Can You Show Us Your Music Library Or Set List
Among the questions to ask a wedding band or DJ, this is a biggie. A wedding DJ will likely have a music collection you can browse through, while a band will have a list of songs they can perform. Ask if you can take a lookyou want to make sure theres a wide selection! Tip: some bands will be willing to learn a special song or two just for you. If you have something specific in mind but dont see it included on the playlist, dont automatically consider it a deal breaker. Ask if they would be willing to learn it for youyou might be pleasantly surprised!
What Entertainment Will Your Guests Like
The couple should know their guests well enough to give an idea of what will keep the party going. Some crowds will be more into swing music and jazz, while others will be more into hip hop and rap.Knowing which audience will be at which wedding is crucial to creating the right atmosphere.
This goes beyond just picking music too. Understanding the style of entertainment the guests react to extends into your pacing and announcements as emcee. While a younger crowd may appreciate some crude humor, an older group might be more interested in a classic style. Be sure to adjust all of your dials appropriately.
Questions Your Wedding Dj Should Be Asking You
A good wedding DJ/MC will cover their bases during pre-event planning and make sure theyre ready to rock your event! We utilize an Online Wedding Planner to gather the important info, and then a series of personal meetings to fill in the gaps. To help you ensure youre getting the DJ service you expected here are some good examples of questions your DJ should be asking you if theyre really an events professional:
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What Song Should Our First Dance Be
Quite possibly this should be something that is special to both of you. A good DJ should be able to help but not dictate to you. Some popular choices include Endless Love by Lionel Richie & Diana Ross, Cant Help Falling In Love With You by Elvis Presley and by Bruno Mars.
A lot of couples get nervous about this, but dont worry. Its wonderful if youre really graceful but if youre not try and practice a bit. If all else fails just smile and try and avoid falling over. You are among people who love you for who you are and not your ability to shake it on the dancefloor.
Who Will Do The Setup
Someone will have to set up the sound system on the actual wedding date. While this is usually a person from the company supplying the music, you’ll need to confirm this in order to coordinate setup time and the soundcheck with your venue. Plus, you’ll want to ask the band what’s required if your wedding ceremony or reception will be outside. “Any outdoor performance needs a cover,” says Loreto. “The sound equipment is very expensive and can be damaged in sunlight or inclement weather.”
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Can We See You At A Booking
Unfortunately it would be seen as unprofessional for a DJ to invite potential clients to someone elses wedding so they can watch them at work. Lets be honest, how would you like it at your wedding? So expect the answer to be no. However, it is never a bad idea to ask for a couple of references. Perhaps the DJ has some video footage or photos they can show you of a previous performance.
Can You Make Announcements And Emcee
What you need to know: You’ll probably want someone to serve as the master of ceremonies and help guide guests through the different phases of the reception, from announcing the newlyweds’ entrance and letting them know when dinner is served to introducing the wedding toast-givers and announcing when it’s time for the last dance. While some couples choose to have a friend or family member narrate the festivities, others delegate this duty to the wedding’s DJ or bandleader. If you want your wedding planner to act as the evening’s emcee, make sure you ask them about it.
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Questions To Ask Before Booking Your Dj
Interviewing potential vendors is like going on an awkward first date you both hope there’s chemistry, but it can be confusing to know exactly what to say . Follow our new “10 Questions to Ask…” blog series with experts from each field who will break it down for you step-by-step. I’ll share hard-earned real bride advice along the way, so you know how to spot the best vendor for your needs. This week, contributors DJ Kev Sakoda from Scratch Weddings and Vito Namio at Dash of Class Entertainment show you how to scout an amazing DJ.
1. Is this your full-time business? Are weddings your primary focus? What clubs, lounges, and corporate clients have you performed for in addition to weddings?
Determine whether they are a well-rounded, successful entertainer who can bring a level of expertise and versatility to your event. “You want to ensure that your DJ isn’t a one-dimensional part-timer, but a true performer whose had varied and extensive experience performing in front of different audiences,” said DJ Kev Sakoda. It’s fine if your prospective DJ mainly focuses on weddingsDJ Vito Namio performs at well over 100 per yearas long as they squeeze in some time for other types of parties as well.
2. How do you customize the music experience for each couple? Can you help with song lists and providing suggestions?
3. How do you get the crowd pumped?
4. How do you handle song requests?
Read more about song requests here!
