http://www.articletrader.com/ Articles at ArticleTrader en-us http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/kids/how-to-plan-a-sweet-16-party.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/kids/how-to-plan-a-sweet-16-party.html Fri, 09 Jan 2009 16:56:09 -0600
1.) Decide on a Date and Time

Sometimes birthdays fall on difficult dates, and this is one of the most important factors. I am sure that there will be others planning sweet 16 parties around this time, so avoid schedule conflicts. Choose any day Friday through Sunday afternoon or evening. Try to avoid special occasions like holidays that might keep friends and family away. The best advice is to choose the weekend before or the weekend after and send out invitations far in advance. The further out you send invites gives guests more time to prepare for a RSVP. This is the first step in how to plan a sweet 16 party.

2.) Location Location Location

Even though you can plan a larger than life event, you need to keep your budget in mind. Do not stick with the cookie cutter banquet halls in Michigan, step outside the box. Pick a warehouse and decorate it to your theme or plan a tent event in your backyard. You can still negotiate rates with Michigan banquet halls depending on the date and time of your sweet 16. Also try to choose a local place that will not discourage guests from traveling to far.

3.) Who is coming and how many?

Basically, the more people you invite, the more your party will cost. This is directly related to the meal and location size. You need to ask yourself what kind of party you are trying to plan. Are you looking for a smaller low key birthday party, or a loud spontaneous sweet 16? Please keep in mind your budget and your goals. Put your style into the party by inviting the people you know or get along with. If you are more outgoing, then extend the list to those you know would add to the atmosphere of the event (more friends than family). If you are shyer then invite more family than friends. It is this mixture between family and friends that you will have to choose between. You can even throw two different parties (one for family and one for friends) if your budget allows it.

4.) Invitations

Now that you know who to invite and how many people are going, it is time to send out the invitations for your sweet 16. These are good to mail out two months before the event date. Make sure that you have all other details finalized before putting them on the invitations. I recommend creating the invitations yourself; this is a more budget friendly idea and unless if it is a surprise party, the guest of honor (birthday girl) should make the invitations herself. Tie your theme into the design for your invitations. It can be as simple as sports insignia to as intricate as calligraphy and cut outs. Be sure to note on the invites for people to RSVP ASAP!

5.) Themes

So since we brought it up, we might as well cover it. A theme is crucial when it comes to planning a sweet 16. This will distinguish your party from all the ones your friends are throwing. It is an expression of your personality and creativity. Themes can be lavish or quite. Themes usually include a color, costume, time period or place. Some companies in Michigan offer accent lighting options where your walls change colors. This will give you the added even personalization you desire. You can even make the sweet 16 different themes, just request that guests change for the second half. Click for our list of prom themes.

6.) Party Details

When does the party start? When the does the party end? Be sure to set an end time for the party so that guests can arrange rides if need be. You will also need to figure how the dinner will be served and when the dancing will begin. Most DJ companies offer event services that include online planners. This way everything flows smoothly and as they coordinate with your banquet staff.

7.) The Dinner

Even though a meal is typical at every event planned, this can take up a large portion of the budget. Food can either be catered, buffet, or appetizers. So what will you serve at your sweet 16? If you are really in depth with an international theme then choose food that mesh well with that country. Remember that your guests will have to eat this food, so try to give them options that they would enjoy.

How to Plan A Sweet 16 Party

In final consideration for planning a sweet 16 party, keep all the above points in mind. If you follow the guidelines above, planning your party will not only be stress free but fun. There is no right or wrong way to plan your birthday bash. The only way is your way, so keep your guests in mind because they are there to celebrate you!

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Robert Reno works for Encore Entertainment. His team provides DJs and lighting for Michigan Sweet 16 Parties. Visit the following links for more information on DJs in Michigan and how to plan a Sweet 16 Party.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/society/weddings/winter-wedding-receptions-in-michigan.html http://www.articletrader.com/society/weddings/winter-wedding-receptions-in-michigan.html Wed, 26 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600 Winter wedding receptions in Michigan are some of the most gorgeous times to plan your big day. There are many reasons why you might consider planning your wedding reception in Michigan during this season over the other ones. One of the main concerns with planning a wedding during these months is the frigid cold. To overcome the cold, all you have to do is think of all the warmth your wedding day will bring.

