Many engaged couples want to save money on their wedding, and as a result, they often settle for their “friend who’s good at making playlists,” to be the evening’s entertainment. However, many couples don’t realize that saving money by using an amateur DJ actually comes with a high price tag.
If you’re planning a special event, and especially if it is your wedding, the question begs to be asked: why spend any money at all on services if you are not happy at the end of the day? It makes more sense financially and emotionally to invest in the areas that will go a long way to making your event one that you treasure forever.
Here are a few reasons why you need to hire a professional DJ for your event:
Professional Experience
It goes without saying that your friend who likes music and makes good playlists does not have the expertise at playing for an entire room full of guests of various ages and ensuring everyone is having a good time. Many DJs are asked to make announcements to the guests, including the entrance of the wedding party, the entrance of the bride and groom, the cutting of the cake, special dances, and more. Professional DJs have training not only to choose and curate playlists that naturally flow with the evening and crowd, but they also are trained to have amazing public speaking skills. The DJ is often the person that leads the entire evening, and hiring a professional is crucial to ensuring everything runs smoothly.
Third-Party Perspective
A DJ does so much more than play songs; they are the ones who use the microphone the most. Most people, especially couples at weddings, have the DJ announce toasts and other special moments throughout the evening. So just take a moment to pretend that you gave your college friend or your quirky uncle the role of the DJ and authority over the mic. Do you really want to have your buddy who just finished a six pack of beer and who was fighting with his girlfriend that morning to lead toasts and be in control of keeping the night’s moments on track? Or, do you feel comfortable putting faith in your uncle not to tell embarrassing stories about you as his way of entertaining the guests? A professional DJ is there to do his job, be cordial, and not make any embarrassing moves because, chances are, he or she doesn’t know you personally.
Peace of Mind
Hiring a professional DJ for your event allows you to sit back and actually enjoy the special day you have planned. Weddings especially are jam packed full of special moments and can be difficult to keep track of yourself. A DJ can signal the caterer to pour the toasting champagne, announce the cutting of the cake to alert the photographer, and remind you of when your special dances are happening and when it is time to throw the bouquet. A bride and groom shouldn’t have to worry about making sure everything is on schedule during their reception. A DJ can handle that for you and provide invaluable peace of mind.
Professional Contracts and Reliability
When you book a DJ for an event, they usually will have you sign a contract that includes all of the details regarding your event. A contract is beneficial for the client and the DJ because it holds you both accountable and ensures you are on the same page. A professional DJ who is held to a contract will be reliable and punctual. They will have backup plans ready ahead of time should they fall too ill to work on the day of the event, and will have backup equipment if something malfunctions at the last minute. A friend or family member DJ will not come with this reliability. If they are sick, their equipment breaks or they have car troubles on the day of, you are most likely out of luck and will have to resort to playing your own music from your phone or iPod. Professional DJs will make sure you aren’t left without music if something should go array. Many of them work with assistants who can take over to ensure your evening is amazing.
The Right Equipment
Having the right equipment is just as important as having all the right songs. If you and your guests can’t hear the music or the sound system you are considering using can’t play music loud enough without static in the background, then it won’t matter what is being played. You also need to think about having microphones for toasts and other announcements. These factors may get overlooked if you put a friend or family member in charge of the entertainment. A professional DJ will have the high-quality equipment you need for crisp, clear music and will ensure you have all the extra accessories you need. Whether your event is at an intimate restaurant, a large ballroom, or outside beneath a tent, a professional DJ will have the right equipment.
Professional Etiquette All Night Long
Sure, a family member or friend DJ may do a decent job at the beginning of the event at greeting people and even announcing toasts and other events, but as the night wears on, alcohol is poured, and excitement grows, your “must play” list may be thrown out the window, and you may also find yourself listening to songs from your “do not play” list. Non-professional music players do not have the discipline or experience in adhering to the requests of the guests of honor. They often get carried away and play music they like as well as accept song requests from guests without first looking at the different playlists. A professional DJ makes your happiness their top priority. They will make sure to follow the specific lists you provide and can accept or politely decline requests from guests depending on what you prefer. And as far as etiquette is concerned, a professional DJ will arrive on time, set up during the appropriate time frame, and will arrive wearing professional attire.
Unbeatable Variety
A professional DJ has a database of music that is rarely rivaled by an amateur music lover and playlist maker. They will have older classics, new music from the radio, and will most likely have all of your favorite songs and special requests available. They may also have access to new songs that have yet to be released to the public. An amateur DJ simply will not have the number of songs or variety that a professional DJ does. When you’re at your event dancing with friends, and you ask the amateur DJ to play a song you and your friends are dying to hear, don’t be surprised if they don’t have it or can’t find it. A professional DJ, on the other hand, will be able to accept on-the-spot requests, and have you dancing the night away without any lag time.
Before you make the mistake at believing an amateur DJ will save you money, consider all these reasons why hiring a professional DJ is so beneficial and will ensure your event is exactly as you had dreamed.
A great DJ is not complete without a great venue. Check out the exquisite indoor venue at Imperial Palace Banquet Hall.