All posts by Mike Urban

wedding dance floor with guests dancing to wedding theme songs

Wedding Reception Music: 10 Questions that Get You Awesome Wedding Songs

The right wedding playlist that guarantees a packed dance floor is different for every couple. As wedding DJs, we’re firm believers that every couple’s wedding reception music should fit their big day (more than a Google search for the top wedding songs can do!)

The good news is that deciding on the right wedding songs can be as simple as sitting down together and asking the right questions. (Think of setting the right wedding playlist as another chance to get to know each other!) The answers to your questions can set the tone for the right wedding playlist, or give you answers to pass on to your band or wedding DJ.

What kind of wedding atmosphere are we trying to plan?

Wedding reception music can be an integral part of establishing a wedding atmosphere. Period specific music can go a long way toward reinforcing a vintage wedding with all those retro details. In the same way, the right wedding songs can be a sign of the trend-setting, modern wedding reception to come.

What is the budget for our wedding reception music?

Couples don’t need a huge wedding budget to get the best music, but they do need to allocate funds according to the items that make the biggest impact on guests. The amount in each category on the wedding budget checklist helps you decide on the right vendors for your big day. These tips can help you decide between a band and DJ, and choosing the right wedding entertainment for your big day.

Do we need an emcee for our wedding reception?

Couples often underestimate the importance of having an emcee to direct the crowd and keep guests on the dance floor. Emcees can make major announcements, point guests to major points of interest (such as a tasting bar or photo booth), and even assist with surprises. A professional emcee, such as a band leader or DJ, has the expertise to make the flow feel effortless and well-planned.

What are our favorite songs?

This is your big night. It’s normal to want a night filled with your favorite songs, but don’t get so set on the idea that you don’t listen to your band or DJ. Together, put your favorite songs down on paper (if you disagree on the list, give each other a certain number of vetoes). Once you’ve hired your wedding entertainer, pass on the list and let them mix it in with top wedding songs that fit with who you are as a couple.

What wedding songs do we hate?

No bride or groom wants to hear songs that give them the same sensation as nails on a chalkboard. In addition to ‘must play’ songs, draft a list of songs that you absolutely hate. Don’t overdo it! Be careful about marking too many of guests’ favorites so they don’t get the chance to dance to their favorite songs.

Do we have any favorite songs that we want for our entrance into the wedding reception?

Your entrance into your wedding reception can be as unique as you want it to be—and the right wedding song puts it over the top. If you have a favorite song that fits the mood you want for your entrance (think excitement, classical, or a song that reinforces a theme), now is the time to put it down on paper. Don’t worry if you can’t come up with the right song; your DJ or band can suggest songs that are right for your wedding reception.

Is there a special song that we want for our first dance?

Some couples have their first song set in stone the first night they meet. For others, it’s not so clear (this list of tips for choosing the first dance song can help). If you want to make the moment completely different, ask your DJ or band to select the right first dance song for the ultimate surprise.

Do we want to play any games during the wedding reception? Are there any surprises we want to include?

Just like wedding songs, put together a list of games that you love and hate (this list of wedding dance games can get you started). If you both hate wedding dance games, it’s okay to hold a wedding reception without a single game; make sure you let the wedding DJ or band know you hate games so there is a clear understanding. If you want to add a surprise to the wedding reception, such as a visitor or celebrity popping up unexpectedly (use this list of wedding surprises to start your planning), let the wedding DJ or band in on the secret. Often, they can take your surprise to another level with wedding songs and announcements.

Are there any curfews or volume limitations we need to follow?

If the wedding venue has any curfews or volume limitations, it’s better to know right away. If an over-the-top wedding dance is a top priority, include the question in the list of questions you ask the wedding venue. Always let the DJ or band know as soon as possible if the answer is a yes. Once you have those important details, use this wedding reception planning checklist and let the wedding planning fun begin.

wedding guests in photo booth with silly hats and funny faces

30 Photo Booth Prop Ideas Perfect for Your Wedding

A wedding photo booth is one form of wedding entertainment that can be customized to be completely YOU. The best way to set your photo booth apart from a bunch of generic selfies is to stock a costume box full of fun photo booth props.

