Wedding DJ Tips: Recent Episodes
Dave Dionne
A Children's Book about two kids who experience a wedding from beginning to end! Written by D.R. Dionne and available on Amazon.
A Children's Book available on Amazon! Written by Wedding DJ Dave Dionne and illustrated by Steve Hrehovcik. Weddings are one of the most happy days. Family and friends gather to celebrate this exciting event!!
Ben & Lauren's wedding was held on 12/07/24 at The Hardy Farm in Fryeburg, Maine. Outdoor ceremony featuring officiant Julie Draper. The cocktail hour was held on the patio with a nice propane fire. Reception in the barn with a delicious meal and a sparkler send-ff at the end of the night.
The wedding ceremony and reception of KayLynn and Sarah were held at Granite Ridge Estate in Norway, Maine on November 9, 2024. The ceremony was held indoors due to high winds and cold air. The reception featured our newlyweds doing the karaoke version of Cher's "Believe".
On August 24, 2024 I was the DJ for the ceremony and reception of Kelly & David's wedding at Lost Valley Lodge in Auburn, ME. I hadn't been the DJ at a wedding at this venue in many, many years. We had a beautiful outdoor ceremony under sunny skies and warm temperatures. The reception featured all the traditional formalities, intros, first dance, toasts, cake cutting, bouquet 7 garter toys, show game, etc...
Vita & Walker's wedding ceremony and reception were held at The Stone Barn At Sebago Lake on 08/10/24!! A beautiful outdoor ceremony was held under sunny skies and warm temperatures. The reception was held under a tent next to the Stone Barn. First dance by Justin Timberlake, Groom/Mother song by Michael Bible. Lots of crazy partying and dancing!!!!
On July 20, 2024 I was the DJ for Denae & Brad's wedding ceremony and reception at The Dunegrass Country Club in Old Orchard Beach, Maine. The outdoor ceremony featured perfect weather. The reception indoors was loaded with energy from the 160+ guests!!
I was the DJ for Danielle & James' wedding ceremony and reception at The Village By The Sea in Wells, Maine on July 14, 2024. The ceremony was held outdoors under sunny skies and very warm temperatures. The first dance song featured music recorded by the couples officiant, Katherine King French. Toasts were given by Jordyn Chase and Able Briton. The wedding cake was made by "Let Them Eat Cake".
The Inn On Peaks was the location of the wedding on June 23, 2024. Emily & James had their ceremony and reception at the iconic Peaks Island location. The wedding photographer was Kim Chapman Dionne. Thank you to the Inn On Peaks wedding coordinator, Jayson Mathieu.
Lexi & Zack's wedding ceremony and reception took place on June 22, 2024 at The Waters Edge Estate in Skowhegan, Maine. A quick outdoor ceremony was held with a few raindrops present. Thanks to the mother of the bride for assembling the old Auburn Hilton dream team (Tina, Kristen, me, etc...).
This past Saturday, June 15, 2024, I was the DJ for Kelsey & Megan's wedding at The Harraseeket Inn, in Freeport, Maine. We had a beautiful outdoor ceremony, blue skies, 71 degrees. A fantastic reception followed, featuring the first dance and the Father/Daughter dance. 8 people shared the toasting duties!!!
June 1, 2024 was a spectacular weather day for an outdoor ceremony at The Maine Wedding Barn in Minot, Maine. Jacqueline & Nabil are from two very different countries and cultures, Peru and Morrocco. Once inside the barn, first dance song "Unchained Melody". Toast by David Roy, the Best Man. W wedding photographers, David & Elizabeth Donned.
On May 18, 2024 I was the DJ for Julia & Ryan's wedding at The Samoset Resort in Rockport, Maine. The first dance song was sung by a friend of the newlyweds, Christian. Toasts were given by Dominic, Bridget, Becca & Mike. The wedding cake was made by The Sugar Tree. Floral arrangements by Midcoast Blooms.
A Children's Book about kids attending weddings, "The Best Wedding Ever". Written by DR Dionne, these 39 illustrated pages show what kids can expect to see and experience while attending a wedding ceremony and reception. Available on Amazon!! "The Best Wedding Ever".
The Majestic Colonial Resort is located in Punta Cana, in the Dominican Republic. My wife Kim and I go there often, it's our Caribbean getaway location, and a short flight from Boston. All-Inclusive, warm aqua water and beautiful pal trees. In addition, it's all you can eat & drink. Year-round sun and warm air too!!! A great place to get married or honeymoon!!!
The Governor Hill Mansion wedding on 02/17/24 for Gabrielle & Gage was a 1920's Hollywood Themed wedding! Fantastic. Delicious food, a beautiful banquet room and lot's of dancing, all night long!!
Looking for that perfect Wedding DJ? Be sure to get someone who responds promptly. Always insist on a written contract and be extra sure your DJ has liability insurance (that'll weed-out the wannabe's and amateurs).
Who is Wedding DJ Dave Dionne? Born and raised in Lewiston, Maine. Attended Holy Cross Parochial School (Catholic, all nuns), graduated from Lewiston High School in 1975. Attended USM in Gorham and got my big break in radio on WMPG in Gorham, the college station. Within months I landed a job on commercial radio station WJBQ!! I DJ'd my first wedding on January 14, 1977. I've been the DJ at weddings every year since (over 2500 weddings)!
The Best Wedding Ever, a children's book intended to be read to children who'll be participating in a wedding as a flower girl or ring bearer. It's beautifully illustrated and easy to read to any child. It's available on Amazon anytime 24/7. Author: DR Dionne. Get your copy today!!!
Shopping for a Wedding DJ? Check on Google (Maine Wedding DJ). Check out the venue's re amended vendors list. Maybe a referral from a friend or relative? Be extra sure your DJ has experience, a written contract and music knowledge. A great voice helps too! Avoid those DJs that took days to get back to you!!!
My hometown of Lewiston, Maine suffered a terrible tragedy on Wednesday, October 25, 2023. A mass shooting left 18 dead and 13 injured. One of those killed was Ron Morin. When my wife and I went to the funeral parlor, I introduced myself to wis widow, Lynn. She said that she knew who I was, "Dave Dionne, you we're our wedding DJ!!!!" Events like this impact a lot of people.
Our Italy trip! October 16th through October 30th! Boston's Logan Airport, on Delta, for a 7 hour flight to Rome. Rome was awesome, the eternal city had the Coliseum, The Sri Fountain, The Spanish Steps and The Vatican. Next, high speed train to Venice, fantastic canal system and we took a gondola ride! Next leg of the journey was to take the train fromVenice to Florence. The best food was in Florence (by far). Saw the Statue Of David too!! Vespa wine tour through the Tuscany country side. Next, Florence to Naples, then a subway type train to Sorrento to explore Capri and Pompeii. Finally, Ravello, to see Positano and The Amalfi Coast!!