9. What other services do you offer ?
Are There Important Songs To Be Played At Certain Times
Most couples choose something for a first dance. Sometimes there is the father-daughter dance and mother-son dance. Couples usually know what song they want for these moments, but if not, its an opportunity for you to jump in.
During your planning, work with the couple to pick these songs. If theyre unsure, ask them about their relationship and have suggestions ready. The same goes for the parent dances. Ask them about their parents relationship and try to pump up some memories that might be special and relate to a song.
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How Do You Keep Your Music Collection Up
The majority of professional DJs subscribe to at least one of the major music update services in order to keep their collections up-to-date. These services provide the DJ with new, radio edited music, often before it is even playing on the radio. Ask the DJ if they subscribe to any of these. The most common are Promo Only, TM Century Prime Cuts, RPM Top Hits Monthly, and ERG NuTraxx.
Do You Use Spotify To Dj
There are rumors going around. Some DJs are using Spotify or Apple Music to DJ weddings.
This is bad.
If your DJ uses one of these… they won’t be able to start songs at the right part. And there will be gaps in between songs.
This can seriously screw up your dance party. So ask your DJ whether they use these during dancing.
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What Is Your Event Venue
Having insider knowledge of the event location is much more valuable than simple navigational skills. A DJ needs to know the ins and outs of the venue’s sound system and setup requirements in order to prepare properly. A DJ will need to know where the ceremony and reception will take place, how many speakers, microphones, etc., and how they will be wired. Poor preparation can lead to inaudible mics, silence throughout crucial parts of the evening, and a DJ who is constantly scrambling to catch up instead of effectively directing the proceedings.
Okay, we get it, some of these are serious technical issues that nobody wants to answer. Have faith that the DJ has good intentions when asking specific questions about the location and setup.
How Did You Meet
Before any wedding specifics have been discussed your DJ should make an effort to get to know you! Actually knowing and liking your DJ goes a long way to a successful event, and if your DJ isnt offering to meet, you should be a little worried. Find someone you like and whom youd feel comfortable having run your event and talk with your family and friends, youll be happy you did. At Peaks ProEvent Services we normally setup your first meeting with your DJ as a more casual, get to know each other meeting.
After you have gotten to know your DJ, and they are getting a good idea about your personality type and what your tastes are, then and only then we move into the planning stage.
Here are some questions your DJ might ask during this time.
- How and where did you guys meet?
- How long have you been together?
- How did you propose?
- What is your guys favorite TV show? Movie? Song? Date Night? Thing to do together?
What questions your DJ asks is really up to them and their style and read of the most important details. The main point, is that your DJ should start by getting to know what makes you guys unique as a couple.
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Have You Previously Worked At Many Weddings
Not all DJs specialized in playing weddings. This is important to remember when selecting your entertainment. Ask them about their previous experience playing weddings. Additionally, see if theyve played weddings that are similar to yours in terms of size, venue, and timing.
However, also keep in mind that a lack of experience doesnt always mean you should turn them down. An experienced DJ may be looking for an opportunity to branch out into playing weddings. If they have the skillset, equipment, and personality for you, it could be worth giving them a chance.
How Long Have You Been A Dj And How Many Weddings Have You Done
A wedding is such an important occasion, and you dont want your DJs first wedding to be your own. The number of years someone has been a DJ will give you some indication of their experience level, but some DJs only perform for a few events each year. A DJ with half as many years in the industry may have many times as many weddings under his belt, so you should also ask how many weddings the DJ has done. Also be sure to ask if the DJ has any formal training, either from a DJ company or a DJ school.
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How Often Do You Dj Weddings
Another important question to ask your wedding DJ is how often they play weddings at all! While many DJs are familiar with the expectations of working at a wedding, it is important to discuss it to make sure they understand the various stages of a wedding reception
Further, DJs that primarily play events like parties may have a different repertoire of music than whats played at a wedding. By asking how familiar they are with a wedding atmosphere, youre more likely to ensure a great DJ for your event.
Who Is The Event For And Who Is The Host
Find out more than just the name of the person that booked you and wrote the check. If you have a website and schedule online bookings, it might be a great idea to add some form fields to gather information about the guests.
Is there a guest of honor or particular individual folks are gathering to celebrate? If its a more significant corporate event, maybe try to find out who some of the executives are so you can be sure to shout them out if you see them. In the back of some hotels, they will have a picture of the person planning the corporate event. This will help the staff know who is in charge of that event.
