Music decisions

Pris: energy, originality.


Cons: cost os usually more than double of DJ. Live performers tend to stick with their style of music and not steer away.

I think the pros would be the energy and level of entertainment a live band brings as opposed to a DJ.

Cons: Live bands typically cost WAY more than a DJ. Live bands also may not have as wide a range of music like a DJ would.

We're having a DJ because it's more cost efficient for us, and we'll be able to have them play songs from various genres and decades.

You said “at the ceremony”... does this mean you are contemplating live music only for the ceremony, then a DJ for the reception?

If you are looking at having live music at your ceremony I would recommend trying to find some college string players! I know a lot of college students majoring in music and they do weddings to make some extra cash. (I don’t know much about your area but my town has a lot of great college music programs so its easy to find great musicians)

What type of live music for the ceremony? A full band? A string quartet?

Whether for a ceremony or reception, I personally see zero pros in having live music. I have never been to a wedding where I enjoyed the bands. They are typically too loud, they are limited in the style of music they play, and it becomes more of a performance for them then just playing music.

The only style this would not apply to would be a string quartet or a harpist for the ceremony. Those are typically beautiful.

I always prefer live music given the option. As for your question about the ceremony, one major pro is you won't have to worry about your music skipping. We had live musicians play acoustic guitar for our ceremony, and a full 9-piece band for the reception.

Not sure of any pros. Cons: price, limited song selection. Styles are limited and not everyone likes a cover band's versions of songs.

I think the pros would be that it's a really unique experience! but i like what the PP said above ^ it's limited song selection

View Quoted Comment Yes we would only have live music at the ceremony and a dj for the reception

View Quoted Comment I was looking at violin players

View Quoted Comment In that case, I think live music is actually preferable! A string quartet or string trio for ceremonies is absolutely beautiful. And these groups are used to playing weddings, so they typically have a huge selection of modern music/radio hits they play; and most will learn a song if it’s not on their list. For the reception, DJs are usually preferred; especially if you are looking for that “dance party” vibe. I attended a wedding that both at the reception though (DJ and band) and it was quite the crowd pleaser!