Reception Music: Bands vs. DJs
Imagine the scene: the lights are dimmed, the flowers are blooming, and the crowd is swaying to the beat. The music is pulsing, setting the tone for an unforgettable night. But how do you create this magic? It all starts with the music at your reception. Do you go for a high-energy band or a slick DJ? The choice is crucial, as the right music can make your wedding celebration truly unforgettable - or a forgettable mess. Let's dive into the ultimate showdown: bands vs. DJs, and how to find the perfect fit for your special day.
To find the perfect reception music, start by considering your budget and preferences. Get referrals from local or national musicians’ unions or DJ associations, and don't be afraid to ask for demos or meetups to get a sense of their style and professionalism. With these tips and a little bit of planning, you'll be well on your way to creating an unforgettable atmosphere that your guests will talk about for years to come.
In this post, you will get ideas on:
Expectation vs. Reality
1. What it Costs
For a four-piece ensemble, you’ll typically pay $1,000 to $4,000 for a four- or five-hour reception. Most DJs charge from $500 to $2,000 for that same amount of time. If you live in a large metropolitan area, expect a final price on the high side of the range - it could be much more.2. Ways to Save
Opt for a DJ - they almost always cost less than a band. Stay away from Saturdays, since the best DJ, and bands are in the highest demand on Saturday nights - try Friday or Sunday for a slightly discounted rate. ( Friday/Sunday Planning )
Keep it small - a four- or five-piece group will cost less than a fourteen-member orchestra complete with vocalist (and if the band’s equipment is up-to-date, a smaller combo shouldn’t sound like it’s that much smaller).
3. Think of Your Guests
Maybe you love hip-hop, but what about Grandma and Grandpa? Be sure the band or DJ can play some Sinatra and Cole Porter standards, too.Future-Forward Fun: Revolutionary Wedding Entertainment Trends for 2025 and Beyond
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4. Size it Up
Consider the size of your reception room and your crowd. An intimate space is not going to fit Jerry Jones & His Orchestra. A three-piece combo may not cut if for a guest list of four hundred. A good rule of thumb: six pieces per hundred people.5. MC for Me
If you want the bandleader or DJ to announce the wedding party and the events of the reception, be sure he or she has the necessary information (wedding timeline). Write down all names (with pronunciations), roles, and relation to you (mother, best friend, and so on). More important, if you don’t want the entertainment to announce when you want your guests to head to the buffet, but that can be done table by table by your banquet manager.) 8 Tips for a Great Buffet6. Give ‘em a Break
Expect the entertainment to write breaks into their contract; there may even be union rules requiring that they take them. Have the bandleader or DJ arrange for recorded background music during intermissions.
7. Go for Five
If you think your reception is going to go long, consider hiring the band or DJ for five hours instead of the typical four. It’ll probably be cheaper than the overtime fees you’d incur if you decide on the spot to have them stay longer.8. Beware the Pair
Some DJs work with a partner- one person spins the tunes and the other serves as MC and/or gets the crowd pumped (otherwise referred to as the ‘hypeman’). Make sure everyone you hire understands the style you're looking for, and make sure to meet the person who will MC.9. How Special
Find out if your band or DJ use any special equipment (lasers or strobe lights, bubble machine, fog generator), and make it known if you don’t want certain kind of props used.What's your choice for reception music? A band or DJ? Share below.
Read: What your Wedding DJ Wants You To Know
So, what's it going to be: a band that brings the energy, Piano Jazz or a DJ that brings the beats? The choice is yours, but with these tips, you'll be sure to make it one to remember. Follow along on IG and Pinterest for more wedding tips and inspiration! And, subscribe to our email list so that you can get this and more in your inbox!
About the author: Keren Michele, CEP, leads the planning team at K’Mich Event Planning & Consulting. With a flair for creativity in organizing one-of-a-kind weddings and events, she is passionate about providing valuable ideas for couples as they plan their special day.
