For most people, the wedding music is the main part, if not the sole source of the wedding entertainment. The main choices are a DJ who will play recorded music, or a band to perform the wedding music. Which you decide on depends on a number of factors, including your wedding music budget and your taste.
Music for the ceremony.
If you are planning to have wedding music played at the ceremony as well as the reception, odds are you will need to make two different bookings. The type of wedding music appropriate for a ceremony is generally different from that expected at the reception. Often the church or ceremony venue has musicians available to be booked along with your reservation for the ceremony time. They may even include wedding music as part of the ceremony package – be sure to inquire. It’s a good idea to ask to hear the musician perform prior to the wedding to be sure it fits your taste.
Choosing a band.
If you decide to have a live band provide your wedding music at the reception, there are a few things to bear in mind. Bands are generally more expensive than DJ’s, with higher fees, and may also expect a tip at the end of the night. They will also generally take more breaks than a DJ, meaning pauses throughout the night. Although there are wonderful wedding bands out there with a large repertoire of wedding music choices, you will still be limited in the type of music they can provide. A live band however does provide an ambience that a DJ can’t quite match.
Hiring a DJ.
If you decide to go with a DJ, ask for references from friends who have recently had weddings, or from the venue. They may have a DJ who provides wedding music there regularly. A DJ offers the advantage of a much wider selection of music from all genres. This will make it easier to include music from different eras and musical styles. It will ensure your music is varied. DJs are often less expensive, but may also expect a tip. Be sure to sit down with your DJ ahead of time to discuss the playlist and make sure you hear the music you prefer.
Wedding music for everyone.
At the average wedding the guest list will include people of all ages and varying musical tastes. While you can’t ensure that everyone enjoys all of the wedding music, you can make selections that will appeal to the widest range of people. Ask your DJ or band for their tips on crowd-pleasing music selections. They will know which songs generally bring people out on the dance floor. Try to aim for a mix of faster beats and slower songs, and choose well-known artists people will recognizse. If there are many people from an older generation, try to include some of the hits from their era. It will be nostalgic and special for them to dance to those songs.
