Tip: A Disc Jockey can be the right thing for you instead
of a Band. Some couples never consider a disc jockey, thinking
a band is the only way to go. Traditionally the more popular choice,
live music introduces an energy into your wedding reception that
little can match. But live music has its limitations. Even the
most versatile and talented band on earth could never provide
the range of songs and performers that a disc jockey can. With
a DJ at the helm, every one of your favorite songs is available
to you instantly. And when you factor in the possibility of adding
new titles or selections from your own collection, there is almost
no recorded music that you can't have at your wedding celebration.
There
is a misconception that hiring a disc jockey over a band is a
decision based purely on budget. But there is a lot to be said
for the variety of music you get with a DJ. And a great DJ can
be a lot better than some bands.
Professional mobile disc jockeys can be dressed to blend in with
the formality of your event and can be as involved or as unobtrusive
as you like. They should also have a dedicated focus on playing
the music you want to hear and on turning the celebratory dinner
into a party.
The best way to find a disc jockey is through referrals. First,
ask the disc jockey for credentials and references. Ask how long
he/she has been in business. Ask about rates—if they are
considerably lower than the industry norm, there may be a reason.
If they are higher, ask for justification. Inquire about sound
equipment. A professional disc jockey will bring professional,
pure-digital equipment, not just an impressive home system. A
disc jockey should also be equipped with a wireless microphone
for announcements and toasts. Establish that the disc jockey has
adequate back-ups—equipment failures, though rare, can occur
and "the day the music dies" should not be your wedding
day.
Your disc jockey will be a very visible part of your reception.
A DJ's style will be revealed most notably during any of the master-of-ceremonies
moments in your reception. He often acts as a kind of host, introducing
the bride and groom, announcing the toasts, inviting the guests
to come onto the dance floor, signaling the cake cutting.
A
disc jockey will generally give you a list of his most requested
tracks from which you can select songs. You should also feel free
to add any favorites that may not be included in his library.
You can either supply them yourself, or ask the DJ to purchase
the CDs—he should be agreeable, assuming the quantity is
modest.
Be clear with your disc jockey up front about any songs, or even
genres of music, you don't want played, even if requested, so
there are no surprises the day of your wedding.
Part of what you are hiring in a disc jockey is his talent for
creating a mood, which means knowing what songs to play next to
generate energy and positive flow throughout your reception.
Like all wedding professionals, great DJs are in demand. Book
six months ahead of your wedding—more if you can. The contract
with your disc jockey should be a detailed one, specifying all
logistics of the reception—date, location, time (including
set-up time; one hour prior to the start of the event is the norm),
and projected length. It should stipulate price and overtime charges,
with a guarantee the the disc jockey will not leave for another
event if you need him to stay beyond the scheduled end of the
reception. You'll also want it to detail the sound equipment and
specify that backup equipment and personnel are available, and
indicate that the disc jockey is covered by liability insurance;
it could even spell out what the disc jockey is expected to wear—formal
or semi-formal, your choice.
After you've agreed on the logistical details with your disc
jockey, direct him, inform him—of your must-plays, must-nots,
and the general direction in between—and then trust him.
You will be rewarded with a memorable soundtrack for this most
memorable day.
And above all have fun and Stay Organized!
