Weddings are beautiful events to be shared with friends and loved ones. One of the most precious moments is the sharing of the vows. We make sure our bases are covered when it comes to microphones and weddings. We always do sound checks before the celebration. But at the same time when guests arrive the sound may not be perfect. With guests in between the receiver and the transmitter, the microphone and everyone having a cell phone can interfere with the signal. The other day we had a drone above the ceremony and we can hear the static coming through the speakers.  We had to improvise. We had the officiant plus the groom with lapels.  Lapels can be tricky at times. Best thing would to be the receiver as close as possible to the transmitter or have long antennas or even better   antenna fins so can have a further reach.  We had to turn off the lapels and used the wireless handheld which was right next to the officiant. It did sound so cleaner and louder. It is all about being prepared. But even before the ceremony even started I had around 50 feet of microphone cable on standby with a wired microphone for plan c. Its all about having back ups to your back ups to make sure the sound of the ceremony. Some say it is overkill but I do not believe so. During ceremonies most djs only use one speaker and I say not me. I believe in getting two speakers to  ensure  a more full balanced sound  and  we want guests to feel the  music  and the  powerful  words  of  the  offficiant.

From the first announcement to the last, wedding music planning  plays an instrumental role in making a wedding memorable. With many weddings under our belt, we understand how essential it is to have the perfect music plan on your special day. That’s why we want to give you with knowledge: the top 10 mistakes wedding DJs often make, so you can be confident in making the right choice for your wedding dj.

1. Bad Equipment Setup:

One of the most common mistakes is not bringing appropriate equipment. It’s vital that the DJ’s setup is professional, with backups for essential gear. You wouldn’t want the music to stop due to technical glitches. It can happen and the professional DJs know this. They are fully prepared and have backup equipment ready to go, just in case. I believe in back ups to your back ups.

2. Ignoring The Couple’s Playlist:

Every couple is unique, and so is their wedding playlist. A DJ should never ignore the bride and groom’s music preferences or play songs that have been on the doo not playlist. Many DJs will often ignore the playlist and play what they think works. This is only okay if YOU are okay with that.

Remember, this is YOUR wedding and you should be in charge of what is played on your big day, not the DJ. I know this may sound weird, but we truly believe this. Yes, we’re experts and know what to play to keep people dancing. However, we want to fulfill your vision of your wedding day, so we let you decide what we play. All pro DJs should do this (but they don’t).

3. Poor Volume:

Whether it’s blasting music during dinner or a too-soft first dance song, improper volume levels can mess up the mood. It’s crucial for a DJ to understand and adjust to the venue’s acoustics and adjust the volume throughout the evening. This is done with proper sound checks through out the night.

4. Lack of Interaction with the Crowd:

A good DJ and MC does more than just play songs; they engage with the guests. From reading the room’s energy to making announcements, an MC and DJ’s interaction can make or break the wedding vibe.

It’s important to note that, again, we believe that every event is about the couple, and not the DJ. So we’re never going to be obnoxious and talk too much on the microphone, or try to steal the show. You are the star of the show, not us!

5. Not Being Adaptable:

No matter how well-planned out things may be, weddings can be unpredictable. A top-notch DJ should be flexible, whether it’s handling last-minute song requests or adjusting to schedule changes.

A good DJ is also going to know exactly how to handle a situation where the schedule is off. They should be able to know what to do to get back on track and save time, as needed. Professionals should always look at your tentative timeline and see where adjustments may be needed, and suggest any changes that may be helpful. Some examples could be dinner being too long for the amount of guests you’re expecting, or starting the pre-ceremony too early, etc.

6. Playing Overly Explicit Songs:

Weddings typically have guests of all ages. It’s a significant misstep to play explicit songs, especially without the couple’s consent. Clean versions or more family-friendly tracks are always a safer bet.

If you want to hear the explicit songs, a good idea would be to perhaps wait until later during the dance, when the older relatives or those with kids are gone.

7. Lack of Professionalism:

Arriving late, dressing inappropriately, or being unprepared are signs of unprofessionalism. Couples should seek DJs who treat their wedding day with the seriousness and respect it deserves.

Your wedding day is every bit as important to us as it is to you. This should be the case for EVERY vendor you hire.

