Choosing your wedding entertainment is a huge decision — it’s the pulse of your reception. Whether you’re swaying to a live band or getting your groove on with a DJ, the music you choose will set the mood, get everyone on the dance floor, and make the night unforgettable.
When I got married at Vogue Ballroom back in 2017, I was caught in that same dilemma. Do you go for the classic, vibrant energy of a wedding band or the smooth, uninterrupted flow of a DJ? Let me tell you, it’s not just about personal taste; it’s about the atmosphere you want to create and how you want your guests to experience the night.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the key factors to help you decide which entertainment suits your wedding. We’ll cover everything — from cost and venue space to the vibe you want to create. So grab a cuppa and let’s break it down.
The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Wedding Entertainment
Wedding Entertainment: Band or DJ – What’s the Best Choice?
When it comes to wedding entertainment, the debate between a band and a DJ is almost as old as weddings themselves. But here’s the thing — both have their own charm, and neither one is definitively better than the other. It really comes down to the kind of celebration you want to have.
Do you want the energy and atmosphere of live music? A wedding band might be your vibe. They bring a certain magic to the evening with their on-the-spot performance and energy. Or are you after variety, seamless transitions, and the ability to cater to any music request on the fly? That’s where a DJ shines.
Back when I was planning my wedding, my partner and I struggled with this exact decision. We ultimately opted for a wedding band because we wanted that live energy to elevate our reception and give it a unique feel. Our band really helped create a memorable night with their interactive performance. But if you’re someone who loves the flexibility of having every type of music at your fingertips, then a DJ might be the way to go.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Between a Wedding Band and DJ
When deciding between a wedding band and a DJ, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. These elements can really affect the atmosphere and flow of your event. Here’s what you should think about:
Budget and Cost
In my experience, wedding bands are typically more expensive than DJs. Why? Well, you’re not just hiring one person — you’re paying for an entire group of musicians. Bands also require more equipment, which can drive the cost up. It’s not just about the performers, but about the sound system, instruments, and logistics involved.
However, a DJ generally has a lower upfront cost. You’re paying for the DJ’s expertise and equipment, and the setup is much more streamlined.
Let’s say you’re planning a wedding at a place like Vogue Ballroom — they have space for a full band, but that doesn’t mean the extra costs won’t add up. Bands may also have additional fees for setup and teardown, as well as travel if they’re coming from out of town.
Venue Space and Requirements
When we were planning our wedding, one of the most surprising things was how much space our band needed. The band setup was quite large, especially with their instruments, amplifiers, and extra equipment. Plus, the sound checks and setup took a bit more time than I’d anticipated. If you’re hosting your reception at a smaller venue or one with certain sound restrictions, a band might be a tough fit.
In contrast, DJs have a more compact setup. They can fit into smaller spaces and are less of a hassle when it comes to setup and teardown. This makes a DJ an easier option if your venue has limited space or if you’re looking to keep things simple.
Musical Variety and Preferences
A huge draw for wedding DJs is the vast music library they offer. They can play anything, from classic wedding songs to the latest chart hits. If you and your guests have eclectic tastes, a DJ can cater to all of those preferences. Plus, they can easily take song requests throughout the night.
Bands, on the other hand, usually have a specific genre or setlist they focus on. Whether it’s jazz, rock, or pop, bands will give you a live rendition of those genres, which is great if that’s the vibe you’re going for. But if you’re expecting a more diverse range of genres, a DJ might be your best bet.
For example, at my wedding, our band played a lot of classic hits but also gave some contemporary songs a bit of a twist. The energy was contagious, but the band didn’t play every genre we hoped for. A DJ would have seamlessly handled that.
Atmosphere and Vibe
This is where things get really exciting — and where your personal taste plays a massive role.
