By Alan Dodson, “Wedding Wizard”
Wedding DJs sometimes forget that they are more than “the music” and that their job requires microphone skills and duties as the Master of Ceremonies. This is a responsibility that is not to be taken lightly.
When I am hired as a DJ for a wedding, I do an extensive amount of pre-preparation and on performance day I always arrive early, (usually about 3 to 4 hours before start time) get setup and dressed in my formal wear and greet the guests as they arrive. This gives me an opportunity to learn more about the family and develop future client relationships.
Follow these guidelines to be an effective master of ceremonies and to provide added value for your clients.
1. There is no replacement for preparation and research.
I have a comprehensive event planner that I use for all weddings along with a seven page “Love Story Interview” document. These documents include information on …
• How to properly pronounce all key names.
• Things about the bridal party members that can add to the introductions
• Things about how the couple met, their first date, the proposal and life plans
• Information about their families, hobbies, pets and life plans
• Anecdotes about the bride, groom, best man and maid of honor. Sometimes from parents as well.
2. Get to know your clients in advance, become friends as well as their entertainer.
Prior to the reception, find each person you’ll be introducing and meet with them, confirm the pronunciation of their names. Contact a family member, coworker or close friend and probe for an anecdote that reflects their character and personality. Share fun information to add a personal touch to each introduction.
3. Own the event. You are the host; your clients are the stars.
A professional host is aware of every other vendor, all of the schedules of the event and makes sure that the entire event flows correctly.
4. Start off with a bang.
Build energy at the start of the reception with an energetic grand entrance, choreographed with music and great introductions. Invite the guests to stand for the welcome and make it fun!
5. Transition, segue and link everything together.
Every aspect of a wedding day needs to flow from one event into the next. Everything you do should have a purpose. When you pick up the microphone it is ONLY to say something important. When you command the room, the guests will follow and listen to you. If your clients and guests see your range of talent, you’ll top their list of professionals who can pull off an event seamlessly.
6. You’re the frame around the picture, not the feature!
Your job is to entertain the guests and make your clients the stars of the event, not yourself. It is not about you.
