Hey!! It's the bride with the incredibly small budget (again) ! My fiancee & I have decided that there's no way we could POSSIBLY afford a DJ. I want one badly, but we've made a pact not to let debt rear it's ugly head at the very start of our unification as man & wife. That's the whole reason we're saving monthly for this occasion. Well, that leaves us with the option of bringing our own music. Is this a poor idea? I would love to be pleasantly surprised at the flow of music, as opposed to worrying if the selection over the PA system is adequate for the meal portion of the reception. Any tips, advice, or words of wisdom would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks, Fellow Bride
(This post was
edited by TWQadmin on Jul 27, 2005, 10:28 AM)
Nancy Tucker
PRESIDENT - WEDDINGS BEAUTIFUL
Feb 8, 2005, 5:07 AM
Post #2 of 4
(3371 views)
Re: [Mallyn22] B.O.O.M= Bring Our Own Music
[In reply to]
Dear Boom,
This is not something I would recommend. Your DJ also serves as the announcer for your reception so that your guests are informed when the first dance will be held, the cake cutting, garter and bouquet toss. Without a DJ you will have to appoint someone to be responsible for getting this information to guests throughout the reception.
One of the main reasons you need someone announcing is so that the photographer and the caterer are ready for that event when it's announced. Nancy Tucker President of Weddings Beautiful US http://www.weddingsbeautiful.com
The Music Pros
Music Forum Moderator
Feb 8, 2005, 12:19 PM
Post #3 of 4
(3365 views)
Re: [Mallyn22] B.O.O.M= Bring Our Own Music
[In reply to]
Don't skimp on the photos or the MC/DJ. If you must, cut back on something else. Remember: Statistics show that 40% of wedding funds are spent on the food and beverages, that doesn't include the venue rental, flowers, etc.
The photos and DJ represent "memories", which are the most important aspect of the reception. Most MC/DJs will work with you to prepare a "play list" so you don't have to worry that the music will flow smoothly. They are vital to coordinating the timing of your event --providing the equipment necessary for you or they to make announcements (wireless microphones), let your guests use the microphone for making toasts, help get the crowd loosened up so they enjoy themselves, cue the photographer or family member so important scenes are captured on film.
Depending on where you're holding the event, home equipment just won't do the trick. You're still going to need someone to monitor the boombox and what to play next.
For just a "basic MC & DJ" without special effect lighting etc., you can expect to pay anywhere from $400 to $800 for the evening. That is CHEAP compared to what the cake, flowers, favors, alcohol, etc. can cost. Your guests will remember if they ENJOYED the event. They're not going to remember the cake, the flowers, or what the table cloths looked like. They're going to be looking at YOU and celebrating your union. They're not that concerned with how the table decorations look while they're dancing.
If your budget is that tight, consider at least contacting a local high school or church, and see if they can recommend one of their DJs for your wedding. You might be able to get them at a lower price, since they may be able to borrow the equipment necessary to do the job. Copen Cabana DJ and Custom Wedding Photo Book Services http://www.knowareland.com
susieq
Jul 27, 2005, 10:10 AM
Post #4 of 4
(2677 views)
Re: [The Music Pros] B.O.O.M= Bring Our Own Music
[In reply to]
I really understand where you are coming from. I am engaged and I am trying to do a wedding and reception for 65 people for between 6,000 and 7,000 dollars. My advice, shop around. Some DJ's may be willing to stay within your budget. How many people are you wanting to invite?
Bring Our Own Wedding Music
! My fiancee & I have decided that there's no way we could POSSIBLY afford a DJ. I want one badly, but we've made a pact not to let debt rear it's ugly head at the very start of our unification as man & wife. That's the whole reason we're saving monthly for this occasion. 
