How to book a wedding DJ

I found this simple blog post on How To Book A Wedding DJ from a U.K. Entertainment Company, English wedding. I am including only a short piece of a larger post, if you would like to read the entire piece, please read How To Book A Wedding DJ.

How to book a wedding DJ - Rhode Island Wedding DJ

How to book a wedding DJ

It’s free to subscribe to English Wedding – I’d love you to sign up for daily wedding ideas – just click here!. A warm welcome from me. Claire xxx

Some facts about booking wedding entertainment:

92% of brides say that the evening entertainment is one the 3 most important elements of their wedding day.

When asked 81% of guests say the thing they remember most about a wedding is the entertainment.

How to book a wedding DJ - Rhode Island Wedding DJ

How to book a wedding DJ

By all means look on Google and in your Yellow Pages to find a Wedding DJ first of all. But it’s important to get testimonials… even better – speak to past clients… the best thing to do is go with a recommendation from someone you trust.

It’s the role of your Wedding DJ to create the atmosphere at your wedding reception. It’s what they’re paid for. A good Wedding DJ should be an expert in their field and should know what music is relevant for the audience and atmosphere they’re in.

Find a wedding DJ who will act as entertainment consultant and take you through the process to ensure you’re 100% happy and comfortable with what you’re paying for.

Is it a proper company – rather than a guy with a hobby – have they got insurance ?

via How to book a wedding DJ | The English Wedding Blog & Calligraphy for Weddings.

How to book a wedding DJ - Rhode Island Wedding DJ

As many other similar blog posts have neglected too, I think a Wedding DJ who offers a Guarantee is paramount to your peace of mind and safety for your wedding.

 

DJ Mystical Michael Rhode Island DJ & Boston DJ

Ask about my Rhode Island Wedding DJ & Rhode Island Party DJ Guarantee!

Most Popular Wedding Songs 2013

The Most Popular Wedding Songs for 2013 have been released! This particular list of Popular Weddings includes Most Popular First Dance, Most Popular Bouquet Toss, Most Popular Garter, Most Poplar Bridal Party Dance, Most Popular Money Dace, Most Pop;jar Cake Cutting and Most Popular Bridal Party Introductions Songs. In additional, it includes Most Popular Ceremony, Most Popular Processional and Most Popular Recessional Songs.

Most Popular Wedding Songs 2013 - Rhode Island Wedding DJ

Most Popular Wedding Songs 2013 - Rhode Island Wedding DJ

Most Popular Wedding Songs 2013 - Rhode Island Wedding DJ

Most Popular Wedding Songs 2013 – DJ Intelligence

These comprehensive charts are compiled by analyzing millions of actual client requests made through the DJ Intelligence music request system at weddings and parties around the world in 2013. These PDFs may be distributed to other DJs and shared with your clients with our compliments. The charts are copyright 2014 by Intelligence, Inc. and may not be republished without our express written consent. Intelligence, Inc. is not responsible for errors or omissions.

Most Popular Wedding Songs 2013 - Rhode Island Wedding DJ

I did not think Jason Mraz ” I Won’t Give Up” would be the most requested Wedding First Dance Song of 2013. In fact, I do not think any of  my Brides and Grooms have chosen it as their First Dance Songs. With that said, my Brides and Grooms are rarely following the most popular trends and choose songs very personal to them, often unique and alternative. It would be interesting to determine what are the Most Popular Weddings Songs that my Brides and Grooms chose this year.

Most Popular Wedding Songs 2013 - Rhode Island Wedding DJ

I am impressed with how many Country Songs are near the top of the list of Most Popular Wedding Songs of 2013. Each year the under of crossover Country Songs included by Brides and Grooms that are not primarily Country Music listeners grows. They seem to work well for First Dance Songs and other Wedding Traditional Songs.

Most Popular Wedding Songs 2013 - Rhode Island Wedding DJ

Here are other posts that may be helpful to you Top 50 DJ Wedding Last Dance SongsHow To Hire The Best Wedding DJ,  Popular Garter Toss Songs, Wedding DJ Father-Daughter Dance SongsWedding DJ Mother Son Dance SongsTop 50 Wedding Cake Cutting SongsPopular Bridal Party Introduction Songs for Wedding DJs and Popular Bouquet Toss Songs.

 

What do you think are the most popular Wedding Songs of 2013?

DJ Mystical Michael Rhode Island DJ & Boston DJ

Ask about my Rhode Island Wedding DJ & Rhode Island Party DJ Guarantee! 