Photo Booth Tips

  • Choose photo booth props that fit with the wedding atmosphere.
  • Always rent a reliable photo booth unit to avoid breakdowns and headaches (use these tips to select a quality photo booth for the big day).
  • Designate someone in charge of troubleshooting any photo booth problems so you can enjoy your wedding day (or rent a photo booth unit with a staff member who can troubleshoot any issues).
  • Strategically position the photo booth at the wedding venue so there is a natural flow of guests and you get lots of shots.
  • Make (fun) signs that direct guests to the photo booth.
  • Select the right backdrop that fits with the style of your special day.
  • Include social media hashtag in your photo booth props.
  • Make sure your photo booth props are sturdy so the props don’t look worn in late night shots.

Photo Booth Prop Ideas

  1. Top Hats
  2. Feather Boas
  3. Sunglasses
  4. Paper Fans
  5. Bow ties
  6. Ties
  7. Mustaches
  8. Flowers
  9. Crowns
  10. Hearts (strung together or individual)
  11. Frames (choose styles that fit with the wedding atmosphere)
  12. Masquerade Masks
  13. Mardi Gras Beads
  14. Hawaiian Leis
  15. Large Playing Cards
  16. Foam Fingers
  17. 4-Leaf Clovers
  18. Bows
  19. Magnifying Glass
  20. Umbrellas
  21. Berets
  22. Trophies
  23. Pirate Hat
  24. Mickey Mouse Ears
  25. Cowboy Hats
  26. Frame with Wedding Date
  27. Large Letters & Numbers
  28. Chalkboard (for customizable messages)
  29. Sticks/signs with cute sayings in dialogue bubble (“I’m just here for the cake!”)
  30. Sticks/signs with wedding hashtag
wedding day planned after meeting with DJ

What is included in a wedding DJ cost?

Budgeting funds for a wedding DJ can feel like a guessing game full of questions. How much does a good wedding DJ cost? What services does a wedding DJ offer? How do I find a wedding DJ that keeps my guests on the dance floor without busting the budget?

Hiring the Right Wedding DJ

Every wedding DJ offers different services as part of the cost. At the very least, a wedding DJ should offer the basic services: equipment and a DJ. At the very most, a wedding DJ service should provide equipment, an experienced (this is important!) DJ, back-up equipment and DJ (in case of emergencies). Some DJ services also provide other entertainment as part of a package deal, such as lighting or a photo booth rental.

Choosing the right DJ and wedding DJ cost starts with setting a wedding budget. (This article from Wedding Wire can give you insight into the amount for the wedding DJ line on the budget.) The next step is to compile a list of wedding DJs to contact about services and wedding DJ cost. As you contact DJs, watch for red flags that signal they are not the right DJ for your special day. Be cautious about wedding DJs who don’t have a business address, don’t want to meet or show their equipment, or don’t return your calls.

Once you have compiled a prospective list of wedding DJs, interview each service to narrow down your options. Ask each wedding service:

  • “Are you available on our wedding DJ?”
  • “How long have you DJ’ed at weddings?”
  • “What is the cost of your services? What do those costs cover? Do you charge overtime fees?”
  • “Have you ever DJ’ed at my venue? Do you charge a travel fee for coming to my venue?”
  • “Do you have insurance? Can you provide proof of insurance?”
  • “What is your plan if your equipment breaks down or a DJ can’t make it?”
  • “Do you offer any other services or package deals?”
  • “Is dinner music provided as part of the cost? Does the DJ serve as an emcee?”
  • “Can we meet? What is the best way to contact you as we plan our wedding reception?”

In addition to an interview, research each DJ service. Check their social media sites and major wedding websites for reviews from past customers. Before signing on the dotted line, carefully review the contract fine print to ensure that the DJ is the “one” who fits your needs and your budget.