Live bands bring a dynamic energy to your wedding. There’s something special about hearing a song performed live; it’s raw, real, and adds a level of excitement that a DJ can’t replicate. Live music can help define the mood of the night, whether you want it to be upbeat and high-energy or relaxed and romantic. The visual element of a band, with their interaction and stage presence, can help elevate the overall ambience of the event. This is especially important if your wedding theme is tied to a particular style or vibe, like a vintage or jazz-themed reception.
On the flip side, a wedding DJ brings the ability to control the pace of the night. They can keep things flowing continuously, smoothly transitioning between songs, and adapting on the fly. If you’re planning to keep the dance floor packed all night, a DJ is a great option. You won’t have breaks or pauses in between songs, which is something to consider if you’re looking for non-stop energy.
Pros and Cons of a Wedding Band
Why a Live Wedding Band Might Be the Right Choice for You
A live wedding band brings a special level of energy and excitement that’s hard to beat. From my own experience, there’s something magical about the sound of a live performance. It’s not just the music; it’s the experience. The connection between the band and the guests makes for an unforgettable atmosphere.
Unique and Memorable Experience: When you have a band at your wedding, it’s more than just background music; it becomes a part of the show. The performers can interact with your guests, take the time to create moments of joy, and play with the crowd’s energy. It’s a great way to keep things lively and memorable.
Energy and Visual Element: A live band brings an undeniable visual and energetic presence that a DJ just can’t replicate. At my wedding, the band didn’t just play songs — they had a way of engaging everyone in the room. Watching them perform made the night feel more dynamic, more alive.
Adaptability and Improv: Bands have the ability to improvise and change things up on the fly. One of the things I loved at our wedding was how the band adapted songs to fit the mood of the crowd. It gave the whole evening a personal, live performance feel. Plus, if you want to make special requests for specific songs, many bands are happy to learn them for you (although don’t expect the speed of a DJ’s playlist).
What to Consider Before Booking a Wedding Band
Of course, there are a few downsides to hiring a wedding band. While they’re certainly special, they do come with some challenges to think about.
Cost: A live band is typically more expensive than a DJ. You’re paying for several musicians, their instruments, and the logistics of their performance. If you’re on a tighter budget, a wedding band could stretch those dollars a little further than you’re comfortable with.
Limited Repertoire: As much as I loved our band, their setlist wasn’t as diverse as I would have liked. They couldn’t play every song we requested, especially when it came to niche genres. With a DJ, you’re pretty much guaranteed that the song you want will be available. Bands might not be able to accommodate all your guests’ requests, so if you have very specific or diverse tastes, you might want to think twice.
Space and Setup: The space required for a live band can be a big consideration, particularly at venues with limited room. Bands need a stage or a sizable area to set up their equipment, and you’ll need to factor in time for them to set up and tear down. At Vogue Ballroom, we had ample space, but I’ve seen smaller venues where the band’s setup would have cramped the floor space for guests.
Pros and Cons of Hiring a Wedding DJ
Why a Wedding DJ Could Be the Perfect Fit for Your Reception
If you’re leaning towards something that offers flexibility, variety, and continuous music, a wedding DJ might be your best choice. DJs have the ability to keep the energy of your reception flowing smoothly with their vast music libraries and seamless transitions.
Affordable: One of the biggest advantages of hiring a DJ is the cost. Generally, DJs are less expensive than wedding bands, which might be a major factor if you’re working within a set budget. As I mentioned earlier, wedding bands require several musicians and a lot of extra gear, which can quickly add up. A DJ is often a more affordable alternative without sacrificing quality.
Vast Music Library: If you love variety, a DJ is perfect for you. Their library is huge, and they can provide music from every genre, era, and style imaginable. Whether it’s a ’90s throwback, some classic rock, or the latest top 40 hits, a DJ can cater to every guest’s musical taste. It’s one of the main reasons a DJ might be the right fit for couples with diverse guest lists. Imagine the blend of genres, from the first dance to a late-night dance-off.
Continuous Music: One thing I loved about having a DJ is the non-stop music. While the band took breaks, the DJ kept everything flowing with smooth transitions, ensuring no lull in the energy. If you want a high-energy reception, with everyone dancing and moving all night, a DJ is definitely a great option.
