There’s no hiding the fact that music will make or break your wedding reception. So when deciding on whether to hire a band or DJ you need to find someone who will keep you guests entertained and dancing all night long. When searching for either, you need to move quickly. Many top talented vendors book up a year in advance, so start thinking ASAP about which you want for you wedding setting. A few things to keep in mind while you start: budget, space, guest demographic, and of course your own personal taste. To help you sort it all out, here are a few helpful pointers.

Remember music sets the tone of your whole ceremony and reception. So think about what genre and style of music will best fit the theme and vision of your wedding. Whether the music is delivered by a band or a DJ, it will ultimately affect the ambiance.

Keep in mind you need a variety of music for the reception. Depending on which you choose, you have to have them play a mixture of types of music. Weddings are always filled with young and old people, so make everyone feel comfortable by playing music they once were dancing to at their wedding.

Where the budget is concerned, you have to weigh the cost vs. benefit. In general Disc Jockey’s cost less than band. But other factors may affect the overall price. For example whether your even is on a Friday or Sunday afternoon vs. a Saturday night will make a difference; or in some cases a more famous DJ will cost significantly more than a less known band. Band prices also vary upon the equipment needed and the amount of people in the band. Bands generally cost more because each person needs a cut of the pay.

Next keep in mind the space available while debating over a band vs. DJ. The size of your reception site may actually dictate that for you. Your reception site may have restrictions on how many are allowed in the hall or how many pieces of equipment are allowed to be run. It’s important to ask these questions with your reception coordinator before you book your reception entertainment.

Still can’t decide on whether to have a DJ or a band? Here are some outlined pro’s and con’s for both:

Band Pro: The feeling of live music is unlike any other. Anything can happen to raise the excitement level, guitar and drum solo’s can amp up the energy throughout the whole night.

Band Con: Bands can be more expensive, but most importantly, might not have as large a variety of music as a DJ. You may be craving to hear the latest Lady Gaga dance song, but having your band play it might not go off that well.

DJ Pro: Probably thousands of songs to choose from, you won’t have any problem having those perfect songs played. DJ’s tend to be less expensive than a band. And usually good DJ’s are good at setting the mood and keeping the excitement going.

DJ Con: On the down side, DJ’s with a poor personality or ones just starting out may not have what it takes to keep the party moving all night long. There’s nothing worse than having a party where no one is dancing or having fun.

Using a website like 800dj.com will make finding the right disc jockey painless and a pleasant experience.