Deciding On The Entertainment For Your Wedding
No wedding reception is complete without some form of entertainment and there are many options available for consideration.
The most popular forms of reception entertainment which couples consider are a live band or a disc jockey. With the advent and popularity of the portable digital music player, some couples, predominantly for financial reasons, consider utilisation of these players as a DIY entertainment solution. Something different to consider, is a string quartet for the time that guests are waiting for the bride and groom to arrive, comedian, belly dancer, caricature artist or a magician during the meal service. Soloists, duos and string ensembles continue to be popular choices for the ceremony. This article will focus on the most popular forms of reception entertainment; Band, Disc Jockey and Portable Digital Music Players. I will attempt to bring to your attention the pros and cons with each form of entertainment and the important things you should consider before deciding which is the most suitable for your reception.
General Advice
It is important that whatever form of entertainment you choose, that you employ experienced personnel who fully understand your specific needs and are able to enhance your celebration. Discuss the reception format and music and be sure to ask lots of questions . Experienced professionals should have answers.
Decide on the types of music you prefer, the size of the venue and where musicians or Disc Jockey will play. It is also a very good idea to consider your guests when selecting the style mix of the music, but at the same time not forgetting that it is your wedding.
Popular styles of music include jazz, pop, rock and roll, ballads, country, old style dance and dinner music. When choosing musical entertainers, it is often best to select one that will play a variety of musical styles. This will go a long way in ensuring that the range of music needed is available and that there will be something for everybody.
A band or disc jockey's quoted fee should be for a start to finish package that usually includes pre-dinner, dinner and dance music. If you want the entertainer to play longer than previously arranged, you will usually have to pay extra. It is a good idea to check how much that will be before you extend. Band members and disc jockeys may require a meal and the occasional drink, but do not allow them to abuse the privilege.
While organising your entertainment, it is important to consider some basic practicalities, for example the need to allow space at the reception area for entertainer's equipment. A week before the event it is advisable to contact the entertainers to confirm all the details, including the reception date, time guests will arrive, time you expect to finish, and particular pieces of music you want, like the first dance.
Band
Live Bands have been performing and providing entertainment at wedding receptions since musical instruments were first invented. Live Bands are great for creating energy which can motivate your guests resulting in a packed dance floor. If a song is getting an enormous reaction, they are able to improvise and extend the song to keep your guests dancing longer. Good Bands can also be very skilled at spontaneously creating medleys that blend a number of songs or musical styles into an extended mega-mix. A Band can also assist in creating just the right atmosphere you desire for your reception – for example, if you are having a roaring twenties theme, a swing/big band with 12 musicians including crooner style vocalist/s would be just perfect!
Important Things To Consider
• How will they perform the songs?
A live Band will not play the songs as you know them, even if the instrumentation is very similar and the vocalist is very good. Bands often also play their own interpretation of songs which at times is far removed from the original or in a different musical style. When considering a Band, make sure to see them play somewhere or at the very least obtain a demo to ensure you are completely happy with the way they play your favourites and more importantly your special songs such as the first dance/bridal waltz, cake cutting, etc.
• How many songs and different musical styles can they perform?
Ascertaining this information helps identify if the band you are considering has the vast range of music in it’s repertoire needed to truly satisfy all the diverse age groups of your guests. Having a Band that can only manage one or two musical styles will most likely not please the majority of your guests, unless of course you are creating a theme, in which case genre limitations might be acceptable to your needs.
• How often and when will the Band take breaks during the reception?
Generally Bands will take a twenty minute break every hour. Imagine the impact if your dance floor is packed with family and friends having the time of their life and the Band suddenly announces that they are taking a short break or the problems which may arise if the Band is currently on a break and you need them to perform the cake cutting song. Accordingly ascertaining the Band’s policy on breaks will assist you in determining if it will negatively impact the success of your reception.
• Do they require a meal?
The majority of Bands will require a meal to be provided during the course of your reception. Some will even insist on being fed the same meal as your guests, which given that most Bands consist of multiple musicians, will add to your total cost. A large number of venues will provide a meal to your suppliers at no cost or “supplier meals” at a reduced rate, so be sure to follow this up with your venue/caterer.
• Will there be any Dead Air at my reception?
