Contract
You should always ask for a written contract. This will ensure you that you have a hold on the DJ should something arise and he does not show up. It is also a preemptive move, ensuring you that he will stick to the arrangements that you have agreed upon. Do not merely take his word – you need written proof.

More so, you need to stipulate everything in the contract. Detail the DJs tasks during the event. Is he going to act as the Master of Ceremonies as well or does he just deal with the music? How long should the DJ and his crew stay? Detail the number of hours. Also do not forget the preparation time. What time are they arriving at the venue? Is there anything they would need for setting up? Usually, it should be included in the contract that they will bring with them everything that they need. Think about all the little details that you want to consider and talk about them and place them in the contract.

Experience
As with live musicians, you should know how much and what kind of experience the DJ has. Take note that the experience should be with weddings particularly and not some other party. Of course, you need to know that he can handle everything during the reception perfectly. This can only be assured if he has a lot of experience under his belt.

Music
No doubt one of the most important considerations you must have is the extent and nature of their music collection. You would have an idea of what kind of music you want played during your reception. You may even have specific songs in mind – even a playlist. Present and go over this with your DJ and see if he can deliver what you want. The last thing you would want to happen is to have sucky music playing during your reception.

These are only some key points to consider. Why not make a list of your own questions and add your own ideas? Happy hunting!

Technorati Tags: weddings, wedding music, wedding reception, reception music, DJ

That is why couples who are planning their wedding put a lot of consideration into the choosing of the music for their wedding. Yet more than determining what songs will be played during the ceremony and reception, couples nowadays also focus a lot on the musicians. Live music is often more used than canned music for the main reason that it sounds better. Here are some things for you to consider when choosing musicians for your wedding.

Amateurs or professional musicians? This is one question that many couples ask. On the one hand, there are amateurs as talented as professionals who charge very affordable fees. On the other hand, professionals are very much used to this kind of work. One concern is that amateur musicians may not have the same work ethics and level of professionalism yet. They may not be as reliable as the professionals. I am not generalizing but merely giving you a heads up. I guess it all boils down to how well you know the people. If you feel that you can totally trust an amateur musician and that you love his or her work, then go ahead. Of course, if you feel more comfortable with the more seasoned musician, then that is the way you should go.

In the process of choosing a musician (or musicians) for your wedding, one of the first things you should ask for is a demo tape or CD. You should also inquire if it is possible to see them perform live. More than that, ask for references so that you can verify their talent and character.

If you are not dealing directly with the musicians – many of them have agents or representatives – try to arrange a face to face meeting with them as it may help you assess the compatibility of the person or group with you and your partner’s needs and preferences. Last, if you have some idea of what kind of music you want for your wedding already, make sure that the musicians will be able to play it in a way that meets your expectations.

Technorati Tags: weddings, wedding ceremony, wedding music, wedding musicians

Admittedly, though, it can get a little sappy. It can be really trying when the song selection includes songs like Olivia Newton John’s “Hopelessly Devoted to You” or the classic “The Nearness of You”. Then again, what can you do? It is the way the bride and groom feel and it is their time so you’ll have to grin and bear it and enjoy dancing with your partner.

On the other hand, you might get lucky and the bride and groom might actually have a wider selection of music prepared, some of which might even have a faster beat and allow dancing. They might actually get you singing and swaying, hopping, jiving and boogieing the night away even if the words are actually expressions of love still - yes, not all love songs are ballads.

One way to avoid getting stuck in the silly love song mode is to help the bride and groom create their playlist. Help them find music that does express how they feel but won’t lull the guests to sleep or drown you all in sappy romantic syrup. There are millions of songs available there is sure to be some that meet your standards.

If you love music you know that the arrangements can be changed to spice up an old song. You still keep the tune and melody true but you make the song unique. This is something that the band that the bride and groom hired can do to make these love songs seem less sticky yet still be wonderful songs everyone will enjoy. This will require however that you give the band advance notice so that they can rehearse and prepare for the change in the music.