Wedding Budget Tips

  • Allocate the majority of budget funds for wedding details that make a big impact on guests, such as the venue, catering, and entertainment. While a particularly budget-busting favor may be incredibly cute, good food and an excellent wedding DJ have a bigger overall impact on guests’ experience.
  • Use a wedding budget checklist or wedding planning app to stay within budget and avoid overspending on minor details.
  • If the wedding budget is a concern, try to choose a wedding date during the off-peak season (when weddings aren’t popular) and on a day that isn’t in high demand (such as a Thursday, Friday, or Sunday).
  • Always review every vendor contractor for hidden fees, such as overtime charges by wedding DJs.
  • Ask wedding vendors if they offer additional services or package deals. Many wedding vendors offer discounts for packaged services (i.e. many wedding DJs offer discounts for music and lighting).
  • While sticking to a wedding budget is important, be cautious about always choosing the lowest cost option. The cheapest vendor is not always the best vendor for the job.
  • Carefully screen each wedding vendor. Look for red flags, such as a vendor with no business address or no communication before the big day.

wedding party celebrating at wedding reception

(Fun!) Bridal Party Entrance Ideas

The bridal party entrance is another opportunity to take your wedding dance to the next level. If you’re planning a wedding dance that’s over-the-top, these tips and ideas are a ‘must’ for an incredibly memorable bridal party entrance.  

Bridal Party Entrance Tips

Bridal Party Entrance Ideas

Plan a dance that gets everyone in on the fun.

If you have a bridal party full of dancers, ask them (don’t assume!) if they want to plan a fun bridal party entrance dance. Have each attendant pair choose their favorite dance song, then turn the songs over to the DJ to take the medley to the next level. For a bridal party that doesn’t want to stand out, ask your DJ how to create a “flash mob” effect with everyone dancing together. Whatever you choose to do, make sure you plan times when your attendants can practice so you look coordinated and polished.

Make your entrance pap-worthy.

For couples who want to make your bridal party entrance feel like a walk on the red carpet, plan an entrance flanked by the paparazzi. You can make this fun by asking friends to fill the roll (make sure you fully outfit them for full effect) or hiring entertainers for the occasion. Complete the bridal party entrance with a real red carpet and a song that would be fitting of any Hollywood style entrance.

Prop it up!

Props can be a fun addition to any bridal party entrance WITH a few caveats. Remember the non-tacky tip above. Choose props that are fun or fit with your wedding theme AND make sure your bridal party has an easy way to get rid of them. Don’t leave your DJ out of the fun. Ask the pros for song ideas that fit with bridal party entrance ideas and the props.

Make the entrance a trivia contest.

If you are a couple who loves trivia contests, make the bridal party entrance a trivia contest. Have fun with this bridal party entrance idea; choose an awesome DJ who can serve as the perfect trivia contest host and give him or her the information that makes this an unforgettable game show.

Plan the ultimate race.

Make your bridal party entrance feel like the end of a fantastic race. Have your bridal party attendants cross the finish line—and cheer you on as finish your first race as newlyweds. Get out the checkered flags and lights…this is sure to be a race that everyone’ll cheer for!

bride and groom at small wedding reception

7 Incredibly Common Wedding First Dance Mistakes to Avoid

Your wedding first dance is supposed to be special, but these mistakes can make it anything but—for you and your guests. Nobody wants to plan a boring first dance, but you don’t want your first dance to be memorable for all the wrong reasons either. That’s why we’ve put together a list of wedding first dance mistakes that many couples have made (and many guests noticed!)

Not conferring with the DJ

You hired your DJ for a reason (hopefully because they are experienced and incredibly good at what they do). Use them! Don’t hesitate to ask your wedding DJ for ideas for first dance songs, surprises, and ways to take it to the next level. A good experienced DJ has been to many weddings and has seen many wedding first dances. For a custom wedding first dance, listen to their ideas and personalize them into a special first dance.  

Choosing an awkward first dance song

Your wedding first dance should be remembered as a special moment that totally fit you as a couple, not as that “creepy first dance.” The internet is full of stories of couples that chose creepy first dance songs and awkward moments. One groom even used the same first dance song at both his weddings (which the guests did notice!) The lesson is to choose the right wedding first dance song. If you need some help, check out these tips for choosing the right (not creepy) first dance song.

Not researching the lyrics

Before you commit to any first dance song, make sure you look up the lyrics online. You’d be surprised to see how many songs sound great but have a different meaning once you read through the lyrics.

Going a little too over-the-top

The best first dances are “totally you” or, on the flip side, a huge surprise. It’s okay to think out-of-the-box or try to make your first dance fun. Just make sure you’re not trying too hard to be something you’re not.

Not practicing

A choreographed first dance is an all-or-none effort. If you both want to pull off a dance routine, make sure you and your partner practice (A LOT) before your wedding day.

