Wedding and Event Music – Should You Hire a DJ or a Band?

Every event has its own style.  Maybe you want a luau theme for your corporate event, maybe you want your wedding to be in an orchard, maybe you aspire to hold the most accurate Star Wars wedding in the galaxy.  No matter how unique your preferences there is one thing you need at any great event, MUSIC.  

There are many music options when it comes to events but one of the most debated is the choice between Bands and DJ’s.  To decided which is right for your event you need to consider the following:

-Personal style

-Budget

-Venue capabilities

Style

Music can make or break your event, if the music does not match the theme you have prepared it can be disastrous or at the very least awkward (ambiance is everything).  DJ’s can play virtually any type of music, general party bands can usually play an array of popular songs in multiple genres, there are also specialized groups like a Dixie Land Band for  Great Gatsby style party, etc...  The point is, you can find a DJ or band to fit your music style it’s their actual presence and setup at your event that will change the atmosphere.  Bands will add a more classic look to your event whereas DJ’s add a bit more versatility.  A live band brings a lot more energy and interaction to the party but a DJ supplies an endless threshold of music and may be better prepared for requests.

Budget

If you think a DJ cost less than a band, you are probably right.  This of course depends on the DJ and how prestigious they are.  Generally a band will cost more because it is made up of more people which mean more entertainers collecting a paycheck.  Prices for bands will vary depending on the number of people involved, production costs, time of year, and how long they are contracted to play.

Venue Capabilities

Do you want an exciting aerial band to really blow the crowd away?  Well you had better make sure that your venue has the proper ceiling support.  Aside from additional needs like load barring beams Bands and DJ’s require power and a lot of it.  Be sure that your venue has the proper amount of power outlets and breakers to support a DJ or Band.  Another important thing to consider is if your venue has the space for a Band/DJ.  DJ’s usually only take up 60 sq. ft. or more when all their equipment is set up.  Bands will vary on their space needs based on the number of members and production type.  For instance, if you are simply having a jazz trio, you will need about the same space as a DJ (6’x10’).  However, if you hire a 12 piece party band, be prepared to provide them with at least 720 sq. ft. – that’s 24’x 30’. 

Pros and Cons

Bands

Pro- Very high energy and gets the crowd involved

Pro- Contributes a sophisticated look to the event

Pro- More personal and adaptive to themes

Con- Require lots of space

Con- Can be more expensive

Con- Less song variety than a DJ

DJ

Pro- Have a large variety of music options

Pro- Can be less expensive and space sensitive

Pro- Music is not a cover, it’s the recording you’re used to

Con- Less crowd involvement

Con- Appearance and ambiance is less versatile

Con- Doesn’t bring the same energy as a band

Keep in mind that your decision may change if you get the little details involved.  Be sure to contact us regarding the bands/DJ’s you are interested in to really sort through the nitty-gritty and then you can make an informed decision.  

--Nikole Higgins, Communication Director, Nikole@utahliveband.com