6 Tips For A Musical Wedding

By Author: Jim DeSantis
Total Articles: 103
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Picking out a disc jockey for your wedding entertainment can be very key to the success of the event. The first question is NOT - "how much do you charge?" That's the last question you will ask after you ask 5 other key questions!

My backround is in broadcast news reporting but I am now retired and blogging. I am always searching for great tips and self help articles to publish on my blogs. A good buddy is a sucessfull professional DJ who specializes in weddings. I asked him to share his secrets of success so I could write about them. He gave me 6 key things you should check before hiring a DJ for your wedding.

1. What type of party experience does your DJ have? Is he or she experienced enough to handle unforeseen circumstances that may arise. They should offer appropriate music at appropriate times. Dinner and cocktail music should be played during the meal and change to dance or upbeat music after, whatever you feel is appropriate. Additionally, the DJ should work well with other professionals, such as the caterer and photographer.

2. What type of events does your DJ regularly play? Obviously ...
... one would prefer the answer - "weddings". Many disc jockeys serve anyone and everyone to make a living and only do weddings when one comes along. Weddings are unique from proms or clubs and should be treated that way by the DJ. There is certain etiquette that needs to be displayed during a wedding. An inexperienced DJ can quickly ruin the emotional mood of your reception, sending you on your honeymoon a bit angry and disappointed. This is your day. Do not allow some idiot to ruin it.

3. Can the DJ provide local references? The key to a professional disc jockey service is repeat business and word-of-mouth advertising. A word of caution here. Do not trust someone else to hire the DJ and do not just settle for word-of-mouth. Ask for phone numbers or email addresses of past customers and have questions prepared to ask them about their experiences with the DJ. If possible, ask where the DJ is performing and drop in to see the show. The other couple will not mind, according to my buddy. They may even ask you to stay for some food, drink, and a dance!

4. Will the DJ play a wide variety of music and entertain the crowd? You want to find a DJ who will play the right music and entertain everyone at the same time. My buddy said he often runs a music trivia contest and gives away prizes that are provided by the bride and groom. The DJ's music library should contain everything from big band , oldies, disco, country, rock, and should be on digital compact disc. They should also offer to purchase any of your special songs that they do not have in their music library. Also, ask for a sample music listing. The DJ's library is important If you want a certain mood or style in your music to match a wedding theme. If you do, tell the DJ well ahead of your wedding day so he/she can plan accordingly.

5. What type of equipment will your DJ use? Make sure it is all professional equipment, no home speakers and home-built lights. Ask someone you know, who knows about equipment, to check this for you. You are hiring a professional and professionals take every job seriously. Make sure they have made an investment in the latest equipment. Only expect the best. No bride and groom should have to worry about the microphone or speakers dying or screeching in the middle of their reception!

O.K, now you are ready for the price question.

6. How will you know if the disc jockey's price is a good value? Shop around and compare and don't just grab at the lowest price. You might find a bargain DJ service where you get more than your money's worth but they are extremely hard to find. There are also services that will charge you too much. There are always companies that will try to take advantage of you especially if you wait until the last minute to hire a DJ. Plan well ahead to avoid making a decision under pressure.

Yours for a Happy Life and, please, forward this to someone who may benefit from it!

Yours for Success in Life!
Jim DeSantis

P.S. - Please forward this article to someone who may benefit from it.
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Jim DeSantis is a veteran Journalist providing trusted information on Marriage. Go to Jim's Marriage Matters blog for lots of free resources and links to great information!