Find the Perfect DJ to Play Your Gotham Wedding
New York prides itself on many things, and its DJ’s are one of the city’s biggest hits. From Chelsea clubs, to trendy SoHo loft parties, to Upper East Side lounges, disc jockeys spin the Big Apple to its core.
When picking your wedding DJ in New York, consider all that you’d like them to bring to your reception. Will your site provide stereo & lighting equipment? Lighting arrangements needed will vary, depending on a DJ’s specialty, available equipment and your budget. DJing is more than just playing songs: A great New York DJ will introduce the couple, first dance, etc, as well as handle the crowd. Go over song lists, personal requests, and tunes that you don’t want played at your reception, even if requested by guests.
Of course, your DJ will also be a “guest” at your wedding, so you have to like their personality and sense of humor. Some bigger New York DJ companies try to bait and switch: They’ll send you a different DJ than the one you interviewed, so read the fine print to see what they “reserve the right” to do. Have it in your contract that the person you select is the person who will show up to your wedding.
In addition to the obvious recommendations from friends and wedding vendors, ask DJs you interview if they have tapes of previous weddings they’ve worked – it will help you get a feel for their “on” personality.
Find out what special requirements they need (many DJ’s arrive with a backup generator in case of power shortages). Make sure your reception site has adequate space for their DJ station, and if they have restrictions on certain types of music, volume, lighting or equipment.
Your 4-hour reception translates to 7-8+ hours for your DJ, because of set-up and breakdown of equipment (feeding your DJ isn’t mandatory, it is always greatly appreciated). Possible extra fees include a second sound system for your ceremony or cocktail area and upgraded or additional lighting. Wireless microphones are fairly standard and you shouldn’t have to pay extra for them. NYC DJs charge by the hour or the day – discuss their rates with them. It won’t be hard to find a local NY disc jockey who hits all the right notes for you!
-David Toussaint