Dancing FOREVER

If you want to empty your dance floor (and your wedding reception), choose a wedding first dance song that’s just the right length. The optimal length for songs are between two and two half minutes. Really long first dance songs, usually more than three or four minutes, bore guests and a good way to clear your wedding venue quickly.

Choosing the wrong shoes for the first dance

The first dance should be all about enjoying the moment. Don’t let painful shoes ruin it. Be selective when you choose your shoes and use them when you practice so you can break them in.

wedding guests in photo booth with silly hats and funny faces

Renting a Wedding Photo Booth in Chicago? Ask these Questions

Googling “wedding photo booth rental near me” is only the start of renting a photo booth for your big day. A wedding photo booth rental should be the source of fun candid shots (including those crazy poses and photo booth props) and jokes for years to come. It shouldn’t turn into a headache on your special night, but it can (really easily!) if the photo booth breaks down or the rental company is difficult to work with.

That’s why it’s important to ask a few questions before renting a photo booth. A short interview with the rental company ensures that you know what you’re renting, what is included with the rental, and the exact cost of the booth.

Do I get the photos from the photo booth? What kind of paper and printer is used?

Photo booth photos are much more fun when they are enjoyed by everyone! Ask your photo booth rental company if guests and the couple get photos from the booth (instead of just guests).

Avoid photo booths with cheap desktop printers and low-quality paper. You won’t be able to appreciate those crazy shots on flimsy paper—and you definitely won’t be able to if a cheap printer breaks down.

How big is the wedding photo booth?

If you want to take the “go big home or go home” approach to a photo booth, ask about the size of the booth. Some of the best shots are group shots! Larger photo booths can accommodate up to 10 guests, but choosing the size is up to you. Contact a photo booth rental company with a variety of sizes and the strong structure so your friends can take the ultimate group photo.

Does the rental include photo booth props? Can I customize the backdrop?

Photo booth props are almost as important as the people in the shots. (Use these ideas for fun photo booth props.) Find out right away if the photo booth rental includes props or start shopping for props that fit with your theme. The right props and backdrop can make or break wedding day photos. Think masquerade masks for a formal wedding, crowns for a fairy tale wedding reception, and feather boas for a theatrical night.

What if the wedding photo booth breaks down?

Nobody wants to think about a broken-down photo booth, but the truth is that it does happen. Cheap photo booth rentals might seem appealing, but don’t always come with support if the equipment fails. Find out before you rent whether there is a back-up booth and support available so you can still get great shots from a wedding booth—even if it’s not the original piece of equipment.

How much does the photo booth cost? How long is included in the rental? Is there a discount for a package rental?

When contacting the photo booth rental company, don’t stop at asking about the rental rate. Ask about all the fine print that comes with a rental, such as the length of time included in the rate and if there are any other fees. If you need other entertainment for your wedding, ask if the company offers other wedding entertainment and if there are discounts for package rentals.

How long do DJs play at weddings?

shot of people dancing at epic wedding receptionSetting a timeline for your wedding reception may not be the most glamorous part of wedding planning, but it’s necessary—and incredibly common. The internet is full of engaged couples grappling with the common question, “How long do I need to hire my wedding DJ?”

How long do wedding DJs play?

The primary reason behind the question pertains to budget. Many wedding DJs charge by the hour, leaving budget-conscious couples looking for ways to cut costs. That cut often means cutting the hours of the wedding DJ; usually, DJs play for 5-6 hours at a typical wedding reception.

Unfortunately, there is a downside to hiring a DJ for a set amount of time. Some DJs charge overtime fees if the reception runs long or if they have to stay longer than the contracted amount of time. This leaves couples asking, “What if my wedding reception runs long? How do I avoid a big bill or surprise charges?” Obviously, no one wants to kick their guests out and shut down an epic wedding dance.

There is another solution: find a wedding DJ who offers an all-inclusive package with no limit on time and no overtime fees.

Where can I find a wedding DJ?

