So you’ve said your vows and your I do’s, now it’s time to party like you have never partied before and celebrate with all your friends and family. Its hard to do this without music.

So do you want live music or a DJ? Both have their advantages which I will not discuss now but what I will mention is certain criteria to look for. Just because you can play an instrument or press play on tape deck, or those even used anymore, does not make you the right band or DJ.

A Band:

In a band you want professionalism, talent and a group who can really get your party hopping. I have been a several weddings where the band was playing their heart out and one or two couples were dancing most of the night. I did not know who to feel sorry for, the band or the couple getting married. Plus imagine what that part of the wedding video looked like. You can expect to pay no less than $5000 for a good band. I was at one wedding and the band was $15000 and that was a Friday wedding. (Many bands give discounts for weekday weddings.) But let me tell you what they did, they got involved with the couple, the guests, and the party never stopped. There are different bands for different weddings and different tastes so that is what you need to look for also, what type of music you like. The music will also set the mood for every stage of the event from the ceremony to the reception. And let me mention, if you get musicians to play at the ceremony, make sure they can play. I can’t fix horrible music in post production. Here are some bands I recommend: Deaz Guys – Hilton Head, Atlanta Beat – Atlanta, Bobby and the Aristocats – Atlanta, Liquid Pleasure – Rock Hill.

A DJ:

This is probably harder to find but well worth checking in too. You still want to party and many DJs think they are their just to spin records. Music is a vital part of almost anything. Think of church, movies, commercials, restaurants, etc. Can you imagine any of these things without music or with bad music? There are times where there is music and you don’t realize it but I will tell you this, if it’s bad you will know it. With DJs however its not just music you’re buying but the DJ. The DJ is the one that will keep the party going and interacting with your guests. I have scene great DJs and awful ones. I have a very good friend of mine who not only gets involved with the guests but he creates a love story as the bridal party enters. This is what I am talking about. The music and the entertainment will set the stage to your party. As I mentioned about DJs being hard to find, I have one I recommend. Jamies Porta Party – Hilton Head.

Now why is a wedding cinematographer writing about music. Well in my cinematic films I document everything that’s happening the day of your wedding. It will make for a much more fun, entertaining, memorable wedding film if your reception is fun and you and your guests are truly celebrating your wedding.

I hope this helps a little and gives you some great recommendations for your party.