Rhode Island DJ – 10 Questions to Ask Before Booking Your DJ

A fairly inclusive article on booking your DJ from Bridal Guide.  Like I’ve mentioned previously about similar blog posts on booking your DJ for your Wedding or Party, I still am surprised by how many of these pieces do not include your Rhode Island DJ offering a Guarantee as a must for booking your DJ. Also, do they have experience as a Multicultural DJ to meet the needs of all your friends and family.

10 Questions to Ask Before Booking Your DJ

Interviewing potential vendors is like going on an awkward first date — you both hope there’s chemistry, but it can be confusing to know exactly what to say (even for a Wedding Editor like myself!). Follow our new “10 Questions to Ask…” blog series with experts from each field who will break it down for you step-by-step. I’ll share hard-earned real bride advice along the way, so you know how to spot the best vendor for your needs. This week, contributors DJ Kev Sakoda from Scratch Weddings and Vito Namio at Dash of Class Entertainment show you how to scout an amazing DJ.

1. Is this your full-time business? Are weddings your primary focus? What clubs, lounges, and corporate clients have you performed for in addition to weddings?

Determine whether they are a well-rounded, successful entertainer who can bring a level of expertise and versatility to your event. “You want to ensure that your DJ isn’t a one-dimensional part-timer, but a true performer whose had varied and extensive experience performing in front of different (and tough) audiences,” said DJ Kev Sakoda. It’s fine if your prospective DJ mainly focuses on weddings—DJ Vito Namio performs at well over 100 per year—as long as they squeeze in some time for other types of parties as well.

Beware if a potential DJ bad-mouths former clients (whether they’re corporations or individual brides) or their competitors. My fiancé Jason and I once met with a vendor who told us about an event that “wasn’t his best work” because the client was a huge bridezilla! This made us wonder: Who’s not to say he wouldn’t whisper about that crazy-demanding web editor from Bridal Guide afterwards?

 

Rhode Island DJ - 10 Questions to Ask Before Booking Your DJ - Rhode Island Wedding DJ

Photo Credit: Muriel Silva Photography

2. How do you customize the music experience for each couple? Can you help with song lists and providing suggestions?

Find a DJ who will create a soundtrack for your wedding that is based on your style, taste, and vision for that day. “One size does not fit all—if your desire is to have a mosh pit at your wedding, then you will need to deliver that and anything else you want, for that matter,” said Sakoda.

A skilled DJ will gladly accept your must-play and do-not-play lists, no matter how short or long. Namio tells his brides upfront that they are in control of the music that will be played and they need to allocate time to work with him to ensure smooth timing for their event.

“All of the aforementioned can only be achieved with an entertainer who is flexible and willing to listen. It’s easy to come up with lists of songs to play—determining the placement of the music (e.g. cake-cutting and bouquet toss) and how it fits into unique themes is the real challenge,” said Namio.

 

Rhode Island DJ - 10 Questions to Ask Before Booking Your DJ - Rhode Island Wedding DJ

Photo Credit: Erin Johnson Photography

3. How do you get the crowd pumped?

There are all kinds of incentives that DJs use to encourage guests to storm the dance floor, whether it’s asking couples to join the newlyweds for a good-luck dance or playing a meaningful throwback song from the bridesmaids’ college days.

Ask them how to get the crowd pumped, but, more importantly, listen to their music demos or watch wedding performances to get a sense of how they will interact with your guests in person. Interviewing prospective DJs is certainly helpful, but hearing them in action will really seal the deal.

“You want to make sure your DJ understands how to read a crowd, build up the energy and then keep it up. There should never be a lull—your DJ needs to have the ability to blend all sorts of genres to accomodate everyone and keep them on the dance floor,” said Sakoda.

 

Rhode Island DJ - 10 Questions to Ask Before Booking Your DJ - Rhode Island Wedding DJ

Photo Credit: Dash of Class Entertainment

4. How do you handle song requests?

“There could be instances where the client directives are diametrically opposed to the guest requests. How a DJ strikes a balance to deliver on the couple’s desires—while still satisfying the guests’ requests—determines the skill and experience of the DJ,” said Sakoda.

Some DJs (with the permission of the newlyweds) may tell partygoers that they need to stick to their playlist, but they’ll do their best to fit in their song, while others will appoint a bridesmaid or relative to screen particular requests (so that the DJ doesn’t need to interrupt the new Mr. and Mrs. mid-dance).

Read more about song requests here!