Chicago is full of wedding DJs. The path to the right DJ is different for every couple. Here’s where to start:

  • Chicago Wedding Shows. Visit a wedding show near you in Chicagoland. Make sure you come equipped with a list of questions to ask your wedding DJ.
  • Social Media. Let the search engines find wedding DJs for you. Browse through the websites and social media sites for reviews and testimonials. E-mail and message every wedding DJ with a list of questions. This approach comes with a caveat: never hire a DJ without a face-to-face meeting.
  • Wedding Sites. Wedding websites like the Knot and Wedding Wire provide lists of Chicago-area DJs. These websites come with reviews from newlyweds and an easy contact button for contacting local DJs.
  • Recommendations. Finding a wedding DJ may be as easy as asking friends and family, but use some caution to this approach. Be careful about recommendations that come with “my friend has a DJ service,” “my brother is awesome,” or any endorsement that was given without any personal experience.
  • Review Sites. Similar to wedding websites, review sites are useful for couples looking for neutral reviews. These sites are helpful for finding and researching wedding DJs; the next step is to set up a meeting with the wedding DJs and decide which service is right for your big night.

Tips for Avoiding a Terribly Boring First Dance

bride and guests at wedding reception dancing to reception entertainerIf you’re a couple who doesn’t want your guests to watch a boring sway back and forth during your first dance, these ideas are for you.

Choreograph the first dance.

Choreographed first dances are all the rage, but the exact nature of the first dance is totally up to you. Depending on your wedding atmosphere, you can choose a traditional dance, an ethnic song that’s close to your heart, or a really modern dance that showcases your moves. Make sure you select a song that totally exudes who you are as a couple (use this list of tips and avoid creepy or awkward songs, for the sake of your guests) and have fun with it. Don’t forget to practice (a lot)!

Surprise guests with a shocking visitor.

A celebrity (or celebrity look alike), friend or family member who lives far away, school mascot…the options are endless for this fun surprise. Remember, mum’s the word for optimal shock value. Be really creative with the idea, and don’t forget to coordinate the surprise with the DJ who can have fun with cool lights and songs perfect for the moment. (Use these tips for choosing a DJ who can totally pull this surprise off.)

Coordinate a surprise medley with the DJ.

One of the newest trends is to mix up the first dance with a medley. This is a great idea for couples who can’t just choose one first dance song or who want to choreograph along with the music. For extra shock factor, start with a slow number and then bust a fun move. If you want to reinforce a wedding theme, choose a series of songs that reinforce the atmosphere. Then, have fun!

Bring on the flash mob.

A flash mob is a fantastic idea for any couple looking to add drama exponentially to their first dance. If you chose a groovy bunch of attendants, include them in on the fun (think of it as a bonding experience). If they politely decline, head to a local entertainment agent or dance studio to hire a flash mob just for the occasion. (As always, don’t forget to mention it to the DJ so he/she can cue the lights and music at just the right time!)

Do a confetti drop.

This first dance idea is for couples who don’t mind a little confetti (or balloons or…) in their hair. Before setting this idea in stone, always ask the venue if they allow a confetti drop. If you get permission, ask the DJ for ideas on how to make the moment extra dramatic.

Add a video to the fun.

If you want to add technology to the first dance, cue up the moment with a video or have a video going while you dance. The video can be a fun montage of all your special moments together, a chronological group of photos or videos that led to this moment, or a group of well-wishing videos from all your friends and family. Either way, it’s a sweet way to build up to your first dance together or—for shyer couples—to take some of the attention off of you.

Ask your DJ for suggestions.

There are a ton of ways to spice up the first dance, and chances are your DJ has seen quite a few of them. Don’t hesitate them about other couples’ first dances so you can customize their idea into your own. Hopefully, you chose your DJ because they are the ultimate pro. Use it!

Ways to Find (and Hire) a GOOD Wedding DJ

wedding dance floor with deejayA fantastic night of dancing at your wedding reception is about more than music. Planning an epic wedding reception is not difficult, but it does require hiring a few quality vendors. An excellent photographer, a great videographer, an awesome wedding venue for pictures, an over-the-top wedding bar—they all play a part in creating the perfect setting and capturing memories from an unforgettable night of dancing and fun.

The main factor in a really awesome wedding dance is undeniably the main entertainer: the band or wedding DJ (weigh options for wedding reception entertainment here). If the latter is the “one,” use these ways to find and hire a local wedding DJ that fits the occasion (and those high expectations!)

Chicago Wedding Shows

The easiest way to find a DJ is to head out to one of the many wedding shows held throughout Chicagoland; this is also a time-saving way to compile a list of potential wedding vendors because they are all together in one location. Bring your wedding checklist (or binder) so you can kickstart your wedding planning off on an organized foot.

