All posts by Mike Urban

Hire a DJ

Why You Should Hire a DJ Even if You Have a Wedding Band

hiring DJ

1.68 million couples got married in the USA in 2020. When it comes to planning a wedding, music is a crucial component. Deciding whether to hire a DJ or a band is a big part of the decision-making process.

It sets the tone for the night and can make or break the overall atmosphere. While a wedding band is a popular choice for many couples, hiring a DJ in addition to the band can offer many benefits.

Let’s take a closer look at why you should consider hiring a DJ even if you already have a wedding band.

Difference Between A DJ and A Band

A DJ and a band are two different forms of musical entertainment for events.

A DJ typically uses pre-recorded music and plays it through a sound system. They can play a wide range of music genres and often use mixing software to create a seamless and energetic flow.

DJs often have a vast music library and can quickly switch between songs to accommodate the changing mood and atmosphere of the event.

On the other hand, a band typically consists of live musicians who perform their versions of popular songs or original music. Bands can create a unique and personal atmosphere.

Their performance can be customized to fit the specific event. They can also often take requests and interact with the audience, which can add an extra level of excitement.

Why Hire Both

More Variety

One of the main advantages of hiring a DJ is the wide range of music genres and styles that they can play. A DJ can play anything from classic rock to today’s top hits, which means there will be something for everyone to enjoy. This can keep the dance floor lively and ensure your guests are entertained throughout the night.

Increased Flexibility

A DJ can quickly change songs and adjust the music to suit the mood and energy of the crowd. If your guests feel more energetic, the DJ can play faster-paced music to keep the party going.

If the mood changes and your guests are looking for something more relaxed, the DJ can easily switch to slower, more laid-back songs. They can also make announcements and coordinate events throughout the night, ensuring everything runs smoothly.

More Professional Sound

A Chicago DJ typically has a better sound system and lighting setup than a wedding band, which can enhance the event’s overall atmosphere. The sound quality will be better and the lighting can create a more exciting and dynamic environment. This will keep your guests engaged and entertained.

Backup Option

In case of an unexpected issue with the wedding band, having a DJ as a backup can ensure that the music continues and the party doesn’t stop. Whether it’s a technical issue or a band member getting sick. Having a DJ on hand can give you peace of mind knowing that the music will continue and your guests will still have a great time.

Make Your Wedding Day Special: Hire a DJ

Music is a crucial aspect of any wedding, especially in Chicago. When you hire a DJ or wedding band can add an extra layer of excitement and make your celebration unforgettable. With the right music, your guests will be entertained and the wedding party will be unforgettable.

Enchanted Evening offers talented disc jockeys and musicians to bring your wedding day to life. Our team understands the importance of your special day and is committed to delivering high-quality entertainment. Make your Chicago wedding unforgettable. Hire a Chicago DJ, a wedding band or both from Enchanted Evening. Contact us today to learn more.

DJ Costs

DJ Costs: Does a DJ Charge per Hour or per Event?

hiring DJ

The term “disk jockey” was invented in 1935. It has remained a popular term since then and many people have made a living from being a DJ. A DJ is a great thing to have at your next event, whether it’s a graduation party or a wedding. 

But what about the DJ costs? Does a DJ charge by the hour or by the event? How can you make sure you choose the right option for your budget?

Keep reading and learn more about it below.

What You Need to Know About DJ Costs

The cost of a DJ will depend on what kind of DJ you’re hiring. It will also depend on what kind of event you’re planning. Many DJs charge by the hour. 

This makes it simpler for the DJ to determine how much they should be paid. It is also easier for you to determine how much money you will need to spend for a certain period of live music.

Suppose you need a DJ for four hours. 

This will cost you around $400 on average.

This would be for an ordinary event such as a bachelor party, a graduation party, and so on. This may sound like a lot of money, but this is the going rate for a high-quality, professional DJ. 

You may have to pay more for more extravagant events like a wedding. A wedding DJ may cost you around $500 for four hours. But you may pay a fraction of that price at a more toned-down party like a corporate event. 