 

Rhode Island DJ - 10 Questions to Ask Before Booking Your DJ - Rhode Island Wedding DJ

Photo Credit: Dash of Class Entertainment

5. Can I hear some examples of mixing and blending different tracks?

When mixing is done correctly, you probably aren’t even aware of it. The DJ should be able to blend between songs seamlessly; you don’t want guests to become bored by a ten-minute long Queen rendition! However, when this technique is performed incorrectly, you’ll be able to discern it instantly: “When there is no mixing or blending, there is awkward silence between songs (it’s the same thing as your iPod),” said Sakoda.

6. What sound equipment do you utilize? Do you have back-up equipment?

DJ equipment is just as important as musical instruments. “Turntables allow the DJ to have hands-on control of the music and the ability to manipulate it instantly. A simple touch can change the sound, speed, and tone,” said Sakoda.

Ask if your DJ is certified and knows all of the ins and outs of connecting a system. “We allow our equipment to operate without overdriving it, which is when guests start to complain about it being too loud (sometimes referred to as ‘muffled’ sound). When I play at a wedding, you will hear every word, nice and crisp, at a moderate level; I guarantee guests will still be able to talk at their tables while others are showing off their latest moves on the dance floor,” said Namio.

Backup equipment is also essential: DJs should always have the equivalent of a “flat spare” on hand, whether it be a microphone, computer, mixer, etc. Don’t forget to ask how soon before the reception they plan to arrive and how long it will take for them to set up.

 

Rhode Island DJ - 10 Questions to Ask Before Booking Your DJ - Rhode Island Wedding DJ

Photo Credit: Dash of Class Entertainment

7. Have you played at our chosen wedding venue before? If not, can you make a site visit beforehand?

The sound varies drastically depending on the room where your reception will be held. Don’t underestimate the importance of a site visit: The lighting technician at my wedding reception told me that they’ve had crises with brides who chose DJs that didn’t know how to work the room’s acoustics. The sound on the microphones was so poor that the tech couldn’t understand the garbled instructions through his earpiece!

Namio recommends that brides ask prospective DJs if they can set up appointments to visit such locations. “This allows us to become acquainted with new staff members, learn their rules for vendors, and plan correctly for providing the correct equipment for acoustics and lighting design. At the same time, we offer to provide these establishments with insurance certificates and updated company information. With these steps, they know we mean business,” said Namio.

 

Rhode Island DJ - 10 Questions to Ask Before Booking Your DJ - Rhode Island Wedding DJ

Photo Credit: Dash of Class Entertainment

8. Do we have our choice of DJs to select from, or is one automatically assigned to us depending on date availability? What happens in case of an emergency?

“We believe choice is important: No two weddings are alike! You should have a choice of top DJs that fit your style and personality, and have the proper experience and skill for your wedding,” said Sakoda.

Namio agrees: “I personally spend quite some time with my clients to answer their concerns in detail and make suggestions when called upon. In turn, they learn more about my experience and everything I bring to the table. Now, imagine investing all of this time and not being their MC/DJ on their wedding day!” he said.

It happens more often than you’d think: At one meeting, a sales rep tried to us to sign a contract before we even met with our prospective DJ! He happened to be in the building that day, so Jason and I got to say hello briefly, but the company’s impersonality still rubbed us the wrong way.

9. What other services do you offer (e.g. lighting, HD video screens)?

Some DJ packages come with extra services such as intelligent lighting and video screens. “Next to lighting, video screens are our most requested option. I like to explain it as personalizing your day: Imagine watching memories roll by on the screens while you’re sharing that first dance. Then, you can add a few photos to enhance the parent dances as well,” said Namio.

Remember to get any details clearly outlined in your contract. Also don’t feel pressured into signing up for extra amenities if you don’t need them. When I told one DJ that my venue came equipped with intelligent lighting, he told us their lighting was still necessary for a true “club-like” experience. Next!

 

Rhode Island DJ - 10 Questions to Ask Before Booking Your DJ - Rhode Island Wedding DJ

Photo Credit: Chris Sherburne Photography

10. Why should I choose you as my wedding DJ?

I always like to throw in a curveball to see what they consider to be their best attribute: Is it their amazing sound equipment? Their can-do-anything personality? Or is it their professionalism and dedication towards making your wedding a success? Hopefully, all of the above!

Check out our Ultimate Guide to Vendors to find out what you should be asking your florist, photographer, and more!

Meet The Experts:

Rhode Island DJ - 10 Questions to Ask Before Booking Your DJ - Rhode Island Wedding DJ

Each week, we feature wedding music recommendations from Scratch Weddings, the nation’s leader with the best wedding DJs at affordable prices. This week’s post comes from Brooklyn-based, Cali-bred DJ Kev Sakoda, who has more than two decades of experience DJing clubs, corporate events, live shows and on radio across the country. He can also be found at a weekly residency at NYC’s Happy Ending Lounge on the Lower East Side. Kev works with couples to create a crowd-pleasing musical vision for every wedding he spins. “Music is such an important part of creating the emotion of the reception; not just for the bride and groom, who are the most important people that night, but for all of the guests.”