I am sure you have all experienced Dead Air sometime. Dead Air is when there is nothing for several seconds or even minutes and can seriously impact on your reception. How? Imagine dancing to a great song, when it ends the crowd applauds. The Band members begin a discussion in order to decide which song they should play next. If this process takes too long, the Dead Air becomes somewhat uncomfortable and the guests on the dance floor will return to their respective tables. As they reach their tables, the band starts playing another song and some of the guests will return to the dance floor. If this scenario is repeated over and over, your guests will soon tire of the constant Dead Air between each song causing many to become disengaged and possibly leave early.
• Can the volume levels be turned down if requested?
Unfortunately some bands will start by playing at an uncomfortable volume, continue at this volume and then get even louder for the dancing. Ensure you have control over the volume and they are willing to reduce the volume if necessary or requested. If the Band continue at an uncomfortable volume, the enjoyment level of many of your guests can be affected.
• Can the band tell you what it is about their service and performance that sets them apart from other Bands?
If the band is unable to answer this question in an effective manner, it is probably because they are just a average wedding Band as opposed to a great wedding Band. A great experienced wedding Band will be able to clearly communicate everything in regards to their service and performance that sets them apart from average wedding Bands.
Disc Jockey (DJ)
Over the last four decades DJs have become a popular option for providing music and entertainment at wedding receptions. The reasons most couples opt for a DJ these days is;
a. a DJ can keep a mix of pre-recorded music by the original artists going so that there is no Dead Air, except when required,
b. a DJ can play a wide variety of musical styles and change at a moments notice which is sure to satisfy the most diverse crowd,
c. a DJ may be a more economical alternative that a Live Band, and
d. a DJ normally takes up less room in your venue than a Live Band.
It is important that you understand however that not all Wedding DJs are the same – whilst all will provide equipment and play pre-recorded music by the original artists, some can also act as your Master of Ceremonies (MC) and a select few can offer a whole lot more.
Important Things To Consider
• Can the DJ service guarantee that you will get the DJ you want and will their name be on the Contract?
If the DJ service you are considering is not prepared to put the name of the DJ you have selected on the Booking Confirmation, then there is a good chance that they are not willing to guarantee who will actually be the DJ at your reception. This may mean that a lesser experienced or a cheaper sub-contractor DJ is sent on the day of your reception and you may end up with a subsequent unsatisfactory outcome.
• How many songs will they permit you to select?
You will most likely receive a variety of answers depending on the DJ service. The answer you want to hear should be “everyone of them”. There are essentially three categories of music that will be required for your reception; Background, Special Moments and Dancing. If desired, you should have input into all three of these categories.
Background Music: This is the music that is playing as your guests arrive for your reception and throughout the meal. The background music is one of the most important components of the reception, but more often than not, tends to be overlooked. This is unfortunate as the music played will create a unique atmosphere, sets the tone for the remainder of the reception and can energise your guests for the dancing to come. Equally unfortunate is that many DJs do not appreciate this concept and tend to play the same mix at each and every reception. Make sure to ask about their background music theory and obtain examples that matches your vision.
Special Moments Music: This is the music for your Bridal Entry, Cutting of The Cake, First Dance, Father/Daughter Dance, Bouquet Toss, Garter Toss, Farewells and any other special moment. These are your special moments and you should be able to select the songs that reflects your emotions and personal style. Many DJs will be able to supply a listing of suggested songs for these moments, but do not be limited by these suggestions and feel free to come up with your own ideas. Music tends to attach itself to memories, so the songs you select for the special moments will become a integral part of your wedding memories.
Dancing Music: Obviously this is the music that is played during the dancing segment of the reception. The music played during dancing should reflect your input and preferences. You should be able to select your top requests, favourite artists and just as important, provide a Do Not Play list. A experienced DJ should be able to easily incorporate these with guest requests whilst avoiding songs on your Do Not Play list. Failure of the DJ to allow this level of input, if desired, may be indicative that the DJ prefers to play the same 30-50 songs for dancing at every reception.
• How will they create a full dance floor at your reception?
Every DJ should be able to detail their theory for creating a dance floor that is full with guests of all ages and musical tastes. There are many different ways to create a dancing atmosphere and the only answers which are wrong are the ones which will not fit in with your vision. Every reception is different - Some will need a group participation dance to get things going, whereas others will just naturally turn into a dance party with little or no encouragement. It is important to pay attention to the response given by the DJ. If they say things like “I always” or, “What I like to do” there is a good chance that the DJ has a set play list or routine, just goes through the same motions at every reception and is not open to work with you to personalise your reception.
• How will they present themselves and their equipment?
