DJ question

Dear Bridetobe04,

Please read your Forum Mail. I have sent you some information that should help you.

Best Regards, Fran Diamond:

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Dear Bride,
All the DJ's from my office do all the MC work as well. They make all the announcements and run the flow of the function according to the wishes of a bride. A band leader does exactly the same thing while performing in the band -making all the MC announcements and running the flow of the function. If a band leader can do all the MC work- so can a DJ. The only time you need a DJ and an MC is for a high energy - very interactive function where there may be give aways and audience participation in group dances etc. My approach is that the bride is the center of attention at a wedding. Once a separate MC is used- the MC becomes the center of attention on the dance floor. I am not saying anything against using a separate MC or any of the companies that promote DJ and MC. Many brides prefer to have both. This is strictly my office approach for my clients.
I am sending you addtition information in your forum email.
STAN WIEST
A.STAN WIEST MUSIC
www.stanwiest.com/li_wedding_dj2.htm

I DJ and MC every event that I book, however... most of my packages include an associate of mine (additional DJ/MC) as well. Having two entertainers on site has its benefits. If I get sick, the show still goes on. If an unusual situation were to arise (equipment failure, unexpected venue circumstance, etc.), it can be handled most expeditiously with two performers present. Although it is certainly possible for one individual to handle all the master of ceremony functions as well as mix the music, it is comforting to my clients knowing that unforseen events that may require additional staff will be handled professionally.

Keep in mind as well that the presence of an 'MC' does not necessarily mean that the individual will be overly interactive, dance, 'grandstand,' etc. All weddings typically require some degree of mic usage to facilitate the smooth transition of events. Be sure that your MC & DJ (in whatever combination you choose) clearly defines for you how the task will be accomplished.

Regards,

Michael
http://www.musicbymichael.com

Just a bit of additional information. Michael has a good point about being covered in event of illness. All my DJ's have an assistant who helps him set up and break down the equipment and is available to take over in case of illness or equipment failure.We keep a back up set up of equipment on premesis in the truck. However the assistant does not go on the dance floor and does not become or take part with the wedding guests. There is no additional fee for the assistant with the DJ. It is all part of what we offer to clients-including the back up factor.This is all included in the information and fee I sent to you in your forum email.
STAN WIEST
A.STAN WIEST MUSIC
www.stanwiest.com/li_wedding_dj2.htm

Hi i sent you forum mail hope it helps
Thanks Vinny
High Voltage Sounds
516-520-7921
www.highvoltagesounds.com

My philosophy is in line with Stan and Michael. There is a big difference between a 'DJ & separate MC' package and a 'DJ & Assistant' package. In my opinion, the entertainment for a wedding should NOT be in the hands of a single individual who will do it all. Even though our DJs are capable of running everything, if they had to, an extra person will be the reason, that things run smoothly at your affair. Like Stan, I too believe that the bride and groom should be the focus of the affair and not a highly energized MC. Therefore, our DJs will handle all annoucements and keep things flowing unless a separate motivator is specifically requested (for an additional fee).
Good question!
Give us a call if you'd like more info.
...Des
=======================
Burke Entertainment
631-286-4168
[email protected]

It is our opinion here at Doctor Dance that a wedding should be staffed by two individuals. One DJ, soley concentrated on the musical needs of the event. Your DJ is going to be sensational, it all he does, week in week out. His job to play the music that will get your guest up and dancing, while always abiding by your play list do's and dont's. Your DJ is also a true equipment specialist (a Doctor Dance DJ always is), and his job also consist of ensuring levels are correct for the room acoustics. This includes more than just volumes, it deals with frequencies, mixers and equalizers and is always best accomplished by someone who knows the equipment in and out. Your DJ can also re-install and replace back-up equipment in a flash, why because it's all he does : music and equipment. Now in a pressure situation could the MC pull this stuff off, of course. However, will a trained person who deals with these things first hand every day accomplish them better, and more effeciently ? Of course !

The MC's focus is three-fold. One is to coordinate all of your formalities, from grand introductions to cake cutting, parent dances etc. Your MC will work hand in hand with the maitre'd and be available and not in the middle of a mix when the focus should be not on the next song up (thats the DJ's focus) rather on the timing and placement of the next formailty or special request. With this in mind the MC is a true master of ceremonies assuring the food is deliverd in coordination with proper natural breaks in dancing, and that it does not cause ill placed lulls in the reception.
Your MC will also serve as the main liason between all other vendors. Again , as a true master of ceremonies, professionalism and time tested procedures ensure the success of your vendors cooperation. You would not want your photographer to take you out for pictures right before your favorite song was to play , or have your videographer miss an imporant shot, this is all the focus of the MC, coordination, ensuring time placement and smooth transitions.
The last function of the MC is dance floor motivation. Unlike what some may have seen or may be lead to believe, an MC is not some type of hyper active out of this world center of attention figure. Rather, here at Doctor Dance the MC would only be myself or my partner Ken. We have extensive MC backgrounds including 106.1 BLI, cruise director positions with Royal Caribbean International, Master of Ceremonies work for top designer fashion shows, and voice over commercial production. We are trained professionals, not circus time entertainers. With that being said, we perform with class and sophistication while always serving up some good ole' fashioned FUN ! ! ! Remember this day should be fun , let loose a little, and yes you might actually act silly and laugh at all the great pictures later on. And thats the last function of the MC, to loosen you & your guest up just a bit , not being pushy or chessy ; an outgoing personality and a genuine smile is usually all thats needed. Some mingling to get a real feel for your guest, who are they , what do they like, basic inter-personal assesments that can't be made from behind the booth.

Well, with all that being said, our base services always being with a DJ & MC Team. Two seasoned professionals who will work hand in hand to ensure the success of your most important day !
You could have your color girl also do your styling, but why not have two of the best, each one specialized in their own talent. Bad analogy maybe , but it's all I could think of at the moment.

Well Happy Planning, all the best to you and your husband to be !

Dennis Carrion
Doctor Dance Entertainment



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