Wedding Music: The DJ (Part III)

One of the most important positions at a party is behind a pair of turntables or CD players. The success of the dance entertainment depends on him. The DJ.

It's much more than standing there hour after hour playing records, tapes or CDs, and introducing your wedding party.

From the DJ position the mood of the reception is set. Proper ambiance is created for cocktails and dinner. Dancing is controlled. Festivities are announced. Musical pacing and timing is maintained. Requests are handled. Overall audience satisfaction is achieved.

DJs possess varying degrees of experience, music mixing skill, "crowd reading" ability or perception, musical knowledge, and other intangible qualities which define their talent. Take into consideration all these qualifications when making your decision.

The DJ you choose should also have an extensive music library consisting of music for guests of all ages.

He should consult with you prior to the reception and discuss your musical needs.

You should feel totally confident with your entertainment selection.

DJ Attire

Proper attire is subjective. It may be appropriate for a DJ to wear a fashionable shirt and pants. Some may prefer to wear a tuxedo.

If you are not concerned with his attire, simply ask him to wear what he normally wears when performing a wedding reception.

If your event is casual then the DJ should be made aware of your plans. If formal, he should be similarly advised.

A DJ shouldn't charge an extra fee if you would like him to wear a tuxedo.

Overall, the appearance of any performer should be neat and appropriate for your particular event.

Entertainers Drinking on the Job

You may request that entertainers do not engage in the consumption of alcoholic beverages. You may ask their policy on drinking alcoholic beverages and should you prefer them not drink, they should honor your wishes. They should be responsible when performing at your event.

Radio DJs for Weddings

When you book a radio DJ, you're paying for his "personality", not necessarily for his expertise on music programming. It is not a requirement of a radio station that a DJ have any music background whatsoever. The club DJ and mobile party DJ work in a dance environment. His job is dance music as opposed to the radio DJ. Some radio DJs may do a fine job of mixing records and programming music in clubs, but generally speaking they are not suited for clubdates or party "gigs" where dancing is of primary importance.