Choosing Your DJ

Atlantic Coast Entertainment thinks that choosing the right entertainment for your wedding is the cornerstone to a successful event. How big of a role does an entertainer play in the success of your wedding reception? Certainly a much larger role than many would think. A DJ doesn't just provide background music, announcements and lighting for your party. The right entertainer sets the mood of the entire evening, bringing energy and atmosphere into your reception. The following are questions you should ask yourself before booking your entertainment. These could make the difference between a mediocre reception and a truly memorable evening.

Does your prospective entertainer have professional equipment? While an entertainer’s gear isn’t their most important asset, the DJ’s setup should speak to the present ability of the performer. Think about it. Do you really want your main entertainment to show up carrying a boom box, iPod and set of consumer speakers? Of course not. A professional entertainer will be equipped with powered speakers, mixing board, wireless microphones (which are always tested to ensure a successful toast) and a light show to energize your dance floor. More importantly, however is that the right entertainer will possess the know-how to make it all work. A professional entertainer will fit seamlessly into your reception because their choice of music, MC skills, and attention to detail will accentuate your perfect day without being intrusive or overbearing.

Keeping this in mind, a DJ provides more than music and lights. It is crucial that you meet with your entertainer prior to booking them. The main reason for this is to get to know their personality. A set of high grade speakers and a dazzling light show is great, but if your DJ is just standing like a rock in the corner, it could be difficult to get the party started. More likely than not, there will be several things to prepare and manage before and during your wedding reception. The right DJ will ensure that things run more smoothly. To make sure you’re getting the right person for the job, you should meet beforehand with your entertainer and test their knowledge of all things wedding related. Are they familiar with wedding traditions, such as a bouquet/garter toss, cake cutting, dollar dance and anniversary dance? Do they seem outgoing and knowledgeable about music in general? While many DJ’s will stay up to date with current music, it’s important not to forget that many timeless party songs and different styles of music can really liven up the evening. If your entertainer is only versed in Top 40, or conversely, only relegated to one style of music, that could be a red flag that they’re not carrying a wide selection of songs for your event.

Of course, not every wedding reception is the same and not every couple is the same, so different entertainers will be better suited to do different jobs. Is your prospective entertainer a single outfit running out of his/her parents’ basement? Or are they part of a larger company with more options to offer? If the latter is the case, you’re more likely to find a perfect match for your event than if you stick with a single personality with questionable credentials.