You will want to book a band or DJ as much as a year in advance. The music you choose will help to create the atmosphere for your reception so you will want to put time and effort into deciding on the music but first you need to know your budget. Next, you need to decide the type of music you want. You should consider the number of guest, type of wedding, the age range and you and your fiancée’s personal tastes There should be a variety of music that people of any age will enjoy and can dance to. You will want to have a mix of both fast and slow songs.

Band vs. DJ

What type of music to have at a reception is up to the couple and what they can afford. Although the live music that a band provides is a nice touch to a reception, DJs are less expensive.

Another advantage of a DJ is that they can play any type of music and there is a much wider selection while a band can only play the songs they know. However, bands can personalize and give a sense of warmth to your reception that you may not be able to achieve with recorded music.

Selecting musical entertainment

Whether it’s a band or DJ, the best way to start collecting information on musical entertainment is to get recommendations from friends, attend bridal showcases and ask other wedding service providers. Once you get a list of prospective entertainers, you will want to interview them, listen to demo tapes, watch videos (especially if it is a band) and, if possible, hear them perform.

When interviewing a band or DJ, you want to ask the following questions:

• What wedding packages do they have available?

• How many people will be working with them on your wedding day?

• What songs do they play?

• What is their working attire?

• Do they have references? How much experience do they have?

• What do they do if their equipment fails? Do they have backups?

• How much room will be needed for setting up?

• How many breaks do they take? For how long?

• Will there be music playing during the breaks?

• Is there a charge for overtime?

• Are there any traveling fees?

• What are their power supply requirements (i.e. number of outlets)?

• What are their refund and cancellation policies?

• Do you need to supply the performers with refreshments?

Whoever you choose should be personable and enthusiastic. They should meet with you before the wedding day to plan out the event at which point you should let them know your expectations and needs in as much detail as possible. You should give them a list and discuss any songs that you want them to play in addition to their standard songs.

You should also clarify any songs that you don’t want them to play and how much you want them to talk in between songs. Make sure to get everything in writing to avoid everything in any confusion.