Best Tips for booking a band or DJ for a Wedding

Ah, weddings. The union of two souls, the celebration of love, and the excuse to get drunk and dance until dawn. But what good is a wedding without some tunes to get the party started? Here are some tips for booking a band or DJ that will keep your guests grooving all night long:

• Don’t wait until the last minute. Booking a band or DJ is not something you want to leave to chance. According to a survey by The Knot, the most popular months to get married are June, September, and October, so you’ll want to start your search at least 9-12 months in advance to ensure availability.

• Ask for recommendations. Your friends and family may have some great recommendations for bands or DJs that they’ve seen at other weddings. And if you’re having your wedding at a venue, they may have a list of recommended vendors that they’ve worked with in the past.

• Do your research. Once you have a list of potential bands or DJs, do some digging. Check out their websites, social media profiles, and reviews on sites like WeddingWire and Yelp. Look for videos of them performing at weddings or events to get a feel for their style.

• Set a budget. Weddings can be expensive, and music is no exception. According to WeddingWire, the average cost of a wedding DJ in the U.S. is $1,000-$1,500, while the average cost of a wedding band is $3,000-$7,000. Keep in mind that these are just averages, and prices can vary widely depending on location, experience, and popularity.

• Negotiate. Don’t be afraid to negotiate with the band or DJ. Ask if they have any discounts or promotions available, or if they can throw in some extras like lighting or a photo booth.

• Get it in writing. Once you’ve settled on a band or DJ, make sure you have a written contract that outlines all the details, including the date, time, location, and cost. This will help prevent any misunderstandings or surprises on the day of the wedding.

• Provide a playlist. If you have specific songs or genres you want played at your wedding, make sure you provide the band or DJ with a playlist. This will ensure that your favorite songs get played and that the music fits your style and vibe.

• Consider the venue. If you’re having your wedding outdoors or in a large, open space, make sure the band or DJ has the appropriate equipment to fill the space with sound. You don’t want your guests straining to hear the music over the sound of the wind or traffic.

• Ask about backup plans. What happens if the band’s lead singer gets sick or the DJ’s equipment malfunctions? Make sure you ask about backup plans so you’re not left without music on your big day.

• Have a backup plan yourself. In case of inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances, make sure you have a backup plan in place for the music. This could mean renting a tent or indoor space, or having a backup playlist on hand that you can play through a Bluetooth speaker.

Concluding, booking a band or DJ for your wedding is an important decision that should not be taken lightly. Do your research, set a budget, and make sure you have everything in writing. And most importantly, have fun and dance like nobody’s watching (even though they probably are).