Such an event may cost you $300 for four hours of music. Your location also matters. Some DJs in big cities like Miami or New York City charge more compared to DJs in more rural areas. 

The Details

You may also pay more for a more prestigious and well-known DJ. This is because their services are more sought-after and it will be harder to book them. This causes their price per hour to go up. 

When hiring a DJ, you can also look for one who charges by the event. This is not as common as DJs that charge by the hour. You may want to find a DJ that charges by the event if your event is going to be very long. 

The DJ may give you a fixed rate for the event. The DJ will charge more if the event is very large and long-lasting. Some events may cost you a few hundred dollars while others may cost thousands. 

The cost may vary depending on the DJ’s experience too. The more experienced the DJ is, the better they will be at doing their job. But a more experienced DJ will also be more expensive. 

You will have to balance the quality of the DJ with your budget. 

All about the Cost of Hiring a DJ

DJ costs can be quite expensive. This is why it is important to know your options. You can get a DJ that charges by the hour or by the event. 

Choosing the right option will ensure that you don’t go overboard on your budget. To learn more about DJs, check out our services. 

disc jockeys chicago

How to Choose the Right Wedding Disc Jockey

DJ

Did you know that as recently as the 1920s, it was good etiquette for the bride and groom to let their guests dance first? Nowadays, though, the first dance is usually allocated to the bride and groom. You choose a special song beforehand for that first dance and that’s considered the first dance of the rest of your happy life together. 

And all this is made possible through the efforts of the wedding disc jockeys in Chicago who set up the music and ambiance, not only for the first dance but for all the dances on your wedding day. Keep reading to find out how you can choose the best wedding DJ for your upcoming big day. 

Consider Their Costs

If you are on a realistic budget for your wedding, this doesn’t mean that you can’t still get a great wedding DJ for that cost. Wedding DJ prices do range from affordable to exorbitant, so you will want to do your research when you go through any potential DJ companies. 

Consider Their Experience 

Additionally, you will want to find a wedding DJ who has widespread experience in setting up a fun evening of dancing and music. For example, our company has been in the business since 1998 and has performed at over 6000 events since then. 

With this kind of experience, you know that no matter what kind of wedding you will be holding with whatever theme, we will be able to set up the music necessary to make it a delightful experience. 

Consider Their Reputation

You will want to look at the production company’s reputation both online and offline. You can do this by checking out all online reviews on Google or Yelp. Read through both the positive and negative ones to see what previous customers say about them. 

Also, check out their website and see if they have any written or video testimonials on there. If you know anyone who has used them as a wedding DJ before, then speak to them to see what they say about the company. 

Finally, look through all the awards that the company has won to date. Over the last ten years, our production company has received more than a dozen industry awards. We are 9-time winners of The Wedding Wire’s Couples Choice Award and The Knot’s Best of Weddings Award. We also won The Knot’s Hall Of Fame Award and this is just the beginning for us!

Hire the Best Disc Jockeys in Chicago

Don’t make it hard on yourself – choose An Enchanted Evening as your wedding disc jockeys in Chicago, so you can have at least one part of your wedding set up without worries. 

We are ready to help you make your wedding reception a memorable one. Please contact us today if you have any questions about the types of wedding DJs we have or any other questions related to your wedding planning. 

disc jockeys in chicago

5 Hiring Tips for Disc Jockeys in Chicago

DJ

According to a recent survey, 40% of those involved in wedding planning labeled it as ‘extremely stressful,’ and 71% found it more nerve-wracking than other major life events like searching for a job.

But weddings aren’t the only events that are stress-inducing. If you are planning a school dance or a business event that requires music, then you are probably tense about that as well. Keep reading to learn 5 hiring tips that can help you choose the best disc jockeys in Chicago for your event. 

1. Check Out How Professional Their Equipment Is

Not that you are an expert on what professional DJ equipment looks like, but if they are going to show up at your event without any equipment, and just a laptop and some CDs, then that might be a problem. Go visit their studio or their workplace and check out what kind of equipment they will bring to your event day to gauge their expertise.

