Music For Your Event ?

Want a live band? Hire talented students from a local music school to perform at the

ceremony. Ask to hear them play—they may be just as good as professionals, and charge you less. Stay local: If a band has to travel for more than an hour, your costs will increase.

If you’re deciding whether to go with a five-piece band or a DJ, you'll save at least half by choosing the DJ. Or, why not be your own DJ? Download your favorite music and create playlists for the ceremony and the reception on your iPod. Hook it up to rented speakers and enjoy!

Negotiate a deal that you like. The closer you are to the wedding date (six months or less), the likelier it is that the band leader will work on your terms. Find out if one or two musicians can perform for the ceremony or cocktail hour as well.

If your band offers a singer who also plays an instrument, you’ll save money. And remember: You don’t need more than one of each instrument—one saxophone will do as well as two or three.