Winter Wedding Receptions in Michigan

This article we will mostly discuss the pros with planning your winter wedding. If you are tying the knot in a remote location, the snow will add to the intimacy of a smaller wedding. Smaller wedding usually turnout the best, because everyone knows each other and there is really no need to break the ice. Just look at the photo above, what are the first words that come to your mind? Romantic is the first thing that jumps into my mine. Something else that you will be able to take advantage of is light pastel colors. A winter weddings are completely different from fall weddings in Michigan. Winter celebrations give a whole new edge to your decorations and photos. Trust me; your professional wedding photographer will have plenty of opportunities to take great shots for you!

Since Michigan is known for its heavy snowfall, there are many brides that plan the wedding of their dreams during the winter months. So ask yourself, how do you want your wedding to be remembered? Please keep the above points in mind and brainstorm any additional thoughts you may have. If you do this, it will be very easy for you to plan the perfect wedding reception. Congratulations and keep us in mind if you are looking to have a fun reception after the ceremony!

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Robert Reno works for Encore Entertainment. His team provides DJs and lighting for Michigan wedding receptions. Visit the following links for more information on Michigan Wedding Music and Winter Wedding Receptions in Michigan.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/entertainment/music/top-10-song-list-review.html http://www.articletrader.com/entertainment/music/top-10-song-list-review.html Tue, 28 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 top 10 song list? Look below for your favorites, there is a pretty good chance that all these songs will bring back memories.

# 10
Coming in at number 10 in our top song list is Eric Clapton Wonderful Tonight. I have noticed mixed reviews with this song. It is recognizable one of the most powerful slow songs (right next to Remember When and I Can't Help Falling In Love with You), however some feel it has been over played. Personally I have nothing against this song and actually enjoy it. Eric Clapton is talented and became a very successful solo artist in the mid 70s. Some people just are not digging his solo style.

# 9
The Sledge sisters are disco divas and We Are Family barely makes it in our top 10 of our song list. I feel indifferent about this song and a large portion of guests at parties request this song. The sisters are vocal powerhouses and the intro into the song has hypnotic guitar work. This is their anthem and once again I would say this song is timeless. Sisters everywhere can relate to this song.

# 8
Etta James At Last comes in at number 8 on our top song list. This is the essential slow song for your wedding reception. This song grabs you at the heart and the words helps you reminisce of time of lite rock and smooth jazz. Her voice is strong and filled with soul. This will make a perfect addition to your next cocktail party or private event. Enjoy!

# 7
Our first funk song holding the 7 spot in our top 10 song list is Abba Dancing Queen. This best selling single is one that I am not fond of at all! This dancey-pop Stockholm style, another #1 fabricated, which personally I felt lacked something and generally droned on somewhat. Since this song is regarded as an icon in itself, I guess this makes me out of step with the world. I will tell you one thing; it will not be played at my wedding.

# 6
The second funk song in our ranking at number 6 in the top 10 list is KC & The Sunshine Band Get Down Tonight. This disco classic is guaranteed to jump start any party. KC can deliver enthusiasm, but personally I think other KC songs could belong in this top 10 spot. Regardless, this is a great song.

# 5
The signature song of Def Leppard is Pour Some Sugar on Me. Serving as the stereotypical awesome party song; this is played at a variety of events because it is highly requested. If you are a big classic or 80s hair band fan, then you are familiar with this track and Rock n Roll. I knew this would be in the top 10 of our song list.

# 4
Van Morrison has many great songs and Brown Eyed Girl comes in at number 4 on our song list. This song is timeless, meaning that it appeals to practically everyone. This unforgettable melody would fit in the genre of bubbly pop. Brown Eyed Girl is a high spirited all time favorite so, it has earned its place at number 4 on our top song list.

# 3
Who seriously has not danced or karaoked to the B-52s Love Shack before? This song is not played out yet, in some (generations it maybe), but this tune is packed full or energy and flair. The Love Shack actually has its own dance that all ages know. This seems to be a trend with the younger generation. All I have to say is Tinnnnnn Rooooof....... rusted.

# 2
Our second place on our top 10 song list is Justin Timberlake Sexy Back. Justin Timberlake has been in the in the music scene for several years, and finally solidifies his single debut chart topper Sexy Back. This Timbaland-produced track features deep snazzy riffs with processed vocals. People know this song when it is played at our parties and is the only recent song to make its way into the top ten.