This past Saturday, October 7, 2023, I was the DJ for the wedding of Abbey & Brendan at The Mountain Star Estate in Rangeley, Maine!! We managed to have the ceremony outdoors despite a steady rain and wind. The reception was a blast, featuring all genres of music! Thanks to Sharon, Kim Chapman Dionne and to the florist and cake maker!!!
Sarah & Michael's wedding took place this past Saturday, 09/30/23 at The 1774 Inn in Phippsburg, Maine! We had great weather for the outdoor ceremony! Delicious food and a great party after formalities!! Congrats to Mr & Mrs Pauley!!!
This past Saturday, 09/23/23, I was the Wedding DJ for Katie & Blaise at Sebasco Harbor Resort in Phippsburg, Maine!! We had a beautiful ceremony on the lawn overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Cocktail hour near the Gazebo and finally the reception in The Cornelius Room!! Great food, drinks and tons of dancing!!
This weekend was very challenging due to Hurricane Lee! Dionne Entertainment had 11 weddings throughout the State, all of which went successfully (no loss of power or wind issues). Congrats to Jill & Nick for having a very successful wedding, including the outdoor ceremony!! Thanks to wedding coordinator Becky Baird for keeping things together on a tough day!!
This was the wedding of Bailey & Shane at The Newagen Seaside Inn on September 9, 2023!! Beautiful weather for the outdoor ceremony! Part of the wedding processional featured "The Beer Boys", 3 guys handing out beer to guests!! Great reception, lot's of dancing & drinking!!!
I was the DJ for Sarah & Travis' wedding on 09/02/23 at The Newagen Seaside Inn in Southport, Maine!! Beautiful weather for the outdoor ceremony on the lawn overlooking the ocean. A great cocktail hour near the gazebo featuring lot's of drinks, food and music. The reception ran smoothly, lot's of dancing and partying!!
Addie & Andrews wedding was held at The Spruce Point Inn in Boothbay Harbor on August 12, 2023. It was a beautiful day, the ceremony and cocktail hour were held on the deck! Reception in the Pemaquid Room, great intros, first dance, parent dances, cake cutting and more!! Tons of dancing, all night!!!!!
Sam & Rachael's wedding was held at The Harraseeket Inn in Freeport, Maine on August 5, 2023. A sunny afternoon suddenly turned to a downpour situation, forcing the ceremony indoors, briefly, then back out when the weather suddenly improved! Jen Pendexter and her staff are awesome!! Lots of dancing, delicious food and great time for all!!!
Another fantastic wedding at The Harraseeket Inn in Freeport, Maine on 07/22/23!! A beautiful outdoor ceremony under sunny skies and 79 degrees! A great reception featuring a first dance, cake cutting, bouquet toss and an anniversary dance! Congrats to Samantha & Ruben!!
Make sure you're ready with a Plan B as it pertains to your outdoor wedding ceremony. We've had rain every Saturday in June and July of 2023, so having Plan B for how to conduct the ceremony is vital. I need 2+ hours to set-up my outdoor equipment for a ceremony and it can't be raining during that stretch of time!!!
Happy birthday to my younger sister, she's 58 today. Now, on to the wedding stuff: Hayley & Mitch's wedding was held on 07/08/23!! We were on Rattlesnake Road in Brownfield, ME. Excellent weather blessed the ceremony. Great food was served in the 40 X 80 tent next to the deck overlooking the water. Great dancing/party all night till the fireworks 111
Lauren & Jeff's wedding on 07/01/23 at The Boothbay Harbor Oceanside Golf Resort was fantastic!! Guests danced the night away as music was played outside on the deck for the entire harbor to hear and dance too (including several boats who ventured over to the deck to check us out)!!!
The Nonantum Resort in Kennebunkport, Maine is where I DJ'd my most recent wedding for Aaron & Mary Tanguay!! It had rained all week and continued raining on the overnight and morning of the wedding (Saturday, June 24, 2023). By a small miracle, we were able to have the ceremony outdoors. The reception featured non-stop dancing from beginning to end!!!
I was the DJ at a wedding at The Stone Barn in Standish on 06/10/23. It was Jon & Jane's wedding and they got miracle weather just in time for the ceremony!! Megan Shorette was the wedding coordination and she did a fantastic job!! Ceremony by the pond, cocktail hour on the lawn, dinner in the tent and finally dancing in the barn!!
On June 3, 3023 I was the DJ for The Melnyk wedding on Peaks Island off the coast of Portland. Despite the damp and rainy weather, we had a blast! Thank you to the wedding coordinator, Jayson Mathieu, for his attention to detail! Great food, great drinks and tons of dancing!
Grace On The Lake was the location for this weekends wedding, May 27, 2023. Kayla & Drew got married by the lake on a perfect day. Pizza & salad was available for eating and dance music and fun guests had a great time all night long!! Remember, Grace On The Lake in Harmony, Maine.
Peaks Island and The Inn On Peaks, Trefethen, Jones Landing!! Great Diamond Island and Diamond's Edge. Chebeague Island Inn. Beautiful locations that present challenging logistics, water taxis and Casco Bay Lines. Arrive early, especially for the car ferry to peaks Island!!
Pre-ceremony music can consist of anything you like. If you need some ideas, try listening to The Vitamin String Quartet or The Piano Guys, both have been very popular choices for years!! Then decide on your processional song (s) and the recessional song. I'll keep the volume where it belongs!!
It's that time of year again, couples submitting their wedding ceremony and reception forms online! Info about the ceremony, officiant's name, processional song, recessional song. The reception form: intros, first dance, who's giving the toast, cutting of the cake, parent dances, last song!!
The DJ's job includes alleviating fears and concerns of the bride & groom. Arriving early, setting up equipment wherever it's needed. You'll be able to hear the officiant during the ceremony. Music will be playing during the cocktail hour. I take care of all MC duties. We bring back-up equipment, provide liability insurance and we can provide a replacement DJ in case of an emergency.
The name of the book is "The Best Wedding Ever" by D.R. Dionne. It's a beautifully illustrated children's book about what a child will experience when being in a wedding or attending a wedding. Available on Amazon's Children's Books. Get a copy today if you know someone who has a child going to a wedding this year!!!
This weekend's wedding was at The Hardy Farm in Fryeburg from 3-10. Outdoor ceremony was held in the "Woodland Chapel". It was sunny and crisp, 38 degrees. The cocktail hour was held on the patio. Finally, the barn for the reception. Intros, first dance, toast and a delicious well served by Black Tie Catering.