8. Not Coordinating with Other Vendors:

Your DJ should be in sync with the photographer, caterer, and event planner/coordinator. For instance, they need to know when it’s time for the bouquet toss or cake cutting to ensure they play the right song and create the desired ambiance.

We always make sure everyone is aware of what’s happening before it happens. This helps your vendors and you know what’s happening throughout the evening. Vendor communication is key.

9. Missing Pre-Wedding calls:

A pre-wedding consultation is essential. It’s an opportunity for the DJ to understand the couple’s vision, discuss song choices, and get a sense of the wedding’s timeline.

It is absolutely critical for you to talk with your DJ before your wedding. It can be online or in-person, but it definitely needs to happen. If you have a hard time reaching your DJ, or he/she is slow to respond, even before you book, be careful hiring this DJ!

10. Not Having a Diverse Playlist:

A diverse guest list means a variety of musical tastes. It’s not a good idea to stick strictly to one genre or era. A diverse playlist ensures everyone gets on the dance floor at some point.

Of course, if you absolutely want to hear only one genre, you can ask the DJ to do this and he/she should accommodate your request.

In a Nutshell:

Your wedding day is one of the most memorable days of your life, and the right music plays a significant part in that. By being aware of these common mistakes, you can make informed decisions and ensure that the music at your wedding is nothing short of perfect.

If you’re looking for a DJ who avoids these pitfalls and prioritizes your vision, Black and White Affair is here to help. With our years of experience and dedication to excellence, we promise to make your wedding soundtrack unforgettable. Call us today and let’s make it memorable.

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POST MALONE AND SWAE LEE SUNFLOWER

ARIANA GRANDE  7 RINGS

MARSHMELLO AND BASTILLE HAPPIER

POST MALONE  WOW

SAM SMITH AND NORMANI DANCING WITH A STRANGER

BENNY BLANCO , HALSEY AND KHALID  EASTSIDE

KHALID  BETTER

A BOOGIE WIT A HOODIE LOOK BACK AT IT

BAD BUNNY FT DRAKE MIA

FLIPP DINERO  LEAVE ME ALONE

CARDI B  MONEY

J COLE  MIDDLE CHILD

HALSEY  WITHOUT ME

LIL BABY AND GUNNA DRIP TOO HARD

KODAK BLACK FT TRAVIS SCOTT AND OFFSET  ZEZE

MEEK MILL FT DRAKE GOING BAD

A wireless microphone relies on a receiver and looks nice. They can be place on a microphone stand next to the officicant and one can be placed close to the couple so you can hear their vowels. A concern for wireless microphones is it may drop the signal. Wireless microphones can work well but there is always a slight chance of the signal dropping or the battery running out of juice. It can be tested before the ceremony and work well but with wireless technology it can drop at any moment. 

A lapel microphone is placed near the collar. One does not need to hold it with the hands so the hands can be holding a book or other objects. The speaker can talk normally and the sound is sent to the speaker. Since the lapel is wireless there is a slight chance that that the signal may drop. Also if the lapel is turned on early, guest may hear the groom say something before the wedding starts that can be embarrassing. With the wind, it can be heard on the speaker since the lapel is sensitive and there is a slight chance of feedback. 

A corded microphone may not look as fancy as a wireless microphone or a lapel but one does not have to worry about it dropping any signal. It can be put on a microphone stand so it does not need to be held. 

It does not matter what microphone you chose there is always a chance of feedback. It happens when the speaker moves in front of the speaker or standing in certain areas. It is the dj’s job is lower the volume of the microphone and gradually increase the volume.

Halloween Playlist 2018

Some of the best Halloween songs come from movie soundtracks.  When people do hear these songs from the movies, they think of the goosebumps they hand during the movie.

Micheal Jackon Thriller

Tubular Bells

Gerard McMann Cry, Little Sister

Oingo Boingo Dead Man’s Party

Blue Oyster Cult Don’t Fear the Reaper

Nine Inch Nails  Dead Souls

Ray Parker JR Ghostbusters

Warren Zevon Werevolves of London

Rockwell  Somebody’s Watching Me

Mc Hammer  Addams Groove

Bobby Pickett  Monster Mash

John Carpenter Halloween Theme Song

Rob Zombie  Dragula

Marilyn Manson  This is Halloween

Dj Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince  Nightmare on my Street

Creedence Clearwater Revival Bad Moon Rising

AC/DC  Hells Bells

Radiohead Creep

Ella Henderson  Ghost

 AC/DC  Highway to Hell

Little Mix  Black Magic

Eminem and Rihanna The Monster

Imagine Dragons Demons

Nina Simone  I Put a Spell on You  

Evanescence  Bring Me to Life

Katy Perry ft Kanye West E.T.  