And if its a wedding, go further than just the bride and groom. Try to learn the names of parents, wedding party members, and other vendors if possible.
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Can You Provide A Sample Of Your Music Or A Video Of An Event You Played
You can get an idea of a DJs ability by simply asking them how long theyve been playing professionally. However, youll likely get a more accurate picture by asking to see a video of a live event they played. Or, if its a wedding reception band, you could even request a sample of their original music.
How Would You Describe Your Style
Your wedding DJ or bandleader will not only be responsible for playing music during the reception, but will also serve as the emcee, or host, for the event. This means they’ll work closely with your wedding planner, caterer, and venue staff, make announcements, introduce toasts, and generally ensure that your wedding reception runs smoothly. Talk to your wedding DJ or bandleader about their emcee style. Do they like to engage and interact with the crowd a lot? Are they high energy or more laid-back and relaxed? How will they dress on the big day? This will help you determine whether their tone is conducive to the atmosphere youre trying to create.
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The Ten Most Popular Music Choices For Weddings:
Still deciding what type of music to have your wedding? Take some inspiration from the top ten!
1. Book a band: Find the perfect wedding band by researching groups with wedding experience and ask for a demo and testimonials before meeting them.
2. Choose a crowd-pleaser: Wow your guest with a celebrity act – some companies can secure a former X Factor or Britains Got Talent contestant, for example.
3. Pay tribute: If you have a favourite band or artist but your wedding budget wont quite stretch to a public appearance from your idol, find out if a tribute act is available.
4. Classical delight: Hire a string quartet or harpist to play your wedding ceremony song or the can help create atmosphere during your wedding breakfast.
5. Country cabaret: If you love country music or cant resist a céilidh dance, you could theme your wedding around the music and book a country or céilidh band as the centrepiece.
6. Opera opulence: Opt for an experienced opera singer to seriously impress your guests. You can also hire leading West End and opera singers as a surprise for your guests through The Singing Waiter Masters. Theyll hide among your waiting staff until the perfect time to break into song and astonish guests!
7. Heavenly choir: Find out if your local choir is available to perform at private events.
8. Get down with a DJ: As well as playing your favourite tunes, a good wedding DJ can act as a master of ceremonies and toastmaster too.
What Is Your Policy On Drinking And Smoking During The Event
Its one of those questions that seems like a no-brainer, but you should ask. Most wedding DJs are very professional, but we have witnessed DJs taking constant smoke breaks at weddings before. It is terrible customer service that you want to avoid. We have also witnessed a DJ booth with 4-5 empty beer bottles on the table. Its best to ask about their policy up front and get it all out in the open.
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What Style Of Dinner Service Will You Be Having
It’s common for the reception’s meal to serve as the event’s starting point. When hosting a large number of guests, the DJ can be an invaluable resource for making the meal run smoothly. In order to avoid long lines at the buffet, a skilled DJ will ask for table numbers or names, discuss the sequence in which guests should be released, and arrive on the day of the event prepared to manage the flow of attendees. The DJ at a plated meal needs to know when toasts should be given to prevent interrupting the service. The DJ and the food service personnel need to coordinate their efforts, so be sure they are communicating. The DJ should be informed of the schedule from both the caterers and the wedding coordinator.
Will You Drink Alcohol While Djing At Our Wedding
The answer to this must be NO. As you can already imagine, the reasons are countless, so I will make this one short and sweet.
If the wedding DJ you are considering says anything other than NO, politely say, Thank you for your time, have a great day, and goodbye.
Do you have DJ insurance?
The answer to this question must be YES. We have all seen the YouTube videos of wedding bloopers.
We also know that accidents are never planned.
The financial investments made to make a wedding a great success are massive.
You will want to protect your investment by ensuring that ALL of your wedding vendors have insurance.
Most accidents occur when vendors are setting up and tearing down their equipment.
Furthermore, it is a great idea to have an appointed person be present at the banquet hall during vendor set up and tear down to keep an eye on things.
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Are You Able To Handle A Variety Of Genres
What you need to know: Before meeting with a DJ or bandleader, discuss the desired mood for the reception with your fiancé. The next step is to make sure they are compatible by finding out what kind of music the DJ or bandleader prefers. For example, if you were going for a glamorous, Old Hollywoodstyle atmosphere, hiring an indie-folk band would be a bad idea. Although most DJs have a huge music library at their disposal, it’s still a good idea to find out if they have any specific genre or artist preferences.