Potential Drawbacks of a DJ at Your Wedding
Despite the advantages, there are a few things to keep in mind when hiring a DJ for your wedding.
Less Unique: If you’re looking for something more original, a DJ may feel less “special” compared to a live band. There’s no live performance element — it’s all pre-recorded music. While a great DJ can certainly bring energy to the night, it may not have the same personal touch a live band can offer.
Showmanship and Personality: Some DJs are fantastic at reading the crowd and getting the energy going, but others can be hit or miss. It’s worth doing some research and seeing them perform before committing. A wedding DJ’s ability to hype up the crowd really depends on their personality and experience.
Equipment and Setup: Another consideration is how a DJ’s equipment might look at your venue. In smaller, more intimate venues, sometimes the DJ setup can feel a bit out of place or bulky, especially if the decor is more elegant or understated. It’s a small issue, but one worth keeping in mind when choosing your DJ.
Can You Have the Best of Both Worlds?
Hiring Both a Wedding Band and DJ – Is It Worth It?
If you’re still torn between a band and a DJ, why not have both? This option allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds. Many couples opt for a hybrid approach, using a live band for the earlier portion of the evening and then transitioning to a DJ to keep the party going later into the night.
I’ve seen some couples have great success with this setup. You can hire a band for the cocktail hour or dinner to create an elegant, intimate atmosphere, and then bring in a DJ for the dance floor portion of the evening. This way, you get the live energy and the flexibility of a DJ without compromising on either.
A lot of venues, like Vogue Ballroom, are very accommodating when it comes to providing both options. Some bands even offer DJ services as part of their package, making it easy to transition without interruption. If your budget allows, this could be the perfect middle ground between live and recorded music.
Making Your Decision
How to Talk to Your Partner and Key Stakeholders About Wedding Music
When it comes to choosing between a wedding band or a DJ, it’s important to have an honest discussion with your partner. After all, it’s your day, but you also want to ensure you’re both on the same page about what kind of atmosphere you’re looking to create.
Start by talking about your musical preferences. Do you both love the same kind of music? What kind of vibe are you aiming for? For example, if you’re both into classic rock, maybe a wedding band playing live renditions of your favourite songs would hit the mark. But if you’re both fans of 90s pop and want a night full of throwback hits, a DJ could be the way to go. Also, consider the budget: Are you willing to splurge on a live band, or would you rather keep things cost-effective with a DJ?
In my case, the conversation with my partner was pretty easy. We both agreed that live music was something we absolutely wanted. But don’t forget to keep your key stakeholders in the loop — especially if they’re contributing to the budget. You may need to make compromises based on what works for everyone.
Venue Considerations and How They Affect Your Choice
Once you and your partner have a general idea of what you want, take a look at your venue. The space you’re working with can play a huge role in determining what’s practical and feasible.
If you’re hosting your wedding at a grand ballroom like Vogue, you’ve likely got ample space for a band and the required equipment. But if you’re getting married at a smaller venue or even outdoors, a band might need more room than a DJ can provide. I’ve worked with couples who’ve had to scale down their live music plans due to space restrictions at their venue. Bands need not just space for the performers but also a solid sound system and equipment. In these cases, a DJ could fit into a more compact setup.
Also, don’t forget to consider the venue’s sound restrictions. Some venues in Melbourne or country areas have noise limits after a certain time, and having a live band could make it tricky if the venue enforces strict rules. DJs are generally more adaptable in these situations.
Envision the Vibe
One of the best ways to decide between a wedding band or a DJ is to think about the vibe you want to create. Do you want your reception to feel like a high-energy dance party with smooth transitions between every song? A DJ could help you achieve that. Do you picture a romantic evening with live musicians filling the room with beautiful, melodic tunes during your dinner? A wedding band would be perfect for that.
