The ceremony is concluded. The guests are at the reception. But, wait, what’s wrong? There’s no music. There’s no one to announce the bride and groom. Music helps create an ambiance. A DJ for your reception helps the reception flow and move from place to place.
Today, DJ’s are more than just playing music. They are emcees, Masters of Ceremony. The DJ can help determine the flow and tempo of your reception. The DJ will announce your arrival, your first dance, cutting the cakes, throwing the bouquet, tossing the garter and your leaving for the honeymoon.
No matter what your budget, music and someone to emcee the reception is a must-have. Most DJ’s have everything on a computer with thousands and thousands of song selections for every genre at your reception. Most have trained and become certified as announcers and DJ’s. Many have add-on’s like lighting for your wedding. This can dress up your reception and change the entire atmosphere.
The reception is not the time to select your music. At your initial meeting and when interviewing the DJ, tell him the style of music you prefer. Maybe there’s a special song that you and your groom want for your first dance. Maybe there’s a special song you want for your dance with your Dad. Uusally the DJ has a playlist.
Ask the DJ how early is set up for your wedding. Ask about his attire. You don’t want someone in cut-off’s at a formal event. About a month before your wedding you’ll want to finalize everything with your music selection. There may be a piece of music you need to give the DJ at this meeting. Give the DJ your schedule of how you would like your reception to progress. Do you want to do the first dance immediately or cut the cake? The DJ is there to help you have a fun reception and keep things moving.
When interviewing your DJ, remember, you’re guests are going to be a wide age span. You will want a DJ who can play a variety of music. Your DJ will assist you in putting together a selection of music that will guarantee a fun evening will be had by all. Trust your DJ to do this. Most have many years of experience and know what music to play and when to play it at the reception.
If anyone in your wedding party has a name that is difficult to pronounce, write it out for your DJ phonetically. That way there will be no goofs or embarrassments in the pronunciations for the Grand Entrance and announcements for the dances and toasts.
Do you want your guests to make requests and control the music and tempo of your reception? Let your DJ know what he should do if guests ask for specific songs that are not your style or on your playlist. Your DJ knows how to deal with these requests.
Music is such an important part of every wedding reception. Many times the DJ or band can make or break it. Get referrals from others and don’t go with the lowest price. Look at the experience this person has. If this DJ is hip-hop and you’re rock and country oriented, this may not be a good fit. And most of all, make sure you go with a DJ that will listen to you, your requests and what you envision for your wedding and your music!
