Question Your DJ

Question Your DJ!

-Your wedding will most likely require music to satisfy all ages and musical tastes so ask about variety and the policy on requests.

-Find out about equipment. A DJ should have professional sound equipment - not "home consumer" gear.

-If lighting is important to you, ask about special effects.

-A good DJ will take the time to explain how they will handle the details of the introductions, first dance, toast, blessing, cake cutting, bouquet & garter and special requested dances.

-They should be able to communicate well with you and should be willing to listen to your ideas and meet any special needs.

-Your DJ should be familiar with most of the music you want and should know how to organize the reception within your guidelines.

-Try to determine if your DJ has the ability and willingness to "read" and motivate the crowd.

-Most reputable DJ's will provide you with song lists and an informational planning sheet.

-Does he/she have the ethnic or “special” songs that you want played?

-Will he/she buy music for you or will you supply him/her with the sound tracks?

-When dealing with large companies meet with the DJ that will be performing at your reception.

-Food and music are the biggest and most important elements of a successful reception.

Make sure yours Dj/Mc meet all these basic qualifications.

Any questions feel free to email mail me dan@danthedjman.com

or if you have an idea for my wedding blog let me know.

Website: www.danthedjman.com
Email: dan@danthedjman.com

The Toast

Wedding Toasts

Wedding Toasts are a long held tradition. It's one that has been passed down through the ages. Although toasting is done for many different reasons, most of the time the meaning behind the toast is the same. The wedding toast is performed to wish the couple the best of health and good luck for many years to come. The only beverages that were not used in a wedding toast over the years include coffee, tea and water- as these beverages are considered bad luck and an insult to most people if they are used in a toast. The clinking of the glasses have been said to ward off any evil spirits that may be hanging around to bring bad doing to a wedding couple. A wedding toast is used to express collective feelings, and these feelings are put into words and are shared with everyone in attendance of the special event. A wedding toast is also said to bring the formal part of the special day to an end, and to let the informal part begin!

The wedding toast dates back to the Greeks in the sixth Century B.C. When there was a gathering, the Greeks would pour the wine from a common pitcher. The host would drink from his glass first to ensure his guest that there was no poison placed into the wine. Back then, the Greeks would spike the drinks of their enemies to ensure silence and even use to prevent a messy divorce!

When it comes to a wedding toast, make sure that all the glasses of the guests are filled and then fill yours last before making the toast. The proper order of the pouring will always start with the bride, then the groom, then the maid of honor, then all parents of the bride and groom, and the best man receives his last.

Hold the glass in the right hand and extend it straight out from the right shoulder. This is a gesture done to show that you come in friendship and peace. The wedding toast should always end with an indication to all guests to repeat the last line of the toast. For an example, “Please join me in wishing the happy new couple many wonderful years to come, To the bride and groom.” At that point, the first sip of wine should be taken.

Website: www.danthedjman.com
Email: dan@danthedjman.com

Wedding Etiquette FAQ's

Etiquette FAQ's
by Kathryn Lemmon, Wedding Zone Staff Writer
The numerous rules and standards of wedding etiquette can be worrisome for couples planning their nuptials. Here are some frequently asked etiquette questions.
Q: Who should host an engagement party?
Traditionally, this is hosted by the bride's parents, but in recent years this has opened up. Now, just about any relative on either side can host the party, as well as friends of the bride and groom. The hosts should be thanked with a small gift, flowers or perhaps a dinner invitation.
Q: I understand I should purchase gifts for my attendants. What is appropriate?
Options would include: pearl earrings, a jewelry box, crystal vase, small silver clock or a nice pen & pencil set.
Q: What are the typical bridesmaids expenses?
Bridesmaids are responsible for the purchase of the dress, shoes and all accessories. They should pay for all transportation to and from the wedding. Etiquette also says they should purchase an individual gift for the couple and share the cost of a luncheon, shower or co-ed party.
Q: My father passed away last year. How can I still include him in the ceremony?
A single rose on the alter, with an explanation in the program would be fitting. You could include a meaningful verse or quotation or a personal note, as well. At the reception you might want to dedicate a special song to him.
Q: I'm having trouble narrowing down my list of attendants. Is seven too many?
Yes, seven is probably stretching etiquette just a bit. Select your top four and ask them first. If one or more are unable to fill the role, then go down your list.
Q: Is it proper to send invitations to the caterers, photographers, disc jockeys etc.?
No, it's generally not necessary and isn't expected.
Q: Should I mention where we are registered in our invitation?
Any mention of registries, gifts, etc., is considered improper within an invitation.
Q: My co-workers (twenty of them) are throwing a shower for me. Am I obligated to invite them all to the wedding and reception?
No, you need not. If it's a "work" shower, thrown with coworkers only, and not your main shower, you do not need to invite everyone.
Q: How long does the bride have to send thank-you notes?
In times past 3-4 months was acceptable, but in our hurry-up society 4-6 weeks is more appropriate. Also, etiquette indicates all thank-you's should be hand-written, on nice note paper.
Q: Our pastor has no fee, but said we could make a donation toward custodial services. How much should we donate?
First of all, tipping the officiant is traditional and in good taste. However, the amount varies throughout the world. As a general figure, I'd suggest $100-$200. Have the best man give the money to the officiant, explaining that some is custodial and some is for his/her kindness.
Q: I have both a father and step-father. How do I handle the father/daughter dance at the reception?
They could each get a full dance with you. If you select this option, dance with man you feel closest to first. On the other hand, if there's any family friction (or if this will cause friction) you could omit this dance from the event.
Q: Should meal choices be listed on response cards or should we just select one meal?
Both are acceptable. As a side note, chicken is the most popular choice.

Any Other Questions email dan@danthedjman.com or visit www.danthedjman.com