Band or DJ?
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When picking your reception music, you and your fiancé need to determine if you want a band or DJ and what fits in your budget. Typically, DJ’s are more affordable than bands. And remember, the more people in the band, the higher the cost. If you want some live music but the full band for three hours does not fit in your wedding budget, you may want to consider doing live music during cocktails and dinner and then DJ music for the dancing portion of the evening.
Also make sure to talk about ceremony music with your potential vendor. Is this something they can provide and what is the additional cost? Can the DJ set up and play selections you may want for your processional and recessional? Does the band have a string trio or quartet that can play the traditional pieces that you want to hear?
When booking ceremony music make sure to talk with your minister, Rabbi or officiant about any restrictions they may have if you are choosing non-religious music and if you are allowed to bring in outside musicians. Many ceremony locations request you to work with their music director for your ceremony music and use the wonderful musicians at the ceremony location. In that case, schedule a meeting with that person to talk about ideas for your ceremony music.
When choosing your entertainment for the wedding, make sure to consider the size of your reception location. You can’t cram a 12 piece orchestra into a tiny space. Talk with your reception coordinator to ask him/her what size band fits well into your space. And if using a DJ, make sure your venue has the appropriate outlets for them in the area you would like them to set up. Also make sure to talk about noise restrictions! You may have your reception location until midnight but make sure the music can go to midnight.
Whether you are considering a band or a DJ, the best way to get a feel for their style is to set up an in person meeting with them. While you are there, DJ’s can tell you about their “style” and Band leaders can show you DVD’s of the band in action or listen to music on a CD. Some bands may even invite you to peek in at an event they are doing in the near future.
Always also ask for references. The best way to hear about a great DJ or band is to hear it from a recently married couple. Were they professional and courteous? Did they make the event sound like the wedding the client wanted? What did the musicians or DJ wear? Was the client happy with the whole night and their experience?
Make sure your entertainer has a varied repertoire. If hiring a band, do they know the music you and your fiancé think will get the crowd going? Does your DJ have all the oldies that your Mom and Dad want to hear? If they don’t know a song or if a DJ does not have a song, will they be able to learn the song or will the DJ be able to get the song for you that evening?
About Ali Phillips:
Ali Phillips is a certified Professional Bridal Consultant™ with the Association of Bridal Consultants. She is actively involved in the Chicago chapter and regularly participates in various wedding and bridal conferences. She is a member of ISES (International Special Event Society), National Association of Women Business Owners, Women in Catering and Weddings Beautiful Worldwide, a division of National Bridal Service.
To find out more about Ali and her services go to Engaging Events by Ali www.engagingeventsbyali.com