The DJ and the Wedding Ceremony!! Your DJ should have a unique system that's meant just for the ceremony. Consisting of a pair of speakers and a pair of wireless microphones (for the officiant and a reader or two). A properly positioned Ceremony DJ set-up will allow the DJ to be able to see, which directly affects the timing of music, the processional and recessional... Microphones and music should be tested well in advance of the ceremony start time too!!
Here we are on March 23, 2023 and the inquiries and bookings are still super-slow!! Why??? Is it the inflation we're experiencing in this country? Has the 2020 disaster finally played itself out and we're back to a more normal (and slow) schedule?
The inquiries I'm getting for weddings in 2023 has slowed down dramatically. Not sure why, I've called my competitors, the venues I frequent and I've spoken to dozens of couples. Some venues increased their prices, others want to do less volume. Many couples are concerned about the cost of hotel rooms in Portland, Maine (the prices are outrageous!). There's a slowing in injuries and bookings, that's for sure, why, I'm not 100% sure yet...
So far in 2023, I've given 60+ prices for various weddings in Maine, did a corporate event at Trackside in Rockland on 01/27/23, a wedding at The Harraseeket Inn in Freeport on 01/28/23 and I've started preparing music for upcoming weddings between May and October! I've also got weddings coming up on 02/11/23 at The Senator Inn in Augusta and a wedding at The Harraseeket Inn in Freeport on 02/18/23!! My wife and I are going to Punta Cana in The DR this month (for one full week!!!).
I've been a Wedding DJ since 1977! I worked in radio as an on-air radio disc jockey on WBLM, WJBQ, WMGX, WABY, WIGY and WPNO. I also have done hundreds of TV commercial voice-overs. My first wedding was on 01/1477. I've done over 2500 wedding since that date!! I'm an excellent investment for your wedding!
What does an experienced Wedding DJ cost in Maine? Anywhere between $1500-$1800 and higher!! If your wedding is in a remote location or on an island, it's much more!! Online resources tend to give poor pricing info on Wedding DJs here in Maine. There are plenty of excellent Wedding DJs available in this State, invest in one!
It's time to book your wedding DJ! Look online, check with your venue, just be sure to get shopping! Request a quote and be sure to make a note of how quickly (or slowly) different DJs get back to you. Look for plenty of wedding experience, liability insurance, a written contract and the willingness to customize your wedding!
One of my favorite wedding venues was the location for this week's wedding on 12/26/22. The Harraseeket Inn in Freeport. Despite the small guest count (30), the ceremony, cocktail hour, dinner and dancing were all fantastic!! Get food, excellent music and the nicest people in the world!!
The perfect children's book if you (or someone you know) has children that will be taking part in or attending a wedding next year. Especially if that child is attending as the flower girl or ring bearer. A 38 page, color illustrated (by Steve Hrehovcik) and authored by Wedding DJ Dave Dionne. Available on Amazon!
The annual quest for a reliable wedding DJ is on! I'd recommend you look for a DJ that has years of experience, carries Liability Insurance and always provides a written contract!! Don't let price alone determine your choice of a wedding DJ. This is a once in a lifetime event, invest in it!
It's great to be back on the air! My wife and I sold our house in Gorham, Maine and have moved to my hometown, Lewiston, Maine. The podcast studio equipment was buried under tons of other personal property, so it took a few weeks to finally find the podcast gear and get it up and running again.
Congrats to Erica & Brett on their fantastic wedding on 10/10/22. They transformed their property into a variety of unique locations, the ceremony, the outdoor lounge area, the cannabis tent and the primary wedding tent. Great food, fun people and lots of music!! Despite the rain, the Mahan wedding proceeded without a hitch!!
Forge On The Falls is a fairly new venue located in Saco, Maine. I did a wedding there on October 1, 2022. Laurie Andrews was the day-of coordinator and Blue Elephant Catering took care of the food. Congratulations to Mollie and Andrew for a fantastic wedding, beginning to end!!!
This weekend I was at Diamond's Edge and Kingsley Pines. Both receptions had me setting up my primary speakers in a way that requires the music to push directly through seated guests! Thankfully, both groups of people left their seats and danced most of the night! Remember to seats your more sensitive guests away from the DJ speakers.
Clay Hill Farm on Friday, September 16th and Kings Hill Inn & Farm in South Paris on September 17th. Both weddings featured delicious food, lot's of dancing and perfect weather!!!!
September 10, 2022 was a gorgeous, sunny day at The Colony Hotel in Kennebunkport, Maine. The outdoor ceremony was perfect. Same with the cocktail hour. The reception ran smoothly, intros, first dance, speeches, parent dances and cutting of the cake. The guests danced from the first song to the last song at 9pm!! Success!!!
This weekend featured two successful tented weddings, one at The Hardy Farm and the other at The Samoset Resort. Large wedding tents with walls, coupled with excellent weather guaranteed a fun time at both. Hats off to both venues for providing solid, reliable electricity too (helpful for speaks systems, laptops, dance floor lights, etc...).
The most sought after date of 2022 is September 24th. I have no DJs left for this date and the inquiries keep coming in!! Be extra sure to book your Wedding DJ in advance and as early before your date as possible.
It's a super-busy Wedding season in 2022. If you're shopping for your 2023 Wedding DJ, get a move-on!! It looks like next year will be another very busy year, maybe even more so that 2022. Get your quotes, narrow your choices and finally, be sure to get a written contract!!
A common question from couples: what if my DJ can't show up to the wedding?? We always provide (and have ready) a back-up DJ. It happened a few weeks ago, where one of my competitors was diagnosed with Covid and I send dan Dibiase to the rescue! It happened again this past Saturday, I was the back-up DJ for one of my competitors DJs!!!
This past Saturday was a hot one in Belfast, Maine, Sunny and 92 degrees!! Thank goodness the caterer set-up 2 tables with ice cold Poland Spring water for the 160 guests. Be sure to provide your guests with plenty of cold water if you'll be having an outdoor ceremony this season!!
Here's a new entry into my podcast series on Honeymoon ideas: Spain. My wife and I traveled to Barcelona and Pamplona last week. It's a shot 7 hour flight from Philly to Barcelona. Beautiful weather, featuring 8 days of blue skies (no clouds) and temperatures ranging from 85-90 during the day and in the 60's at night. Delicious food, drinks and friendly people. Our visit to Pamplona featured seeing The Running Of The Bulls. Double thumbs up on going to Spain.
As a wedding DJ, Island Weddings represent a logistical challenge. In particular, the Peaks Island car ferry. Better show up early and be prepared for Plan B if you don't make it on the ferry. Most of the islands require a wedding DJ to transport their equipment by water taxi (very tough work, especially if the weather doesn't cooperate).