Generally, though, people don’t mind the silly love songs. It is nice to know that some of us do indeed find love and fall in love. It seems silly only because we know that sometimes it can be like waiting for the sky to fall and none of us like waiting for the nearly impossible. We all know though that when it happens, there is nothing like it and we too become sappy and happily drown ourselves, and everyone around us in the romantic mood created by these love songs.

Some songs that are great choices to have at a wedding:

• I Only Have Eyes For You
• The Gift by Jim Brickman
• That’s All I Ask of You from the Phantom of The Opera
• The Way You Look Tonight
• What A Wonderful World - Louie Armstrong

The rest of the songs will really vary depending on the particular taste of the bride and groom. We can all just hope that it won’t all be silly love songs.

Technorati Tags: love songs, music, wedding music, romance, Paul McCartney and the ings, Jim Brickman

Sounding a bit musical? That’s because music is often the guide used by many couples to achieve that perfect timing. It is really easy to do. First off, you know exactly how much time you want to allocate for your reception. Most songs last anywhere between 2 to 4 minutes. You can set a specific number to fill in each section of your event; then it’s a matter of sorting out your music.

Here are the categories that you will usually split your music into:

• Cocktails music

  This is the music that will play in the background while your guests are waiting for you to join them. This is the kind of music that is usually unobtrusive yet happy. It is light and not loud since most of your guests will be mingling at this point. This is usually about 30 minutes long so set up about 15 songs. You can always cut a playlist short if cocktails are over before the songs have all been played.

• Entrance Music

  If you are going to make a grand entrance, then you should have the music to go with it. Typically The Wedding March by Mendelssohn is used but any song that has a triumphant feel will do. If you are having your entourage parade in before you, set a different song for their entrance from yours.

• Dining Music

  Music can enhance any meal. It keeps your guests entertained even as they wait for the food to be served. They can hum along or even sing along to tunes that they like. Usually what plays are standards or other light love songs.

  Most meals last about 30 minutes to an hour - depending on how many courses you choose. Your waiters can be cued to serve certain dishes based on what song is playing or being sung. That will definitely keep things hopping along.

• Program music

  When the meal is almost done, that’s the cue for you to stand up and cut the cake. You and your groom are expected to serve each other the first slice and for some, that includes smearing a bit of icing on each other. Choose a song that is light, sweet and maybe funny to match the mood.

  This is usually followed by the toasts, which cap off the meal. The music you choose for this portion are usually soft instrumentals since you want your speakers to be heard without them having to shout. There are many songs to choose from for this.

  This is usually followed by the first dance so naturally the song playing at this point is the one that you have decided is your song for each other. This is naturally followed by the father/daughter - mother/son dance then by any other special dances you have set so the playlist follows the order of dances.

  For couples who want a bouquet and garter toss during the program, this is usually where it is placed. Usually songs used here match the style that you choose for tossing the bouquet or garter. It can be a simple drum roll if you like or a favorite song if you prefer.

• Dance music

  Once all of that is done, it is time to get down and boogie! You can let your band or DJ take control at this point, just give them some pointers on what you want played.

• Exit Music

  You should know when it is time to go and so should your guests. Have your band or DJ standing by for your signal to play the song for when you run out to your getaway car or make your grand exit.

Technorati Tags: wedding, wedding planning, wedding music, wedding program, order of events, reception

• Hot colors for the year. Chocolate brown is coming out as the favorite color for the wedding theme. This rich color is often partnered with bright colors such as blue or pink, in some cases even lime green. The colors are both young, colorful and yet mature and elegant.

  Orange is the other popular choice among the brides. It can be paired with any number of colors, depending on your taste. It can be paired with chocolate brown for a really cool theme. Mixing it with another bright color makes for a very vivid and lively look at your nuptials. More of a romantic? Mix it wth gold or red instead.