# 1
ACDC You Shook Me All Night Long is seriously a must play at our events, and deserves the number 1 spot on our top wedding song list. ACDC is requested by all age groups and You Shook Me All Night Long has a tendency to bring people together. When people hear those first 3 notes, they go crazy. This is one of their most recognizable/well known songs. There are still other songs by ACDC that deserve the same recognition. Angus Young can tear that guitar up!

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Robert Reno works for Encore Entertainment. His team provides DJs and lighting for Michigan wedding receptions. Visit the following links for vendor reviews on Lilac House in Mackinac Island and Mission Point Resort in Mackinac Island.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/lilac-house-bed-and-breakfast.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/lilac-house-bed-and-breakfast.html Thu, 23 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 Lilac House Bed and Breakfast on Market and Astor Street in Mackinac Island Michigan seems like an inviting and warm atmosphere for guests to unwind. However, it is not until after you have arrived at the Lilac House bed & breakfast, that you realized this stay could be worse than a motel 8. I remember asking the owner of the Lilac House B&B (LoriAnn) what time is breakfast served? She was very blunt with her prior arrangements stating she was going to meet her husband coming off the ship after two months so she left pop tarts in a box and she said she could tell us directions on how to make coffee. It was pretty clear at this point that the Lilac House was not a bed and breakfast whatsoever. I know someone that owns a reputable bed and breakfast and they offer eggs benedict in the morning...

Lilac House Bed and Breakfast

When walking up the stairs to the second floor you will notice a community bathroom for the 8 to 10 rooms. Privacy is virtually impossible because of how crampt the thin walled bed and breakfast is. I was a first time visitors to Mackinac Island, and she assured me it was okay to call her cell phone number on her business card anytime for any reason. I actually tried to conversate with her over the phone and she was very impersonal with responses to my appropriate questions about the island. As a matter of fact she sounded more annoyed than helpful. LoriAnn why would you give guests your business card with your contact number if you care nothing about their questions?

Review from Others at Lilac House in Mackinac Island

This unsatisfactory service was evident with others that stayed at the Lilac House Bed and Breakfast. I was told by a recently married couple, that had went to Douds Corner store to purchase a bottle of wine, and that they were not sure if they should have purchased the wine because they did not have a wine opener. The couple called the number printed on the front of LoriAnns business card to see if she had one or if they had to spend $15 on Douds last wine opener in stock. She was short with answering questions about the Bed and Breakfast and if they had a wine opener or not. Does LoriAnn wish she did not have her phone number listed on her business card at all? Obviously if you are a business owner and your guests have a question about your bed and breakfast you should be more than forthcoming with information. Word of mouth referrals and recent reviews might possibly affect those considering your services.

When people came downstairs to have coffee in the morning, coffee was gone. There were other hotel guests that drank the last of the coffee and when more guests came downstairs there was none left. When I got ready to checkout at 11am LoriAnn was not available and I was unsure where to go or how my luggage was going to get to the ferry on time. After this confusion I knocked on the back door for several minutes and got no response. It was not until after calling her personal cell phone that she finally opened the back door.

After leaving, I accidentally forgot the ticket for my bags on the living room counter (next to the pop tarts). I was not sure if I needed it or not until the porter asked for them, so I came back looking for the tickets. Her husband opened the door very rudely and said do you need something and guess what, the ticket was purposely thrown in the garbage. I had to sift through a dirty garbage to find it and he was not very hospitable when he said are you done yet?

Avoid the Lilac House Bed and Breakfast

LoriAnn obviously hates her job (which is probably her livelihood) and she probably inherited the Lilac House bed and breakfast from her family. I think that she personally would rather be somewhere else than overlooking the care of her visitors. If I were to act like that with any of my clients I would expect to be slapped! To me I was just room 7, how do you think she will affect your stay at Mackinac Island? I would have rather spent double money to avoid this situation and would advise that others steer clear of the Lilac House Bed and Breakfast in Mackinac Island Michigan.

Bottom line Lilac House Bed & Breakfast is a big headache that is not necessary for those staying and working on Mackinac Island!



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Robert Reno works for Encore Entertainment. His team provides DJs and lighting for Michigan wedding receptions. Visit the following links for more info about Lilac House Bed and Breakfast or your Michigan DJ s.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/mission-point-resort-hotel.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/mission-point-resort-hotel.html Wed, 22 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 Mission Point Resort Hotel in Mackinac Island Michigan, I was very disappointed with the service and unnecessary stress I received.


