Do your homework
Think about the best weddings you've been to. What was the music like? Some couples want to dance the night away, others prefer the music to play a more atmospheric role. Maybe you love Motown, or you're eager to showcase your Latin roots? Define your musical tastes before you interview DJs or bandleaders.

Reception regulations
Party sites in residential areas are occasionally subject to volume limits or curfews. Some historic buildings don't allow amplified music at all, or they may have specific technical limitations.

Don't delay
Popular wedding entertainers—both DJs and bands—are often booked over a year in advance. Start looking for your entertainment as soon as you've selected a reception site.

Band or DJ
Is it important to you that the songs you love sound exactly as they do on the radio? Or do you prefer the more creative style and energy that a band offers? Also consider logistics: Band members will need to take breaks; DJs typically cost less; and a band will require more space.

Refuse to choose?
While hiring both a band and DJ is done, it can be costly. A more price-friendly compromise is "crossover entertainment" where a DJ performs alongside a live band: The DJ mixes a selection of songs which are accompanied by live drums, horns, guitar and keyboard. This way you hear the songs the way you remember but with the energy of a live band.

Size it up
If you are leaning toward hiring a band, take into account the number of guests you're inviting. An intimate group will be overwhelmed by a large 10-piece band, while a 250-person wedding will surely drown out, say, a solo pianist.

Tap your resources
Had a blast at a friend's wedding? Get the name of the DJ or band. Also, ask your reception site manager for recommendations (familiarity with your site and the people who work there is a plus for your band or DJ). Read entertainers' ads carefully to see how they describe their own style before setting up a meeting.

Define his role
Some couples want the bandleader or DJ to narrate the party, inviting guests to watch you cut the cake and coaxing them onto the dance floor. Other couples prefer that their entertainers stick to playing the music; most fall somewhere in between.

Money matters
Entertainment is usually a big part of the wedding-day expense. Be honest with yourselves about what you can spend before you start shopping.

Check references
Too many couples ask for a list of previous brides and grooms to call and then never get around to doing it. Sure, the entertainer is not likely to provide the name of someone who was unhappy with the way things went, but even chatting with happy customers can be very informative.

Wish list
Write down the songs you would like to hear at the celebration. Include your first-dance song as well as any favorites. Just be sure you are not providing a list of every single song you expect to hear: Your entertainer should be given flexibility in order to keep the party moving. And don't forget to include your do-not-play list—just don't be too limiting.

Consider the standards
The music that most bands and DJs end up playing at wedding receptions is a mixture of danceable pop music and slow dances. This tried-and-true formula is a favorite because it works. The best wedding celebrations are those that get several generations out on the dance floor.

Experience counts
Weddings have a rhythm that is unique from other kinds of parties. A good DJ or bandleader knows how to move smoothly from cake-cutting to dessert music to a dance-floor-packing set. Be sure that your wedding is not the first for your entertainers.

Musical match
While sample CDs and DVDs of a band's performances can be a great indication of what the entertainers are like on stage, sound can be easily manipulated after the fact. Tapes of live performances with an audience are most helpful. Do the entertainers seem to be having a great time? Is the crowd responsive and involved?

On the same wavelength?
You will be working very closely with your bandleader or DJ, so it's important that you get along well. Look for someone who asks lots of questions about the wedding, you and your families. Can you see this person having fun interacting with your guests?

Attend a live performance
Ask if you can stop by to see the band or DJ in action. If the event is a wedding, dress appropriately, stand quietly out of the way, and keep your stay short. Don't be surprised if your entertainer says he doesn't allow prospective clients to drop in at weddings—many consider the practice too invasive.