• Detailed Backs are definitely a hot trend. Since most of the wedding ceremony is spent looking at the couple’s back, doesn’t it make perfect sense to make sure that your back looks absolutely gorgeous? The dressmakers definitely think so. That’s why embroidery, lace and jewels decorate not just your bodice, but your back as well. It will be a mark of how creative and talented a dress maker you have.
• Italy is the current favorite honeymoon destination. Thanks in no small part to the attention that the media gave the place during the Tom Cruise/Katie Holmes ceremony. Italy is a beautiful country and is a great choice for celebrating the first few days of your union.
• Bridal dresses still have that long, slim look but there’s more variety with sleeves coming up this year. Strapless will still be in fashion but this year’s brides are opting for some cap sleeves for that more subtly feminine effect. The off the shoulder style is back in vogue as well.
• Geometric shapes are in as well this year. Rather than the round tables, square ones are the rage. If you are a romantic who wants everyone to come in pairs or who wants the opportunity to match make, this set up can be appealing.
• Entertainment during cocktails. Rather than the staid, boring cocktails where your guests are just standing around, waiting for you to join them, the new wedding receptions begin with a more festive cocktail party. Guests get the clubbing atmosphere as they sip their martinis to some really great music. The party gets warmed up well even though you have yet to make your grand entrance.
• Earth Friendly Weddings are in season. More and more couples are becoming environmentally concerned. They want to make sure that they are more in touch with nature. This means flowers that are pesticide free and organic food for the reception. It means recycled paper will be chosen for the invitations and thank you cards - if they send any out. In fact more will opt to use the web and other electronic means instead and save a few more trees.

Technorati Tags: wedding, wedding planning, wedding trends, fashion

Speaking of things to avoid, make sure to check out the thickness of the walls at the venue of your choice. The colors may look pretty but if they are paper thin and there is a noisy party next door, your reception will probably get drowned out from the noise. If the venue is a popular choice, you might be in the middle of a noise level competition with the function next door. Better to choose a place where the sound proofing and acoustics is perfect for weddings.

Something to definitely avoid: a caterer whose dishes are all pretty but don’t taste like much. Most of the “pretty dishes” require a lot of preparation time. Sometimes they are all show and not much taste. Get your money’s worth. Better great tasting food than all fluff.

We all have different tastes in music. In fact there is great music of all sorts. You might be fans of heavy metal and punk rather than of jazz and RNB. That’s perfectly alright but for weddings you have to choose your music carefully. There is no reason you can’t have a great time, have music that gets people on their feet. Do remember though that this isn’t a rock concert so you might want to avoid selecting a band that is too loud. Save the concert for your next party.

Size does matter. It is silly to choose an auditorium for a wedding party of 50. You’ll all be rattling around in there. On the other hand, getting a venue that is too small will make for a cramped party. That can make for closer ties but an uncomfortable reception. Instead of rattling around, you’ll be bumping each other instead. Avoiding a venue that ill fits may be one of the best ideas you can apply in preparing for your wedding.

Avoid flowers with overpowering scents. Unless you are in an unenclosed space, the scents will overwhelm the room. Choose flowers and arrangements that suit your reception venue. They will make beautiful splashes of color but your guests won’t be bombarded with too many scents - they’ll get enough of that from the varied perfumes and colognes the guests will be wearing.

Avoid choosing a place that has poor ventilation. Imagine the number of scents in the room. With so many guests wearing different perfumes plus the natural smell of the flowers, the room is already full of aromas that can amaze the sense of smell of anyone. Add the odors of food and it can be rather too much. A good venue should be able to take all the scents out so that the room doesn’t reek from all the combined scents. The only way you can check this is by visiting the venue when another event similar to yours is taking place.

Many couples get so involved in the wedding preparations that they lose sight of what is really important. It isn’t about the trappings, it’s about the couple getting married.

Lets set aside the discussion of dresses, jewelry, food and favors today and talk about what really matters most. You, your future spouse and your relationship. This is the heart of the marriage and what should still be cared for long after the ceremony is done.

Obviously you must feel that you’ve found the right person for you. That’s why you popped the question or that’s why you accepter, right? Or did you just decide to get married simply because you’ve begun to feel that you’re getting a bit long in the tooth and the kind of love that they talk about in pocketbooks will never happen to you? Think hard before answering. This is very important. If there is one thing that you shouldn’t do is get married for the wrong reasons. It leads to you planning the other process - the one that begins with a d (divorce).