Rihanna  Disturbia

Marilyn Manson  Sweet Dreams are Made of These

Lady Gaga  Monster

The Smiths  How Soon is Now

Dusty Springfield Spooky

Alice Cooper Feed My Frankenstein

Metallica  Enter Sandman

Primus  The Devil Went Down to Georgia

The Ramones  Pet Sematary

I always had my style and way of doing things. If it is my business, then I can run it any way I see fit. When you do a job a certain way and always get it done a certain way, then I may become difficult if one switch things up since you are used to do it a certain way. Sometimes it is good to step back and learn from the change.

During the September month, I had a Saturday off and decided to help out another Dj Company with a wedding. I met with the company and I was impressed with their structure and that they have been around over 20 years in the business. They have multiple djs under their wings and keep busy the whole year. This is what I learned and want to incorporate in my business.

Dress to impress. Weddings should be djed in suits or tuxedos. I enjoyed wearing suits but it would get super hot setting up heavy equipment. I understood one can wear a polo while setting up then put on the tie and jacket once everything is set up. Now in my business, I make it a standard to wear a suit and tie for weddings.

I also learned to do a walk though with the venue if I never played there before so I can be at ease on the day of the event since I know where the set up is going to be and know where all the outlets are going to be.

Last but not least, I was able to use a dj cart during the wedding event. Before I would carry all my equipment by hand and make 4 to 5 trips . With this dj cart, I can make two trips and it made a huge difference and felt way more efficient.

Ways to Find your Wedding Vendors

One way to find vendors is to ask someone who recently got married and ask for their input. The newly married person can give their recommendations and who to stay away from. 

Also once you secured your wedding vendor then you can ask them if there are people they worked with that would be a benefit to the wedding.  People in the industry know other folks in the industry and have seen and heard of their work. 

Also the venue may have their own preferred vendors to help you get ideas of who to select. Usually the preferred vendor has been there a few times and knows how the venue does their business. 

Another way would be to go under yelp and see who has good reviews. It is quite humorous how people trust stranger’s recommendations. Yelp uses an algorithm rank the top performers. I would trust someone with more reviews than someone less that 15. 

A way to find vendors would be to search under Google. Google will rank based on how often the vendor is searched. If the business is registered as a business then they will have Google reviews. 

Another way would to go to a bridal show. To actually set up a display at a bridal show as a vendor is very pricey. Vendors who invest in a booth are serious about their business to invest so much. Beware of the folks who hide behind the table. The best vendors are in front of the table and make them easy to approach. Be aware of those vendors that seem too pushy. Ideally, you would want to select someone you chose as opposed to someone who bullies you to buy his or her service.

Top Wedding Regrets: The Guest List

Weddings can be small and intimate and then some can be grand big events. One side of the bride of groom guests may be larger than the other side. The question is whom do you invite to share your precious day with you and your new spouse?

 First and foremost the immediate family and the closest friends can be invited. People who you probably never see again can be left off the list. People who you have known your whole life and that you have not spoken to in 10 years should be left off the list. It becomes difficult since at times parents help with wedding costs and they have their own list of folks that they want to invite. Some people on the list maybe people you have never met before.  A wedding is expensive as is already and the list should be made by the couple and not by guests suggesting that the couple should invite.

Everybody wants to bring his or her kids.  Bride and groom can opt to have an adult only wedding. Having little kids run the dance floor while you are doing the first dance would not look too good on video.  I do not remember any weddings I went as a kid but I did go to a few.

Small weddings are more intimate and the guests are selectively picked to enrich the wedding experience. During the wedding it is great to talk to all the guests and thank them for going. If the party is full of folks you barely know it makes it awkward when you are doing small talk.  

All and all people maybe upset that they were not invited. But a wedding is for the bride and groom and they can invite folks that mean something to them.