Your wedding soundtrack sets the emotional tone for the entire day. From the ceremony’s first chord to the last song of the night, the music defines your guests’ memories. The question is — do you go with a DJ, a band, or both?
Here’s how to decide which option fits your style, venue, and budget — with insight from real couples and events across Albany, Saratoga, and Lake George.
Quick Answer
DJ: Most versatile and cost-effective
Band: Live feel and energy
Hybrid: The best of both worlds — live instruments + DJ transitions
Your choice depends on your crowd, budget, and the vibe you want to create.
Option 1: The Wedding DJ
Unlimited song library across every genre
Seamless transitions and control over mood changes
Easier logistics (smaller setup, fewer people, faster transitions)
Typically costs $1,500–$3,000 in Upstate NY
A DJ shines at venues that change environments throughout the night — like Franklin Plaza in Troy or River Stone Manor in Glenville — where music must adapt between dinner, cocktail hour, and after-party.
Option 2: The Live Band
Why Couples Choose It
- Incredible crowd interaction
- A unique, one-of-a-kind sound
- Visual energy and stage presence
Live bands thrive in larger spaces like The Barn at Lord Howe Valley (Ticonderoga), where acoustics can support drums, brass, and vocals.
Considerations
Fewer song options
Higher cost ($3,000–$7,000 on average)
Limited control over exact versions or remixes
More setup time & space required
Option 3: The Hybrid Setup
What It Is
A hybrid setup blends the best of both worlds:
a professional DJ handles transitions and playlists while live musicians (saxophonist, drummer, guitarist, or violinist) enhance the performance.
Why It’s Becoming a Trend in Upstate NY
Hybrid setups create atmosphere — they bring live excitement without losing the flexibility of a DJ.
Venues like The Lodge on Echo Lake (Warrensburg) and The Inn at Erlowest (Lake George) host more hybrid weddings every year because couples want live energy + modern flow.
Typical Pricing
Expect $5,000–$10,000 depending on musicians, DJ's and gear.
VanBuren Entertainment offers customizable hybrid packages for couples wanting both vibes in one night, working with bands like Big Sky Country, Tops of Trees, and Playin With Fire Band. You can learn more about the people on our team by visiting our Team Page.
Local Insight - How Your Venue Affects The Choice
You should always try to take into consideration the venue size, layout and acoustics when choosing the right option for your wedding entertainment.
Saratoga Springs: Elegant venues like The Adelphi Hotel favor DJs or hybrids that fit within noise curfews.
Albany Downtown: Loft and industrial venues benefit from a DJ or smaller hybrid setup for tight spaces.
Lake George & Adirondacks: Rustic barns and open-air venues can support full bands or live instrument hybrids with stunning natural backdrops.
Each space has unique requirements, acoustics and visual appeals— your entertainment should fit both the room and the rules. In many cases, your DJ is also your sound engineer for the day, which in many cases can be a huge bonus for your planning and coordinating.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wedding Entertainment Options
There's a few frequent questions we've experienced in our planning calls in regards to wedding entertainment options. Here's some answers to them to get you a head start!
Yes. DJs in Upstate NY average $1,500–$3,000+, while bands range from $3,000–$7,000+. You can find out more about how to budget for a DJ in our article "How Much Should a Wedding DJ Cost in Upstate New York?"
Yes — and a DJ (or recorded playlist) can fill those gaps seamlessly. High-end bands will typically already have means of filling musical space while taking a break, but you should always confirm to make sure you don't have any music down time.
You can, but a hybrid setup offers a more coordinated experience at a lower cost. Hiring them separately means more coordination in uncharted waters for both parties. You should however be set up for success if hiring a high-end band and a high-end DJ. They'll both be well equipped and prepared to handle each other.
Usually 4–10 performers depending on style and instruments. Bands for classic rock and country are typically 4-6 people, where jam bands and jazz ensembles can range anywhere from 3-10 people.
Yes. Bands offer a raw live feel, while DJs deliver cleaner sound and consistent volume control. You may however opt to hire an audio engineer for the band (if one is not already included in the band package) for a more consistent and controlled live sound.
DJs or two-piece hybrids fit best in intimate spaces around Saratoga and Ballston Spa. Think wedding DJ and saxophonist or guitarist for this type of venue. You may also separate the two, having a more intimate acoustic style set for cocktail hour or a violinist at your ceremony, with the DJ covering your reception.
Hybrid entertainment is rising fast — couples want live energy without sacrificing customization. We see this a lot, especially in smaller venues where space is limited but the live music vibe is still essential. If you want to find out more about what we offer in terms of hybrid experiences, book a call with us today!
Wrap up
Whether you choose a DJ, band, or hybrid, your entertainment should reflect your energy as a couple. At VanBuren Entertainment, we help you craft the perfect balance of style, sound, and celebration.
🎧 Book your Discovery Call to chat through your options and get a custom recommendation.
🎙️ Check out our podcast “The Wedding Playbook” for real couple stories and expert music advice from Upstate NY weddings.