Mission Point Resort Hotel

Personally, I have had the pleasure of entertaining thousands of wedding receptions here in Michigan. We take a very personalized approach when dealing with our clients and wedding vendors. From what I can recall, I have never experienced a situation so unpleasant when working with a so called reputable banquet facility. Mission Point Resort almost ruined my entire weekend by costing me hundreds in avoidable travel expenses and canceled meetings. I feel that our 200,000+ visitors a year might find the following Mission Point Resort Hotel Mackinac Island review beneficial.

Vendors beware; Mission Point Resort in Mackinac Island is a headache for dealing with logistics. Before arriving on the Island, our client told us that the company equipment would be delivered directly to the Summit Room. Our equipment was left outside in a damp environment (can you imagine if their negligence would have affected your reception). Since we were not allowed to use the elevator, we had to carry the equipment to the room ourselves. The assistance that we were guaranteed was not available and after talking with the staff, they were not forthcoming with help.

Mission Point Resort Hotel in Mackinac Island Michigan is Unorganized

One word for Mission Point Resort Banquet Hall is unorganized. Honestly, there is no room to drop the ball on a couple who are investing time and money into your facility for their reception. One of my main concerns when dealing with the wedding reception was the logistics of our equipment. I remember talking with several employees and getting several conflicting answers. One employee told me we would have to come back to the hotel in the morning JUST to carry the equipment onto a dolly to be transported to the dock. Another employee told me that the bell staff would take care of this entire inconvenience for us. Since he was a representative of the company we took his word for it, knowing everything was handled.

We were prepared to dock the Arnold Line ferry at 3pm the following day. I had a business meeting in Detroit at 8pm with a bride so our equipment was already suppose to be in Mackinac City. At 2:55 I decided to make the phone call to Mission Point to make sure that our equipment was delivered to the dock on time.

And guess what... the equipment was never delivered! Why should I have to worry about this? I was told by two different employees it would be there at 2pm. My company name and phone number were placed on every bag. They had two hours to reach me if there was any issue, no follow-up procedure was done! If I would have went on the ferry, Mission Point Resort would have:

A.) made me take the last ferry back across to the island my equipment was still on
B.) walk 20 minutes across the island ONLY to carry it onto a dolly since it was an insurance liability
C.) since we would have missed the final 4pm ferry, we would of had to spend money on an over night hotel/bed & breakfast
D.) cancel my meeting with my bride in Detroit at 8pm


Why is this considered an insurance liability, when you can take care of my equipment in transit between the dock and your hotel? For your info, we had to wait several hours for the next ferry which cost me my meeting with my bride... thanks Mission Point.

Manager James Salem

One person that could have rectified this entire situation was Mr. James Salem (aka Jimmy or Jim). Manager James Salem could care less about my dilemma. I made attempts to contact him about what I should do. Jimmy Salem of Mission Point Resort was very reluctant to providing solutions to the problem. My understanding from our conversation was that if I was a guest he would of helped me. Since I was a wedding vendor Jim did not have time. This very impersonal approach towards weddings is the complete opposite of professional integrity. If Jimmy treats wedding vendors like this, how do you imagine he would treat guests on your special day? I think Mr. James Salem needs to go back to customer service school :(

Guest Review Mackinac Island Mission Point Resort Hotel

We were told from locals on Mackinac Island that the service we encountered was not uncommon for Mission Point Resort Hotel. Bags are constantly lost and damaged when falling off their shuttle. Guests have often missed their ferry due to lost luggage at docks and bags left behind at the hotel. Guest missing ferry rides are forced to find alternate solutions. This includes having to stay an additional night on the island which completely screws up someone's vacation. How would you feel if this happened to you after trusting them with your personal belongings? No bride, vendor, or guest should have to deal with the confusion that Jimmy Salem put me through.

Bottom line Book your wedding reception at ANY place besides Mission Point Resort Hotel in Mackinac Island Michigan. I would never treat a bride or wedding professional in any way comparable to their standards. They care about your money and not your memories.




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Robert Reno works for Encore Entertainment. His team provides DJs and lighting for Michigan wedding receptions. Visit the following links for more info about Mission Point Resort Hotel or your DJ Mi.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/society/weddings/fall-weddings-in-michigan.html http://www.articletrader.com/society/weddings/fall-weddings-in-michigan.html Fri, 03 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0500 Fall weddings in Michigan turnout so nicely? You can read the article below to discover all the benefits that a September, October or November wedding reception can have on your big day.

