One of our most commonly asked question is “Should I reserve a band or dj for my reception?” Entertainment is a key element is planning an event. The entertainment can make or break an event so take time to select the entertainment perfect for your needs.
We asked our entertainment vendor , Alan Andai from AAMusicians , South Florida’s most recognized Live Entertainment company providing full time professional musicians and djs for weddings, social and corporate events. Alan responds : Why not have both?. When meeting with clients , Alan shares the following points that will help you decide on what option works best for the ambiance you are trying to deliver on your special day..
When selecting your DJ there are several factors that should be covered:
Versatility: An important factor when selecting your professional DJ is to ensure that they are versatile in any style of music. Being located in a destination wedding area, our demographics are constantly changing every week with our events. It is important to know that your dj has the experience and knowledge to adapt to any culture or background that they encounter. Having a diverse playlist and the capability of performing any style of music will determine the success of being able to accommodate the needs of young adults to your grandparents taste.
Familiarity and Popularity of Songs: Using a professional DJ for your social event allows you access to a database of over 80,000 songs at your event. Our DJs are constantly upgrading their library, keeping any up to date songs that may get requested on the day of your wedding. An important note is to let you DJ know of any special requests that you would like to hear on your wedding day. A professional DJ will send you a design form to select the pieces and more importantly a do not play list.
Space, Power and Acoustics: DJs are a great asset when space and room size are limited. With the right sound levels, a dj can provide the perfect balance to provide a comfortable sound level for maximum enjoyment during dinner as well as your dancing. The difference when hiring a professional knows the importance of volume level. He or she will make sure that the speakers and mixes are all at a controlled level that gives enough volume to appreciate the music but does not leave your guests with pain in their ears if the music is too loud.
Subtlety: DJs are great assets to have when working with a more intimate sized guest list. DJs with much experience are able to take on dual roles and act as DJ as well as Emcee. This format creates a clear boundary of keeping all the focus from your guests on the bride and groom.
Equipment: Its important to make sure your DJ is using State of the Art sound systems, mixers and equipment. Our Djs always have a plan B just in case the software fails. Bringing backup cds or an alternate hardrive will guarantee that your party will still be going with-out you or your guests even noticing. We understand that a wedding takes place only once and there is no room for any errors. Using professional grade equipment also ensures crisp and quality sounding music.
Experience: It is important to know how experienced your Dj is. Find references to see where he/she has performed, who they are working with and making sure their style fits your needs. Majority of clients over see this fact and don’t understand that your DJ needs to not only be able to play great music, but also take control of introductions, announcements and understand how to work with the venue, planner or caterer to ensure a smooth transition from cocktail, dinner, toasts to the dancing portion. All our DJs go through a training program and perform numerous receptions with our professionals before they perform on their own.
Cost: Cost is usually the determining factor when selecting your DJ. There is a major cost difference between a DJ and a full band. If you are working on a limited budget but still want live elements to your reception, we offer our clients the options to add live musicians to their DJ. Most popular options are percussion, Drumset and saxophone. Another point we try to educate our brides is the importance of your DJ’s role.
Here are some reasons for choosing a Band for your event:
The magic of live music: Having a live performance at your wedding brings a level of energy and visual aspect that can only be delivered with a full band. A professional wedding band can allow you to customize their playlist to your preferences. Also make sure your band is an All Live Performance band that does not use any recorded or aided music to enhance their performance. You want to make sure your band consists of all professional entertainers who have the experience and knowledge in their instrument.
Performances: When having a live band perform there is a greater element of performer/guest participation. Using the perfect band also gives you and your guests the sensation of attending a private concert that you get to dance along with. There is also a grand presence when dancing along to a 7-12 piece band. Adding enhanced lighting will upgrade your wedding making your day an event that will be remembered as the best wedding ever attended.
Experts in their field: A high energy wedding band will know how to animate your guests but still keep the focus on you and your groom. There are bands that can perform all styles of the American hits to the Latin covers. We allow you to design your playlist that will cover all of your friends and families music preferences. Ask to see your bands repertoire to make sure they are able to perform all the styles you expect to hear.
Customization: Key decision is making sure you are aware that a live band needs to take breaks. Majority of the bands will put an ipod or recorded playlist during this 20-25 minute break. We want to make sure that there is always human interaction with your guests. We always provide a dj with our bands to make sure that there is continuous energy throughout the reception and that your guests are dancing to the music that they want to be and not what on a set playlist.
