This may not be a question for most couples, but there are plenty of couples out there who would really like an answer. Truth be told there is no right or wrong answer to whether you should hire a DJ over a live band or vice versa. It’s up to each individual couple, their budget, and their preference. Obviously, there are some glaring differences between hiring a DJ or a live band for your wedding, and it’s those differences that I want to discuss in this blog. So, I won’t be providing as much of a definitive answer to which you should choose, but more of a comparison of each. Their differences and similarities, the pros and cons of each, and reasons as to why you may wish to hire one over another.

What are the differences and similarities between a DJ and a live band?

There is no shortage of differences between a DJ and a live band. For starters, the number of people is greatly different. While a DJ is usually a single entity, a live band performing at a wedding usually has between 4-5 members. Interestingly enough, the space required by a DJ and a live band is not as different as you’d think. A Dj might only be one person, but they usually require a decent amount of space to set up their station, speakers, and lighting; whereas a live band usually just requires the space that they, the band members, take up and perhaps a little space for some speakers. Another huge difference between the two is music selection. While a band may be willing to learn a small selection of music for you, they’re more than likely going to stick to music within their genre. If you hire a jazz band, it’s not fair to expect them to play rock n’ roll or country all night. Unlike a live band's limitations, a DJ has the flexibility and resources available to play almost any song, in any genre, from any time! Especially if they’re constantly booked out, then you can be assured that they will have an excellent selection! A major difference that most people think of when comparing a DJ and a live band is the energy that the entertainment brings.  It’s true, there’s nothing quite like a live band. They’re fun, interactable and generally have enough energy to run a city block! Truth be told, it’s like comparing a concert to a nightclub; one’s obviously gonna have more liveliness than the other! All that to say, this difference can be mitigated by hiring the right DJ. While it’s true that most people can be a “DJ” if they have an iPhone and Spotify, the real professional DJs know that it’s not just about spinning some sick beats! They need to be personable, lively, and just as entertaining if they want to keep the crowd pumped! While it’s true that these DJs are harder to come by, it’s not impossible! Probably the biggest difference between a DJ and a live band would be cost. With wedding prices going through the roof, it’s not uncommon for couples to try and save money wherever possible; and entertainment is a huge one! The average cost to hire a wedding DJ is around $1900 whereas the average cost of hiring a live band is about $4500! 

Pros and Cons of a DJ

• Pros

  • Cheaper to hire

  • Greater variety of music to choose from

  • Could provide MC services

  • Can put on an awesome light show

• Cons

  • Your party lives or dies with the DJ

  • Less ability to improvise

Pro’s and Con’s of a live band

• Pro’s

  • A different, more exciting energy

  • Ability to improvise

  • Originality

• Con’s

  • Lack of variety

  • More expensive to hire

  • May not be able to perform to their fullest potential due to Venue restrictions

Reason to hire a DJ

If you’re on a budget, you may not have any other option. That said, hiring a DJ can still be an incredible experience like no other. Their expertise in performing for crowds gives them an edge in the wedding space! Most DJ’s will also take care of MCing throughout the day, thus alleviating your need to find someone to do that. Plus, their variety of music may be perfect if you’re not looking to stick to one genre or theme specifically! More than likely your DJ can play any song, from any time, in any genre!

Reason to hire a live band

While more expensive, there is nothing quite like the thrill of seeing and hearing live music performed. A good band can bring an unprecedented amount of energy to liven up even the sleepiest of crowds! While it is true that they’re generally genre restrictive, a band may still be willing to learn a handful of songs that are special to you and perform them in a unique way that you’ll never forget!