Wedding/Party DJ's

[neal79]

I just met with a couple the other day to discuss music for their wedding reception. I do lots of weddings but normally with bands. They have a list of songs that they want played and do not wish to deviate or take requests.

What surprised me is that they talked to a few other DJ's about this and none of them wanted to do this. They all said they could mix some of these songs in with what they wanted to do. I really don't get this, its a wedding and the pay is REALLY good so maybe they don't need the cash. Just blew my mind that someone would turn down over $100 and hour because they would rather entertain themselves that the customer. Needless to say I have a deposit check and contract on its way.

[dolivas]

I can probably see why the DJs didn't want to do the gig. It might be older school dj's who still use cassettes or cds for all of their music. If they had to add all the music those peeps required then they (the djs) have to go out and buy that music.

They would be apprehensive about having to spend cash on new cds they won't be able use in the future and having the couple in the end cancel on them. I doubt that's the case since you could put in a contract for them not to do so. I think if you've got an iPod and can download mp3s it shouldn't be that hard to fulfill their request. You're supposed to try to lure customers not push them away just because you can't hack it.

[smopo24]

Originally Posted by dolivas

You're supposed to try to lure customers not push them away just because you can't hack it.

I agree with dolivas, it's a service industry; you have to serve the customers first. How much would it cost to put your personal taste aside? Honestly, if it's my wedding, my money, and my time, I want you to play the music I want to hear. I know the wedding dj/band industry is pretty insular, and word travels fast; I wouldn't want to be the guy with the bad rep who only plays what he wants to hear!

[dolivas]

To hell with personal taste if you're a party DJ. You're in the service industry if you're doing Weddings/Parties imho. Just give the people what they want (within reason of course) and call it a day. That's what party booze and chicks are for, to get your mind of the crappy music you would be playing.