If there is one thing that all but defines the atmosphere of a wedding reception, it is the music and top wedding songs. As you select music, you could go in a few ways. Some people prefer recorded music, while others prefer a band. Still others go the middle route of hiring a DJ.

For this article, we will assume you want something live, either a DJ or band. What, then, are the pros and cons of each?

In the event that a band has been hired, you no longer have access to any song ever recorded in the history of mankind. A good band worth the money you are shelling out will learn whatever songs you need them to learn, but particular audience requests may not be in the band’s repertoire. Also, the music will skew towards rock and roll and soul, perhaps funk with the right band.

You can all but say goodbye to any rap, hip-hop, disco, and the Electric Slide (on this last note, that is probably a good thing).

Most of the people who play in wedding bands take great joy in getting people to dance and sweat to the music they play. They can take the overall atmosphere in a communal direction. Furthermore, solo piano or Spanish guitar during a cocktail hour is always nice for wedding interlude music.

The one caveat, of course, is that the band must be good. In fact, they must be very good. The couple choosing a wedding band must choose it wisely.

One recommendation is not to offer bands involving family or friends an audition without independent confirmation of talent.

There is nothing wrong with a DJ, should that be the choice. Every song in circulation is at your disposal, and any DJ worth his salt will have a great P.A. system and a whole shtick worked out accentuating the various independent aspects of the wedding reception, i.e. introductions, toasts, prayers, etc.

The Electric Slide is in play for when last dance music commences, as is any hip-hop, R&B, rap, or disco. A DJ often will be far cheaper than a band, and audience requests can become a fun way to get attendees involved.

Unfortunately, a DJ with too great a love for the cheesier aspects of his or her profession can ruin the vibe at a reception. It is not recommended that a couple choose someone with ideas for all kinds of crazy games to play, and similarly it is not recommended to hire a DJ who also sings. A DJ should feature a selection of current hits to pair with the old standards, as an up-to-date selection adds another element to the party.

This decision boils down to couples toeing the line separating a series of heartfelt moments sprinkled within a great deal of fun from an active courting of profundity at the expense of everybody’s good time. In the end, people go to wedding receptions to have fun celebrating the couple’s wedded bliss, and emotion will be involved regardless.

Always keep a focus on the good time you are attempting to foster at the forefront of the decision-making process. The most important thing is that your selection for the evening’s entertainment ensures that all your guests have a fun time.