The Soundtrack to Your Celebration: Music Tips for Every Party
So, you’re planning a party—maybe even a wedding—and you want to pick the perfect music to match the vibe of your event. After all, life is always better when set to music! The trouble is you may not know the best way to make sure the music happens. Here are a few tips to help you figure out the best options for your event's music playlist.
To truly engage your guests and set the tone of your party or wedding, you have three main music options: self-DJ’d, professionally DJ’d, and live music. Each choice has its pros and cons, and it’s important to consider your party music preferences, budget, and venue before deciding on the best soundtrack for your event.
If You Self-DJ Your Party
In today’s world, we all can create our own party playlists. Whether you're using Apple Music or Spotify, curating your own playlist is at your fingertips. This option gives you full control over what is played and even the order in which it is played. You can also invite others to contribute to the playlist, making it a collaborative music experience. While this option is cost-efficient and takes up the least amount of time and space, keep in mind that to make your thoughtfully curated playlist really stand out, you’ll want to rent professional audio equipment. The better the sound, the more likely your guests will be engaged and ready to hit the dance floor! The benefit of this approach is that you can carefully plan your playlist and keep it as a memento to share with others after the event.
If You Hire a Professional DJ
Hiring a professional DJ ensures that someone with an extensive music library will be overseeing the party and reading the mood of your guests. DJs have access to a wide variety of music genres and can help you arrange the perfect event playlist for your party theme. The best part? You don’t have to lift a finger! Once you’ve shared your music preferences and event vision, the DJ will take care of the rest. A DJ is like a live version of your Spotify playlist—helping to encourage dancing and getting the crowd hyped up without you having to worry about it. If you’re concerned your guests won’t hit the dance floor, a professional DJ can ease your mind. While DJs can be a bit more expensive than creating a playlist, they are usually more cost-effective and require less physical space than a live band. Plus, if you need an MC for weddings, mitzvahs, or fundraisers, a DJ can also bring an extra level of energy to your special event.
If You Hire a Live Band
If you’re looking for a more personal touch and want to elevate the ambiance of your event, hiring a live band is a fantastic choice! Live music adds an extra layer of excitement and energy to your event, engaging your guests in a way that recorded music simply can’t. While a live band is typically more expensive and takes up more space than a DJ or self-curated playlist, it offers an entirely different live music experience. Guests will leave your event remembering the live band and the unique vibe it created. From cover bands to local favorites or bands that bring the cultural energy of the venue to life, a live band can really get the crowd moving! However, it's important to note that live bands require more space and may be subject to venue restrictions regarding the size of the band or the types of instruments used, so be sure to check with your venue. Don’t let these potential drawbacks sway you—if a live band will make your event truly memorable, it might be well worth the investment.
General Tips for Your Party Playlist
Whether you go with a self-curated playlist, hire a DJ, or book a live band, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure your event music is on point. First, make sure to play songs that people know and love. Familiar tunes will get your guests engaged and excited to dance. Second, pace the music throughout the event to help transition between different moods. A smooth flow from one song to the next will help keep the energy just right for every part of the party. Finally, make sure to back up key songs (like wedding processional music) and have them downloaded in case of any technical issues. Music has the power to completely set the tone for your event, so make sure to take it seriously—while still remembering to have fun. After all, that’s what parties are all about!
As event planners based in NYC, we help you find the best and most affordable options for your event. We start by understanding your priorities and budget, then use our local knowledge and vendor relationships to negotiate discounts and suggest creative ways to save. We’ll guide you through the pros and cons of each choice, forecast hidden costs, and ensure your event stays within budget while achieving your vision.