Choosing Your Wedding DJ/MC
The most important day of your life is rapidly approaching. You have purchased a beautiful wedding dress, booked an impressive venue, and have just hired the perfect wedding photographer. Just as important (if not more) is the music, and the individual or company you hire to handle this service. It is important not to underestimate the lasting impression your DJ/MC can have on the overall success of your special day.
For peace of mind, choosing your wedding DJ/MC for your unique celebration will require you to do some research (including some face to face consultations) to arrive at a conclusive decision. You may have received a great referral from a trusted source, though you should still do your due diligence to see if this specific DJ is the right fit for you.
As with all other aspects of your wedding, you should select your DJ/MC carefully. The most common mistake couples make in seeking their DJ is comparing “apples to apples” and conceding to the best price. You cannot compare “apples to apples”, because each individual/DJ company is different. Each has different levels of experience, different services, and different packages. To assume all DJ’s are equal and base your decision on price, will most likely leave you dissatisfied with the end result.
If you are looking into a DJ Company that has several DJ’s on their staff, a good idea is to insist on hiring the owner of the company. The owner will likely cost more, however, they will have more knowledge and experience and will prove to be money well spent. You can specify this in your contract with no substitutions allowed, so they do not send you a lesser-experienced DJ on the day of your wedding.
The wedding DJ/MC you select should be organized and experienced, offering creative suggestions while adhering to your unique vision. This individual is more than a John/Jane Doe with some audio equipment, playing whatever they think is cool. Your DJ/MC should be a professional, with several years of wedding experience; someone with a great personality who is able to work well with everyone involved (your venue, other vendors, and undoubtedly your guests) for the successful outcome of your celebration.
As your Event Director, your DJ/MC should have a vast knowledge of music (all decades and genres, for all ages), know how to read a crowd to determine the proper pace of your event, alternating different music styles and tempos to please as many guests as possible. This individual should have event direction and management skills, an overall knowledge of pro-audio equipment and how to troubleshoot if necessary.
As your Master of Ceremonies, this individual should know how to speak articulately on the microphone. Also knowing when and (more importantly), when NOT to speak. Your DJ/MC should be able to keep your wedding day activities flowing smoothly and timely, keeping the bride and groom the main focus of the reception.
A Professional DJ/MC typically has:
• Business Office – to meet clients for a free consultation
• Business License and Liability Insurance – most venues require this
• Written Agreement – a professional contract
• Professional Website – and marketing materials
• Strong Online Presence – with great reviews
• Subscription to Professional Music Service – current music offering “clean” radio edits
• Professional Audio Equipment – as well as back-up equipment
• Flexible hours to meet clients – DJ/MC is their full time profession
The bottom line in deciding on your wedding DJ/MC, and two important determining factors, should be experience and personality. You should always opt for the DJ/MC with the most experience (specifically wedding experience) that you are able to find. Keep in mind, the Entertainment Director/Master of Ceremonies the two of you choose should be a reflection of your personalities. This is the individual you are entrusting to represent you on one of the most important days of your lives.
This article was published in The Wedding Guide © 2017/2018
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