I was recently interviewed by Ray Publishing House for a book that they are publishing titled, “Planning The Perfect Washington DC Wedding”. Here is some of the interview:
How far in advance should a couple book their DJ?
As soon as the couple has their date solidified and their venue secured they should book their DJ. If it is six months or a year in advance this allows time for our DJ's to get to know the client. The notion that you are to get a DJ who's style fits your wedding is antiquated. At DJOC we establish a client's music profile which allows us to get to know their meaning and likes of a specific genre and sub genre. We also take the time to understand the approach that they want from the DJ albeit conservative or highly interactive. Getting this done sooner rather than later is a great step in producing a great night of entertainment.
How far in advance of the event should the DJ arrive at the event?
DJOC has outlined in all of our agreements that we will arrive two hours prior to the start of the reception and/or ceremony. This gives us time to adjust to possible delays or items that may arise during the set up.
Can couples typically request specific songs they'd like the DJ to play? If the answer to this is yes, how and when should these requests be made by the couple?
This is another assumption that is antiquated. DJ's are not iPods. At DJOC when we start the process of establishing a client's music profile we want to know everything that they like. And I do mean everything. Once we have this initial step out of the way, we can continue to the next part of this process during our first music consultation. We talk about the cocktail hour and genre of music that they would prefer and we use song titles within their list of music to create the sound desired. We never make assumptions and we talk about all aspects of the evening so that we provide them with the sound that the deserve.
Do Disc Jockeys usually play requests made by the guests? If yes, how is this typically done?
Knowing what guests like is very helpful. We can incorporate their tastes with those of the client's while staying within the box. At DJOC we supply clients with a link so that the client's guests can make requests. If there is a song that is on the do not play list, it is not played. Now, if there is a song that has a multitude of requests, meaning more than 20% of the estimated guests have requested it, and it is on the do not play list, we will discuss this with client.
Music profiling is the biggest part of making the evening huge success!
How can a couple see a DJ "in action" at an event, prior to deciding whether or not to hire them?
DJOC does not recommend or endorse this practice. It creates too much downtime in beginning their journey as a client of DJOC. We would have to get permission from the client's event that they may wish to attend and this is not respectful to the client. DJOC's only focus during the day of an event is that client and their event. Also we have to know what the client wants in terms of music and ambiance to match them with an event that they could possibly attend. Having a client come by to see a DJ perform with music that they do not like is counter productive. It can also stereotype the DJ as first impressions are everything in this business. Professionalism and talent are the keys to success in our industry and knowing that a DJ has solid professional references is a very sound approach.
What should a couple pay attention to when interviewing DJs for their big day?
Knowledge of music and their professional approach. Also, do they ask questions instead of telling the client what they are going to do for their wedding. Listening is the best tool in supplying the client with their needs and wants.
Additional Advice
At DJOC our approach to music profiling has proven to be a highly effective way in reducing assumptions in the planning the music flow and energy for the evening. It helps to provide a night of fun and excitement that couple actually has envisioned for their wedding. Past ways in approaching a wedding via a form that says 80’s, 90’s, Blues, Rock, Hip-Hop, Top 40,etc., is old and far past the prime. Why would one want to use a typewriter when they can use a MacBook Pro? Taking advantage of technology and history is what we do at DJOC. We are the client’s best friend on their wedding day. Yes, the venue, food and décor play a huge part, however, without one of our talented DJ’s providing the score, in the manner that they have requested, then the evening could become the opposite of their desired intentions. Professional DJ’s will give you, the client, the attention you need, a talented DJ will give you the party you requested and so, a professional and talented DJ is your answer for great entertainment.
