This article is written by a professional wedding disc jockey.

Disc Jockeys (DJs) serve several roles for weddings. They help with ceremonies and rehearsals. They provide microphones for officiants, readers and singers for ceremonies. Sometimes they mic a soloist or musicians.

They are best known for the wedding reception - where they wear different hats depending on the occasion and your tastes and needs. They are Disc Jockeys - playing the music to match the atmosphere of the event and "rocking the house" when you are ready. They are Emcees - helping introduce the wedding party and announcing what's going on and when. They are wedding coordinators - helping with the flow of events and/or working with the other wedding professionals to make sure everything flows smoothly.

Here's what to look for in a DJ and Emcee that will help your special day become a success.

• Talk with them and meet them. Do they have the personality you seek for your event? Do you "click" with them? You don't expect to become best buddies with your DJ, but there should be a "click factor". You'll have particular needs and music you wish to share with your family and friends. Will they accommodate your wishes? Are they familiar with the particular needs you might have with a San Diego wedding?
• DJs provide multiple systems and gear for your special day. You may have a ceremony outside, a cocktail hour on a side patio and a reception indoors. They can provide audio in all locations. Look for professionals who can pre-set dedicated systems for these areas to avoid set-up in front of guests or as the event is in progress.
• Music is one of the most important issues couples wrestle with. Your DJ should provide a sample list of some sort that you can choose music from. They should sit down with you and make note of special requests for the traditions and dancing and even a "do-not-play" list.
• How outgoing do you want your entertainment to be? Yes, DJs are entertainers. Professionals dial it up and down depending on your tastes. Do you want the music to do more of the talking or do you want someone who will interact with your group and really motivate them to dance and have fun. Perhaps you want something in between?
• Ask for references. They should have plenty of them on hand and be ready to share them without hesitation. While other clients may have different tastes than yours, than can attest to the professionalism, reliability and demeanor displayed by the DJ at their event. The bottom line - they'll tell you whether their event was a success and how much the DJ helped.
• Does your DJ offer a contract with timings, policies and monies spelled out in black and white? A contract is for both parties benefit, but it should give you piece of mind that you are dealing with a professional.

May the sweet sounds of celebration and love fill your ears and your future!

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