Categories
Updated 3-08

DJs

Pieces of Knowledge
in Amanda's opinion

What to Look for In a DJ:
It sounds like hyperbole, but it's absolutely true:  your DJ can make or break your event.  I've seen it first hand, and the people who saved a couple hundred dollars by "doing it themselves" or hiring a cut-rate DJ paid a much larger price in the end.  If your caterer doesn't show up, order pizza.  No cake?  Drink more punch.  Your DJ doesn't show up or just plain stinks?  Your once-in-a-lifetime party is over early leaving lasting bad memories.  (Have you ever been to a music-free party?  Uncomfortable to say the least.)

Of course your DJ needs to have a good music selection, but with Itunes it's pretty tough not to.  So let's talk about some other important elements:

Personality!  You may or may not want your DJ to be the hit of the show, but no matter what he/she needs a confident demeanor and pleasant tone of voice.

Organization - A good DJ takes less than 2 hours to set up & test their equipment and can be out the door in 45min-1hour.  This keeps you from incurring overtime charges at your facility.  As for the reception itself, it will be up to your DJ to run the show for the night, leaving you to socialize and enjoy yourself without worrying about timelines.  He/she will need to announce your arrival, let guests know when it's time to eat, prepare everyone for the toasts, encourage them to eat cake, announce the first dances, and encourage them to fill the dance floor, both by playing good music and through verbal exhortations.  They'll also be in charge of the bouquet and garter toss, and any other special events you want to include.  

If you're having an outdoor ceremony consider hiring a DJ who also has a battery powered mini-system to play music and provide amplification.  Most DJs will charge you a modest additional fee to show up earlier with such equipment and hustle to be at both the ceremony and reception.  It'll be much cheaper than hiring a separate DJ for the ceremony, however, and you'll only have to find one vendor that you trust. 

Make sure you get to meet YOUR DJ.  Many companies have multiple DJs, and if the one you end up with doesn't suit you it can truly cast a pall on your event. 

How long do you need your DJ at the reception?  Most receptions last about 4 hours.  Very few will go an extra hour.  That usually breaks down to an hour or so for dinner, 1/2 hour for formalities, and 2 to 2 1/2 hours for dancing.  By then all but the strongest die-hards are ready to call it a good time, especially you.  You'll have had a very long day and will be TIRED!

There are a lot of very good DJs in the area, but some not-so-good ones and some truly horrid ones as well.  Get references from friends and other vendors to ensure that YOU get one of the good ones. 

Do-it-yourself music is becoming increasingly popular, but it's very rarely a good idea.  It's more difficult than you think to create the perfect playlist before your event.  What sounds fun when you're making the playlist may not go over so well at the actual event.  (First hand knowledge of this.)  Also, someone has to act as the Emcee, making all of those important announcements.  This requires a good microphone, good public speaking skills, and a responsible sense of time.  Do you want to burden one of your friends with this?  Don't forget the actual music system itself.  When it comes down to it, hiring a professional DJ is a VERY GOOD idea!