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DJ?
Band? Which is the right choice for you? We broke down
information on both entertainment options to make the right
decision for your wedding. Read on... |
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Entertainment |
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The
wedding entertainment you choose for your reception will set
the tone and atmosphere of the party. Therefore, if you're
looking to get your wedding guests up and boogying down, be
sure to hire the right DJ or wedding band. Whether you
choose a live wedding band or a DJ, you should make sure you
include music that both you and your guests will enjoy. Ask
your friends and relatives for some recommendations. |
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Wedding DJ |
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DJs
tend to be a less-expensive alternative to live wedding
bands. Some DJs will also act as Master of Ceremonies and
announce all the events taking place at the reception. DJ
packages vary greatly depending on services (lighting,
props, etc.), experience, and area. DJ packages begin at
$800; Greater Boston DJs and other large cities generally
begin at $1,200 or more. |
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Selecting a Disc Jockey
You should hire a DJ at least six to twelve months in
advance. Set up an appointment to see them perform live. A
disc jockey with a good personality will get your guests up
and dancing and participating in events such as the bouquet
and garter toss. You want a disc jockey that will make your
reception more enjoyable and memorable.
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Questions to ask a DJ |
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What is your fee? Overtime fee?
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What will you wear?
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How long have you been doing weddings?
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Will you be Master of Ceremonies and announce special
events?
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Do
you have a special sound system?
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Will you take requests from guests?
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Will you be able to play all the specific songs that I
request?
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Wedding Band |
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You
should hire a wedding band as far as 12 to 18 months in
advance. Popular bands will book more quickly, especially
during the wedding season. For a five-piece band you should
expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $3,500+ for four
hours. |
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Selecting a Wedding Band |
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Before you hire a wedding band, you must listen to them
first. Set up an appointment to listen to them live. If you
are unable to do so, ask for a demo or videotape. It’s a
good idea to get a recommendation but an even better idea to
listen to them in person.
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Make
sure that the band is able to play any requests you have.
The wedding band must be able to play a wide variety of
music in order to keep all your guests entertained. |
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Ask
if the bandleader will act as your Master of Ceremonies. If
so, he will need a list of your attendants and the events
with specific songs to be played during them. |
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Questions to Ask a Wedding Band
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How will you dress?
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How many breaks will you take? How long?
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Will you be able to provide continuous music or taped music
during the breaks?
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Will you take requests?
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Are there any extra costs not included in your quoted fee?
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What is your payment schedule and cancellation policy?
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What is your hourly fee? Overtime fee?
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How long has the band been together?
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How long has the band been playing weddings?
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Will you act as the Master of Ceremonies?
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If
you do not know a specific song that I want, will you learn
it?
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Find a local wedding band.
Find a
local wedding disc jockey. |
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My in-laws are planning our rehearsal dinner. I know
they mean well, but they are planning on having it at a
function hall with a caterer, decorations, etc. My
problem is that I feel like they are planning a wedding
rather then a rehearsal dinner. What should I do? |
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If the rehearsal dinner seems to be getting a bit on the
extravagant side, you should have your fiancé let his
parents know that he appreciates their thoughtfulness
but you would both rather that the rehearsal dinner
didn't outshine the wedding day itself. |
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Find a
list of wedding tasks for parents.
Use our Reception Site Finder to find a spot for the
rehearsal dinner. |
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Featured "To Dos" |
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