The music played at your wedding reception makes a big difference to the overall feeling of the event, and it can help guide the festivities. An experienced DJ can help bring your vision to life, but you also need to provide some insight and instructions to avoid awkward moments and lulls in the action. Well before the big day, have a meeting with the entertainment to go over some important instructions and information to ensure everything goes according to plan.

What Wedding DJs Want to Know Before the Party

1. Emcee Preferences 

In addition to playing music, DJs help keep the reception flowing by making announcements throughout the party. They handle introductions of the wedding party and the happy couple, but they can make announcements, acknowledgments, and get your guests out on the dance floor. Talk to the DJ about how much emceeing you want them to actually do, and the tone you want them to take. Are you looking for something casual and hip, or more elegant and formal? Be clear about your preferences. 

2. Pronunciations and Pitfalls

Provide your DJ with a detailed list of individuals to introduce with phonetic pronunciations of their names. It's also helpful to provide a heads up about situations that could become awkward. You don't need to get into details, but if there are strained relationships between members of the wedding party, the DJ should know not to call them up to dance together.

3. Must-Play Songs

In addition to choosing a song for your first dance, let the DJ know if there are other songs you want played during the party. Providing some context for these songs is helpful; if it's your grandma's favorite song, for instance, or there's a funny memory associated with it, the DJ can highlight that tune when it's played. Also, tell the DJ if there are any songs that absolutely should not be played, even if requested. 

4. Traditions 

If your family has traditions for events, like certain songs or dances, tell the DJ. Also, be sure to let them know if there are any wedding traditions you don't want to include, like a bouquet or garter toss. If you're doing anything special, like a sparkler exit, give the DJ a heads up so they can play the right music.

5. Other Concerns

Finally, make sure your DJ knows your preferences in terms of music volume, adult language in songs, and the use of props or lighting. Be specific about timing, as well. If you only want to dance to the first few minutes of your chosen wedding song, for example, tell the DJ when you want the song to fade out. 

For a wedding DJ that works with you to plan the perfect day, call Party Pleasers Services. Their team has everything you need to make your party memorable. If you're getting married in the Cincinnati, Dayton, or Columbus, OH, areas, call (513) 417-8316 to inquire about scheduling, and visit the website to learn more about their services.