Go Ahead... Google iPod Wedding and you will find a wealth of information on how to accomplish one. But what they don't tell you is what can, and usually does, go wrong. The above video is just one example. What do you think the guests will remember about this reception?
The iPod articles would have you believe that DJing is so easy. All you have to do is hook up your iPod or computer to a sound system and let it run.
If you are considering this option ask yourself the following:
Where will I get the sound system?
Who will make announcements?
Do I have music in my collections everyone will like (grandparents, parents, friends)?
Do I have the time to download new music?
Do I have the time to program my entire night of music?
Who will be responsible enough to sit and man the system all night?
What do I know about setting up a sound system? or Who will set up the sound system?
What happens if something goes wrong with the system?
How do I get the system back to the rental place?
What about lighting?
Who will act as our event coordinator that evening, making sure all of the vendors are working together?
If your reception is a very intimate affair requiring just background music, no announcements and no dancing an iPod wedding might be just the thing for you.
A larger affair requires a true professional. But how do you know who to choose? That answer is simple... Interview several companies.
The ADJA provides a great list of questions to get you started:
http://www.adja.org/chapters/stlouis/#questions
Other questions:
When do I meet my DJ?
How much time will my DJ personally invest in my event?
Do you allow requests?
Do you allow do not play lists?
What type of training has your DJ had?
How long has your DJ personally been in the business?
What makes your company different from all of the others?
Other things to consider:
What most people don't realize a true Professional DJ personally invests an average of 20+ hours into each wedding.
Estimated time invested in wedding:
Phone: 1 hour
First meeting: 1 to 2 hours
Second meeting 2 to 3 hours
Third meeting: 1 to 2 hours
Music research: .5 to 3 hour
Play lists formed: 1 to 3 hours
Reception itineraries: 2 hours
Site inspection: 1 to 2 hours
Set-up at reception 1 to 3 hours
Performance time 4 to 8 hours
Pre-loading, driving, unloading and tear down: 3 to 5 hours
That is not including the time your DJ should be investing in their own personal improvement. Including industry related seminars, MC training (through groups such as Toastmasters), belonging to industry professional growth and development associations (like the ADJA).
Your reception is a Once In A Lifetime Event. How do you want people to remember your special day?
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