Since we officially started booking 2014 Toronto wedding photography dates we’ve received number of questions asking us for our recommendation which is better – a live band or a wedding DJ. Having the right music at your reception is extremely important, since this choice will set the mood for your wedding and can make or break a wedding celebration. Here are few pros and cons for each choice.
Live Wedding Band Pros:
- There truly is nothing like live music, which can energize the crowd, and get people more excited for dancing
- A specific type of band can truly complete a wedding theme and can reflect wedding couple’s heritage or interests in music
- A good bandleader can play the master of ceremonies role at your reception if you want him to interact with your guests on the dance floor
Live Wedding Band Cons:
- The cost of hiring a wedding band can prohibitive. A typical cost will range between $2000 and $20,000 (and up!)
- No matter how great the band, they can’t have the repertoire of a standard DJ, who can keep a huge variety of music on hand
- There might be logistical issues with your wedding venue such us space limitations or prohibition of using powerful speakers
Wedding DJ Pros:
- DJs are generally less expensive than bands
- If there are a dozen songs you’re dying to hear at your wedding, it likely won’t be a problem for your DJ to find each track
- DJs have libraries of thousands of songs – which means they’ll have music for all generations at your wedding
Wedding DJ Cons:
- DJ with a less-than stellar personality can be a party-killer
- Because many wedding DJs have their routines down pat, they can get bored or over use the pre-programed play list
Our last general tip would be to try to go and see the wedding band or DJ actually performing live. It will give you a chance to know if they’re truly right for you. You will be able to gauge firsthand the way they dress, deadpan, and work the crowd. If that’s not possible ask for a demo tape of live taped performance. Also, ask for referrals from the last few weddings the band or DJ played and check them out.