Rhode Island DJ - 10 Questions to Ask Before Booking Your DJ - Rhode Island Wedding DJ

 

Vito Namio is the owner of Dash of Class Entertainment in New York and New Jersey. Has been providing clients with personalized service and high energy entertainment over the last 15 years. Creating memories of a lifetime one event at a time.

Stefania Sainato

Here are other posts that may be helpful to you Top 50 DJ Wedding Last Dance SongsHow To Hire The Best Wedding DJ,  Popular Garter Toss Songs, Wedding DJ Father-Daughter Dance SongsWedding DJ Mother Son Dance SongsTop 50 Wedding Cake Cutting SongsPopular Bridal Party Introduction Songs for Wedding DJs and Popular Bouquet Toss Songs.

 

What do you think about the 10 questions to ask before booking your DJ?

DJ Mystical Michael Rhode Island DJ & Boston DJ
Ask about my Rhode Island Wedding DJ & Rhode Island Party DJ Guarantee!

Wedding DJ Mistakes – The Biggest Mistakes Brides Make with DJs

I found this resource from Party Specialists on Wedding DJ Mistakes. I know every Bride and Groom cringe when reading the phrase “Wedding DJ Mistakes”, but I am afraid to tell you they really do exist. I made many Wedding DJ Mistakes early on in my career as a Wedding DJ. I am not proud of them but it’s true. Fortunately, that was many years ago and I’ve learned plenty through experience as a Rhode Island Wedding DJ what to do and what not to do co-creating an extraordinary Wedding with you. You can do your homework by taking some basic precautions and following your gut in hiring the right Wedding DJ for your Wedding and the experience of wedding professionals like the folks who wrote the article below. It saddens me that another Wedding DJ has left out what I firmly support all Weddings DJs need to execute as part of their way of doing business in good faith; a Wedding DJ Guarantee. I am baffled how many Brides and Grooms have to hire Wedding DJs that do not offer a DJ Guarantee.

Wedding DJ Mistakes - The Biggest Mistakes Brides Make with DJs - Rhode Island Wedding DJ

Wedding DJ Mistakes – The Biggest Mistakes Brides Make with DJs

Yes, it’s that time of your wedding planning to find a DJ for your special day, and for most brides this can be an adventure in and of itself. Contacting different DJ’s, getting prices, choosing prices, consultations, and the list goes on and on.

In this article you will learn the 10 biggest mistakes brides make when choosing a DJ for the big day, hopefully after this you can avoid the pitfalls of choosing the wrong DJ for your wedding.
Here’s a little quote that we always tell the brides we speak with, “Your wedding day is like Broadway, you only get one take, and you only get one chance to get it right.”

Wedding DJ Mistakes - The Biggest Mistakes Brides Make with DJs - Rhode Island Wedding DJ

Top Ten Wedding DJ Mistakes – The Biggest Mistakes Brides Make with DJs

Not Taking “First Impressions” Into Consideration

More than likely your first experience with a DJ will be either on the telephone or through e-mail. If the first contact is by telephone, listen to how the DJ talks on the telephone. Can you understand them or the MC which will do the announcements during your wedding? When you meet the DJ (and sometimes MC also) are they dressed professionally? If a DJ carries themselves professionally during your consultation, more than likely they will be professional on your big day.

Thinking that All Wedding DJs are the Same

This couldn’t be further from the truth, every DJ has their own style, different skill level, different rates, and vary a lot in their “arsenal” which consists of their musical library. This is the heart of their versatility. If a DJ only has rock music but no R&B, they aren’t very versatile. A DJ who has both types of music and much more will be much more able to adapt to your wants and needs. Remember your favorite DJ that spins alternative music all night may be perfect for the club, but more than likely your grandmother doesn’t want to hear Good Charlotte all night during your reception.

Hiring the Cheapest Wedding DJ You Can Find

The phrase “you get what you pay for” holds a lot of water in the case of hiring a DJ… especially for a wedding.There are DJs who can cost as little as $300, or as much as $1,500 for a five hour wedding. Is the DJ that is only charging $300 no good at all? Who knows, he might do a decent job, but there is one thing that is certain, either the DJ doesn’t have the experience or just has bad business skills altogether to charge only $300.
Any DJ that has done a ton of weddings (100 or more) knows that they put too much into a wedding to only charge peanuts. On the other hand, remember that just because a DJ is the most expensive in town, doesn’t mean they’re the best for you. You have to take everything into consideration beforehand, sometimes they are, sometimes they’re not.

