Music for reception

I would say if your budget allows it then have both if that is what you want.

I think you can have both, if budget allows! Bands need a break or even having the DJ for the dance. Some bands are good at playing dance music, but most of the time DJs are better for the dance.

Budget would be my main concern, but I think it is logistically do able.

I've seen it done before and it worked out fine. Like most of the others have said, your budget will determine if this is a real possibility for you.

We have both. We used a three piece string band for our ceremony and then a DJ for the reception. All together we are paying just over $1000 for the two.

I agree with Jessica, I think your budget will help decide if you have both. Having a band is great and it lends a certain kind of energy but somethings that we were told when picking between bands or DJs is to consider how long they will be there for. If the band is there for more than 5 hours their voices will be sore and they will be tired. Also bands usually don't allow song requests because they may not know the song (some take requests in advance so they can practice but guests usually request the night of).

I would say cost would probably determine that. I like the idea of a band for cocktail hour and during dinner, and switching to a DJ for the dance portion, but that would be a budget buster for sure. If you can afford it, I'd say go for it, otherwise, choose one over the other!

I was originally looking at a venue that offers a house band. The band is a very cool idea, since i love going to concerts it would really reflect my personality at the wedding. The venue offered the option of band, dj, or band & dj but they said those who got both dj & band felt that they did not feel they utilized the dj enough.

So far in my band entertainment search I have found that many of the band's offer reception music during their live entertainment breaks. Maybe that could be an option for you to replace a dj?

I would just have the band play as people arrive and during dinner. Then during speeches they can pack up and the DJ can come in and set up and have the DJ for the rest of the night.

You could always have the house band play whilr people come in and before and after the meal then have the DJ for the dance I think that would be nice but if you have to pay extra for the band I'd just stick with one and it sounds like you'd rather the DJ