Wedding Reception: Band or DJ?

Pin It with STL Weddings

Its the aged old question – band or dj? You’ve probably been to several weddings with hideous bands (Wedding Singer anyone?) and several with DJs that made you cringe, and you’ve probably heard the ups and downs of each a hundred times.

Now that you’re planning your own wedding reception, its time to make a choice. There’s no shying away from this decision – it just may be the most important wedding reception planning decision you will make.

This is the Truth
When ready to choose your wedding music keep one thing in mind, the music is the backbone of the whole affair. Without good music all the planning and primping means nada.

Really — whether you choose a wedding band or a DJ is a matter of personal taste.

But for those who don’t have their mind made up yet, here are some pros and cons of the wedding band and wedding disc jockey:

People are accustomed to hearing music as they know it, beat for beat. This is a big plus for the DJ.

You must be careful though, as many DJ’s put on a show of their own. Sometimes this show is so flashy that it detracts from the attention of the bride and groom, and the Disc Jockey now becomes the main attraction. If you shop carefully, you’ll find a nice middle of the road DJ with great music and a good personality, that can get the room rocking.

Some will argue there is no substitute for a good band, and I agree (if you’ve found the right one). Had you asked me ten years ago, I would have cringed at the thought of a Disc Jockey doing a wedding. However, a number of DJ’s have the business down to a science, and do a first class job.

What you really want is for your guests to have a great time – right?
So regardless of whether you go with a wedding band or disc jockey, choose one with a good personality.

I’ve heard bands that played flawlessly, but had no personality, and the guests had to do their own thing. On the other hand, I’ve seen bands whose music was mediocre at best, yet they had great personality and got the guests involved.  I’ve also seen djs that put the spotlight on you and others that can barely pronounce your name.

Remember, people are mostly followers not leaders, they will all get on a Conga line, but few will be brave enough to start it.

If you haven’t already checked out the Worst Wedding DJ ever, do yourself a favor and search for the video on YouTube – the video is much too raw for this site, but if you have a stomach for the insanely wrong – then you might get a laugh or two or three out of the video. But don’t say we didn’t warn you –  if your boss catches you watching the Worst Wedding DJ Ever at your desk – its all on you!

  1. Wedding Reception Ideas
    Looking for ways to make your wedding reception one to remember? Here are some classic, unique, and exciting ideas to make your reception memorable....
  2. How to Choose Reception Food
    Seems like everyone at the wedding notices the food that is being served, so to ensure your guests go home with fond memories and full stomachs take these suggestions into consideration....
  3. Reception Seating Tips
    If you're thinking about devising a floor plan for your wedding reception, you should take a look at this article which discusses many important considerations to keep in mind....
  4. How to Choose a Reception Site
    Finding the right reception site or caterer doesn't have to be as hard as some people make it. Use these tips to find the perfect reception venue and caterer....
  5. How to Find a Good Wedding DJ
    Almost every established entertainment company is willing to offer the benefit of their insight. Invariably, large companies tout the benefits of hitching-up with a capable, resource-rich agency, while individual operators talk-up their personal attention to each event. Discover what really counts in finding the best dj for your wedding....
If you enjoyed this article...
receive email bridal tips (they’re free).

Leave a Comment