What should you look for when choosing an entertainer? First thing is to interview the individual or business you’re looking to hire to see if they provide the service you’re looking for. Ask them questions that are important to you. Some examples to ask might be, can we choose specific music for the background music? Can our guests make requests? Can we select songs we don’t want played? How will the DJ dress? Can I meet with my DJ/entertainer before the night? How much experience has the person had? How big is your setup? Do they have a backup DJ available for emergencies?

You probably looked at many photo albums or web galleries before choosing a photographer, I suggest taking care to choose the person who will best represent your style on the night. Do they have the personality and style to suit your event? Are you looking for a more interactive DJ who encourages guest participation or a laid back style that includes minimal microphone use?

If you are also looking to hire an MC you will have different questions for them. Can they create the atmosphere you’re after? Can they suggest ways to enhance your reception? Are they experienced in the formalities and timing of a reception? How will they introduce you into the room? At how many events have they been MC? Different DJs & MCs have unique styles, you want to meet with the person who will MC your event to ensure they are a great match for you. They should be able to suggest how the night will run and how they will ensure it runs smooth and you can relax throughout the reception.

Are you considering a band for your reception? Will they be taking regular breaks? What music will they play during these breaks? Can they make announcements when needed? Can guests make requests? Do I need to provide a meal for each band member? Will their setup work with the chosen location? What styles of music can you cater for? You will have thought of more, but don’t be afraid to ask questions, they should have an answer for you.

I would look for wedding entertainment providers who can provide testimonials from past clients who were satisfied with the service. Speak to friends to see who they used or if they have heard anything great about someone. Do they have video of a past performance? Have they got photos from current events?

Things to consider. Good entertainment is not cheap and cheap entertainment is not good. Are you spending $15000 on your wedding but only wanting to spend $500 on entertainment which can make or break your reception? Will you choose an entertainer based on price or level of experience? I recommend meeting or calling the entertainers you’re considering, to see what they will do to ensure your reception is everything your wanting. Don’t be afraid to ask questions as you should know exactly what you are getting.

Jono Toohey, Owner, DJ and Master of Ceremonies, Albury DJ Entertainment.

A great start to the wedding season for Stacey & Peter’s reception at Lake Hume Resort Albury. I (Jono Toohey) was MC & DJ assisted by DJ Brenden. We included our premium setup and some purple uplighting throughout the room to enhance the already beautifully decorated room by Tracey @ Enhance Design and The Elegant Chair.

We included a personalised introduction about each bridal party member and how they are related before welcoming the Bride & Groom into the room. The “shoe game” was a hit and drew some great crowd applause (this is where we ask the bride and groom a series of questions including ‘who made the first move’, ‘who hogs the blankets,’ ‘who spends the most money,’ etc). After the speeches we went straight into the bridal waltz, which was a choreographed rehearsed dance which kept everyone entertained. The next two hours saw plenty of fun moments on the dance floor.

A highlight of the reception was the garter removal. I encouraged Pete to use some props from his job as a fire fighter in the removal to put on a show. With some creativity we managed to include a fireman’s hat, fire extinguisher and fire hose under the bride’s chair, giving the illusion they were under Stacey’s dress. One of the funniest and most creative garter moments I have seen.

Stacey & Peter were such easy going clients and a pleasure to work with. I am sure people will be talking about the special moments we helped create throughout the reception for months and years to come. I love what I do!

Jono Toohey - owner and professional DJ & MC at Albury DJ Entertainment.

http://www.wedaholic.com/archives/20_essential_wedding_dj_tips.php

Enjoy,

Jono, Albury DJ Entertainment.