Tips from an “Awesome” Wedding DJ

My DJ the Wedding Coordinator

 
The role of the DJ has totally expanded since DJs have become such a popular choice for weddings. The DJ is no longer someone who just “plays music” at your wedding. Instead, they set the tone for your whole wedding through music, like mini-entertainers. Obviously, someone’s got to get the audience’s attention and direct the activities throughout the wedding to make sure everyone’s having a great time. With a DJ, you get a built in emcee who’ll keep your guests involved in what’s happening. And so, DJs have evolved into all-around event coordinators of sorts.
 
Complaints such as “the music was in my face” or “we never saw the bride and groom after the ceremony” are far too common. (Click here to read the “Top 5 Gripes of Wedding Guests”) The good news is that many current DJs understand the importance of wedding organization and are active members of national disc jockey conventions and associations, such as the ADJA. These professional organizations are teaching a new generations of DJs the art of wedding coordination. Here’s the inside scoop on some helpful and insightful information that will make your process of hiring a DJ a lot easier! This article is from Mark Peace, an awesome DJ and the owner of Awesome Entertainment in Pasadena, CA, a name he certainly deserves!
 
Your DJ’s Responsibilities:
 
In most cases, your DJs will be responsible for emcee duties, such as announcements and making sure guests know what’s happening throughout your event. The ability to communicate with an audience clearly and tastefully is a talent: Take notice of your first conversation with your prospective disc jockey. This can help you get a sense of his/her personality and can help narrow down your choices before you even arrange an appointment. Ask for Videos or DVDs to see them in action at an actual wedding.
 
Your DJ is also responsible for programming and mixing music. It’s important that you let your DJ know your musical preferences. If there are songs you absolutely do not want to hear, have a ‘Do Not Play’ list; and if there are songs you absolutely must hear, have a ‘Must Play’ list. Be explicit and that way you’ll get what YOU want, not whatever the DJ feels like playing.
 
One of the most important roles of your disc jockey is the role of event coordinator. Your DJ should help you create a timeline. This includes the traditional activities such as your first dance, family dances, father daughter dance, mother son dance…and more…plus the cake cutting ceremony and the bouquet toss. Your timeline should include important song picks for these activities. ALWAYS finalize with your disc jockey no later than one week before your event to make sure your DJ understands exactly what you want. You should all be on the same page and know what to play and when to play it, and as for announcements, what to say and when to say it. Also make sure your DJ knows how to pronounce important names.
 
Your DJ should get everyone’s attention, including all your family and guests, the caterer, the waiters, the videographer and others before every activity so that everyone is prepared and on the same page
 
It’s generally reported that 80% of a wedding reception’s success lies in the hands of the DJ. It takes a good coordinator to optimize a 4 –6 hour reception time. But it takes your participation as well.
 
A great DJ is full of great ideas and can help you create the reception of your dreams, but remember to listen carefully before you choose a DJ and stay involved in the planning so the wedding reflects your tastes and personalities. Follow your instincts and you’ll find investing in a good DJ will yield you and your family and friends many priceless memories!