1. Do not EVER Make the Decision Based On Price Alone - This concept is critical! Yes, I realize there are wedding budgets, and
alongside this specific budget is at times a specific amount that is
allotted for a Dj, band or other form of entertainment. However, this
is a wedding, a monumental occasion, and therefore the role of the
entertainment which could make or ruin the entire event, should not be
decided upon based on prices and rates alone.
This concept applies to not only entertainment that may offer
services at a very affordable price, but also the future brides and
grooms that believe they must spend a small fortune on their
entertainment in order for their entertainment to be “subpar”.
The vendor chosen (whether it’s a band or DJ) should be determined
based on further information other than pricing alone. Which leads us to
item #2.
2. Interview, converse and consult (to avoid hiring the cheesy guy like the picture on the left) - Could you imagine desiring a lively, energetic and fun DJ for your wedding, only to learn that the day of your Disc Jockey is rather boring, wears a cumber bun, and cannot speak well on a microphone? Unless the entertainment that one is considering to hire has been already been witnessed in the act of performing, It is imperative before hiring that a future bride and groom interview, converse via skype, chat or consult face to face and simply get to know the personality(ies) of their entertainment vendor(s). Hiring a Dj or band based on a referral or “because you heard they were good” is not sufficient information for forming this decision. Additionally, even though it is great to ask for references from a potential DJ or band that you may be hiring, the results of these references will ALWAYS be favorable to that specific vendor and will not allow you to form a personal opinion. Take time to interview your Dj or band, and understand their level of friendliness and charisma. Consider their character, their appearance and their overall personality to determine if they meet the expectations you may have for your wedding day.
Adam & Lauren's Wedding (picture by Forge Mountain Photography) |
4. Consider the set up - This may seem a little strange item to contemplate while determining the
entertainment for an event, but it is certainly something to consider for 2 reasons which are 1. The space that the entertainment will require at your venue and 2. The overall appearance that your entertainment portrays. I think Reason #1 is pretty self explanatory. By becoming familiar with the space required for your entertainment, you can determine where to place your vendor at your venue, or even if the entertainment is appropriate for the size of your wedding. For instance, a 10 piece live band would certainly not be necessary for a wedding party of less than 100 which will be taking place at a smaller style venue. Reason # 2 on the other hand is often not considered in the decision making process, but is quite important. Consider the appearance of the entertainment’s set up, meaning, are wires everywhere and not hidden? Are they dressed appropriately? If any lighting is provided for décor or for entertainment purposes, are they placed appropriately on stands away from danger? Are pictures of available for you to review prior to hire? Wedding guests frequently can form confidence if they will dance or doubts concerning an entertainment prior to the start of a wedding based on appearance alone, hence the overall set up of your entertainment vendor is somewhat important when making this decision.
Aaron & Mindy's Wedding (pic by Thirteenth Moon Photography) |
Who knew deciding on the entertainment vendor for one’s “Big Day” could be so difficult right? The above mentioned factors are all items that one should truly keep in mind alongside the generic questions that are we as wedding DJ’s and artists are often asked. The majority of us do take song requests, yes the majority of us carry back up equipment on site, we are fully insured, etc, but can we all offer you a musical experience tailored to your wedding guests musical preferences that you will never forget? Most likely, No. Interview entertainment vendors and review the above items of consideration for each before rushing into a decision for your “Big Day”.