Take some time to visualise the atmosphere. If you’re aiming for a high-energy, club-like vibe, a DJ might be able to work their magic with the right playlist. However, if you’re after something more intimate and unique, a band could elevate the entire experience.
When we were planning our wedding, we knew we wanted a lively dance floor, but we also wanted a romantic feel for our first dance. The band we chose for the reception helped us create that mix of energy and intimacy. If you’re torn, it’s worth exploring the idea of combining both.
Research and Recommendations: The Best Wedding Entertainment Options
When narrowing down your options, do your research. This includes looking at reviews, checking out recommendations from past couples, and, when possible, attending live performances or watching video footage of a potential band or DJ.
If you’re set on hiring a band, ask to see them perform before making any commitments. Most bands will happily provide footage of their past performances. It’s also a great idea to see them play live at an event if they’re open to it. You can gauge their energy, style, and whether they’re a good fit for your wedding.
For a DJ, ask for a demo reel or sample of their work. You want to make sure their style matches the atmosphere you’re hoping for. DJs vary greatly in how they engage the crowd and the energy they bring. Make sure the one you hire has the personality and vibe you want for your event.
What to Ask Before Booking Your Wedding Band or DJ
Before signing on the dotted line, there are a few important questions to ask. Here are some of the most crucial things you should inquire about:
For a Wedding Band:
- What songs are included in your setlist? Can we request specific songs or have you learn a song that’s important to us?
- Will you provide MC services or do we need to hire someone else for that?
- How many breaks do you take during the reception, and how long are they?
- What is your setup and teardown time?
- Do you have a backup musician in case someone is unavailable?
For a Wedding DJ:
- Do you have a sample playlist or setlist that we can review?
- Can you accommodate special song requests, including a Do Not Play list?
- Will you act as the MC for the evening?
- What kind of equipment do you use, and how does it fit with our venue’s acoustics and space?
- Can we meet you in person before booking?
Asking these questions will help clarify any uncertainties and ensure everything goes smoothly on the big day.
Get It in Writing
Once you’ve made your decision, it’s time to lock things down. Get everything in writing. This should include all the details you’ve discussed, from the song list to the setup time, and any other expectations.
I’ve seen couples get caught out by miscommunication between the couple and the vendor. Having a contract that outlines the terms of your agreement helps prevent any misunderstandings down the line. Make sure to read the fine print, especially when it comes to things like overtime charges or additional fees for extra requests.
Book Early
This might sound obvious, but I can’t stress this enough — book your entertainment early. Some of the best bands and DJs in Melbourne get booked out months in advance, especially during peak wedding season. If you have your heart set on a particular band or DJ, make sure to secure them as soon as possible, ideally 6-12 months before your wedding day.
Choosing Your Wedding Entertainment
Key Takeaway: Trust Your Instincts and Have Fun with Your Music Choice
Ultimately, whether you choose a wedding band or a DJ, it all comes down to what feels right for you as a couple. Trust your instincts and choose what will make your celebration unforgettable. After all, this is your day, and the music should reflect who you are as a couple.
Wedding Entertainment: Making Your Special Day Truly Unforgettable
The right entertainment will create memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re busting a move to the band’s live performance or dancing all night to your favourite DJ tracks, your wedding entertainment will set the tone for the entire celebration. Choose wisely, and remember — the goal is to have fun!
Let’s Get Straight to the Point
Choosing between a wedding band and a DJ can be one of the most challenging decisions when planning your wedding entertainment. Bands provide a dynamic, live energy that enhances the atmosphere and gives a memorable performance. However, they can be more expensive, require more space, and have a limited song list. DJs, on the other hand, offer flexibility, variety, and continuous music, often at a lower cost and with a more compact setup. They also have the ability to seamlessly play requests, create specific vibes, and double as the MC.
If you can’t decide, consider hiring both a band and a DJ — a popular trend that gives you the best of both worlds. Ultimately, the decision depends on your budget, venue size, the vibe you want to create, and your musical tastes. Whichever option you choose, be sure to book early and ensure all details are covered in your contract.