A wedding is a formal celebration and your DJ should dress to match the occasion. Unfortunately there are still DJs who perform at receptions in inappropriate attire. The dress code should clearly be specified in your booking agreement.
A seldom considered related issue is how they present their equipment. You invest a lot of time and money in selecting the colours and creating the decor for your reception. If your DJ has unsightly cords/wires hanging in plain sight or the sound equipment does not match your venue decor, it will stand out like the proverbial “sore thumb”. Be also aware that the equipment may end up as the backdrop to many of the photographs taken at your reception, if the equipment is not aesthetically pleasing, your photographs may also be ruined.
• Will they meet with you in person?
Every DJ should offer at least a very basic wedding planning questionnaire. They may or may not offer a telephone consultation during the week of the reception, where all the details on the questionnaire are confirmed. Because the DJ has spent little if any time in understanding your needs, this practise may lead to a wedding reception which ends up with a very generic feel.
A professional DJ will offer a minimum of one face to face meeting. Some will offer two, and some as many as required. The reason they do so is because they know that by investing time to discuss and understand your preferences, desires and vision, they will be in a better position to assist you create and deliver a very personalised reception agenda. To help you with your decisions, they also provide detailed forms to get you thinking about the type of reception events you want to perform and those that you do not.
• Are they familiar with your reception venue?
Some venues will present unique challenges, it is therefore advantageous if your entertainment is familiar with the room layout, the venue’s preferred order of events and any issues that it may present. If the DJ is familiar with your venue and has experienced problems with the aforementioned issues previously, they will be better placed to suggest how to overcome or resolve these obstacles. If the DJ is not familiar with your venue, be sure to find out how they plan to ascertain if any such problems are present. A good entertainer will always ensure that they are familiar with the venue where the performance is to occur.
• Can the DJ tell you what it is about their service and performance that sets them apart from other DJs?
An experienced professional DJ should be ready to answer this question enthusiastically. Keeping in mind that the majority of DJs do much the same thing, it will probably come down to how they do what they do, that will truly set them apart.
• What is more important, professional equipment or unique talent?
It is easy to identify if your DJ is of the opinion that their real value is in the quantity and/or quality of the sound and lighting equipment they provide rather than their unique talent. If you visit their web sites and it is full of pictures of their speakers, lightshow, microphones, equipment set ups etc, they are probably under the misconception that equipment, rather than talent, will result in a better celebration. If this were true, then every couple could just hire the necessary equipment and have one of their friends provide the entertainment.
A DJ that believes and can demonstrate that unique talent is the most important factor in creating a fun, unique and memorable celebration, will deliver the best result for your reception.
• Do they offer creative ideas to make your wedding more fun and personalised?
If not, the DJ probably believes that their job is just to provide music and is only familiar with delivering an average generic style of reception entertainment. A DJ that believes there is more to your reception entertainment than just music will offer unique and creative ideas, help you develop your ideas and seek ways to create a very personalised entertainment experience.
Portable Digital Music Players
The main reason that couples will consider to use a portable digital music player as the entertainment at their wedding comes down to finances – if finances were not an issue, I am certain most would much prefer a Live Band or DJ. Some will opt for this form of entertainment because they have attended receptions where an unexperienced DJ ruined the wedding and want to be able to maintain complete control over the music selections. Portable Digital Music Players also gives you control over the agenda for your reception – you decide when the music breaks, what’s said and who says it.
Important Things To Consider
• The main difference between a portable digital music player and a DJ or Live Band is that a portable digital music player is a machine, a glorified jukebox, and is unable to react to what is happening on the dance floor by reading the crowd, react to requests or keep the flow of your reception going.
• You will also need a trusted, sober, articulate, reliable friend to act as your Master of Ceremonies (MC).
• You will need someone to watch over the portable digital music player, pause the music when required, adjust volumes and work out any issues which crop up.
• The play list may not always be flexible to accommodate the vast range of music required.
• You will need to ascertain if your venue has the necessary facilities to enable connection of your portable digital music player. If your venue does not or does not permit this, you will need to hire adequate sound equipment and learn how to use it before the reception.
If background music playing on shuffle is all that is required to take care of your reception entertainment, then this option may be the perfect solution. If however, you desire an entertaining celebration, you should seriously consider, finances permitting, hiring an entertainment professional that will meet your needs. After all, portable digital music players….only just play music.
