Weddings obviously tend to go on for a number of hours, so you’re likely to want some form of entertainment for your guests for at least part of the day or evening. But deciding whether to go for a DJ or a live band can be quite tricky, since both bring unique elements to your special occasion.
Some fear that a live band may be too expensive, while others think a DJ could be a great idea, but worry that entertainment like this alone may not sufficiently engage their guests.
The pros of hiring DJ entertainment
In the UK, the history of party DJs as professional players of tunes dates back to the 1940s, when their work evolved from radio-style disk spinning into a clearly defined club culture, influenced by Jamaican sound systems and dance-based sub-cultures such as Northers Soul and Mods.
While a DJ can cost less than live music, what you pay will vary significantly, since some DJs specialise in parties and chart hits, while others are well-known club professionals who also play private events.
You may think that, with ready access nowadays to music-streaming services such as Spotify, you could easily sort out your own music. However, with a DJ you can be sure that your sounds will continue seamlessly with no sudden pauses or adverts from your free account to stop the flow.
And if you’re keen to have a strong say in the music choices for your big day, a good DJ will work closely with you to tailor the music to your personal favourites. They’ll also have extensive access to curated, available tracks – they may even introduce you to some new sounds that you love.
Not only that, but professional DJs appreciate how to work a crowd and play the tracks which create and build atmosphere so that people head for the dance floor – and stay there.
What about going for a live band?
A live band can also have a massive impact on a celebration. Hearing a song you love being performed live and professionally is a unique experience. What’s more, musicians also know how to read their audience and respond to the mood in the room. They may have a smaller repertoire than a DJ, but with typically scores of songs in their catalogue, they can still create a set list for the day so the tempo perfectly suits your event’s unique atmosphere.
Bear in mind that a live band will need a break at some point during their set, plus you’ll need to think about numbers of musicians and whether your venue has space for them to play without making it hard for your guests to hear each other.
You’ll also want the band’s style to dovetail with your vision for your day. The music, as well as suiting your venue, has to be right for your guest demographic and the band should be able to play your first dance requests. With a good group, there’ll be a balanced set list with mixed tempos to engage guests throughout.
What about hiring both a band and a DJ?
Having both forms of entertainment – band and DI – for your party might seem an extravagance, but it’s more common than you may have realised. For example, you could let the band play first before the DJ takes over towards the end of the night. Some groups also offer a DJ service, meaning you get a single, cost-effective booking.
Another increasingly popular idea is to have a smaller band play during the reception before your meal, with a DJ set after dinner. Alternatively, hire a high-quality acoustic roving band for pre-dinner drinks or cocktail hours, such as The Strolling Tones, an exclusive all-male quartet, and Spotlights, ideal for this moment in your occasion. They help create a relaxed, high-energy ambience as you transition to the fully plugged-in evening entertainment.
Speaking of which, an act such as DJ Live Sax offers a perfect blend of a DJ’s flexibility and a live band’s energy – this ensemble is a really exciting one to have on your special day.
Take a closer look at what Gecko Live has to offer
At Hampshire-based Gecko Live, we specialise in live entertainment for weddings and other events UK-wide. What makes us stand out is that we’re musician-led, while the other thing that sets us apart is that, unlike some of our competitors, we liaise directly with you and the acts performing for you to bring you the best stress-free live performances.
We provide the ultimate in wedding entertainment with superb DJs and some incredible live performers. We work hard to understand what you want, whatever the occasion, and quickly build strong working relationships with everyone we deal with, based on trust. Let us come up with the perfect solution for your unique occasion, and identify the live performers you’ll love.
Still got questions? They’re probably answered here. Otherwise get in touch – and we’ll take it from there.