Formal intros fall into a few basic categories. The grand entrance style, where parents, flower girl, ring bearer, bridesmaids, groomsmen, best man, maid of honor and the bride & groom are all introduced. Hybrid intros, like all the girls coming in together, all the guys coming in together and finally the bride and groom. Or a simple intro, just the bride and groom.v And one more option, some couples skip the formal or informal intros.
How to pick the music for your wedding. First, submit my online ceremony and reception forms, that'll get me all of your "key" songs. Next, email me the url of your Spotify playlists. Pre-ceremony, cocktail, dinner and dancing selections. On average, you can fit about 15 songs per hour. Choose your music wisely.
One common issue I run into from wedding to wedding is when guest tables are set-up close to my speakers. If you love music or are drinking the night away it's no big deal. But, for the elderly or those sensitive to sound, it can be a problem. Just the sight of my "big speakers" can create concern for some guests.
The Hardy farm in Fryeburg is one of my favorite venues in the entire State of Maine. The Wooded Chapel is perfect for ceremonies, the patio serves as the cocktail hour spot, the tent is where food is served and finally the barn for the party portion of the night 1. The owners are fantastic people too, Greg & Deb Link.
Be extra sure that your wedding DJ has liability insurance. Many venues request something called a certificate of insurance. It's a form that gives the venue details about who the DJs insurance company is, the effective dates of the policy, the policy number and amount of coverage. Add this little detail to your list of things to prepare for!!
We all want the perfect weather day!! Be prepared to take action if Mother Nature tries to interfere with your outdoor ceremony. Wind and rain in particular can have a negative effect on wireless microphones. For tented weddings, heat & humidity require fans, cold requires several heaters (ones that work too). Be prepared, have a Plan B.
Send me your favorite dance songs and include a "do not play" listing of songs and I'll create a music format at your wedding that'll work in keeping everyone dancing from beginning to end!! I'm watching the dance floor, reading the crowd and making any needed adjustments to the song selection and flow. It's party time and I'll make them dance, guaranteed!
The Parent Dances, The Cutting Of The Cake and the Bouquet Toss, all popular wedding traditions. Some are shortened version, some modified and customized while some are skipped entirely... Consider short versions of you parent song choices, a quiet announcement about the cake cutting or deciding at the last minute on a bouquet toss.
One of the oldest, time-tested traditions at a wedding, the toast or speeches. Be sure to give this tradition some thought, perhaps some time restraints, content limitations? I'll also give a quick lesson to each person speaking as to how to hold and speak into the hand-held wireless microphone!! Clarity and ease of understanding are important.
Preparing cocktail hour music is always a pleasure. You can play just about any type of music. Since it's mostly background music, it's a great opportunity for couples to put in their favorite artists or song, even if they are obscure of less played. Put your stamp on the cocktail hour music, your music vibe. The bar is open, food is available and music is playing, setting the mood!!!
Introductions for the reception, go formal or skip entirely? It depends on your vibe as it pertains to formalities. Some couples opt for a middle of the road approach, dignified, clean, crisp and short intros. Or maybe you prefer the Michael Buffer style, the WWE high-powered voice belting out names?
Having children at your wedding, consider buying the children's book "The Best Wedding Ever". It's a beautifully illustrated children's book written by me, DJ Dave Dionne. It's a cool way to show kids what they'll see at a wedding, the ceremony, first dance, cake cutting, etc....
I did a Google search today, I typed in Maine Wedding DJs. One of the top search options was a company offering a Wedding DJ for UNDER $500!!! You might have better luck shopping for a wedding DJ on Craig's List. Maine is a big State, there's no way to offer a DJ for a wedding in Fort Kent or Kittery at the same price (or an island wedding).
For a quick and accurate Wedding DJ pice, feel free to text or call at 207-240-3012 anytime or email me at dave@davedionne.com. A quick phone call can easily get you an accurate quote with only a few basic questions (how many hours do you need the DJ for? Do you need the DJ for the ceremony?). Be sure to book your Wedding DJ ASAP!!!!
It looks like we're headed back to "normal" here in Maine as it pertains to weddings. I appreciate the fact that the pandemic is fading and especially that we here in America are safe and able to gather with friends and family for the upcoming wedding season. When I see how life is in the Ukraine, I'm especially appreciative of where we're at in Maine.
Most couples inquiring to my wedding DJ company ask two main questions, are you available and hoe much do you charge? Each inquiry is unique, it's distance from our home base, the number of hours you may need, whether or not the wedding is on an island (or mountaintop). Typical pricing starts between $1295 and $1695. For a more experienced wedding DJ, the price can be substantially higher.
It's a common question from couples, what's the process for picking music!! Choosing pre-ceremony music, cocktail hour music and dinner music is easy, anything works and fits. Dancing time music is a bit tricker. You may want give your Wedding DJ "Carte Blanche" as far as deciding what to play and when to play it!!
Be sure to take the time to prepare a list of songs to be played during the pre-ceremony time period. Ask your DJ if they'll be including that service on the day of your wedding. in addition to your processional and recessional songs, choosing the right pre-ceremony music helps set the tone or the vibe for the actual ceremony.
If you'll be having children at or in your wedding, consider getting the children's book "The Best Wedding Ever". 38 beautifully illustrated pages that show what typically happens at a wedding, the ceremony, the photographs, intros, first dance, toasts, father/daughter dance, cake cutting, bouquet toss and dancing to the DJ's music!!! Available on Amazon in paperback or hard cover.
Like so many other sectors of the economy, there's a shortage of experienced and affordable Wedding DJs. Be sure to book your DJ as soon as possible. Get a written contract and a certificate of insurance too! Be sure your wedding DJ is easy to reach.
Have you decided to feed your wedding vendors? Photographer, Bartender, DJ, Band, Photo Booth person, etc... It's not in my Wedding DJ contract that you have to feed me, but if you do, I appreciate it. If you do decide to feed your DJ, be sure to convey that fact to your wedding coordinator or caterer! Plan ahead!
Be sure to get a written contract from your wedding DJ. It should contain the date, time, place, cost, cost for additional hours and the retainer/deposit amount. You should also get a Certificate Of Insurance. Like other parts of the economy, Wedding DJs are facing a huge demand with a limited supply.
If you'll be having children at your wedding, consider the perfect gift for them, the children's book: "The Best Wedding Ever". It's 38 pages of illustrations that'll teach kids what weddings look like... Easy to read too, covering various wedding events like the ceremony, the introductions, the first dance, the cutting of the cake, bouquet toss and more... available on Amazon.
If you've got at least 3 years of experience as a Wedding DJ, I'd love to hear from you. You must have your own equipment and reliable transportation. Dionne Entertainment sends DJs to the State of Maine's top wedding venues every single year!! You'll be very well compensated!!!
