Many people just choose a Disc Jockey, simply because it is easy. You need music, they provide music, game over! However, unless they offer a never ending supply of musical options, you are limited to what recordings they have, whether they fit the occasion or not.
Booking a live band offers other options that can make your party the function of the year!! A live band brings more flavor and more opportunities than just having songs played. When you hire a band, especially if they are familiar with the type of function you are planning, they will likely be more prepared and have more of the songs in their repertoire than a Disc Jockey.
When you hire a live band there is generally less of a challenge regarding your locations sound system. They will arrive with amplifiers and microphones in tow and after they set up, the music is ready to go. After a couple of sound checks, the music starts and the party is started. You have to consider the flavor of your party, but with a band, if you have chosen a theme, the band can dress the part and be more involved in your decor.
You may use an agent to find your band or you will be able to visit local clubs to see them in action. This way, you get to see how they interact with their customers and how their performances are received. This can add some fun to the choosing of your group, as the better entertainers you find, the better the party will proceed.
Costs will definitely be different. One DJ will surely be less expensive than hiring a band. However, the diversity of live music will overshadow the differences in cost. The Disc Jockey may act as a Master of Ceremonies for you, but the leader of the band can be that and much more.
Your guests will always respond better to live music. Everyone loves to hear good music. Listening to the same songs that are heard on the radio, can get old and tired. But hearing a live rendition of a song, performed well, is almost like being at a concert. This will have a huge impact at the party.
All in all, if you book a band gives you more options. Your guests will enjoy hearing a great band play than hearing someone spin songs that they hear everyday. Traditionally, live music will produce more people on the dance floor and your party will have the flavor that you intended and people will all have a great time.