2. How Easy Is It to Get in Touch With Them

You want to hire someone who isn’t so busy that they miss your phone calls or messages and don’t get back to you for days on end. This will create problems for you as the event day approaches, and you have questions or inquiries for them, but they are never around to answer you. 

3. Do They Have a Plan for Your Day?

If you have already given them an idea of what your event will look like, they should have created a bit of a plan for what kind of music they will bring to your event. Ask them about it to see if you like their choices. 

4. How Friendly and Likable Are They

You want to choose a school dance DJ who is likable. That is, they should have a personality that isn’t too standoffish or aloof. This will ensure that children and adults can go up to them and make requests without fear. 

Also, it’s much easier to work with someone who you like rather than someone who rubs you the wrong way. 

5. Do They Fall In Your Budget Range?

You must choose disc jockeys in Chicago that fall in your budget range. There’s no need to spend too much money on something like that since there are many affordable, professional, and experienced school DJs out there.

Disc Jockeys in Chicago – Ready to Hire One?

Now that you are aware of some hiring tips, you are ready to make your decision and choose the best school dance DJ for your upcoming event. If you haven’t found disc jockeys in Chicago yet, then contact An Enchanted Evening today.

We are ready to make your event a memorable one with a fun night of dancing, music, and fun. We bring decades of experience to the table, and we have won many accolades from the industry due to our ability to wow our customers. 

Corporate Holiday Party

How to Find the Right DJ for Your Corporate Holiday Party

party photo booth

There are more than 13,000 DJs to choose from in the United States–that’s a lot of options! 

Having the right music at your holiday party is essential to creating the right atmosphere. If you’re beginning your search for the perfect DJ and aren’t sure where to start, we’re here to help.

Keep reading for a quick list of things to consider when choosing a DJ for your corporate holiday party. 

Look for a DJ with the Right Experience

There are different DJs for all types of events, from birthday parties to weddings to backyard hangouts. Just because a DJ has experience doesn’t mean their experience is the kind you’re looking for.

Make sure the DJ you’re considering has experience specifically in doing corporate holiday parties. Ask them about their previous events that were similar to yours and how they typically plan for them. 

Understand the DJ’s Style

Just like people all have different music tastes, DJs have different styles when it comes to how they choose their music and energize a crowd. 

Try to find details about your potential DJ’s style and what type of music they’re most comfortable playing. A great way to uncover some of this information is through their website, which likely has links to videos of them working or song lists that show what you can expect from booking them. 

If you want your corporate holiday party to play themed music, ask the DJ if this is something they’ve done before or feel confident they can carry out. 

Look at the DJ’s Reviews Online

When finding the right DJ, you want to choose one that not only has experience but who leaves a strong positive impression. The best way to find evidence of this is by reading their reviews from past clients. 

Look for reviews on sites like Google or Yelp that are unbiased and that offer both positive and negative insights into what the DJ experience would be like so you can decide if this DJ sounds like the right one for your event. It’s also likely that the DJ has testimonials on their website you can read as well.

Ask About the Backup Plan

While hopefully unlikely, it’s always possible that the DJ you choose will get sick or have something come up that makes them unable to work your event. In this case, a backup plan is crucial to ensuring your event goes smoothly no matter what.

Ask the potential DJ what happens if they’re unable to DJ your party. Do they have someone on call who can come to replace them? A true professional will have a plan in place so you don’t have to worry about anything going wrong. 

Take Your Corporate Holiday Party to the Next Level

A corporate holiday party is the perfect setting for encouraging employees to relax, unwind, and have fun while still keeping it professional. The right DJ can make or break your event, which is why putting a little time into finding one that has the right experience and style for your party is so important.

Looking for a DJ for your holiday party in Chicago? Find out more about how our professional DJ services can make your event one to remember. 

