The Main Event by Memory Makers Event Planning, LLC

Music is an important element at weddings, reunions, company parties and other events. Making just the right choice of whom to engage, however, may be more difficult than you anticipate. Should you choose a DJ, a string ensemble, a band, pianist, harpist, bag pipes or something else? Maybe you want to download your own playlist onto a laptop or iPod.

Every event can be enhanced by music. Whether you are planning a backyard barbeque, a wedding or reception, or a formal dinner, music will add to the ambiance of the event. The type of music you choose should reflect the formality of the event and the overall mood you want to create. Your budget will also be a consideration. Hiring a band is the most expensive option and the price will vary by the number of musicians in the group. You can choose anything from a three-piece blue grass group to a 15 member swing or jazz band. A band offers less flexibility than a DJ. Most play for 45 minutes, then take a 15 minute break. If you plan to have toasts or make any type of announcements, those activities usually occur during the band's breaks. A band is great for events at which the primary activity will be dancing. If you are planning a wedding, you might choose to hire a string trio or quartet, a brass ensemble, a harpist, or several guitarists to play for the ceremony. If you have a chu...