10 Disc Jockey Tips for the comfort of you and your guests

Written by Mark PEACE!! Thomas.

A professional disc jockey is responsible for creating the right mood while keeping everything organized for your reception, and sometimes even your ceremony. Here are a few tips to ensure you will have a smooth wedding day:

1) Always return timeline information, event planners and song lists (must plays or don’t plays) two to four weeks prior to your event date. This gives your disc jockey enough time to finalize with you and make arrangements to have important music.

2) Always finalize with your disc jockey 7 to 14 days before your event to go over timeline, discuss name pronunciations, music and your desired atmosphere. If you have not had a chance to speak with your disc jockey, call and make arrangements. It is important that the DJ who will be hosting your event understands what you expect.

3) Seat older family or guests that may be sensitive about the sound furthest from the loudspeakers. Although a professional disc jockey will monitor the sound for reasonable noise levels, it is important that you know where the speakers will be placed since inevitably the noise level will be louder as you get closer to each speaker. It is recommended that your DJ raise the speakers above head level to get more sound coverage and avoid “in your face” sound which can often make it difficult to have a conversation.

4) Place the disc jockey in a location that is not obstructed.. Your disc jockey will usually be your emcee, which means he/she needs to have a clear view of you and your guests to do an efficient job. Placing your DJ in a room away from your guests or in a corner will often make entertaining and coordinating your event difficult.

5) Avoid placing guests behind loudspeakers since they will hear muffled audio with too much bass. Avoid seating your guests between the loudspeakers and the dancefloor. This will avoid guests being overwhelmed by the music, especially when the DJ transitions into dance music and the volume is raised.

6) Consider four speakers (or more) for large rooms, multiple rooms or guests seated behind loudspeakers. It may be best to have four speakers (or more) if you have an unusual room situation . A professional disc jockey will make recommendations. Always get a few different opinions since some DJs will sacrifice sound quality to save you money. It is important that you and your guests can hear announcements and the music clearly and comfortably.

7) If you have a conservative or shy audience, it may be a good idea to hire an entertainer that has the talent to interact with your guests. Ask what type of interaction your disc jockey can offer. Many disc jockeys simply play music, make announcements and keep things organized and that is OK, unless you are looking for a personality. There are exceptional disc jockeys that have acting, improv or musical backgrounds or simply have a knack for involving people. These disc jockeys will usually cost more since it takes preparation and talent to handle an audience tastefully.

8) Discuss cocktail and dinner music ahead of time. Many disc jockeys consider cocktails and dinner “throw-away” time, which is not a clear way of thinking.. Cocktail and dinner may be the perfect time to work in those non-dance favorites or play music for your older guests that may leave early. There are creative disc jockeys that can turn dinner into a memorable experience, so be sure to talk about cocktail and dinner.

9) Hire your disc jockey at a time that has him/her set-up before your guests arrive, even if you are hiring musicians for cocktail and/or dinner. Your disc jockey will usually be implementing your timeline, handling announcements (ie: introductions, toasts and general information). Do you really want your disc jockey rolling in during your event, which takes away from the atmosphere and inconveniences your guests. Your disc jockey also serves as a “back-up” plan if your musicians show up late. Most musicians tend to take 15 minute breaks, as well. Your DJ can maintain the energy which will encourage guests to stay when the band takes a break or finishes their last set.

10) Follow your instincts and don’t be fooled. If your “gut” tells you not to book with a disc jockey because you have doubts or a bad feeling, follow your instincts. The most popular disc jockeys tend to be more expensive so if someone seems well below average, there is probably a reason for it. Do your homework and remember that statistics show that 80% of a party’s success usually falls in the lap of your entertainer. Preparing and providing entertainment for a four hour reception (or more) is a big responsibility, so choose wisely and follow your heart.

Mark Peace Thoms is a Certified Wedding Consultant, MC and DJ. He owns and operates Awesome Entertainment, Pasadena, CA and has previously served as President of the American Disc Jockey Association. Marks can be reached at (626) 793-1877.