How Important is Entertainment?
There’s no doubt about it: Music can make or break a wedding celebration—it is really the heart and soul of a reception. Hiring a band or DJ (or both!) is a given. But how do you find exactly what you want? It starts with asking yourself some basic questions—specifically, how important is entertainment at your wedding, your budget, space allowances, guest demographics and what kind of guest experience is wanted. Here, we list 4 things to consider before you make your entertainment choice.
Think about what music genre best reflects your personalities and inspires the ambience you want to create: ’70s disco or a romantic string quartet? A throwback big band feel or kick-off-your-shoes dance till your drop? The way the music is delivered—by live band or DJ—also affects the atmosphere. Bands can create a lot of energy from live play, but sometimes are limited in the variety that they can play. A professional wedding DJ has a full spectrum of music to select from and can usually play a lot of guest requests on the fly. So you have a options to create the perfect entertainment for your wedding.
Budget
In the price war, DJs generally cost less, and prices vary depending on equipment requests and other services they might provide, (Lighting, Photo Booth, etc). A 12-piece band, for example, will generally be more expensive than a DJ, since there are more people to pay. (There are always exceptions; well-known DJs can be just as expensive as live bands.) Band prices vary by the number of musicians, the amount of time you want them to play for, day of the week etc. When you are considering price, make sure you are comparing the total amount of services being provided.
Venue Space
Have your heart set on an large band? You first need to check whether the reception site has any restrictions on the number of musicians and pieces of equipment you may bring in, and whether there is sufficient electrical power or noise limitations. This also applies to DJ setups. Checking out venue and noise restrictions before signing your contract will prevent you from having to scale back from what you really wanted for your entertainment.
Emcee Services
If you are considering Emcee services for your wedding, many bandleaders or wedding DJs can help you. Find out if they provide timeline planning as well as day of emceeing. Also, make sure they can provide the professional sound equipment needed especially if they are also assisting with the ceremony music and sound.
Considering these options will help you in creating the wedding experience you want for yourselves and your guests.