Can You Say Color?

Just imagine all the leaves changing colors, giving you one stellar backdrop in your wedding photos. Many brides choose to match their wedding colors with the vibrant yellows, reds, and oranges that you can expect from Fall. This means that even your flowers, linens, and attire can be done in complimenting colors to tie your Fall themed wedding reception together.

Just what the Weather Man Cooked Up

Weddings in Fall typically have excellent weather. This is great if you are planning an outdoor wedding ceremony or tented reception. There is usually low humidity with average temperatures around the mid 70s. Since weather for Fall weddings is more predictable, you will be less stressed wonder about the what ifs.

How to Plan a Fall Wedding

There are many times during the year that would be considered perfect for planning the wedding of your dreams. This all depends on what you would like to accomplish. There are also many steps involved with planning an outdoor celebration during this season. Location is one of the most important parts of your decision. A good way to narrow down the wedding hot spots of your choice is to have an idea of what type of event you are planning. Is it more of an intimate affair, would you centered on fun, or would you rather have it be as simple as possible?

Finally I just wanted to congratulate all brides in Michigan that are planning Fall weddings and ceremonies. Good luck with planning your Fall wedding and enjoy the beautiful weather and the distinctive colors!



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Robert Reno works for Encore Entertainment. His team provides DJs and lighting for Michigan wedding receptions. Visit the following links for more info about fall weddings in Michigan or the DJ Michigan.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/society/how-to-plan-a-corporate-event-party.html http://www.articletrader.com/society/how-to-plan-a-corporate-event-party.html Wed, 20 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0500 how to plan a corporate event party? Well, a good rule of thumb is to start the planning stages 4-6 months prior to the date. If you are anticipating over 125 guests, then you will require more resources and this timeframe should be stretched from 6-9 months instead. Depending on your corporate culture will determine the way you go about planning a unique corporate bash.

Location Location Location

Going back to the guest list, you will first need to figure out how many guests will be in attendance. This will limit you with choices for a venue. If you are a larger regional or global corporation then you may need audio, visual, and hotel meeting space. If this is a less complex company, then a celebration at your local banquet facility might do the trick. If you have any out of town guests (CEOs, board members, honorary or distinguished guests) then you might want to locate your corporate event party near an airport for ease of logistics. The location should be allocated towards the largest portion of your budget; however there are other factors that are equally important.

Hire the Right Team

A team of professional vendors will be able to execute your vision without hesitation. A good question to ask your self is, 'how am I trying to leave an impact on at this party'? Regardless of the answer, your vendors including caterer, guest speakers, and entertainment are an extension of your reputation. A poor selection of vendors may leave a bad impression on your guests including those in management. This is the second most important area to invest your time and energy because it is the small details that can make or break a corporate event.

Pick a Spontaneous Theme

Do you remember your last past at your company from any of the previous years? If you have to think for more than ten seconds, then the planning committee did not do their job. When you sell or market a product, you have to establish an identity for your brand, and likewise when you plan and execute a successful party, you need to create a theme centered on your company. This theme should be different from past years. Try to implement your companies history and short term vision into the theme. There are many places to start and a good way to do this is to brainstorm with some of your co-workers to get some great ideas.

Get Guests Involved

We all know that one of the main purposes behind the company party is to ignite team building skills and employee moral. So how do you plan a corporate event party? Ask your guests, the employees. A great way to get instant feedback is with a newsletter addressed to all the employees. You can also mass e-mail a link to a survey for specific requests to all the employees. You might want to get an idea of the type of entrees guests might want. They will be able to tell you fun ways to promote team spirit and what type of vibe they are expecting from the party. The more you center the company party around your employees the more successful the event will be.

Finally be Creative

After you have read the above tips on how to plan the perfect corporate party, the final advice is to be creative. There are many stresses associated with being responsible for the company party, do not let this limit ideas. Many times people will not try creative ideas because they are afraid it will flop and management will put the blame on them. Just because it is a company party does not mean that waltz music will be played the entire evening. Just because it is a company party does not mean your guests should expect the traditional format with speeches and dinner selections. You will be surprised with the compliments you will receive if you think outside of the box. For example get a sushi bar, use Accent Lighting, or have an all white party. As you can tell the possibilities are endless. So if you want to leave a lasting impression on your guests keep them in mind and choose a theme that will surprise everyone including yourself!