Be sure to ask your DJ if they provide wedding ceremony services. This service typically includes a speaker system, wireless microphones, pre-ceremony music, processional and recessional songs too. Our company also provides it's own electricity for ceremonies in unique locations that have no electrical power.
If there's one thing that really gets my goat, it's when I send out an accurate and timely quote and it goes to the recipients junk or spam folder and never gets read!!! I take pride in getting back to people quickly. To be on the safe side, feel free to call or text me for a quote anytime, it's guaranteed to be junk and spam free!!!
One of the best catering companies ever was Connie's Catering of Lewiston, Maine. Connie was the nicest person on earth and she always insisted on feeding everyone at the wedding, the bartenders, the DJ, the band, the photographer, the maintenance guy, everybody got a meal!!! Why? It was the right thing to do.
Get your phone ready, get your laptop charged-up, it's time to search for your Wedding DJ. google, Yahoo and Bing are good places to start. Asking your venue to see their recommended Vendor Lists is a reliable resource too. Asking the vendors you've already contracted can also be a great way to find your DJ. Get shopping though, don't delay!!!
It's that time of year, when numerous couples start searching for an available Wedding DJ. Be sure not to let price dictate who you end up selecting. Ask about experience, music, arrival time, a written contract, liability insurance!! And don't be fooled by those ads for cheap wedding DJs, $395-$495 type of Craig's List quality Wedding DJs.
Got my Moderna booster shot last week at Walgreens in Cornish, Maine! I'd love for the wedding business here in Maine to get back to normal, so I'm doing my part. No more listening to the anti-science and anti-medicine bird-brains on Social Media, Youtube and on Podcasts. I'm sticking with real science and real medicine.
My new Children's Book, "The Best Wedding Ever" is available on Amazon and Bookbaby. If you'll be having children at or in your wedding, you may want to consider getting this book. It tells of the story of a boy and girl who experience being in a wedding!!
Booking your Wedding DJ for 2022 is something you may want to do sooner rather than later. Reason: DJs are booking up faster than ever. It could be pent-up demand for weddings, whatever it is, it's real. Do your research, find an available DJ and sign a contract and put down a retainer.
I can easily look back on my Virtual DJ software to see what I played at a recent wedding. For anyone who would like to see these historical music mixes, it would be fair to say none of them are any type of indicator what I'll play at your wedding!!1
Throwback Thursday!! My old friend Phil Chabot and I started a Wedding DJ company called Record Hops Unlimited back on January 14, 1977. Phil had a band and we used his PA system and my access to WPNO's remote broadcast board and voila, RHU was born and did hundreds of weddings between January of 1977 and December 31, 1999.
One of the many beautiful barn venues in the State of Maine is Cunningham Farm in New Gloucester, Maine. I was there this past Saturday, providing ceremony services as well as music for the cocktail hour in the Hay Barn and finally dinner and dancing in the primary barn. Congrats to Kenneth and Elizabeth!!
Thank you to Fred & Sharon, a fantastic couple who had me DJ their wedding ceremony and reception at DiMillo's. Steve DiMillo Sr & Jr are awesome to work with!! What a great venue in a great Portland setting, The Old Port!!!
For over 7 years, an unfinished script about a ring bearer and a flower girl and how they experience going to a wedding sat on my MacBook Pro desk top, dormant. Well, 2020 and covid changed all of that. I finally wrote it, got it illustrated by Steve Hrehovcik and now published on Amazon!!! It's a pretty cool children's book about a wedding, as experienced by two kids.
Doing intros as a wedding DJ includes holding a piece of paper to read from while doing intros!1 Old school for sure, but very, very reliable!!! I'll be doing it this way indefinitely. Since the 70's, good old fashioned paper, that's where my intros are read from, not a phone or a tablet!!
Give me the ball, let me know where you want to go musically, and I'll get you there. Trusting your DJ to play the right music at the right time is imperative. Otherwise, if couples try to micro-manage my music selections, it comes off as making me feel like I've got one hand tied behind my back....
I do appreciate 5 Starr reviews when they come in. I recently got a glowing 5 star review followed 24 hours later by a disappointing 4 star review. I do my very best to make every wedding I'm connected to a success. The high majority of my reviews are fantastic and when I get a "B" on my tests sheet, I'm disappointed because my effort is always to get an "A".
When I set up equipment for ceremonies, I always set-up a pair of speakers that play music in stereo. I know it sounds better and gives you a better range of sound since two speakers can be spread apart. One speaker typically limits the sound to be in mono (one channel). Stereo is the way to go!!
Putting your wedding DJ in a loft is something I would discourage any couple to do. I always get the feeling of being "detached" from the reception. Worse, my speakers will not sound as good compared to being set-up at ground level. That translates into announcements and music not sounding as good.
So far so good as it pertains to Covid and weddings in Maine. I've only had one cancellation recently due to the onset of the Delta variant. Other than that, a few brides and venues are asking whether the DJ has been vaccinated. Wearing masks again is a possibility. But, we'll get through this season for sure at this point!!!!
It looks like 2022 will be a very busy wedding season for DJs!!! Many of the key Saturdays are being booked well in advance, mores than any other year I've ever seen. There's plenty of pent-up demand for sure! If you find someone you're comfortable with, BOOK THEM!! Availability for the Saturdays between May and October are disappearing, quickly!!!!
Hiring a Wedding DJ for the day wedding is simple and easy to do. It does not include the DJ going to the rehearsal dinner, however. A separate contract is needed, specific to the date, place and time of thew rehearsal dinner. So, the wedding DJ tip is this: if you want your DJ at your rehearsal dinner, get a contract for the specific date!!
Do you want guests at a wedding to hear every word you speak during a toast? Speak into the microphone correctly and they will. Let the microphone dangle at your waist and they won't hear a thing. So, nice clear voice, speak right into the microphone and pronounce your words!!!
Deciding what to play and when varies from wedding to wedding. I never plan what to play in advance, it's a combination of the list given to me by the bride & groom, guests requests and the ebb and flow of the dance floor. Sometimes, it just comes together as the night progresses, organically.
The Delta variant represents a real threat to all the progress we've made towards getting back to normal at the wedding level. Get vaccinated, wear a mask, do your part. Don't fall for misinformation, the vaccine is safe and effective. Let's keep weddings normal again!!!
I know I talked about this before but it's an important wedding DJ tip. Leaving home early to head out to a wedding should be done PSYCHO early!!! Reasons: accidents, traffic, engine trouble, flat tire, etc... There are a ton of reasons to arrive early, including having the time tofu equipment problems if they arise.
