DJs: More Than Just Music

          A large portion of the success of today’s wedding receptions rest heavily on the shoulders of the DJ. While the most common perception is that the Disc Jockey is there only to just play music, the truth is today’s top DJ professionals do not just play music, they actually take on the role of being your Reception Entertainer Director. These talented professionals are able to help you create and pre-plan a custom reception timeline while offering fun, fresh ideas for your program. They also carefully plan, guide and direct the timing and pace of your reception. Good pacing of a reception is very important and requires someone with skillfull experience, artful timing and the knowledge of how to entertain.

Your Disc Jockey should offer a wide variety of music genres and you should be able to pre-select your favorites ahead of time – usually through their website. Quality DJs also offer a compact premium sound system with a wireless microphone and a complete back-up system solution (for your peace of mind). Some top DJ entertainers are able to offer you multiple entertainment-related services such as separate ceremony sound systems, lighting effects, elegant uplighting for your ballroom, custom monogram projection, and even DVD Slideshow creation and presentation featuring the bride and groom. Your professional should also have good references (check them!) and carry at least a $1 million liability insurance policy (very important as most venues today will not allow performances if not provided).

It’s important to personally have a face-to-face interview with your perspective DJ. The best recommendations usually come from people you trust (i.e. your wedding planner, venue, family and friends).

For your face-to-face interview, ask these questions:

1.         What is your entertainment background?

2.         What creative ideas can you share for making my wedding more fun in a personalized way?

3.         What training have you taken to develop your skills as a Master of Ceremonies?

4.         What responsibility do you take for directing the pacing and flow of my reception’s agenda?

5.         How can you assist me in planning the agenda for my ceremony and/or reception?

6.         How can you include my guests as active participants at my reception?

7.         Do you use direction checklists or performance checklists? Ask to see it!

8.         What can you tell me about your services and/or performance that set you apart from the rest? Pay close attention to the answer.

9.         Do you have a performance video of a reception?

10.     How will you create and maintain a full dance floor at my reception?

11.     Are you familiar with my ceremony and/or reception location?

12.     Will I be guaranteed to get the DJ that I select and will their name be on the contract?

The answers you receive will vary greatly. Choose someone who has the talents that you find appealing, the skills to turn your vision into reality, and the personality to entertain your closest family and friends in a style and manner that you will be proud of. After all, a good quality Disc Jockey will make all the difference.