Weddings By DJ Kurtis Cross
Nov 29, 2024
Entertainment isn’t an extra... it’s the heartbeat of your celebration!
When couples begin planning their wedding, one of the first questions they ask is: “How much should we budget for entertainment?” It’s an important question. While flowers, food, and décor set the scene, the entertainment sets the experience. Surveys of newlyweds consistently reveal that the entertainment is what guests remember most about a wedding celebration. With that in mind, here’s a clear breakdown to help you plan wisely.
Why Entertainment Matters
Your entertainment — whether a DJ, live band, or a combination of both — isn’t just about music. It’s about:
Setting the atmosphere from ceremony to last dance.
Managing the flow of the event as the DJ/MC/host.
Keeping guests engaged so your dance floor stays energetic.
Creating memorable moments that you and your guests will cherish for years.
When entertainment is done well, your celebration will be seamless. When it isn’t, you & your guests will notice immediately.
Typical Budget Ranges
Every couple’s budget will be different, but here are some industry averages in the U.S. wedding market:
Experienced & Professional Wedding DJ: $1,500 – $3,000+
Live Band (4–7 pieces): $4,000 – $8,000+
Hybrid Packages (DJ + Musicians): $3,000 – $6,000+
These ranges depend on experience, location, and what’s included (ceremony sound, cocktail hour music, uplighting, enhancements like Cold Sparks or photo booths, etc.).
What Impacts the Cost?
Experience & Reputation – Seasoned professionals with strong reviews will cost more, but they deliver peace of mind.
Event Length – Longer receptions or multi-location setups (ceremony + cocktail + reception) require more time, staffing, and equipment.
Enhancements – Special effects (uplighting, Cold Sparks, photo booths, giant games) can add anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.
Entertainment Value – Pricing is influenced by the kind of atmosphere and entertainment you envision for your guests. A highly energetic performance, with a top-tier MC and packed dance floor is priced differently than a laid back vibe whhere your DJ/MC/band take more of a background role.
How Much of the Budget Should Go to Entertainment?
A good rule of thumb: allocate 8–12% of your total wedding budget to entertainment.
For example:
A $25,000 wedding → $2,000–$3,000 for entertainment
A $40,000 wedding → $3,200–$4,800 for entertainment
A $50,000 wedding → $4,000–$6,000 for entertainment
This ensures you’re investing in a professional who can keep your celebration on track and unforgettable.
Avoiding Budget Pitfalls
Don’t cut corners here. Saving a few hundred dollars on an inexperienced entertainer can risk the entire success of your event.
Don’t forget the add-ons. Be clear on what’s included (ceremony sound, wireless microphones, travel fees, setup/tear down).
Don’t assume all DJs are alike. Like photographers, DJs vary greatly in style, professionalism, and expertise.
Final Thoughts
Long after the details fade... the meal, the décor & the place settings, your guests will remember the joy and energy they experienced on the dance floor. By investing wisely in entertainment, you ensure your wedding is not only beautiful, but truly unforgettable.