Ah yes, drinks on the dance floor! It happens at most weddings and so do the eventual drink falling onto the dance floor to spill it's contents and possible shatter into a hundred pieces! Clean up on aisle 1. Try to keep the drinks off the dance floor is possible (it usually isn't possible). Human nature.
It's a tricky thing, playing music that the bride and groom want to hear that contains explicit lyrics! Some songs have some pretty "rough" lyrics too, not meant for kids or your grandparents!! Try playing the clean versions. If you insist on the naughty version, wait till later in the night!
Positioning your DJ's table in a tent can make a big difference as to whether the DJ can see the information or music on his or her laptop. The sun can make it virtually impossible to see the laptop's content. Try positioning the DJ's table at the east end of the tent if possible.
When to cut the cake? In my opinion, right after the meal is done!! Most wedding coordinators and planners tend to delay the cutting of the cake (for no good reason I've ever heard)! To stop a full-blown party in it's tracks, to cut the cake, makes no sense to me at all. Once your party music kicks in, it should run non-stop!!!
Having what's called "Line Of Sight" is very important when it comes to making wireless microphones work at their best. A clear, unobstructed view from the wireless microphones antenna to the wireless microphones receiver is an absolute. I insist on it. I want every guest to hear every word!!!!
One of the true legends of the wedding DJ business is DJ Dan Giroux! Dan was born in Waterville, graduated from Winslow High School and joined the Navy in 1969. In 1974 he did his first wedding as a DJ and got his 3rd class radiotelephone license, working on WRDO, WSKS and WTOS. He has also a musician in the bands The Imposters and Good & Plenty. Dan has done over 2000 weddings and will be doing his last wedding on 10/30/21.
Island weddings off the coast of Portland, Maine have logistical challenges that are better dealt with by an experienced Wedding vendor, especially so for wedding DJs. Peaks Island, Great Diamond Island, Long Island and Chebeague Island are all beautiful. Each has its own set of logistical difficulties that face every wedding vendor.
Here's the way I think a typical wedding reception should flow: Introductions, followed by the first dance, then transition into the toasts/speeches after the bride and groom have been seated. Once the meal is done, immediately cut the cake. Next, the parent dances followed by the dance music, party time, uninterrupted!
One of the things I felt compelled to do this year was to get the Covid-19 vaccination. The wedding business here in Maine was destroyed in 2020. I wore a mask in public and always maintained a 6 foot distance. When the opportunity to get vaccinated in March of 2021, I jumped at the chance.
It's a logistical thing I always insist on, a pre-ceremony wireless microphone check for the officiant and readers. I want everything to work and sound great once the ceremony is underway and this small precaution is worth the time it takes to do.
Be sure to submit your online forms early and completely filled-in. Avoid the blank non-answers and terms like "TBD". It'll minimize errors if the forms are submitted once and in-full. Be sure to communicate directly with your day-of DJ too. All vendors need to be on the same page.
Your key wedding vendors will be away from home for an average of 12 hours on your wedding day. Traditionally, wedding vendors are fed. The timing of that meal is what this podcast is centered around. The Red Barn in South Berwick is the best example of how a venue and coordinator should approach feeding vendors.
I turned 64 this year, in the month of May. I remember hearing the song "When I'm 64" on a tv show recently and it got me thinking about my attained age. I still feel the same, I don't feel old at all. I still love music, being a wedding DJ, sunny mornings, holding hands with my wife!! Will you still love me when I'm 64, YES!!!
One of the greatest wedding venues in Maine was Point Lookout! The beautiful buildings, the tremendous view of the ocean and the employees who made it all click!! This venue had it all, cabins on-sight to stay overnight, a bowling alley and more!! But, it's history now.
It's worth mentioning the importance of your wedding DJ being aware of the weather. It can affect the ceremony and cocktail hour set-up locations and perhaps the equipment your DJ arrives with. Wind, rain, humidity, cold, heat all can make a big difference on where and how your DJ sets-up!!
The last couple of years has seen a reduction in the number of couples who opt for the traditional Grand Entrance Intro! I always recommend that couples who do have intros choose 3 songs or less. Choosing 7, 8, 9 or more different songs means each song will play for 10 seconds or less!! It's hectic for the DJ.
If all you car about is the price, that's all you'll end up with. Remember, you get what you pay for, especially as it pertains to your wedding DJ, a key component to you day's success (or failure). Ask about experience, personality, music knowledge, etc..... Ask about price too but don't make it a determining issue.
Be sure that your Wedding DJ and Wedding Videographer touch base in advance of your wedding. Your DJ should be able to supply the videographer with a nice, clean audio signal of both the ceremony and reception. They'll also want to make sure they're using separate frequencies if they're both using wireless microphones!!!
It's a great feeling as the DJ/MC of a wedding when everything goes smoothly! Getting a 5 star review or testimonial is priceless. When the bride comes up to you at the end of the reception to thank you and give you a hug, that translates into a very good feeling.
This is a "comfort" call, intended to reassure the bride and groom that we're on the same page. Timeline, music, names, etc.... It's a great opportunity to make sure nothing has changed and if it has, I know about and make whatever adjustments are needed.
New CDC guidelines are helping the wedding industry here in Maine come back to life! I wish the guidelines were more clear and concise but at least things are improving, vaccinations are adding up, capacity indoors and outdoors are increasing and there finally is light at the end of the tunnel
Compared to a few decades ago, today's wedding DJ needs to arrive at a typical wedding ready to set-up multiple systems. Ceremony, cocktail hour, dinner and dancing speaker set-ups. It's worth it, it allows for a nice, seamless transition from one part of the wedding to the next. No dead air.
The best and easiest way to relay your favorite songs to me is by emailing me your Spotify URL's. You can also use iTunes if you prefer. Spotify has made it so easy to acquire your entire playlist and/or multiple playlists. Choose your favorite songs for the ceremony, cocktail hour, dinner and dancing and send them my way!!!
My wife is a wedding photographer, she often tells me about how many DJs have an "awkward silence" issue during the intros, first dance, toasts, cake cutting, etc... In radio, we refer to this as the dreaded "DEAD AIR". Not acceptable. All the DJ has to do is be prepared, alert and ready to chime in and start up music.
Lod music can have a negative impact on your hearing. I'm a classic example of a person with Tinnitus (ringing in the ears). From wearing really loud headphones during my radio career to attending extremely low concerts (Queen, Boston, Aerosmith, Alice Cooper.....) as well as all those loud dancing portions of weddings!!! Let me know if you want me to lower the volume!
It's pretty tough to enjoy the wedding day and night if you drank too much the night before and you have a hangover! My tip, wait to party until the ceremony is over, perhaps start at the cocktail hour. I've seen it dozens of times over the years, members of the wedding party struggling to make it through the day and night.