The entertainment for your reception is what you, your family and friends will remember, it’s worth more than the cost of invitations. Your DJ is an investment that you and your guests will enjoy the entire time frame of your reception, not half of it. Believe me, if half of your guests leave after dinner because loud rap music was playing during the main course, the venue isn’t going to give you a refund.

Not Communicating with Your Wedding DJ

Besides hiring the wrong DJ altogether, this is probably the biggest mistake some brides do when dealing with DJs, not communicating. There is nothing worse for a DJ (and for you too) than a rush job, especially a wedding. A seasoned professional can get through the event without noticeable incidents but I believe I speak for all wedding DJs when I say it is nerve-racking, even if we don’t show it. Keep your DJ informed of your plans, your special songs, any changes, your timeline, or anything else they may need to know. Don’t wait until the week or even a month before the big day to start communicating. This is the only way your DJ will know exactly what you want, and don’t want.

Not Having a Written Contract

Simply put… no contract, you very well may have no DJ! Every year I get a few phone calls from a bride (or her mother) saying that they hired a DJ and they didn’t show up. The first thing that I ask is did they have a contract… 80% of the time it’s a “no.” If a DJ doesn’t have a contract, runs out the front door, and doesn’t look back, there’s nothing you can do.

Wedding DJ Mistakes - The Biggest Mistakes Brides Make with DJs - Rhode Island Wedding DJ

Not Making Sure the Wedding DJ has Liability Insurance

More and more venues and hotels across the U.S. are requiring that DJs have liability insurance, and most are asking to see papers. A true professional is going to have insurance for their business, and you should ask to at least see a copy of the policy. Insurance for DJs is generally not expensive, and there are a few major DJ organizations which offer a nice discount on insurance for joining. There’s really no excuse for your DJ not to have it.

Taking Complete Control of the Music Selection from Your Wedding DJ

You want to hear what you want to hear… That’s fine, but remember you’re not alone on your special day. You, your family (and your new family), your friends all have different tastes. Some brides want to choose every song that gets played for the entire night, and I can honestly say that I have only seen 2 song lists created by brides out of hundreds upon hundreds that actually worked for the majority of the night. Just two.
Let the DJ do their job, which primarily consists of making sure that the right songs get played at the right time. Also remember, giving your DJ 200 songs to play for the night isn’t going to work either… unless your reception is over 10 hours long.

And last but not least make sure you clarify which artist you want to hear for certain songs. Take the song “Three Times a Lady”, The Commodores, Kenny Rogers, Conway Twitty and many other artists all sing this song. If you want The Commodores version for your first dance, make sure you don’t end up with Conway Twitty instead.

Wedding DJ Mistakes - The Biggest Mistakes Brides Make with DJs - Rhode Island Wedding DJ

Not Making Sure the Wedding DJ You Want is Guaranteed to be Your DJ

This is probably the biggest complaint from brides all over the country about DJs. You went to a DJ company that has more than one DJ, you requested a specific DJ, and another DJ shows up in their place. Any time you deal with a big DJ company, make sure you get in writing that the DJ you want is the one that will show up.

Not Going Over Back-Up Plans with Your Wedding DJ

In life, things happen which you or nobody else has control over, even on your wedding day! Find out from your DJ about their plans for back-up transportation, equipment, and personnel. If one of these three areas is out of commission, then so will be the music for your reception. If they don’t have any plans, start running.

Not Hiring a Wedding DJ Quickly

Finding the DJ you want is hard enough work as long as you don’t believe they’re all the same. Don’t go through all the work of finding the DJ you want and then end up procrastinating on booking with that DJ. Most wedding DJs that have good reputations in the business will get booked at least a year in advance, especially for the Saturdays in the summer. If you’ve found DJ “Benz” don’t wait to hire him. Remember if you wait a month or two before the big day, your choices are limited and you might end up with DJ “Yugo”.

Avoid these ten major mistakes and you will be better able to connect with your DJ, and know what to look for while hiring a DJ. Keep in contact with your professional DJ, and your reception will more than likely be worry free.