Written by DJ:Plus! Mobile Disco Entertainment http://www.djplus.com.au http://www.djplus.net.au
The most popular forms of reception entertainment which couples consider are a live band or a disc jockey. With the advent and popularity of the portable digital music player, some couples, predominantly for financial reasons, consider utilisation of these players as a DIY entertainment solution. Something different to consider, is a string quartet for the time that guests are waiting for the bride and groom to arrive, comedian, belly dancer, caricature artist or a magician during the meal service. Soloists, duos and string ensembles continue to be popular choices for the ceremony. This article will focus on the most popular forms of reception entertainment; Band, Disc Jockey and Portable Digital Music Players. I will attempt to bring to your attention the pros and cons with each form of entertainment and the important things you should consider before deciding which is the most suitable for your reception.
General Advice
It is important that whatever form of entertainment you choose, that you employ experienced personnel who fully understand your specific needs and are able to enhance your celebration. Discuss the reception format and music and be sure to ask lots of questions . Experienced professionals should have answers.
Decide on the types of music you prefer, the size of the venue and where musicians or Disc Jockey will play. It is also a very good idea to consider your guests when selecting the style mix of the music, but at the same time not forgetting that it is your wedding.
Popular styles of music include jazz, pop, rock and roll, ballads, country, old style dance and dinner music. When choosing musical entertainers, it is often best to select one that will play a variety of musical styles. This will go a long way in ensuring that the range of music needed is available and that there will be something for everybody.
A band or disc jockey's quoted fee should be for a start to finish package that usually includes pre-dinner, dinner and dance music. If you want the entertainer to play longer than previously arranged, you will usually have to pay extra. It is a good idea to check how much that will be before you extend. Band members and disc jockeys may require a meal and the occasional drink, but do not allow them to abuse the privilege.
While organising your entertainment, it is important to consider some basic practicalities, for example the need to allow space at the reception area for entertainer's equipment. A week before the event it is advisable to contact the entertainers to confirm all the details, including the reception date, time guests will arrive, time you expect to finish, and particular pieces of music you want, like the first dance.
Band
Live Bands have been performing and providing entertainment at wedding receptions since musical instruments were first invented. Live Bands are great for creating energy which can motivate your guests resulting in a packed dance floor. If a song is getting an enormous reaction, they are able to improvise and extend the song to keep your guests dancing longer. Good Bands can also be very skilled at spontaneously creating medleys that blend a number of songs or musical styles into an extended mega-mix. A Band can also assist in creating just the right atmosphere you desire for your reception – for example, if you are having a roaring twenties theme, a swing/big band with 12 musicians including crooner style vocalist/s would be just perfect!
Important Things To Consider
• How will they perform the songs?
A live Band will not play the songs as you know them, even if the instrumentation is very similar and the vocalist is very good. Bands often also play their own interpretation of songs which at times is far removed from the original or in a different musical style. When considering a Band, make sure to see them play somewhere or at the very least obtain a demo to ensure you are completely happy with the way they play your favourites and more importantly your special songs such as the first dance/bridal waltz, cake cutting, etc.
• How many songs and different musical styles can they perform?
Ascertaining this information helps identify if the band you are considering has the vast range of music in it’s repertoire needed to truly satisfy all the diverse age groups of your guests. Having a Band that can only manage one or two musical styles will most likely not please the majority of your guests, unless of course you are creating a theme, in which case genre limitations might be acceptable to your needs.
• How often and when will the Band take breaks during the reception?
Generally Bands will take a twenty minute break every hour. Imagine the impact if your dance floor is packed with family and friends having the time of their life and the Band suddenly announces that they are taking a short break or the problems which may arise if the Band is currently on a break and you need them to perform the cake cutting song. Accordingly ascertaining the Band’s policy on breaks will assist you in determining if it will negatively impact the success of your reception.
• Do they require a meal?
The majority of Bands will require a meal to be provided during the course of your reception. Some will even insist on being fed the same meal as your guests, which given that most Bands consist of multiple musicians, will add to your total cost. A large number of venues will provide a meal to your suppliers at no cost or “supplier meals” at a reduced rate, so be sure to follow this up with your venue/caterer.
• Will there be any Dead Air at my reception?