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Robert Reno works for Encore Entertainment. His team provides DJs and lighting for Michigan wedding receptions. Visit the following links for more info about how to plan a corporate event party or the DJ in Michigan.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/society/weddings/how-to-hire-a-wedding-dj.html http://www.articletrader.com/society/weddings/how-to-hire-a-wedding-dj.html Mon, 18 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0500 Many brides struggle with trying to find the perfect entertainment for their big day. This is a very important decision, because the entertainment can make or break the entire evening. So how do you hire a wedding DJ? I have laid out 7 helpful tips below that will help you select the right company for your special day.

1.) Friends don't let friends DJ their wedding

Before we get into pricing, I just wanted to let everybody know that friends do not let their friends DJ their wedding. Instead, you should have your friend attend the wedding as a guest or even in the bridal party. Just because they are your friend does not mean that you have to let them DJ your wedding. They may give you a killer deal on the DJ package, but are they really professional DJ material? I am sure there are many people who know pro wedding DJs out there that would be the perfect match for your wedding. However, I have heard the stories many times where brides wished they would have spent $300.00 more instead of having their cousins friend ruin the reception with blowup guitars, rap, and cheesy announcements. A professional wedding DJ company will go over all the details with you ahead of time, so that there are no surprises.

2.) See Your DJ in Action

Honestly, most wedding DJ companies that you might consider hiring will not allow you to attend a private function such as a wedding reception. When you really think about it, would like to have some guest come uninvited to your wedding just to get free drinks and eat your appetizers? A reputable company will focus all their attention on the client for that day instead of the next one being booked. To fix this problem online video demos come in handy. You can see event highlights of your DJ in action, and get a feel for how they will coordinate your wedding day while working with your vendors.

3.) Type of DJ/Personality

This will make or break the DJ company that you hire for your wedding. No two DJs are the same and with that said not every DJ is created equally. Some DJs will do any and every type of event, while others specialize in weddings. When you first talk to the DJ over the phone, get a feel for how they present themselves during the conversation. Are they energetic? Are they passionate? This is what you can expect from them on your wedding day. Some DJs spend 30 seconds on the phone while others take the time to understand what you are looking for so they meet your expectations. When you hire a wedding DJ you are also hiring the master of ceremonies. They will be your spokesperson for the evening representing both of your families. It is a wise idea to go with a company that has good chemistry with you and your fiance.

4.) What Does Price Really Mean

Every couple wants their wedding day to be perfect, and they also want to save as much money as possible. So what does price really mean when hiring a wedding DJ? I am sure you have heard the old saying you get what you pay for, but quality entertainment does not cost it pays. If you skimp a couple of hundred dollars on the entertainment your guests might not stay long enough to get your moneys worth from the hall, your photographer might not take above average photos, and that late night snack tray might go to waste as well. When guests look back on your wedding day 10, 15, even 20 years from now, do you know what they will remember... if they had fun or not!

So we know that going with the cheapest might cost you the most stress, but the most expensive does not mean the best either. Sometimes you are charged for setup and teardown, online planning, travel, and the list goes on. It is best to work with a company that can compromise with your budget. A company that does not have any hidden costs and gives you the most bang for your buck This typical price range will usually fall between $795-$1295. Sometimes pricing can go over this range if you factor in custom options including Wall Accent Lighting, custom name monogram, and remote sound.

5.) References References References!

By far one of the most important areas to spend your time when figuring out how to hire a wedding DJ is feedback and testimonials. References should be recent, from within the past 6-12 months, and you should be given an adequate amount of them for the type of event you are considering (EX. you should not be given a list of corporate referrals for a wedding reception they are completely different). If you are given a list of over 15 satisfaction surveys, contact 3 or 4 random brides and really listen to what they say. Ask them why they hired the DJ company, how the wedding DJ did at their wedding, and their overall impression. Any wedding DJ that is serious about your business will have nothing to hide and will provide references upon request.

6.) Talk with Several Companies

So you talked with one wedding DJ company now guess what? Talk with another and another. The best piece of advice is to consult with several wedding DJs before making a decision on which one to hire. This will also give you a better understand of what you are looking for immediately! You will be surprised at the way some entertainers carry themselves. Just imagine how they will handle your ONE wedding! Keep notes of all conversations and prices quoted for your wedding. Narrow your selection down to 2 or 3 ideal companies and make your decision from there.