Wedding DJ Mistakes - The Biggest Mistakes Brides Make with DJs - Rhode Island Wedding DJ

Here are other posts that may be helpful to you Top 50 DJ Wedding Last Dance SongsHow To Hire The Best Wedding DJ,  Popular Garter Toss Songs, Wedding DJ Father-Daughter Dance SongsWedding DJ Mother Son Dance SongsTop 50 Wedding Cake Cutting SongsPopular Bridal Party Introduction Songs for Wedding DJs and Popular Bouquet Toss Songs.

 

What Wedding DJ Mistakes have witnessed or experienced that may help my readers?

DJ Mystical Michael Rhode Island DJ & Boston DJ

Ask about my Rhode Island Wedding DJ & Rhode Island Party DJ Guarantee!

The Top 10 Wedding Music Mishaps – Wedding Music Mistakes – Wedding Music Ideas

This article on The Top 10 Wedding Music Mishaps and Wedding Music Mistakes is from a post on The Knot. I like the fact that it is not taken from just one Wedding DJ or Wedding Band, because he or she may state what reflects their particular strengths and hides their weaknesses. This kind of a cross-section of Wedding DJs and Bands creates a more honest and balanced approach and source of information for you.

Top 10 Wedding Music Mishaps - Wedding Music Mistakes with Rhode Island Wedding DJ

Wedding Music: The Top 10 Wedding Music Mishaps

We got wedding bands and DJs across the country to let us in on the biggest mistakes couples make at their weddings. Here’s what they said.

The Top 10 Wedding Music Mishaps

Mistake 1: Forgetting to check sound ordinance laws.

“Brides need to check for sound ordinances in the town that their reception will be held or restrictions on noise levels at their venues. Some venues have a restricted sound level and end-time policies. You don’t want your reception to end early unexpectedly.”

-Johnna Dionne, Wavelength Band

Mistake 2: Not meeting the Wedding DJ until the day of their wedding.

“A face-to-face meeting is the best way to determine if the Wedding DJ is qualified and will give you what YOU want. Also, you can determine if you have a personality match with the Wedding DJ and if he or she is someone who will deliver a fun day.”

-Brian S. Graham, ADJA Knoxville Chapter

Mistake 3: Having too small of a dance floor.

“If there is nowhere to maneuver, then congestion on the dance floor can be a nightmare because people get bumped into, glasses break, and drinks can be spilled. Having more room will encourage your guests to get on the dance floor.”

-Jeremy Gerba, Lethal DJ Services

Mistake 4: Playing only one type of music.

“Too much of a good thing is a bad thing in Wedding music. Weddings will always have a wide range of age groups, so you need to switch things up to keep the Wedding music fresh!”

-DJ Pat, Sound Prodigy

Top 10 Wedding Music Mishaps - Wedding Music Mistakes with Rhode Island Wedding DJ

Mistake 5: Forgetting to make a do-not-play list.

“The last thing a bride wants to hear at her reception is a band she hates or maybe a song that reminds her of her husband’s ex! Recently I had a bride who vetoed any Michael Jackson for that specific reason, so throughout the reception, when I got a request for Michael, I had to pretend that I forgot to bring any. The Wedding DJ always has to remember that it’s the bride and groom’s wedding — not theirs — and our job is to make it the celebration that they really want!”

-Richard Blade, RichardBlade.com

Mistake 6: Requesting too many songs.

“Keep in mind that a Wedding DJ plays approximately 12 to 15 songs per hour, so for the average four-hour reception, that’s only around 60 songs. A good rule of thumb is to keep your request list to about 25 songs or so. That way you get to hear all of your songs, plus you give your Wedding DJ freedom to take requests from your guests.”

– Russ Knight, Knight Flight Professional DJs

Mistake 7: Choosing long special dance songs.

“It can get boring for your guests. Of course this is your day, and these dances are special, however, when choosing those special songs, consider shortening the mother-son songs and father-daughter songs. These dances are great, and you should spend this special moment with your parent(s), but once the congratulations, I’ll miss you, and thank-yous are done, end the dance.”

-Jeremy Jones, Entertainment Solutions

Mistake 8: Not paying attention to the flow of the events.

“To create energy for an active dance floor, make sure the wedding flow of events moves along nicely,” says Tim Benter, DJs To Go Inc.. “If you have a 90-minute cocktail hour and two hours of dinner your guests will be looking for a nap, not a dance floor. Keep your cocktail hour to “an hour” and then move into a well served dinner service process.”

Another flow-of-events mistake has to do with the way you configure the room — “A very common mistake is having the bar in a different room than where the dancing is supposed to happen,” says DJ Nahchey, Dash Entertainment. “When couples do this, it splits the event into drinkers and dancers, and the party doesn’t really come together.”