I am sure you have all experienced Dead Air sometime. Dead Air is when there is nothing for several seconds or even minutes and can seriously impact on your reception. How? Imagine dancing to a great song, when it ends the crowd applauds. The Band members begin a discussion in order to decide which song they should play next. If this process takes too long, the Dead Air becomes somewhat uncomfortable and the guests on the dance floor will return to their respective tables. As they reach their tables, the band starts playing another song and some of the guests will return to the dance floor. If this scenario is repeated over and over, your guests will soon tire of the constant Dead Air between each song causing many to become disengaged and possibly leave early.
• Can the volume levels be turned down if requested?
Unfortunately some bands will start by playing at an uncomfortable volume, continue at this volume and then get even louder for the dancing. Ensure you have control over the volume and they are willing to reduce the volume if necessary or requested. If the Band continue at an uncomfortable volume, the enjoyment level of many of your guests can be affected.
• Can the band tell you what it is about their service and performance that sets them apart from other Bands?
If the band is unable to answer this question in an effective manner, it is probably because they are just a average wedding Band as opposed to a great wedding Band. A great experienced wedding Band will be able to clearly communicate everything in regards to their service and performance that sets them apart from average wedding Bands.
Disc Jockey (DJ)
Over the last four decades DJs have become a popular option for providing music and entertainment at wedding receptions. The reasons most couples opt for a DJ these days is;
a. a DJ can keep a mix of pre-recorded music by the original artists going so that there is no Dead Air, except when required,
b. a DJ can play a wide variety of musical styles and change at a moments notice which is sure to satisfy the most diverse crowd,
c. a DJ may be a more economical alternative that a Live Band, and
d. a DJ normally takes up less room in your venue than a Live Band.
It is important that you understand however that not all Wedding DJs are the same – whilst all will provide equipment and play pre-recorded music by the original artists, some can also act as your Master of Ceremonies (MC) and a select few can offer a whole lot more.
Important Things To Consider
• Can the DJ service guarantee that you will get the DJ you want and will their name be on the Contract?
If the DJ service you are considering is not prepared to put the name of the DJ you have selected on the Booking Confirmation, then there is a good chance that they are not willing to guarantee who will actually be the DJ at your reception. This may mean that a lesser experienced or a cheaper sub-contractor DJ is sent on the day of your reception and you may end up with a subsequent unsatisfactory outcome.
• How many songs will they permit you to select?
You will most likely receive a variety of answers depending on the DJ service. The answer you want to hear should be “everyone of them”. There are essentially three categories of music that will be required for your reception; Background, Special Moments and Dancing. If desired, you should have input into all three of these categories.
Background Music: This is the music that is playing as your guests arrive for your reception and throughout the meal. The background music is one of the most important components of the reception, but more often than not, tends to be overlooked. This is unfortunate as the music played will create a unique atmosphere, sets the tone for the remainder of the reception and can energise your guests for the dancing to come. Equally unfortunate is that many DJs do not appreciate this concept and tend to play the same mix at each and every reception. Make sure to ask about their background music theory and obtain examples that matches your vision.
Special Moments Music: This is the music for your Bridal Entry, Cutting of The Cake, First Dance, Father/Daughter Dance, Bouquet Toss, Garter Toss, Farewells and any other special moment. These are your special moments and you should be able to select the songs that reflects your emotions and personal style. Many DJs will be able to supply a listing of suggested songs for these moments, but do not be limited by these suggestions and feel free to come up with your own ideas. Music tends to attach itself to memories, so the songs you select for the special moments will become a integral part of your wedding memories.
Dancing Music: Obviously this is the music that is played during the dancing segment of the reception. The music played during dancing should reflect your input and preferences. You should be able to select your top requests, favourite artists and just as important, provide a Do Not Play list. A experienced DJ should be able to easily incorporate these with guest requests whilst avoiding songs on your Do Not Play list. Failure of the DJ to allow this level of input, if desired, may be indicative that the DJ prefers to play the same 30-50 songs for dancing at every reception.
• How will they create a full dance floor at your reception?
Every DJ should be able to detail their theory for creating a dance floor that is full with guests of all ages and musical tastes. There are many different ways to create a dancing atmosphere and the only answers which are wrong are the ones which will not fit in with your vision. Every reception is different - Some will need a group participation dance to get things going, whereas others will just naturally turn into a dance party with little or no encouragement. It is important to pay attention to the response given by the DJ. If they say things like “I always” or, “What I like to do” there is a good chance that the DJ has a set play list or routine, just goes through the same motions at every reception and is not open to work with you to personalise your reception.
• How will they present themselves and their equipment?
