Now, not everyone's budget has the room for the last option; it's usually one or the other. So let's cover some of the basics!
First- what's the difference? Yes, one is a band and one's a DJ, but there's more to it than that. For example: a DJ can play you just about any song you want, especially if you give them an advance list of music you want played (which you should always do). With a band (and by this term, I'm covering all forms of live musicians) you're limited to what they know. You can request something and most groups will learn the song for you, but expect some sort of additional charge. With a band, you get the great energy that only live music can provide, which a DJ can't give (unless they're talking a lot, which is a different type of service called an "MC", or "Event Host").
If you're really torn between the two genres, go check some perspective people out. Find a couple bands, and a couple DJ's, and go to public events they're playing (please don't crash someone else's wedding). Once you've made your choice on the big "to band" or "to DJ", you've got to make sure you're getting a reliable service. If you've never heard the group or person before don't gamble on it: check them out! Again, go to a public event, or ask for a sample CD. If you're looking for a great deal on live music, check in with your local music school - students are always looking for money! And ask them to perform for you as an audition. Don't feel guilty about asking live musicians to audition, it's a very practical part of the business.
So you know who you'd like to hire, let's get to the details. The questions you want to ask the person (or group) you're hiring are pretty much the same for bands and DJ's. Are they available? How long have they been performing/been a DJ?How many hours of music are included? If they require a sound system can they provide their own? Do you have liability insurance? Do I need to provide you with food? (A hungry musician is a grouchy musician) Can you help us create a custom playlist? How much setup/breakdown time do you need? Do you take requests? Can you play our special song?
And get a copy of their contract - read it before you put any money down! Make sure there's no hidden fees, that every penny is broken down. The contract also needs to cover what they are going to wear at your wedding - don't set yourself up for purple velvet! Get two references from other wedding clients that you can call.
Once you've got your music decided, deposited, signed, get their contact information: cell phone for your on-location contact (the DJ or band leader), and someone in their office as a backup. Give all this info to your wedding planner to keep on themselves for the big day.
And that's it! Easy! To give you a little inspiration, here's some great pictures of my favorite music professionals in Seattle!
Clockwise from top left: Event Source NW, Al Vento Music, Seattle Chamber Brass, Disco Royale (DJ), Stanley Greenthal, Windstring.
Happy planning,
Rebekah Ross
Weddings and Events