Top 10 Wedding Music Mishaps - Wedding Music Mistakes with Rhode Island Wedding DJ

Mistake 9: Picking too many obscure songs.

“As music professionals, we certainly appreciate all kinds of music, however, the guests may not. They go to a wedding expecting to hear music they know and can dance to,” says Gina Diegnan of In the Mix DJ Service. Daniel Blevins of CSC Special Events & Creative Services agrees with this tip: “A simple rule for music selection is 90% of the Wedding music played should be known by 90% of the guests.”

Mistake 10: Not verifying your DJ.

“Make sure the Wedding DJ you are talking with will be the actual Wedding DJ performing at your reception. Many Wedding DJ companies book multiple events on the same night and may subcontract to other companies using DJs with varying levels of skill. Be careful of ‘bait and switch tactics’ by making sure you evaluate the individual DJ and not just the DJ Company.”

-Troy Michael, Troy Michael DJ

— Justine Lorelle Blanchard

via The Top 10 Wedding Music Mishaps – Wedding Music Mistakes – Wedding Music Ideas.

Top 10 Wedding Music Mishaps - Wedding Music Mistakes with Rhode Island Wedding DJ

Many great suggestions. I believe two essential Wedding Music Mistakes are omitted from the list.

1. Not hiring a Wedding DJ that offers a guarantee.

2. Hiring a Wedding DJ that is not a Multicultural Wedding DJ, if you want your Wedding Music to reflect and honor all of your family and guests.

Which Wedding Music Mishap or Wedding mMusic Mistake do you think is most important? Have you experienced any of these at your Wedding?

DJ Mystical Michael Rhode Island DJ & Boston DJ

973.908.8147

Wedding Day Mistakes And How To Avoid Them

This article is taken from Wedding Day Mistakes And How To Avoid Them. I thought you would appreciate what Scott has to say, very helpful and informative stuff!

Wedding Day Music Mistakes And How To Avoid Them

by Scott Susor, Your DJ, Houston, TX

Getting Married? Planning for Musical Entertainment at the Reception?
The Top Eight Mistakes Wedding Day Mistakes Brides Make in Choosing A Wedding
Disc Jockey Service (And How To Avoid Them)

These days, almost everybody has been to a wedding reception where a mobile DJ was performing. National magazine surveys show that today, over 70% of wedding receptions that include entertainment feature a mobile DJ in the role of providing that musical entertainment. As recently as 10 years ago, bands commanded the lion’s share of the wedding reception entertainment industry. But, for several reasons, the Wedding DJ has replaced the band as the favorite form of musical entertainment at wedding receptions.

The first reason is the decline in both the number and quality of bands that are able to perform for the typical wide range of age groups attending the average wedding. The second reason is that many bands simply priced themselves out of the wedding reception market. The third, and possibly most significant reason is the rise in stature and quality of the mobile DJ. In the past 10 to 20 years, the perception of the mobile DJ has undergone a transformation. No longer thought of as only appropriate for high school sock hops, the mobile DJ has become, not only appropriate, but preferred for wedding receptions.

So why do we often hear of consumer complaints concerning Wedding DJs? Why do we hear so many tales of woe from brides and grooms concerning the Wedding DJ that they had for their wedding? Why do we hear so many negative comments concerning the music from guests at weddings where a mobile DJ performed? Are all Wedding DJs unethical, incompetent, and/or lousy? Why all the Wedding Day Mistakes with Wedding DJs? 

Of course they aren’t. As in any relatively young industry, there are those who know what they’re doing and there are those who don’t. The fact is, there are quite a few fantastic mobile DJs. However, because the best of them operate almost entirely on referrals, and are booked so far in advance, they are frequently unavailable to accept an event booking from a new client who perhaps has waited too long to find that high quality mobile DJ they want and need. In an effort to help you avoid ending up with an unethical, incompetent, and/or lousy mobile DJ, presented below are the top eight mistakes that brides make in choosing a mobile disc jockey service and how to avoid them.

Wedding Day Mistakes And How To Avoid Them with Rhode Island Wedding DJ

Top 8 Wedding Day Mistakes And How To Avoid Them

1) Plan ahead, way ahead. Most brides begin planning their wedding nine months to a year in advance. Frequently however, the reception entertainment issue gets shuffled to the bottom of the deck in terms of planning. Of all eight mistakes, this is the biggest one. Why? The best mobile DJs book their dates six months to a year in advance. If you don’t book a great mobile DJ early, and lock in one of the best, what does that leave you with to choose from later on?

