Entertainment for your very special day is equally important as all the other decisions you have been making so far. The decision of a Band or DJ will be easier to make after you look at all aspects of things to consider before deciding.
The band is a nice mood setter. Seeing the live music is elegant and inviting. With this choice there are some things to consider;
- Most bands consist of five members and cost approximately $2085.00 for a four hour performance. Although, you can find bands with 4 to 10 members which will influence the price.
- Cost will vary depending on location (what city you are in) and date of the wedding.
- Some bands offer discounts on Sundays and day time hours.
- Many charge more on holidays.
- Typically a set will last one hour. Bands usually require a 5 to 15 minute break after each set.
- Expect to pay the bands hourly rate per hour for over time, typically this runs from $450 to $700 per hour over.
- Remember to factor in how many band members there are into your catering and beverage count. Most do expect to be fed. Some people do not offer this to their band, but remember what Mother said; “don’t eat in front of anyone with out offering some.”
- All equipment should be provided by the band. Check with them to make sure you are not expected to provide any thing such as sound system equipment or stage equipment.
The other options is the DJ (or Disc Jockey). Just as with the band there are things to consider when looking at the option of having a DJ at your wedding such as;
Typically the price is $100 to $500 per hour depending on the city you are having your wedding in.- Many require a 50% deposit prior to the wedding day.
- Over time is usually not the hourly rate. It is usually 1 1/2 to double their hourly rate.
- Typically the play time is for a four hour time period.
- Discounts can be found sometimes for weekday weddings.
- Remember to inform your caterer for the extra head count for your DJ and his guest if he brings one for food and beverage.
- Check to make sure the DJ has all the equipment needed including stage and sound equipment before hand.
With a band or a DJ as your choice go over the, “how you would like your reception mc’d.”
Don’t just assume they will do it the way you want. Write out what type of music or a specific song you want played and when you want it played…be very specific. Also, state what should be played while guests are arriving while starting with their cocktails and appetizers. From there you want to consider what music should be played during dinner. Plan not just the right music for each part of the evening, but plan things in the order you want them.
Plan out the night with all of the activities;
- Entrance for the bride and groom.
- Bride and groom’s first dance as a married couple
- Bridal dance
- Father and daughter dance
- Optional mother son dance
- Cutting the cake
- Removing the garter
- Throwing the garter
- Throwing the bouquet
Regardless if you hire a DJ or a band ask to visit them at one of their gigs to see how they perform and the quality of their music. When you sit down with them at your appointment ask to have a copy of their music lists.
If you do hire a band make sure you know what type of music they will pop in the cd tray during their breaks. Verify that there will be music playing and pick out what you would like to have played during this time.
Put every thing in writing! Make a copy for yourself and as well as your music professional. Send one in with the signed contract. Approximately one week before the wedding talk to the music professional and go over your list making sure both parties (you and your music person) are aware of what is expected. Bring your list with you to the reception and go over it at the beginning of the reception with your band or DJ.
Don’t forget the most important decision! Should we or shouldn’t we have a polka at our wedding! Many of the older generation will be offended if you don’t. Don’t forget to remember who the guests are that are coming and what they will also be expecting.
Robin Oliverio