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Step 1
Consider the Pros and Cons of a Wedding Band
The Pros -
A band is live, and when played by experienced musicians, nothing can beat live music. Talented musicians can really work with the theme of your wedding reception and modify songs accordingly. If the party is lagging, they can always switch the tempo. Hiring a band also adds the exciting possibility that anything can happen.
The Cons -
With wedding bands charging anywhere from $1500-$15,000, budget constraints can make hiring a band too expensive to consider. A band's sound can also be limiting. If you want to hear from Beethoven to Outkast and everything in-between at your wedding reception, you may have some difficulty in finding a band that can play such an eclectic mix. -
Step 2
Consider the Pros and Cons of a DJ
The Pros -
One of the main benefits of hiring a DJ is that all the songs are played as you know them; you can rest assured that your first dance song will sound EXACTLY as you expect it to and can plan accordingly. You are also likely to get more variety in sound with a DJ, and for couples on a budget, even the most expensive DJs are usually cheaper than hiring a band.
The Cons -
On the other hand, a bad DJ can kill the elegant atmosphere you carefully planned for your wedding reception - so hire wisely! A DJ typically does not have as much ability to improvise and set the theme of the evening. The songs will be played exactly how they were originally recorded and therefore can't be modified to suit a beach, country or jazz swing wedding (for example) as bands can often do. Your DJ also can't switch tempo if need be to accommodate your fiance's dragging feet during your first dance. -
Step 3
Make Your Hire -
Once you have narrowed your list, set up appointments with your top prospects. Take note of the band leader’s or DJ’s personality. Does he or she have a pleasant manner or grate on your nerves? Also, make sure that your band or DJ wears something that coincides with the overall feel of your wedding reception. Mullets and ripped T-shirts don’t really work at formal dinner.