2) Shop for quality. Sometimes that’s easier said than done, especially when the typical bride might not fully understand what quality in a mobile DJ service truly represents. Some of the other top eight mistakes deal with detail issues of quality and how to identify it. Here, the idea is to generally see and evaluate mobile DJs in exactly the same light as you see and evaluate things like hotels, automobiles, home re-modelers, and doctors. Do not assume that all mobile DJ companies are alike. Do assume that high quality will cost more than low quality.

Wedding Day Mistakes And How To Avoid Them with Rhode Island Wedding DJ

3) Realize the importance of the DJ to your wedding reception’s success. National magazine surveys report that happy brides consistently say that the DJ was most responsible for their wedding reception’s success. The average percentage of importance they’ve assigned to the DJ is 70%. Some people will remember your gorgeous wedding dress. Some people will remember the great food. Some people will remember the beautiful cake. Everybody will remember whether they had a good time or not.

4) Get to know your DJ personally before the wedding. Always request a personal meeting with the mobile DJ company owner AND with the specific DJ who’ll be performing at your wedding reception. In many cases, the owner is the DJ himself/herself; this is known as a “single-op” mobile DJ service. Mobile DJ services where the owner has employees and/or subcontractors who do the actual gigs are called “multi-ops”. Beware of mobile DJ company owners who resist or discourage in-person meetings with you. Beware of multi-op owners who will not guarantee in writing the specific DJ who will perform at your wedding reception. In any case, get to know your DJ to ensure a good working relationship.

Wedding Day Mistakes And How To Avoid Them with Rhode Island Wedding DJ

5) Insist on use of a pre-planned, written agenda. Most mobile DJs simply want to show up and play music. That may be fine for high school sock hops but not for wedding receptions. A truly professional mobile DJ company understands this, and will require advance planning with the bride, resulting in an approved written agenda for the event. Nobody is in a better position to assist in planning the agenda, and to coordinate everything at the wedding reception, than the mobile DJ service. Make sure they do not refuse to accept this important responsibility.

6) Get and check references. Talking to those who have worked with a company before is the best way to verify that the company does what it promises and does it well. If you’re dealing with a “multi-op” make sure the references are for the specific DJ who will be performing at your event, and not for other DJs working for that company nor “generic” references. You decide how many references to check, but the minimum should be five, and all should be from weddings within the past year.

Wedding Day Mistakes And How To Avoid Them with Rhode Island Wedding DJ

7) Verify the “basics” of mobile DJ quality. The “basics” include a variety of items and issues that you might not immediately think of, but which are very important. First, does the company provide backup equipment on site? Second, is the company insured for property loss and liability? Third, does the company have an adequate and appropriate music library? Fourth, will the DJ(s) be attired appropriately? Fifth, will the DJ(s) be interactive, semi-interactive, or non-interactive according to your wishes? Sixth, will the DJ(s) manage the music effectively, reading the crowd, taking requests, and avoiding songs with potentially offensive lyrics? Seventh, does the company offer additional options/services such as secondary sound systems, wedding music and coordination, and nightclub-style lighting?

8) Ensure that your vision of your wedding day becomes reality. If those happy brides are even close to right that the entertainment was 70% responsible for their wedding reception’s success, then it appears that the DJ’s responsibility goes quite a bit further than ‘just playing music’. And without question, it does. The best ones understand this, and they have taken mobile DJ entertainment from a job to an art. That’s why they’re constantly referred, and are booked six months to a year in advance. Don’t try to use only your leftover time, and try to spend only your leftover money, or you’ll probably end up with a leftover DJ.

CREDITS

Scott Susor is the co-owner of “Your DJ” Professional Entertainment Services in Houston, Texas. Scott and his wife Doreen are a husband and wife DJ entertainment team, specializing in wedding receptions. For a free information packet, phone 713-467-7392 or find them on the web at www.yourdjhouston.com

 Wedding Day Mistakes And How To Avoid Them with Rhode Island Wedding DJ

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Wedding Day Mistakes And How To Avoid Them with Rhode Island Wedding DJ

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Top Wedding DJ Mistakes of Brides Infographic – Rhode Island Wedding DJ

Top Wedding DJ Mistakes of Brides by DJ Rhode Island Wedding DJ with free infographic

free infographic of Top Wedding DJ Mistakes of Brides when hiring a Wedding DJ

I created this Infographic  on easel.ly today and wanted to share it with you. Let me know what you think. It is my first attempt at an Infographic; not my best work but not awful either. This continues the conversation from yesterday visually about common Bride mistakes when hiring your Wedding DJ. I invite you to avoid all these Wedding DJ mistakes, so you have the Wedding you imagine in your head, or even better!