If you are sure that you’ve found the person who is indeed your mate, you are indeed blessed. Keep that feeling alive. Be thankful that you have found each other.

Relationships are what matters in a marriage - or in anything else actually. As long as you’ve got a great relationship, one where communication is very open, where you respect each other and truly work together to make things happen, you’re off to a good start. You can have a big wedding, small wedding or even just a quick trip to city hall and it would be fantastic.

Relationships are what matters not how many relatives and neighbors you can squeeze into one venue. It can be surprising how guests seem to come out of the woodwork once they learn that there will be a wedding.

Want an easy way to trim down a guest list? Don’t announce your wedding. Personally call your loved ones and chosen guests. Just tell them that you and your future spouse are planning a party on the specific date and time and ask them if they can come. Tell them that you need to confirm because it is your first party and you need to make sure that there’s enough food for everyone. Don’t mention the words wedding or marriage at all! Many will tell you that’s great but they can’t make it which will not only trim down the numbers but you can bet that most of those who will go are those who either have a strong relationship with you or do want to build stronger ties. You bet they won’t forget even without invitations.

Now, what are the two of you really like? If you have never thrown a party in your entire life and aren’t comfortable in groups bigger than twenty, why in the world would you now choose to have a grand wedding? You bet that you’ll feel overwhelmed and out of your element. You’ve never done this before and you are trying to plan something that goes against your very nature.

Forget about what the handbook on wedding says for a minute and focus on what would make you both happy. If what you want is a party where anyone can get up on stage and sing, make sure you have a great mic, band or karaoke collection and maybe a great mixer or earplugs. Don’t forget the video camera. Want a party that fits at one table, then go ahead and just invite the select few. The rest will understand - or they don’t really know you well.

What matters most about weddings is how you as a couple are and how you feel. Work on making your relationship even stronger and crafting a wedding that suits you to a T. That is a perfect wedding.

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Weddings should reflect your values. Some people perceive weddings as nothing more than food after a religious bonding ritual while others see it as a holy union. No matter how else you define it, a wedding celebration is a party, and you are the host. It is all about you and what marriage - not the ceremony- means to you.

One of the best things you can do is to use the things you love as a guide to what your wedding will look like. For example, if you love winter, then hold your wedding at this time of year. You’ll be indoors anyway so the ice and snow aren’t really an issue. It may mean that you’ll hold your ceremony and reception in the same place but that is a good thing (only one expense for the venue).

If both of you are a private people, not really into parties, why change suddenly and throw a grand ball? Have the kind of event that suits your personality. You and your groom will be happier for it.

Your guest list should be made up of the people you love. Invite only those who are special to you. It is not about having big names or celebrities present for your party. Better to have just a few visitors, all of whom are important for you.

If you are a vegetarian why not have a vegetarian menu? It may not be everyone’s favorite meal but it will be true to what you value. There are many dishes that taste great without meat. Just find some really delicious ones that will please even the non-vegetarians attending your nuptials.

Don’t limit yourself to just having the vegetables in the food. Have them on the table as decoration as well. Bowls of fruit are excellent for both decoration and they are edible as well. The kids will love those.

If you love crafting, go ahead and make your own invites and wedding favors. They are a great way to add a personal touch to your wedding. Who knows? It may just earn you a profit someday.

The entertainment should definitely be something you love. If you love ballroom dancing, go ahead and have that kind of entertainment. You’ll want to hire bands that can perform the music well and get everyones feet moving.

Aside from the music for dancing, choose what songs you want to hear sung and who will perform them. If opera is what you love, then go ahead and be like Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes and ask Andrea Bocelli to perform at your wedding. If you have a favorite choir, you may want to ask them to perform your favorite songs for your wedding. Hard for some to imagine, but if hip hop is your thing, who’s to say you can’t have some at your party.

Go ahead and be yourself. You’ll be happier and your wedding will be more memorable; just the way you like it.