Setting up the DJ Booth

Setting up the DJ Booth at Your Corporate Party: A Guide

chicago il wedding dj

DJs. They can make or break your corporate event. 

While people can be in the right mood with the right DJ controlling the playlist, you do not always know what you are going to get. Over 40% of DJs have less than two years of experience in their profession in the United States. 

So, if you are trying to plan a corporate party, you will want to make the DJ’s job as easy as possible. One way you can do this is by providing help setting up the DJ booth. 

What goes into a DJ booth? What should you keep in mind? 

This is your guide. 

Choosing the Space 

The first thing you want to do is have an idea of where the DJ booth is going to go. If you are planning a corporate event, you should have a good idea of what the layout of the area will be before booking the DJ. 

From there, you will have to determine where the best fit for a DJ booth will be. There are two main options you have to go about this. 

The first option that you have is to put it at the front and center of the room. This allows guests to put a lot of focus on this DJ and the DJ has a chance to do so more audience interaction to hype them up for the party. 

Of course, the other route is to put the DJ booth in the corner and have it be less in the way of the rest of the party. This can be a good idea if you want the playlist to be background noise rather than the center of the party. 

This allows your guests to focus on other people and other events during the party without worrying about where the DJ is. 

Talk to Your DJ 

Another thing that you will want to do is either talk to the DJ that is working your event or at least someone that works with them. When it comes to the DJ booth, this can help cater to the playlist that they are aiming to have for your party. 

Depending on the type of party you want to have, DJs may have to bring certain equipment to maximize a song’s quality. Get an idea of what equipment they are going to need to bring for their DJ booth. 

Then, you can get a better idea of if the spacing works or if you need to make any changes. 

Start Setting Up the DJ Booth 

Now that you have read this guide, you should have a better idea of how to go about setting up the DJ booth. The main things that you need to keep in mind are what equipment the DJ is looking to bring for spacing purposes and where in the room you want the DJ booth to be. 

Do you want to hire a DJ for your event? See what services we offer on that link. 

questions to ask your wedding DJ

5 Questions to Ask Your Wedding DJ Before You Hire Them

choose wedding dj

Did you know that 2022 is predicted to see roughly 2.6 million weddings? Chicago is one of the greatest destinations for weddings, with an unbeatable atmosphere. With such an atmosphere, you might brainstorm questions to ask your wedding DJ.

If you’re looking for a wedding DJ, we’re here to help. Read on to learn about hiring DJ services in the Chicagoland area.

1. What Type of Atmosphere?

One of the first things to consider is what sort of atmosphere the DJ will bring.

For example, do you want your wedding to be a hyped-up party atmosphere? A DJ that focuses on a more refined and formal wedding may not bring the energy you want.

Conversely, you don’t want a DJ that focuses on a party style if you want an extravagant, quieter wedding. Consider the size and theme of your wedding before hiring a Chicago DJ. That way, you know you’re hiring a DJ that fits your atmosphere properly.

2. Preferred Genres and Styles

Along with knowing your type of atmosphere, you should know what your preferred genres and styles are. Music may fit into your atmosphere, but that doesn’t mean you like music of all sorts!

Some may prefer to avoid specific genres at their wedding. Certain genres may feel informal or not fit the energy they want. It’s sometimes as simple as not liking a genre, regardless of the wedding theme!

Similarly, you can ensure that they’re playing music you and your audience prefer!

3. Frequency of Breaks

Depending on how long your wedding lasts, your DJ will likely take a break. Make sure you know how often your DJ will need to step away from the booth.

Doing so can ensure that you know when the DJ booth is empty. That way, you can make arrangements to have someone substitute or play a playlist that can last through the DJ’s break.

4. Number of Staff for DJ

DJs don’t always come alone! Many have assistants or staff members that’ll help them.

Check with your DJ to see how many people will accompany them. Otherwise, you may find several people you didn’t expect at your wedding. It also can help stop confusion as to why more people than expected are around the DJ booth.

