MUSIC TO YOUR EARS
Finding the right groove for your style.

Once the " I do's" are done, it’s time to finally relax and enjoy the party. Your reception music, whether live or recorded, is the thread that holds the wedding together and makes the difference between a night everyone will remember, or a night everyone wants to forget.

Like everything for your wedding day, planning the music at the reception starts with a big decision - whether to hire a live band or a disc jockey to spin recorded music. Depending on the style of your reception, you may prefer solo performers. Both have tremendous upsides, but ultimately it's a question of budget and taste.

If versatility is a priority, disc jockeys can't be beat. Their repertoire can include practically every song ever recorded - and if they don't currently have a copy of your favorite tune, many are willing to order it.

Because disc jockeys can walk away from the music while it's playing, they're also free to interact with the crowd. This allows them to hold contests, invite certain guests to the dance floor for special honors, or mingle with the guests to take special requests. Disc jockeys consider it their job to make sure guests leave the wedding feeling they were involved.

Having a band gives you the dynamics of a live performance. It's traditional and distinctive, and the band you choose can do wonders to set the tone for your reception.

With a live band, guests are interacting with and responding to the musicians themselves. Bands can tailor their performances to suit the crowd and if the guests particularly enjoy a certain song, the band can play it longer. Live music is visually entertaining as well. There's more life to it, and it tells your guests they're witnessing something special.

Another important factor to consider when choosing your reception musicians is the size of your reception site. Consider your reception room's size and your crowd. An intimate space won't fit a 22-piece orchestra, and a three-piece combo may not cut it for 400 people.

Whatever your choice, both bandleaders and disc jockeys can help you select the perfect songs to personalize your reception. As with a band, it's unreasonable for a bride and groom to expect to dictate the DJ's entire play list. After all, part of his professional expertise is in reading the crowd and responding to its mood, and you don't want to squelch the excitement with a rigid schedule. But of course, if you have particular favorites you definitely want to hear, do give him a list of specific songs you would like played during your reception and choose categories of music or artists you prefer.

Whether you prefer live or recorded music it is advisable to book the service for your wedding date as soon as possible. Popular bands get booked far in advance, so give yourself at least six months for the hiring hunt. As with every other aspect of your wedding, planning ahead will help secure your first choice. Remember, the music service, whether for your ceremony or your reception, is hired to cater to you. With careful planning and communication, you and your guests will have a very memorable occasion.