WEDDING DAY 
ENTERTAINMENT

When it comes to planning your wedding, few elements have a bigger impact than the entertainment. From the ceremony to the cocktail hour, and all the way through the final song on the dance floor, the right mix of entertainment can set the tone, create a fun and memorable atmosphere, and turn your wedding day into an unforgettable experience. Use this wedding checklist to help you plan ahead and choose the right entertainment to keep your guests entertained from start to finish.

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12+ Months Before

Once you’ve set your wedding date and booked your venue, this is the perfect time to start thinking about your entertainment goals and narrowing down what you’d like to include based on your personal preferences, wedding theme, and guest list.

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Start researching musicians for the ceremony and cocktail hour; a DJ or live band for the reception; and other interactive entertainment such as photo booths and surprise performers.

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Tip: Entertainment often books up quickly for peak seasons, especially for Saturday weddings. Start contacting vendors early and ask about signed contracts, deposits, and customization options.

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9–12 Months Before

Once you’ve settled on your venue, it’s time to start locking in your entertainment – whether you’re dreaming of a professional DJ who can play your favorite songs or a live band that keeps the energy high all night long.

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Finalize and Book:

• Ceremony musicians (string quartet, soloist, harpist)

• Reception DJ or band

• Acoustic performer or solo artist (for background music during cocktail hour or dinner)

• Photo booth rental (with fun props, custom backdrops, and digital sharing)

• Lighting and ambiance features (string lights, disco lights, custom uplighting or monograms projected on dance floor/wall)

• Visual and special effects (low-lying fog for your first dance, cold sparklers that provide stunning fireworks-like effects, or dazzling confetti cannons)

• Surprise performances by dancers or musicians (singing waiters, roaming musicians, choreographed dances, etc.).

 

Ask your DJ or band if they can accommodate special requests or create a personalized song list for key moments, such as the cake cutting, grand entrance, and final dance.

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4–8 Months Before

As your wedding day draws closer, work with your wedding planner or vendors to build a cohesive event timeline. Your entertainment should feel effortless, from the walk down the aisle to the last dance at the evening reception.

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Confirm:

• Ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception music with your DJ, live musician, or band

• Exact flow of ceremony, reception, and dance floor moments

• Backup plans for outdoor wedding setups (weather, power, flooring)

• Final guest list and any specific songs for key moments

 

Now is the time to share special requests with your DJ, musicians, or performers. Want a remix of your first dance song? Need a playlist for your bridal party entrance? Be sure to include a “must play” list and (even more important) a “do not play” list (a list of songs or artists to absolutely avoid). Give them all the details.

 

1–3 Months Before

It’s countdown time. With your major vendors booked and timelines set, use this time to do final run-throughs, and answer any last-minute questions. Reconfirm all bookings, share reception timelines, and make sure everyone knows the venue logistics.  

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If you’re incorporating live music, ask about a brief sound check and provide access to outlets, staging areas, and backup equipment.

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Wedding Day

When your big day arrives, you deserve to be fully present – laughing, dancing, celebrating, and soaking up every special moment with the people you love most. Trust your vendors, relax and enjoy the celebration!

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SHOULD WE HIRE A DJ OR LIVE BAND (or both)?

Once you’ve defined the atmosphere you want, it’s time to figure out who should play your wedding tunes. Each option has its unique appeal, so consider what will best fit your vision for the day. 

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DJs

DJs offer versatility and the ability to keep the party going with a wide range of music. Here’s what to consider:

• Playlist: A good DJ will work with you to create a playlist that reflects your musical tastes and the mood you want to set.

• Mixing Skills: Experienced DJs can read the crowd and mix songs seamlessly to keep the energy high and the dance floor full.

• MC Services: Many DJs also offer MC services, helping to coordinate the flow of the reception and make announcements.

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Live Bands

Live bands are a popular choice for wedding receptions, offering energy and a personal touch that recorded music can’t match. Here’s what to consider:

• Genre: Bands come in all genres, from jazz and rock to pop and country. Choose a band that aligns with your wedding theme and personal taste.

• Size: Bands can range from small ensembles to large groups with multiple vocalists and instruments. Consider the size of your venue and your budget when choosing a band.

• Experience: Look for a band with wedding experience, as they’ll be more familiar with the flow of the event and able to adapt to changes on the fly.

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DJs and live bands are very different and provide a completely different atmosphere for your reception. Can't pick just one? Consider the option of incorporating both into your wedding day.