5. Any Additional Services

While interviewing your Chicago DJ, you should look into what other services they may offer. Many DJs may offer extra services like lighting, video, and other benefits.

Look into what your DJ offers to see if you can double up on your services. It can help save a few bucks while also helping you fill out your wedding roster!

Questions to Ask Your Wedding DJ

Deciding what questions to ask your wedding DJ can help to encourage communication between you and the DJ. Speak with your wedding DJ to ensure that they’re the best DJ to help with your Chicago wedding. It’s your special day, so don’t let a lack of communication hold anything back!

For more information on weddings in the Chicagoland area, be sure to contact us to learn more!

event dj

5 Types of Events That Are Perfect for a DJ

Uncategorized

Are you planning to have a significant event in the upcoming future?

Well, you might need to start thinking about booking a DJ.

In 2020, the DJing industry and many others suffered during the global pandemic. But, as it comes to an end, more in-person events than ever are being celebrated across the U.S.

Experts predict that the market will grow by around 2.6% by 2026.

If you’re wondering whether or not you need a DJ for your event, we can help. If your occasion is on our list below, you should hire an event DJ today!

1. A Wedding

If you or someone you know is getting married, you, without a doubt, must book a wedding DJ. That’s because 81% of guests remember the entertainment the most at the occasion. 

A Dj can set the mood for the rest of the significant evening. 

It can be a retro night with bangers from the 80s and 90s. Or it can be a festive atmosphere with the latest dance and electronic music.

The best part is you decide what style you want from the night. 

2. A Corporate Event

There are endless corporate parties throughout the year. A DJ is suitable for all events, from team bonding sessions to office parties. 

If you’re organizing the event, put a DJ as number one on your to-do list. Otherwise, no matter how great the layout or food is, it will be judged as a failure if the entertainment is a letdown.

DJs often love to play at corporate parties. Venues that rent out to firms are usually already well-equipped for speakers and sound systems.

3. A Birthday Party

Since everyone has a birthday each year, there will always be a demand for a party DJ.

There are some notable birthdays to hire a DJ. They are your 16th, 18th, 21st, and 30th birthdays. However, that doesn’t mean you should miss out on the fun if you’re turning 28.

No matter what age you’re turning, you deserve a fun and exciting day!

4. A Sporting Event

Sporting events are a big deal throughout the globe, but especially in the U.S., over 142 million people attend pro sporting events a year.

There are different reasons to order a DJ for a sporting event.

First, you might throw a party for your team that made it to the final. If you can’t get tickets for the game or prefer watching at home, you can create the same matchday atmosphere in your house.

You might also need a DJ for the fans at a match. Then, you can keep them pumped before, during, and after the full-time whistle.

5. At Bars and Clubs

Bars and clubs are a haven for DJs. Locals pack out the venue when word gets around town that there’s a DJ on during a specific night. In return, more people send money for food, drinks, or entry tickets.

The only thing to remember when booking one for a bar or club is to match your venue or event style. 

Event DJs can play a wide variety of music. However, the last thing you want is country music playing during Latin American club gigs.

Book Your Event DJ Today

There are many other occasions to book an event DJ. However, if your upcoming event is on our list, you must book one today.

Since there are more and more in-person events this year, DJs are in high demand. So to avoid the headache of searching for one last minute, contact us today. And we’ll arrange a professional setup so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy your upcoming event!

Party DJ

Party DJ: How To Find the Perfect DJ for Your Event

DJ

Did you know that planning a wedding without help can take between 200 and 300 hours? To lessen the time and stressful burden of wedding planning, we are here to help!

You’ll need a party DJ that can pump up the crowd and make your wedding day special. Keep reading to learn how to find the perfect DJ for your event.

Check the DJ’s Website and Social Media

To find the right party DJ for your event, check out their website and social media pages. DJ’s with a well-designed website can tell you a lot about how professional a disc jockey is.

On websites and social media, you might find samples of their work. They may upload videos and song playlists on their website. This will allow you to get a better idea of their style and you can decide if they are fit for your event.

