Mar 12

Old City Wedding Music: Choosing Between A Live Band Or A DJ For Your Wedding

By ebetalent Wedding Entertainment

Should We Hire a Wedding Band or A DJ To Play at Our Reception?

Part of the wedding planning process is deciding if you would like a live band to play or would prefer a DJ to perform at your wedding. This will be one of the biggest events you may plan in your lifetime, so putting thought into the type of entertainment you would like to host is a key element to creating a perfect wedding event.

The Energy of a Live Band Is Unmatched

One of the biggest reasons people choose to hire a live band to perform at their wedding is from the energy that they provide. Co-Founder of EBE Talent, Mike Gendler, weighed in, “Whether your guests realize it or not, live instruments and voices affect your body in ways that nothing else can. Having real instruments play your favorite songs and having real singers sing them is a unique and unparalleled experience that makes any night instantly more memorable.”

EBE Talent has 14 wedding bands that provide an individualized performance to each event. Bandleaders meet with clients to tailor the musical experience and make the party exactly what the wedded couple and their guests want to hear.

The Versatility You Get with A Wedding DJ

Keeping up with what’s popular on the Top 40 music trends, DJs can play the exact song that a newly wedded couple wants to hear. DJs typically cost less than a live band, so they are a great option for couples sticking to a tight budget.

“Every band at EBE learns the latest pop hits as soon as they come out, so you can still hear the most current music with our bands, as well as with our DJs. And as we know, nothing makes an event instantly more memorable than the feeling of live music in the air,” according to Mike.

The Best of Both Worlds: EBE Talent’s Top Wedding Performers, DJs, And Live Bands

If a couple is looking to add something unique to their wedding and has decided to hire a DJ, they can also book a drummer to perform at the event as well to add a little something special. Mike says, “For those who want a little bit of both, EBE offers the middle ground between bands and DJs for a little bit from both columns. You can include a drummer with your EBE DJ to add some extra “punch” and percussive energy to your reception. EBE also offers bands that include a DJ as a full-time member. The DJ rehearses with the band and can also break out for their own set at your reception, or the DJ can include the band’s drummer for a built-in DJ/Drum duo set.”

Photo by Artistic Imagery

Getting to Know the Entertainment for Your Wedding

There are websites available for couples to do research on the entertainment that they would like to hire to perform at their wedding. Websites like The Knot and WeddingWire are great resources to see feedback from real couples’ experiences. Locating the DJ or live band on YouTube and social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to find out their activity is a great “hands off” way to get to know who will perform at the wedding event. Mike says, “For those who want help narrowing down options, companies like EBE that employ both bands and DJs have representatives who are happy to talk to you and your significant other and help you find the perfect band or DJ for your wedding!”

Photo by Tessa Marie Photo

Choosing Custom Wedding Entertainment That Stands Out

Run of the mill DJs and live bands can play songs, but what sets EBE apart from the rest is the attention to detail and going above and beyond to make the wedding music experience is perfect. The band leader or DJ will meet with the couple to ensure everything is correctly planned, from the grand entrance song down to the maid of honor’s last name. At the wedding, the DJ or bandleader will be armed with everything they need to make the event an experience your guests will never forget.

When you are ready to make decisions about the entertainment that will perform at your wedding, EBE is here to help. Contact us today to find out more information about our DJs and live bands!

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Dec 07

We want a DJ but our parents want a band, what should we do?

By Cynergy Group Uncategorized

Q: We are thinking about the entertainment that we would like for our wedding reception and my fiance and I have sort of reached an impasse with our parents. They are all insisting on a band, but Phil and I prefer a DJ. Granted that they are paying for everything, but this is Phil’s and my wedding! We just really prefer that the music sound the way that we are used to hearing it. What do you suggest?

Thanks!
Meghan

A: Hi Meghan! The good news is that here at EBE, we have both amazing bands and talented DJs, so no matter what you decide you are in great hands. As far as which direction to go, as someone who has been a DJ/MC for 28 years, I may be a little biased. However, even I am the first to admit that is a definite level of energy and excitement that comes with a band that is difficult (though not impossible with a great DJ) to duplicate. There are certainly pros and cons for both sides of the coin (for example, with a DJ you a virtually limitless with the library of songs that can be played, while with a band you are limited to what they know or can learn in time for the wedding), but rather than go into all of them, I would rather point out some other factors that you should take into consideration before making your decision. I do want to point out, however, that with today’s technology EBE’s bands are truly able to keep that “original” sound into their performances. Come to one of our band showcases, because in this case hearing is truly believing.

1) Budget

You said that your parents are paying for the everything, but have you established an entertainment budget? You may find that your budget will not allow for a premier band. Without question you will be better off with a great DJ than you would be with a lousy band (not that you will find any lousy bands here), which would approximately the same price.

2) Size/Space

Think about your venue. Will there be enough space for a 14-piece band? Will there be enough space for a 7-piece band? For most venues this is not an issue, but occasionally we encounter places that are too small for a band to fit.

3) Compromise

There are a couple of different directions that you may also want to consider, where you can have a band and a DJ. We have performed at several weddings where a DJ is bolted onto a band and can perform one or two dance sets. Or perhaps a band for the reception and a DJ for the after party? Better yet, how about both at the same time? We have three bands (EBE Amsterdam, Imagine & Love) that feature a DJ as one of the band’s pieces. The DJ’s smooth beats blend in with the band’s music, making for a very unique instrument. Another option is to add a live instrument or two with your DJ. In this case, the DJ is playing the original music, to which the instruments play along. If it were up to me, I would have a drummer with me on every party at which I perform. It is the first thing I recommend as it gives an energy boost that is indescribable. A saxophone, guitar or percussionist work amazingly well too.

I guess my point is to please not stress over this! I am sure that we can find the perfect entertainment for you, Phil and your parents. No matter what you decide we thank you for thinking of us and we would be honored to be a part of your special night. ALL of us at EBE are looking forward to celebrating with you.

Best regards,

Ben

how to choose entertainment