Will a wedding band or DJ act as an MC?

Sometimes! We get asked a lot, and my response it always the same.... we're happy to do small announcements once the band is on stage (i.e. calling last drinks, cabs, announcing the first dance, etc) however if you're after someone to MC the entire reception, we're more than happy to do it for a small, additional fee however I always always allllllways recommend thinking through your list of family and friends, and seeing if you have someone you know who loves the spotlight, and might be keen to help out. While we can ABSOLUTELY do the MC duties, I always find the personal nature of having someone who knows you guys really well, to be so much better. They can throw in little anecdotes about you as a couple, when they introduce speakers they can throw in little quips here and there... it makes things that little bit more special. :) 

Yes, any professional DJ would usually do so and most bands/musicians offer that as well

Yes its very common for bands to make  announcements for you but anything more than that you might consider a member of the family or a friend that likes the spotlight or has been an MC before. This adds a personal touch as they usually know everyone and can add a personal touch.

Hi Emma.

I agree with both G+M Group and Bruce Harrison.

Most so called 'MCs' simply make announcements and that is typically all they are expected to do (and this is what we've learned to expect from the typical friend of the family or favourite uncle) A professional Master of Ceremonies on the other hand can entertain your guests through the use of staging, movement, transition and structure. Meet with them, ask them lots of questions and ask to see examples of their work. The Good ones will have plenty to show you.

Good luck!

Hi Emma, I couldn't of worded it any better than then the responce given to you by Pulse DJ's & CO. My thoughts exactly. As a wedding DJ I make announcements such as introducing the bridal party, general housekeeping, when it's time to cut the cake or introducing the first dance or the last dance. I can't however give my full attention to my skill, which is my music if I am asked to host a wedding and be the front person for the night. This does require a dedicated person called a Master of Ceremonies, and the name is given for a reason. They are skilled professionals with the full time responcibility of keeping everything running on time and entertaining your guests at all the rights times, (and alot more behind the scenes). They are two different roles requiring alot of attention individually. It depends really on how much you require from the MC on your wedding night.

Not all companies offer this. We offer MC/DJs with years of experience but we only use professionals which I suppose is reflected in our prices. The hard reality is if you want a good MC you have to pay for it

This is something you should always ask. But be careful with this you have to look at the personality of the supplier, as that is what you are hiring. Good entertainers will work a room and be happy to Mc or assist the Mc you have chosen

If it was me - no problems (but then again I am a live musician). I have done it on many occasions mostly to help facilitate the evening in the absence of a good speaker in the wedding party. What I usually advise my clients is that it is better to find someone close to them that can relate a few funny stories about the Bride & Groom or their families but if they don't feel comfortable doing the whole evening then I am happy to fill in the gaps and keep the show on the road and do things like announce the speeches, cutting of the cake, Bridal dance (when it is time for others to join the bride and groom on the dance floor), gathering all the guests for the departure of the Bride and Groom etc etc. Hope that is helpful :)

Some vendors will include this but it's always best to ask at the beginning as it may be available for an additional fee :)

It's not uncommon for the DJ to also me the MC. Whether or not that's a good fit for your wedding is up to you. You should certainly ask your DJ if they also MC and also what it is they do as the MC. There is a big difference between basic announcements and someone who will guide you and your guests through your entire wedding celebration. As was mentioned in a previous comment by Bruce Harrison DJ/MC, your MC is the person who will be responsible for running one of the most significant events in your life.

Meet with your MC, ask questions. Ask them for ideas. A professional MC should be able to show you dozens of ways to customise your wedding celebration and ensure your wedding is hosted in a way that suits what you want to achieve.

If you're not excited by what your MC can do for your wedding, then keep looking. There are many amazing MCs out there who would love to help make your wedding a huge success.