Meet the DJ

During the event planning process, you should meet the DJs you are interested in before giving anyone the job.

Websites and social media will give you a good idea of their music taste and skills, but a face-to-face meeting is important as well. This meeting helps you understand how they interact with other people.

This is also a great opportunity to ask questions about the services they provide, such as:

  • Are you familiar with the venue?
  • How long does it take to set up your equipment?
  • How long have you been performing professionally?
  • Do you have specific requirements?

In addition to these questions, bring a list of your own questions.

Consider Experience

Finding a DJ with professional experience should be on your list of requirements.

You might know someone that has great taste in music that wants to DJ your event at half the price. Yet, they likely don’t have the level of professionalism that your event requires.

Don’t hire someone that has never performed in front of people before. This could lead to a very uneventful event.

Match the DJ to the Event

Finding the right DJ is a little more complicated than searching for someone that plays music that you like. You should match the entertainer to your type of event for the best results.

If you have a specific theme for your event, the songs that are played will matter.

For example, if you are having a Christmas party, you should be looking for DJs that are familiar with Christmas tunes. If you are having an 80s party, you can play songs from Billy Idol, Madonna, and Queen.

Consider this if you are having a themed wedding.

Hire a DJ that can conform to your requirements. Ask DJs if they have any specializations that fit your event type.

Find the Perfect Party DJ for Your Needs

If you want to find the perfect party DJ for your needs, follow the steps in this guide.

An Enchanted Evening offers high-quality DJ services for weddings. We want to help you make the night of your dreams the best night ever!

Contact us today to receive a personalized consultation.

Wedding DJ Cost

How Much Does a Wedding DJ Cost?

cost of a wedding DJ

Weddings are one of the largest expenses you will incur in a lifetime. Yet most couples are willing to go big as weddings are likely a once-in-a-lifetime event.

The average wedding costs nearly $30,000. This figure varies depending on your location and what services you purchase.

A wedding DJ is one of the many costs that go into your special day. DJs are well worth it because they make your wedding unforgettable.

Read on for your guide to what a wedding DJ cost entails. 

How Much Does a Wedding DJ Cost?

Many couples debate over whether to hire a band or a DJ for their wedding. The average cost to bring in a band is nearly $3,300.

For their base service, DJs cost less than bands and can help your total budget. On average, the cost to hire a DJ is between $1,000 to $1,400.

Location is going to impact your costs as well. If your DJ has to travel a considerable distance, there may be transportation costs added on.

The wedding duration is also a factor. Longer weddings require that the DJ entertain your guests for additional time. This is naturally going to increase costs as your DJ spends more hours on the job.

What Are the Different Services That DJs Offer?

Unlike bands, however, wedding DJs offer many different services as well. For example, you can upgrade your service by adding a photo booth to your package. We offer a full-sized arcade photo booth cabinet that features a built-in camera and printer.

Many couples want extra lighting for their wedding. Your DJ can bring in uplighting in a variety of different colors. This is certain to make your wedding venue stand out.

We offer lighting technology that can put your name in the lights. This is a great backdrop for photos throughout the wedding.

Hiring an emcee is another additional service to consider. An emcee provides entertainment to your wedding and gets your guests on the dance floor. They also announce the VIPs during the reception and make other important announcements.

The best DJs offer video montage services as well. They creatively mesh your favorite photos and videos together. Add in your favorite songs in the background and your guests are sure to be entertained.

How to Achieve Cost Savings?

You can get all these services from a different company. However, this is going to add a lot of logistics to your wedding day. It is also likely to increase the total price tag.

Instead, you should hire a company that performs all of these services. Wedding DJs do a lot more than play music these days and you can take advantage.

Your Recap to Hiring a Wedding DJ

You now understand the costs and services associated with a reputable wedding DJ. They do much more than play great wedding music for your guests. You can consolidate services like a photo booth and uplighting to make your wedding stand out.

If you are wondering what a wedding DJ cost includes, contact us today to speak with a professional.