Should you choose a live band or a DJ for your wedding?

Short answer

Choose a live band if you love the energy of live performance and have a clear favourite genre. Choose a DJ if you want a huge variety of songs, exact requests and a non stop dance floor. Both work well, so think about your guests and your budget.

A live band brings a unique atmosphere. The musicians feed off the crowd, and a great front person can get everyone involved. Bands are brilliant for rock, soul, funk or jazz, and they often look impressive on stage. The downside is that they cannot play every song, and they will need breaks, so you might need a DJ or playlist for those moments.

A DJ offers total flexibility. They can play any song from any era, take requests on the night and read the room. They are usually cheaper than a full band, and they take up less space. The downside is that some people find a DJ less exciting than live musicians, and the experience depends heavily on the DJ's skill and personality.

Think about your guests. If you have a wide age range, a DJ can cover everything from old classics to current chart hits. If you have a crowd that loves a particular style, a band might be the better fit. You could also consider a hybrid, which gives you both. Whatever you choose, watch a video of them performing live, or meet them in person, and ask for references from other weddings.