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As a wedding planner, I work with a variety of vendors throughout the year. Some are not so great to deal with (I’m not naming names!), but others are fabulous! Specifically, Hot Traxx and DJ Ralph are amazing people to work with. Because I appreciate them so much, I wanted to give them a little highlight on my blog as my favorite wedding DJ! But I also want to touch on the hot debate of band vs. DJ. I have some opinions!

Wedding DJ Services

Hot Traxx/DJ Flow serves the greater Tri-State area. They work to ensure your wedding does exactly as planned, and they tailor everything to your unique wants and needs. 

I’ve worked with DJ Ralph a few times, and he always knows how to get guests on the dance floor. Somehow, we are always peeling the guests off the dance floor just to remind them to eat! He listens to his couples, delivers amazing service, and blows people away. My couples are never disappointed when they book DJ Ralph/DJ Flow. 

Hot Traxx offers three different packages that will cater to your needs. I believe they’re pretty affordable in the grand scheme of things. Plus, you won’t be disappointed by the outstanding service they offer. Trust me – your wedding music will be the hot topic of your guests when you book DJ Flow!

Band vs. DJ

Ah, the everlasting debate: band vs. DJ. Many people have strong opinions on which is better, but I think there are a few other things to consider. 

Cost Difference

Live bands are significantly more expensive than a wedding DJ. The average cost for a live wedding band is around $4,000, while a DJ is around $2,000. Of course, it depends on the package you choose, but you can see the price difference. Keep your budget in mind when deciding between a live band and a wedding DJ. 

Wedding Vibe

The vibe you’re going for can help determine if a band or DJ is for you. A DJ can perform any song you choose, so you have much more control over the wedding music playlist. A live band typically has a genre they stick to. You’ll have to do more work to research and interview live bands to find the perfect one for you, but it does create a unique vibe for your wedding day. Many people nowadays are opting for DJs, so a live band would make your wedding stand out.

Venue Space

Bands require much more space than a DJ setup. There are more people to pay or tip, and the setup process is extensive. If you decide to hire a band, you need to make sure your venue is big enough to accommodate the space required for their equipment. You may also want a stage for them to perform on versus a DJ that can set up anywhere. A wedding DJ doesn’t require much space, so they might be a better option if you have a smaller venue.

Music Variety

This goes along with your wedding vibe, but DJs can play anything under the sun. You determine your wedding music playlist, and they determine the best moments to play certain songs. A live band will typically have a predetermined setlist. Of course, you can make requests beforehand and during your wedding night, but you might not get what you want. A live band has limitations on the music they’re comfortable playing and may not be able to put together a setlist of all your favorite songs.

Wedding music is a huge part of the night. No matter if you go with a live band or a DJ, the goal is for your guests to have a great time celebrating your union. I hope this article gave you some things to think about! If you have any questions or want to hear more of my wedding vendor recommendations, contact me! As a wedding planner, I want to make the wedding planning process easier for you. I’m happy to help however I can!

About KR Occasions

Kayce is a certified wedding and event planner and the owner and lead planner of KR Occasions. She’s been working in the wedding industry for over a decade. Kayce started as an event planner assistant and soon found herself working for various venues. She launched KR Occasions in 2013 in Sullivan County, NY. While she has planned dozens of weddings, you can expect the utmost professionalism and confidence. She wants to allow every couple to enjoy their wedding day!