A wedding is a formal celebration and your DJ should dress to match the occasion. Unfortunately there are still DJs who perform at receptions in inappropriate attire. The dress code should clearly be specified in your booking agreement.
A seldom considered related issue is how they present their equipment. You invest a lot of time and money in selecting the colours and creating the decor for your reception. If your DJ has unsightly cords/wires hanging in plain sight or the sound equipment does not match your venue decor, it will stand out like the proverbial “sore thumb”. Be also aware that the equipment may end up as the backdrop to many of the photographs taken at your reception, if the equipment is not aesthetically pleasing, your photographs may also be ruined.
• Will they meet with you in person?
Every DJ should offer at least a very basic wedding planning questionnaire. They may or may not offer a telephone consultation during the week of the reception, where all the details on the questionnaire are confirmed. Because the DJ has spent little if any time in understanding your needs, this practise may lead to a wedding reception which ends up with a very generic feel.
A professional DJ will offer a minimum of one face to face meeting. Some will offer two, and some as many as required. The reason they do so is because they know that by investing time to discuss and understand your preferences, desires and vision, they will be in a better position to assist you create and deliver a very personalised reception agenda. To help you with your decisions, they also provide detailed forms to get you thinking about the type of reception events you want to perform and those that you do not.
• Are they familiar with your reception venue?
Some venues will present unique challenges, it is therefore advantageous if your entertainment is familiar with the room layout, the venue’s preferred order of events and any issues that it may present. If the DJ is familiar with your venue and has experienced problems with the aforementioned issues previously, they will be better placed to suggest how to overcome or resolve these obstacles. If the DJ is not familiar with your venue, be sure to find out how they plan to ascertain if any such problems are present. A good entertainer will always ensure that they are familiar with the venue where the performance is to occur.
• Can the DJ tell you what it is about their service and performance that sets them apart from other DJs?
An experienced professional DJ should be ready to answer this question enthusiastically. Keeping in mind that the majority of DJs do much the same thing, it will probably come down to how they do what they do, that will truly set them apart.
• What is more important, professional equipment or unique talent?
It is easy to identify if your DJ is of the opinion that their real value is in the quantity and/or quality of the sound and lighting equipment they provide rather than their unique talent. If you visit their web sites and it is full of pictures of their speakers, lightshow, microphones, equipment set ups etc, they are probably under the misconception that equipment, rather than talent, will result in a better celebration. If this were true, then every couple could just hire the necessary equipment and have one of their friends provide the entertainment.
A DJ that believes and can demonstrate that unique talent is the most important factor in creating a fun, unique and memorable celebration, will deliver the best result for your reception.
• Do they offer creative ideas to make your wedding more fun and personalised?
If not, the DJ probably believes that their job is just to provide music and is only familiar with delivering an average generic style of reception entertainment. A DJ that believes there is more to your reception entertainment than just music will offer unique and creative ideas, help you develop your ideas and seek ways to create a very personalised entertainment experience.
Portable Digital Music Players
The main reason that couples will consider to use a portable digital music player as the entertainment at their wedding comes down to finances – if finances were not an issue, I am certain most would much prefer a Live Band or DJ. Some will opt for this form of entertainment because they have attended receptions where an unexperienced DJ ruined the wedding and want to be able to maintain complete control over the music selections. Portable Digital Music Players also gives you control over the agenda for your reception – you decide when the music breaks, what’s said and who says it.
Important Things To Consider
• The main difference between a portable digital music player and a DJ or Live Band is that a portable digital music player is a machine, a glorified jukebox, and is unable to react to what is happening on the dance floor by reading the crowd, react to requests or keep the flow of your reception going.
• You will also need a trusted, sober, articulate, reliable friend to act as your Master of Ceremonies (MC).
• You will need someone to watch over the portable digital music player, pause the music when required, adjust volumes and work out any issues which crop up.
• The play list may not always be flexible to accommodate the vast range of music required.
• You will need to ascertain if your venue has the necessary facilities to enable connection of your portable digital music player. If your venue does not or does not permit this, you will need to hire adequate sound equipment and learn how to use it before the reception.
If background music playing on shuffle is all that is required to take care of your reception entertainment, then this option may be the perfect solution. If however, you desire an entertaining celebration, you should seriously consider, finances permitting, hiring an entertainment professional that will meet your needs. After all, portable digital music players….only just play music.
Written by DJ:Plus! Mobile Disco Entertainment http://www.djplus.com.au http://www.djplus.net.au