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Talk about natural selection. Most people do not want to wake up early. They want to have those extra five minutes that turns into an hour and sleep some more. Some will tell you their old bones just need more sleep. Others will say that they need more sleep and can’t make it. They will make whatever excuse they think you’ll accept but in the end, your list will be neatly trimmed down naturally.

With fewer guests set to arrive your budget will be a bit more comfortable. If you choose your menu wisely, it will be even better. Breakfast isn’t really that hard to figure out but like any meal it is best planned well. If you’re having your reception at a hotel or restaurant, they probably have a breakfast buffet. You can have bacon and eggs, pancakes, hash browns, fresh fruits, bread, cereals, coffee and juice. You can never go wrong with that. You’ll have great variety and it will still be filling for your guests. Plus it will still cost less than a lunch or dinner reception.

With fewer guests and such a beautiful time of day, you may want to go for a more simple set up for your wedding as well. Forget the swags and elaborate chandelier. No need for fancy bands and deejays. A breakfast wedding can be held in the beauty of a garden with all of nature surrounding you. Your music doesn’t need to be loud to be fun. Make the most of wonderful daylight. It’s amazing how natural light truly brings out the beauty in everything.

Don’t forget to get everything ready the day before. With weddings held early in the day the main problem will be that most shops will be closed. You won’t have that option to run and buy whatever you need if it’s too early in the morning. You’re also trying to start your day and your marriage off on the right note and right foot. Preparing everything the day before and laying them out before you sleep will ensure that you won’t need to rush in the morning. You’ll truly be calm, cool and collected.

Make sure that all the professionals who will work on your wedding are indeed up to speed and ready for your big day. Like you, they should begin preparing at least the day before. Some will actually begin earlier. Your hair stylist and make-up artist in particular need to be wherever you are usually three hours before the wedding if you’re to be ready on time. Make sure that all of you have a light meal ready to jumpstart your day without making you too full to enjoy your reception.

Lastly, don’t forget to be ready for your honeymoon. An advantage of this kind of wedding is you have lots of flights to choose from (none of them the red eye) to get you to your destination.

Technorati Tags: wedding, wedding planning, breakfast, hair style, make-up, budget

One advantage of getting married on a birthday is that you get two parties in one. That means less expenses since you won’t need to have two parties. One will do just fine.

An advantage to having your wedding on either of your birthdays is that you can easily keep your wedding a secret without anyone wondering why you’re about to throw a party. No need to elope, you just need to pretend that it is just a really significant birthday. It would be helpful if the birthday celebrant is celebrating a landmark natal day. You would still be sending out invites, but you can be perfectly casual if you prefer and simply surprise family and friends when they arrive at your wedding.

You could even surprise your entourage. You can have dresses made for them still but you may want to just tell them that you had clothes prepared for them since you have a party theme; assuming that you really don’t want to trust your secret to anyone.

It being a birthday party as well, there is double the reason to celebrate. Get your party jumping. Have the kind of party that will truly match your special occasion as both a wedding and a birthday. There is no rule that says your reception has to be deadly dull just because weddings are normally a formal affair.

Usually couples who have this kind of reception have great food prepared. None of the little food on saucers that barely fills you up for this major an event. You can have steaks, pasta and a birthday cake added to your menu.

Depending on how you want to play it, you may not want the cake set up right away since that would give away the fact that a wedding is about to take place. You’ll need to make arrangements with your caterer on when to bring it out for the best effect.

In fact, you may want to have a birthday cake aside from the wedding cake. It would be the one on display as your guests arrive to keep up the appearance of this just being a birthday party. On the other hand, you could simply work with a talented wedding cake maker to combine elements of the two kinds of cake. You don’t have to have a multi-layered cake. Some actually have the layers split so that multiple cakes are displayed. That way it is less of a giveaway. You’ll have to think of a different cake topper since you may not want to have a couple in bridal outfits sitting on your cake to divulge your secret right away.

Don’t forget the music! Whether you go big band, great local band, hire a DJ or simply prepare your playlist, you’re going to need music that gets everybody in the mood to celebrate! This is truly a major occasion and needs to have music that matches the mood of your party.

Technorati Tags: weddings, birthdays, secret, elope, party, planning