One of those "little" details, the timing of the cutting of the cake. I recommend right after meal service. It makes sense and guests are typically ready for their dose of sugar. Check with your caterer, wedding planner or venue, see when they have it planned on their timeline.
I like hearing back from vendors quickly and accurately. Once your information has been submitted to a Wedding DJ, how long are you willing to wait for a quote? Hours? Days? A week or more??? Not me. Phone calls and text messages can get you a fast and accurate quote. Even form submissions and emails get a quick response from me.
I've brought up this subject before in a prior podcast but it's worth talking about it again, "Guests Requesting Music". Most couples send me their request lists for ceremony, cocktail, dinner and dancing music. Many also send a "Do Not Play" list too. The DJ needs to be judge and jury when a guest makes a musical request during the dancing portion of the night!!
It seems like a minor subject but it's a very important issue to be prepared for. Gusty winds or even a steady breeze can create more noise on a microphone than the person speaking into the microphone. Be prepared, brief the officiant and readers as to what to do just in case the wind becomes a problem.
A very common wedding favor is Maine Made Maple Syrup!! It's delicious, native to Maine and healthier than refined sugar. European settlers were taught by indigenous people here in North America how to tap maple trees!! Warm days and cold nights are all you need!!!
Moving Maine Forward, the first good news about weddings in Maine in a year!! Increases in indoor and out door gathering capacities to 50% and 75% respectively on March 26, 2021. And on May 24, 2021, 75% indoors and 100% outdoor gathering capacity!!!!!
Dionne Entertainment is and has been LGTBQ Friendly!! The State of Maine made same-sex marriage legal in 2012. The Supreme Court made same-sex marriage legal on 06/26/15 nationally. One of my favorite weddings was that of Jean-Stephane and Tom at Point Lookout! It was in French and English and featured a massive fireworks display.
Being the Wedding DJ for a Caribbean wedding has been quite the unique experience! My wife Kim deserves all the credit for making it possible, she started booking herself as a destination wedding photographer back in 2008, I rode her coattails as an add-on, a Wedding DJ add-on.
The Father/Daughter dance or the Mother/Son dance can easily be turned into quite a spectacle. And out of the clear blue, when nobody suspects it. It's not as common as it used to be but it still comes up every now and then.
There are still couples shopping for a wedding DJ for 2021 dates and even more checking out availability for 2022 dates. With Covid-19 on the decline, the mood is better amongst many couples. There are still a few couples considering postponing or canceling their 2021 weddings. The wedding vendors in Maine would love to get back to normal, so stay the course, wear a mask and get the vaccine.
Many weddings still feature centerpieces at each table. Traditionally, you can give away those centerpieces to one guest at each table. You could stick something under the winners chair, or have the DJ ask who's birthday is closest to the wedding day per table. Or, a game, like passing a dollar around the table to a piece of music!!
Kim and I go on our Covid-19 car tour out West. We drove to Newark from Maine, then flew first class to Denver. With our rental car, we drove to Kim's brother's house in Basalt, CO to a delicious breakfast. Next, we drove to Arches National Park in Moab, Utah. On to Flagstaff, AZ then to the Grand Canyon then onto Las Vegas. We took a day ride to visit Kim's aunt in Corona, Ca! A short flight from Las Vegas to San Francisco to visit Kim's Daughter, husband and grandsons!
In Lewiston, Maine, where I grew up in the 60's, Franco-American Catholic Weddings always featured tons of food, alcohol and music!! Many receptions were held in church basements, which had built-in kitchens due to the fact that they served as cafeteria's for the Catholic grade schools. Daytime receptions with bands (not DJs).
Feel free to call, text or email me anytime. 207-240-3012 or dave@davedionne.com. My website: www.djsmaine.com. I can also be found on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest.
Making use of Doppler Radar is very wise on days where there is a risk of showers or rain. mathematically speaker, your wedding day is more likely to feature good to great weather. Watch the radar and be ready to mover forward or delay, as needed.
I had always dreamt of being a radio disc jockey! While still in high school, my father drove me to the FCC building in Boston where I took the exam to get my 3rd Class Radiotelephone license, giving me the authority to turn on or turn off radio station transmitters and to take readings of the frequency, transmitter and antennas.
It's a classic moment to a great toast, the mic drop. Of course, if you're the wedding DJ, and that mic drop includes a $1000+ Shure wireless microphone, it's a less than desirable moment. Let me know in advance if you can, I'll make sure the right wireless mic is available for the drop.
It happens every year, couples opt for the "free" DJ offer from a friend. Often times, those same couples contact me within weeks of their wedding frantically looking for a real wedding DJ, reason: their friend has backed out!!!
It's important that those individuals who will be giving a toast or speech know that there is a time limit on how long they can talk! Your caterer and or chef has food properly timed to be ready to be served at a certain time. Let everyone know, there's a time limit on talking on the wireless mic.
It's a very common question, "can we borrow a wireless microphone for the ceremony"? Yes! All you need to do is add our complete ceremony services. The DJ needs to set-up speakers, a wireless receiver, a DJ mixer, stands, wires and other stuff to make that wireless microphone work!!
Many traditional elements of a wedding are being dropped by Millennials, some affecting the ceremony others geared towards dropping reception traditions like the cake cutting or bouquet toss, even intros.. Either way, it's still a celebration of love with family, friends and co-workers.
Watching the dance floor like a hawk, that's the Wedding DJ's primary role when it's party time!! Call an audible, a sudden change of song choice to fit what's happening on the dance floor. The dance floor, watch, respond and react appropriately with the right song at the right time!!
In addition to picking specific songs you may also want to talk to your DJ about how loud that music will get played. Pre-ceremony music is typically soft while the dancing portion of the night features much louder party music!!
The State of Maine has a multitude of amazing wedding venues. From the mountains of western Maine to the numerous venues along the coast. Spectacular wedding barns and gorgeous summer camps on lakes.
My first wedding as a DJ, January 14, 1977. The Lewiston Music Literary Hall. 3rd floor. My old friend, Phil Chabot and I hauled in a ton of heavy equipment up 3 flights of stairs. We used the WPNO remote broadcast board and Phil's band's speaker/amp system.
When it comes to weddings being held on bots and ships, I tend to defer to other DJs on my staff. The primary reason, motion sickness. I think I may also have a bit of fear about being on a vessel in deep water. This landlubber needs to stay off the water!!!
For those couples who want to incorporate their dog (also often times known as their "child"), it's easy to do and is done quite often. Having the photographer take pictures of the newly married couple with their dog is priceless.
