This is going to be an honest comparison. Yes, we're a wedding band, but we also provide DJ services and have worked alongside countless DJs. Both options have their place, and the right choice depends entirely on your priorities.
Quick Comparison
| Factor | Wedding Band | DJ |
|---|---|---|
| Cost (Ireland) | €2,400 - €4,000+ | €400 - €1,200 |
| Song variety | Limited to repertoire (100-300 songs) | Unlimited (any song ever recorded) |
| Atmosphere | High energy, theatrical, immersive | Consistent, crowd-pleasing |
| Space needed | More (4-6 people + equipment) | Less (1 person + DJ booth) |
| Sound levels | Generally louder | Easier to control |
| Breaks | Need breaks between sets | Continuous music |
The Case for a Wedding Band
Pros
- Creates a "wow" moment and talking point
- Live energy that recordings can't replicate
- Visual spectacle — becomes part of the entertainment
- Can interact with crowd, take requests live
- Unique first dance performance
- Often includes DJ for breaks/late night
Cons
- Significantly more expensive
- Limited song selection
- Requires more space
- Need breaks between sets
- Quality varies widely
- Harder to preview (need to see live)
The Case for a DJ
Pros
- Much more affordable
- Can play any song ever recorded
- Continuous music (no breaks)
- Takes up less space
- Easier to control volume
- Can cater to very specific tastes
Cons
- Less of a "moment" or talking point
- No live performance energy
- Guests may focus less on dancing
- Quality varies enormously
- Some venues prefer live music
- Can feel less personal
Cost Comparison (Ireland 2026)
Most couples in Ireland spend between €2,500 and €3,000 on a band with DJ included. A DJ-only wedding typically costs €600-€900 for a professional.
When to Choose a Band
A wedding band makes most sense when:
- Entertainment is a priority — You want the reception to feel like an event
- You have the budget — And you'd rather spend on entertainment than, say, favours
- Your venue suits it — Large ballroom, castle, or space with good acoustics
- Your guests love to dance — Especially if you have an Irish or international crowd used to céilí-style energy
- You want a unique first dance — A live performance is genuinely special
When to Choose a DJ
A DJ makes most sense when:
- Budget is tight — You'd rather allocate funds elsewhere
- You have specific music taste — Obscure genres, specific artists, or very eclectic mix
- Space is limited — Intimate venues, restaurants, or outdoor settings
- You want continuous music — No breaks, seamless mixing
- Sound restrictions apply — Some venues have strict decibel limits that bands struggle with
The Hybrid Option
Many couples book a band for the main reception (2-3 hours) with DJ service before and after. This gives you the live energy for the peak of the night, with continuous music throughout. Most bands offer this as a package.
Questions to Help You Decide
Ask yourselves:
- What do you remember from weddings you've attended? Was it the band or the DJ that got people dancing?
- How important is the "entertainment factor"? Do you want a show, or background music that gets people moving?
- What's your crowd like? Will they dance to anything, or do they need to be won over?
- What's your venue like? Does it suit a 5-piece band or a more intimate setup?
- What's your real budget? Be honest about what you're comfortable spending on entertainment.
Our Honest Take
If you can afford a good band and your venue suits it, the live experience is hard to beat. But a great DJ will beat a mediocre band every time. Quality matters more than the format.
How to Choose Well (Either Option)
For Bands:
- See them live before booking (showcases, public gigs, or weddings)
- Check if the musicians you see are the ones who'll play your wedding
- Read recent reviews, not just testimonials on their website
- Ask about their experience at your venue
For DJs:
- Meet them in person or video call — personality matters
- Ask for sample mixes or playlists from past weddings
- Check their equipment quality (especially speakers)
- Discuss your music preferences in detail
See Us Live
The best way to know if a band is right for you is to experience them. Come to our next showcase — no obligation, just a chance to see what live wedding music feels like.
Reserve Showcase Spot