Something borrowed, something blue, something to boogie the night away to… Isn’t that how the old adage goes? Anyway, you have been making budget-cut decisions for the last several months and are ready to cut the cake. Yay! It’s finally time to let loose on the dance floor with your hunky new husband. Before you can bust a move, you have to choose your wedding reception musical entertainment. So what will it be: band or DJ?
The decision between having a live band or a DJ at your wedding reception is often financial. Based on where you are located in the country, the cost of a band may be cost prohibitive. Unless you prioritized this as one of your must-haves when you planned your wedding budget, you may elect to explore other options. This free printable Wedding Budget Planning Worksheet will be of great help to you while planning.
Music can make or break any event. Your band or DJ will create a playlist appropriate for your event, but you still get to have input into what should - and should not - be played. Make sure to check out our tips on how to Create a Wedding Reception Playlist That Rocks! You may not ultimately remember what you served at your wedding, but you'll certainly remember if you and all your guests had a good time on the dance floor! Not all weddings need to be a raging party; some brides and grooms may prefer a reception with music but no dancing. For example, morning weddings or smaller affairs may choose background music without a dance floor. Here are the special moments when most weddings include music:
- Ceremony processional/recessional
- Cocktail hour
- Wedding party's entrance during reception
- The first dance
- Parent dances
- Cake cutting
- Wedding reception
- Send-off
Types of Musical Entertainment:
Live Band
- Pros: Nothing beats live music. Professionals know how to play off the energy of the guests and can make the night unforgettable. Find a band that either suits your specific taste in music; Motown, Swing, Blues, Rock or one that covers music in a variety of genres. Band members can play solo or in smaller groups during the ceremony and cocktail hour.
- Cons: Most expensive option. A large band takes up a lot of room (a consideration for small spaces). The more musicians, the more people to feed, park, etc.
DJ
- Pros: Unlimited repertoire of songs. Your favorite songs will sound the way you expect them to sound. Experienced DJs can act as MC and interact with the guests. Plus, DJs can fit in smaller venue spaces.
- Cons: Might need to hire additional musicians to play ceremony. DJ talent can range from simply playing music to creating a serious club vibe. Not all DJs have wedding experience and may need guidance regarding when to slow music down for eating or when to make formal announcements. Vetting DJs is time well spent during your wedding planning process. *Note: National average of wedding DJ is approximately $1,100.
DIY
- Pros: Most affordable. You can create a playlist of your choosing and (if you dare) even karaoke. If you choose to create a DIY music station, adding fun inflatables, photo props and giveaways will increase the energy and result in some hilarious dance floor photos. #bestdancefloorever. Incorporate music decorations in this area to help get the dance floor hopping. You can also include dance floor clings.
- Cons: Somebody (a member of the wedding party or perhaps a trusted friend) may need to check on computer throughout the night and act as the MC for the event. Technical difficulties could arise. You may need to rent speakers, extension cords, or other equipment; depending on what is available through your venue. If you choose to go this route, you can purchase dance floor decorations such as some White Light-Up Paper Lanterns and Mini Strobe Party Lights. If A/V (audio/visual) is available through your venue, be sure to check prices and ask if you can use an outside vendor. Some venues require you use their in-house services; others will allow you to bring in your own equipment or vendor. If this is the case, with a little research, you may be able to find a better deal.
You're one month closer, bride-to-be - nine months to go! Up next is choosing a florist, wedding party attire and learning all about wedding rentals.
Follow our Month-by-Month Wedding Planning Guide for more tips for every phase of your planning process. Feeling crafty? We’ve handpicked our favorite DIY wedding projects too!
Article written by: Melissa Collier
