Having music greet your guests at the social hour is a wonderful way to begin the party part of your wedding day. The music should not be loud because the social hour is when your guests will want to "socialize" and catch up on old times.
Wedding Reception Music
One month before your wedding date have a meeting with your DJ to confirm all your reception music details such as introductions, announcements and special songs. Bring a list of songs you want played for special moments. (i.e., first dance, father bride, etc.)
Tell your DJ exactly when (and in what order) you want special moments such as... blessing, toast, cake cutting, first dance, father daughter dance, groom mother dance wedding party dance, ethnic dances, garter and or bouquet toss, etc.
Confirm the DJs attire. . Request a wireless microphone for the blessing, toast, etc. Review the entire contract including any overtime charge. Confirm final payment and when it should be paid. Above all don't' be shy about telling your DJ exactly what you want.
You should have a signed detailed contract for your ceremony, social hour and reception. The person who signs the contract should be the same person working for you on your wedding day. You don't want some mystery DJ at your wedding.
Be sure to designate from the start exactly who is in charge of confirming details and scheduling meetings for the wedding day music. By doing this you will avoid confusion, delays and most importantly misunderstandings.
An ink pen is the magic wand of a wedding day
Get it all in writing, no matter what they say
Good intentions, happy thoughts, won't make "wrong" a "right"
So, get it all in writing-and you'll sleep well tonight!
"Where did you put the contract for hiring the band?" The frantic bride asked the groom with the wedding close at hand He said, "I thought your sister was the one who had that job" The bride shrieked in disbelief, "That was your job, Bob!"
Hiring Wedding Entertainment:
Consider entertainment within your price range.
Hire only wedding professionals with talent, references and years of experience in the wedding industry.
Conduct a personal interview with the DJ and hire the person(s) who give you a good feeling of confidence who are cooperative, helpful and sensitive to your needs. (Prima Donas need not apply.)
A contract should include...
Name of the DJ service.
Names, addresses and phone numbers of employer and employee (s).
Date and time of the event. Location of the event
How many hours the contract covers.
Price of the service.
Amount of the deposit.
What the balance due is, and when it should be paid.
Who the checks should be made payable to.
Will there be meals for the entertainment.
Overtime information (if you decide you want any) and when it should be paid. Add any details that are pertinent to your event.