7.) What about the contract and payments

Finally after you have your sights on a particular wedding DJ, enforce what you want with a contract. All the stipulations should be discussed before hand and all the important details should be included (location, date, time, # of guests, names, and phone number). When going over the contract, also talk about how are payments made. Most wedding DJ companies accept a 50% retainer at the time the contract is signed to reserve your date. Usually the outstanding balance is due the night off. Majority of the time, payments can be made in advance if you are more comfortable with that. Will your DJ accept a personal check, if so who is it made out to? Small things like this will tell you how flexible a wedding DJ is, (this is a biggie when it comes to weddings). At most weddings the timeline will jump around plus or minus 10-15 minutes. Your wedding DJ will have to adjust to these changes without hesitation.

How do You Hire the Right Wedding DJ

This all depends on how you take the advice from this article. Every bride and groom is different and this means that they are looking for different qualities in a wedding DJ. The best approach to take when interviewing wedding DJs is to get a vibe of how they view you as a person and a client. Wedding receptions should not be done in a cookie cutter fashion. When weddings are personalized to what the bride and groom want, then this means that they hired the best wedding DJ available.


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Robert Reno works for Encore Entertainment. His team provides DJs and lighting for Michigan wedding receptions. Visit the following links for more info about how to hire a wedding DJ or the Michigan DJ.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/society/weddings/should-i-count-my-wedding-vendors-in-the-seating-for-the-meal.html http://www.articletrader.com/society/weddings/should-i-count-my-wedding-vendors-in-the-seating-for-the-meal.html Mon, 14 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500 should count my wedding vendors in the head count for the meal?" A true professional will not expect it, but will definitely appreciate the gesture.

Something to keep in mind, it that your wedding photographer and DJ will be spending upwards of 10 hours just on preparation and services for your wedding day. This means that hey might be running low on energy if they are not able to get something into their stomachs. Some wedding companies will have a stipulation in their contract that states they must be fed while attending the reception. Not everyone should be considered for the seating during the dinner. A majority of brides will fix this problem by having a vendor table and inviting their photographer, DJ, videographer, wedding planner to have a seat at it. This also works well, because then all these people will have something in common to easily talk about.

Depending on the reception, some meals run upwards of $40 a plate. You will also already have all your family and friends in the seating for the meal portion of the reception. So you will have to make the call on what you think is appropriate. If you are considering having a vendor table, consult with them if they are bringing any assistants. However, when your wedding vendor gets a name card done in calligraphy with their name on it, they will get that warm feeling inside.


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Robert Reno works for Encore Entertainment. His team provides DJs and lighting for Michigan wedding receptions. Visit the following links for more info about if you should count your wedding vendors in the seating or Michigan DJ Services.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/society/weddings/memorable-wedding-reception-tips.html http://www.articletrader.com/society/weddings/memorable-wedding-reception-tips.html Thu, 10 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500
Memorable Wedding Reception Tips

Here is a great tip, think back to a wedding reception that you attended recently. What was the focal point of the wedding? Was there anything that really stood out to you? Think about the flowers, decor, lighting, food, desserts, facility, people, or music, where did they spend the time and energy at? What was your initial reaction to what they did at their wedding reception?

A wedding reception is a once in a lifetime event. This classy affair is also a celebration and should be an expression of two lives becoming one. From the guests point of view you want it to be looked back on as the BEST EVER! I like to ask our clients 'what is most important to you for your wedding day?' A majority of responses are classy, elegant, fun, relaxing. I ask what you want your guests to say after your reception, 'wow that was very detailed' 'wow that lighting on the walls was classy' 'wow that music really set the tone for the evening'.

If you really ask yourself how you want your wedding reception to be remembered, it can be a great place to start planning your wedding budget. You answer the questions to help prioritize your wedding planning based on your guest’s perspective. If you want your wedding reception to flow exactly as you have planned, then think hard about what you are looking to accomplish. The first step in creating that lasting memory is to follow the memorable wedding reception tips above.


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Robert Reno works for Encore Entertainment. His team provides DJs and lighting for Michigan wedding receptions. Visit the following links for more info about Memorable Wedding Reception Tips or the Michigan DJ.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]>