I know, the DJ is recommending honeymoon ideas? Yup. Here are three, Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. Great weather, beautiful beaches, all-inclusive. Next, Paris! Talk about a romantic wedding honeymoon location. Finally, where my wife and I got married and spent our honeymoon, Maui, in Hawaii.
The debate between having a Wedding DJ or a Band!! The band produces great energy but they also take breaks, have a limited number of songs they can play (or know) and cost substantially more!! Wedding DJs are experienced MCs and have an unlimited music library.
As the DJ watching over the dance floor, I've got the responsibility to keep the dance floor packed. I also need to keep my equipment safe from guests who may be pretty buzzed!!
The hardest working wedding vendor is typically the caterer! The amount of equipment they bring and set-up is unreal. Everything they do has to be timed perfectly. Experienced chefs and servers make all the difference!
Be sure your Wedding DJ and your Wedding Photographer are on the same page. Especially for the timing of the ceremony and the formal introductions, first dance, parent dances speeches, cake cutting & bouquet & garter. Being in synch is important.
The Covid-19 issue has been a nightmare for wedding vendors and couples. Rolling over retainers from 2020 to 2021 was the norm. But, continuing postponements from 2021 to 2022 represent a bit of a business challenge.
If you need to commit to using a generator at your wedding, either for the ceremony or tented reception, be sure to provide enough power to satisfy all vendors. I bring my own generator, a Honda 2000.
This question comes up often and I have a very quick answer, NO! I personally don't think the wedding DJ needs any breaks. Our primary focus is paying attention to every minute from the pre-ceremony to the last song!
The officiant plays a very important role in your wedding ceremony. There are plenty of very talented officiants available in Maine, both male and female. The DJ needs to coordinate carefully with the officiant to create a seamless ceremony.
An experienced Wedding DJ can easily read the dance floor and deliver a music format that'll get everyone dancing. Playing the right song at the right time and reading the dance floor!!
Due to the incredible number of couples who postponed from 2020 to 2021, there are fewer experienced weddings DJs still open compared to prior years. Many couples from 2020 have already booked available DJs between May and October of 2021.
You may want to select a last song of the night, especially if you have a good feel for exactly what your guests would respond to. A song that everyone knows the words to and/or is easy to dance to.
It's important to connect your DJ with your videographer and musicians. The videographer typically wants to tap into the DJ's sound system. Musicians often need to amplify their music.
Will you be having formal introductions? The whole wedding party? Will you be having music playing while introductions occur? Introduce just the bride& groom? Skip the introductions?
The speeches and toasts at a wedding usually need some parameters. How many people will be speaking? Is there a time limit? Will it be G rated? Use the microphone properly!
The shoe game is a more recent wedding tradition that can be a lot of fun. Much depends on the couple and the questions and especially the answers!!!
I believe that the WEdding DJ should show up extra early. I like to call it "Psycho Early". It's a good term in this case, arriving early has many benefits!
DJ Liability Insurance is important! It provides peace of mind. Be sure to ask for a "Certificate Of Insurance". All wedding vendors should have business liability insurance.
The Bride dances with her dad and the Groom dances with his mom. It's an old Victorian tradition. It seems to be disappearing more and more as time goes on.
This is an old tradition that probably started in England or France. It can be a lot of fun for some people. The bouquet & garter toss, just the bouquet toss or a replacement like the anniversary dance.
An old Polish tradition. Guests give dollars to the Best Man or Maid/Matron Of Honor to dance with the Bride or Groom. Many countries around the world have similar traditions.
The year 2020 was a very difficult year for wedding vendors. Wedding DJs, Wedding Photographers, Caterers, Venues, Florists, Cake Makers, etc... We're sticking together and looking forward to 2021.
Dance floor lights can have a positive effect on the atmosphere of your party dance floor. The lights are directed t the dance floor, so guests who are seated are not affected by the colored lights.
A quick search on Google, Yahoo or Bing for "Wedding DJs" will bring results that include large national companies who specialize in getting you a VERY cheap DJ. This is when the phrase 'you get what you pay for' applies for sure.
Reading the dance floor is critical for any successful Wedding DJ. The magic to a full dance floor is pretty simple, play the right song at the right time. When you submit your playlists be sure to include songs that are popular and danceable!!
Every wedding needs to have a plan B ready to go. Weddings are a live event, so things can happen suddenly and without notice. Be ready, weather in particular can affect plans for the ceremony, cocktail hour, dinner or dancing. Heat, wind, rain, always have a second plan ready to kick into gear!
The biography of your DJ, Dave Dionne. Radio disc jockey, husband, dad and world traveler.
It's hard to believe how the role of the wedding DJ has changed over the last 30-40 years. Turntables, CD's to computers. There was actually time when we only did receptions, no ceremonies. Speakers and amps once weighed a ton!!
Frequently asked questions. Are you available? How much do you charge? I'll try to keep it brief and to the point.
Always double-check to make sure your Wedding DJ has received your signed contract and retainer. Re-check the date, time and place on the contract too!
I use the Yamaha speaker system for the ceremony. I've been using Shure Wireless microphones, hand-held and lapel, for the last few years. The BOSE speakers for cocktail and dinner. The QSC Speaker system for the dancing!
We'll need to know who the officiant is and who the photographer is. What's your first dance. Who's giving the toast? Are you doing parent dances? Cake? These two forms are a great way to convey exactly what you want us to do and play.
It's time to make people dance. Playing the right song at the right time. Songs you can easily dance too! Send me your Spotify playlist and we''ll create a winning format for the night.
Here's where you can play anything in the world. Got a favorite artist or song that you must hear? The cocktail hour and dinner music are the two chances to apply your favorite songs.
Many people still use Google to search for most things, including a Wedding DJ. Seek out someone based in the State you're wedding will be held in. Use Yahoo and Bing too.
There's no doubt that the wedding vendors at your wedding are working as a team. Cooperating and keeping each other in the loop is important. I always maintain full flexibility as the wedding progresses.
This is something that couples need to decide for themselves in advance. I have no contract requirement for a meal. I do ask if I'll be fed on my Wedding Reception Planner form, it's just a "yes" or "no" question.
Ah yes, where was I born and raised. Educational background. Radio career. Wedding DJ experience. The things you'll want to know if you're going to listen to these podcasts.
This is a bit complicated. The price depends on the date, the location, how many hours you need and a few other factors. Do you need the DJ for the ceremony? Do you want dance floor lights or uplighting.
You'll want to consider experience and personality. What's your Wedding DJ budget? Music, equipment and style questions?
The pre-ceremony music sets the mood for the upcoming ceremony. Find the right music mix that fits your style. Processional songs and a recessional song need to be chosen.
This should be an easy thing to do. A quick phone call or text message should be an easy way to reach out. Email is even easier. You can also find me on social media platforms.