Social Media

Social media can serve a dual purpose when finding and choosing a wedding DJ. Depending on the social media channel, the site can be a useful source of testimonials (are other clients satisfied with their service?) and examples of service. If the potential wedding DJ is a serious prospect, don’t hesitate to contact the DJ through social media (a good DJ promptly responds).

Wedding Sites

Wedding websites like the Knot or Wedding Wire can be a useful first step in wedding planning. These sites are full of potential local wedding vendors, along with information and reviews. As an added bonus, these sites can be a valuable asset when vetting wedding venues that require couples to choose from a list of wedding vendors.

Recommendations

Friends and family can be an excellent source of wedding DJ recommendations. Think, “I used this wedding DJ and he was awesome!” or “Don’t use the wedding DJ that was at my cousin’s wedding because…” Be extra careful about recommendations that are not based off of personal experience, such as “My brother…” or “My friend’s friend does it on the side.” These recommendations can lead to amateur DJs who don’t have quality equipment or a back-up in case of emergencies.

Review Sites

Online review sites can be an easy way to compile a list of potential wedding DJs. When sifting through comments, understand that some internet trolls leave false negative reviews. However, if the reviews are overwhelmingly positive, proceed on to the next step: interviewing potential wedding DJs.

Interview

Don’t hire a wedding DJ without a thorough interview. An interview can help cross wedding DJs off the list because their prices exceed the wedding budget, they aren’t available, or for a variety of other reasons. The interview can be done via phone, in-person (schedule an appointment), e-mail, or social media. Ask these questions:

  • “Are you available on my wedding date (or these dates)?”
  • “How long have you been in business?”
  • “Do you have any references?”
  • “Do you offer any other services (lighting, photo booth, etc.)?”
  • “Can you do….[insert a special request]?
  • “What is the final total cost of your services?”
  • “How long is covered by the quoted cost? Are there overtime fees?”
  • “How much of a deposit is required and when will the balance be due?”
  • “Is there a travel fee to come to my venue?”
  • “What is the cancellation policy?”
  • “Can you provide proof of insurance?”
  • “When can we schedule a meeting? How often would we meet to discuss details?”
  • “Does your company have back-up DJ and equipment?”
  • “How soon would you arrive before the wedding?”
  • “What kind of electrical needs does your equipment require?” (for an outdoor wedding)
  • “What services are included in your wedding package?”
  • “Can your DJ offer dinner music? Can I tell you what songs I want and don’t want?”
  • “Will the wedding DJ be in formal attire?”
  • “How many years wedding experience does my DJ have?”
  • “What is the best way to contact you?”
  • For busy couples: “can we meet via the internet or over the phone instead of in person?”

20 (Fun!) Wedding Reception Table Games

Beautiful floral table decorations and table games at wedding receptionWedding entertainment is about more than hiring the best DJ in Chicago. Obviously, that is a BIG part of a memorable wedding reception, but there are the “other” times to plan for, too. Guests need to be entertained before the bride and groom arrive, while they wait for dinner and the dance, and for those moments when they need a break from their dancing shoes. The obvious choice—and the solution that keeps guests at their table and ready for dinner—are wedding reception table games.

Of course, if you want to make those in-between times more fun, bring your DJ into the conversation (and make sure you have a pro that’s up to the task). They can make announcements, coordinate games, and basically make the night more fun for everyone.

For adults…

  1. Trivia (i.e. related to the theme, about the couple, etc.)
  2. Crossword
  3. I Spy
  4. Word Search
  5. Wedding Hash Tag Game (i.e have them post photos with the wedding hash tag to social media)
  6. Mad-libs Wedding Style
  7. Find a guest with…
  8. Bride or Groom Guessing Game (for a funny photo, ask the DJ to play the game as a group give the guests signs they can hold up)
  9. Wedding cootie catchers
  10. Marriage Advice Cards
  11. Bingo
  12. Request Cards
  13. Photo Booth Props (that they can model and take to the photo booth)
  14. Date Idea Cards

For kids…

  1. Tic Tac Toe
  2. Coloring Sheets
  3. Connect-the-dots
  4. Legos/Bricks
  5. White Play Clay (that doesn’t stain)
  6. Simpler versions of adult trivia, crossword, etc.