Sunday, September 23, 2012

How to Plan for the DJ to Setup

An experienced DJ should tell you what they need for setup. A wall outlet is almost always needed. Very few DJ’s work on a generator or battery power but some can for outdoor events. Their can be an extra cost if a generator is needed so check with your DJ. Generally one outlet is fine. Two or more outlets can be helpful especially if there is a lot of mood lighting.

If the event is at your home you can plan ahead by unplugging anything plugged into the nearby outlets that are not needed during the event. The DJ should be able to tell you how much room they will need. By clearing a space in advance it can save on stress prior to the event. You may not be sure which is the best area for the DJ’s setup. Let your DJ know this before they arrive. They may want to get there a few minutes earlier to help pick the spot they think is best. Past experience has given me a good eye on the best area for the guests comfort and my setup.  I am happy to give advice with this problem.

The amount of time the DJ will need to setup varies with what equipment is needed for your party. On average it takes about 60 to 90 minutes for setup. This depends on if lighting and/or karaoke is used. If the event is in a rented space check with the venue as to how long before the event they will allow you and your DJ into the room.

You may also have decorations of your own to setup and you don’t want you or DJ to be rushed. If the DJ has to rush to setup he or she may not get done before the party starts. Some venues will allow you entry hours before and some less than 30 minutes. Check with the venue before you book as to how much time they allow. Planning ahead with these few simple things will help your party run more smoothly. I will have more about cutting down on setup stress in the next entry.

Need a mobile DJ and or karaoke?
 Contact me at TheSoundsofEntertaiment.com 877-652-7265

Saturday, September 22, 2012

How to Select Wedding Music So That Everyone Has Fun!

Brides and grooms often prefer to hear only the music they like at their wedding. They may want to consider what their guests will like also. At times the bride and groom come up with a long list of songs that only a selection guests will like. For example, their song list may only consist of fast hip hop music which appeals to younger guests. This may make the older guests leave early. This is okay if that is what is intended. If not it is important to consider all the guests when selecting a variety of music.

Weddings often consist of guests of all ages. If you want all your guests to enjoy themselves than a mix of music is needed. This means you can have the newest fast dance music, oldies for the seniors, disco from the 70’s as well as new music with heart pounding beats.  This will insure that everyone enjoys some of the music.  Keep in mind that all the guests bring gifts and all should be considered.  Since the grandparents usually bring the biggest gifts they should be considered in the entertainment.

Keeping it family friendly is also important. I play only the “clean” radio edits of each song at family events. This way older guest and those with children aren’t offended. Many times there are one or two styles of music the bride and groom can’t stand. I have found people either love country or hate it. If the couple has country down on their do not play list the guests that want to line dance may feel alienated.  This also puts the DJ in the position of having to make an excuse if a country request is made. Even if you hate a certain type of music you may want to consider allowing two three songs from that genre to be played if requested. You can always go to the rest room during that time and powder your nose.

 I have done weddings that were scheduled too late at night. At these weddings the older guests and those with kids all left while the party was still going strong. In those cases, the music can usually become all of one type without the concern for entertaining a diverse group.  The music sets the mood of the event. Try to make sure you set the right mood for everyone you invite. Otherwise you might as well save some money by reducing your guest list down to just people of your age group. 

If you want people to remember your wedding as a great event consider your guests when selecting your songs.  When planning consider weddings where you were a guest.  Think about what made it a success and what did not.  Consult with a few people about their feelings about music at weddings. I am sure you will come to the right conclusions.  Need more advice? I always assist my clients with sound advice. Get it? Sound advice!  Okay bad joke but good advice.

Need a mobile D.J. and or karaoke?

Contact me at 877-652-7265 www.TheSoundsofEntertaiment.com