Planning for the Right Music at Your Vegas Wedding Reception
When people think of Las Vegas music, their inner soundtrack may go to Frank Sinatra and Wayne Newton. While those hip dudes can be found on Vegas wedding DJ’s track lists, your wedding disc jockey can also spin the latest Top 40. No surprise, really, as Vegas is the wedding capital of the world, and not just a last-minute elopement option.
Booking your wedding DJ in Las Vegas should start around 8 months prior to your ceremony, and after you’ve picked your reception site. Prices will vary, depending on the size of your wedding and the vendor’s experience; expect to pay anywhere from $200-$2,000. Should you be having a tiny reception after a small chapel ceremony, you can opt for a less-experienced DJ. Otherwise, book someone with a good 50 weddings under his belt.
When interviewing Nevada DJ’s, ask for a DVD of one of his previous wedding gigs. Should the DJ spin at any Vegas hotspots, try and attend one of his “performances.” (But don’t crash a wedding party.) When looking, ask friends and relatives who’ve married in Vegas, hotel staff, and vendors in the area. Ask the DJ for references, and contact the Better Business Bureau for complaints.
As soon as you’re ready to get down to serious music, check out the OurWeddingDay.com Local Vendor section for a regularly updated list of Las Vegas DJ’s, wedding entertainment providers and more.
Las Vegas wedding DJ’s vary in personality and performance skills, and it’s vital to find one that suits your personal style. Since your DJ serves as the host of your reception (introducing dances, toasts, etc.), pick someone who’s either over-the-top raucous or toned-down charming. Either way, make sure he clicks with you and your groom.
Go over the types of songs you want to hear and make sure he has everything in stock. If there are any songs you wish not played, let him know. While some people love the Macarena, others prefer to skip it; it’s important he knows if he should ignore certain requests.
Most DJ’s will be familiar with popular wedding sites, so they will already know where to set up. If your DJ has never been to your site, take him on a guided tour.
On the contract, include such basics as making sure the DJ you hire is the one who shows up on the day of your ceremony, as well as the name of a back-up DJ in case of an emergency. You need to know his hourly or day rate, and the charge for any overtime fees. Your DJ will expect a tip; 20% is a typical amount, provided the service is excellent. (Remember to assign either the best man or another wedding-party member the gratuity task.) You should also provide him with a meal.
Now kick back, baby, and let’s get the party started!
-David Toussaint
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