You've Hired Your DJ, Now What?

By: Rick Addy, Professional MC & Entertainment Services located in London ON

You've made your decision on your disc jockey service. Now what? What do you have to do or plan with your service?

Many couples are not sure just what they should be telling their disc jockey service in order to have the event come off as they envision. We suggest that you do exactly that! Share your ideas on how you see the reception unfolding for you and your guests. You don't need to plan the music selection or write speeches. The professional service you have hired will guide you with suggestions as they learn what is important to you.

Give information on your families' background, traditions and general music tastes. If you know of special or favourite songs members of your family enjoy, be sure to include this in your discussions. Along with this information, provide the time frame for the events of your special day. What time your service is, what time your guests will be arriving at the reception hall, what time dinner is scheduled for with the approximate time your caterer has suggested it will be finished. Other events that are important to know times for are, the evening coffee/buffet, changing of clothes (if applicable), and the time you intend on leaving the reception.
With this information, also provide the name of your hall manager/caterer and your MC for the evening. These times and names are important to know so that the dj/mc can ensure a smooth flow of music and events throughout the evening.

The benefits of a well-coordinated event are many. Most important is the reception going as well as you hoped for. With proper information, your professional disc jockey service will be able to channel the energy and excitement of the event in a manner that ensures a great event. The reception is a time for everyone to relax and have fun. This includes the bride and groom. By doing your planning with your professional disc jockey service before the event, you will be able to enjoy and remember the evening for years to come.
 

Sound System Advice

By: Darryl Palmer, The Singing DJ located in Toronto ON

Some receptions have unpleasant moments due to sound problems. Feedback, too loud, static, or "can't hear you!" during speeches and presentations disrupt the flow and lose the guests' attention.
House sound systems may be OK but are often controlled from a remote location or there is no one around to adjust them. Most presenters and speakers do not know how to use a microphone to avoid problems. Be sure to contract with your DJ to act as soundman and have a high-quality PA ready as backup to the house system or to do the whole job. Then your DJ is right there for on-off, music selection, volume control, and to help speakers with mic. problems. This allows for a smooth transition for each section of the reception, and avoids embarrassing noises or silences!
 

Wedding Enhancers

By:  Leo Tacconelli Music Entertainment Group located in Ottawa ON

Looking for new and innovative ideas that will truly enhance your wedding, making it interactively fun and memorable for many years to come. Our proven strategic format of wedding activities will initiate your guests to participate in fun activities that will break the shyness and stir-up laughter and fun conversations among your guests without being obtrusive.

For instance...glass clinking is out, The Wedding Wheel is in! Tired of the same old clinking of the glasses to have the bride and groom kiss? Why not try a new, fun, and exciting wedding game! THE WEDDING WHEEL! Spin and see where it lands. Possibly, if the wheel indicator lands on a kiss, the bride and groom will have to conjure a passionate kiss for the guests or perhaps the spinner will have to accept the consequences if it lands on another spot. (ie. Assigned as the table's bar slave or do the Michael Jackson moonwalk back to their seat, Perform the bridal walk, just to name a few...)
 

Tips on Hiring The Right DJ For You!

By: Marci Brown DJHOTLINE located in Alberta

This will probably be your first time that you have had the task of hiring a DJ for an important event such as your wedding. So how do you find the right DJ for you? We have compiled a list of important questions that you should ask when interviewing your potential DJ company.

Do You Provide A Written Agreement?

It is very important to confirm your booking in writing. Terms should be clearly defined to avoid future problems.

Are You Insured?

Be confident that the DJ you hire will show up for your affair! Insurance will give security & protection to you and your guests, as well as the DJ and his expensive gear!

Are you AVLA Licensed?

Are you licensed by the AVLA (to 'LEGALLY' play re-recorded music)? The Dj you select, if he or she uses compilation self-recorded or non-store purchased compact discs, should be licensed by the music industry to use their discs. Ask the DJ to show you the AVLA License before hiring them them to work your function. This license is required by law and enforced by some banquet halls and hotels. For More info check out the website here. AVLA

Are you a member of any DJ association or organization?

Not being a member of a DJ organization does not necessarily mean they are not a good DJ, however these association have been formed to ensure all member companies meet and exceed minimum standards in terms of quality and professionalism. DJ Associations are concerned with maintaining a high standard of quality in performance and business ethics in order to ensure that you, the customer, receives the best possible music service for your function.

DJ associations are also great place to start your search for the perfect entertainment for you. All the DJ association's will have their member companies listed by province and region. You can rest assured that all member companies have met or exceeded the standards set forth by that particular association. Some very reputable & national DJ associations include

Canadian Disc Jockey Association (CDJA)

Canadian Online Disc Jockey Association (CODJA)

Canadian Association of Mobile Entertainers & Operators (CAMEO)

Do You Have Backup Equipment and DJ's?

Even professional audio equipment can fail on occasion, don't let this put an early end to your affair. Make sure there is backup equipment and be sure there is a back-up DJ should an emergency or case of illness occur.

Is Your Equipment of Professional Quality?

There is a difference between home audio and professional road-worthy equipment. The equipment a DJ uses should be built to go on the road each and every day!

Will You Listen To My Music Suggestions?

Many DJ's are of the opinion that they know what music is best for their audience and won't take requests. The DJ should listen to requests and play them whenever appropriate.

Will You Dress Appropriately at My Affair?

It is important that your entertainer look the part by dressing formal or semi-formal, according to your preference. Themed events and picnics require different attire.

Will You Play The Music At An Appropriate Level?

The biggest concern voiced by prospective clients is the volume level of the music. A professional DJ knows to keep the volume at a level appropriate for the guests, especially during cocktails and the dinner hour.

Do You Do More Than Just Play Music at the Affair?

Most affairs involve more than playing music. It is important to have a DJ who is capable of playing the music, handling all of the announcements and helps to coordinate the affair.

Will You Listen to My Concerns and Input?

A professional DJ is aware that they can't possibly know every aspect of music and entertainment. Your input and suggestions should be welcome!

It is important to find a DJ company that says yes to the above questions. Experience & quality are the most important factors in hiring your entertainment. You will never be sorry when you invest in quality.