know 100 songs or fewer.
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Step 5
Meet with the band or DJ before you decide to book. The leader of the band or the DJ usually ends up playing the role of the emcee at your reception, so you'll want to choose someone you would like to have speak at your wedding. The meeting will also give you the opportunity to get a sense of how receptive the band or DJ will be to your requests and needs.
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Step 6
Discuss payment and scheduling with the live band or DJ you decide to book. Most DJs and bands will require either full payment or a deposit a few months in advance of your wedding reception to reserve the date. If you are only asked to pay a deposit, you will need to pay the rest of the amount you agree to by the day of your wedding.
