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event dj in chicago

How to Create a Magical Evening With Your Event DJ in Chicago, IL

Want to know how you can make your next event feel extra special? It’s no secret: hire an event DJ in Chicago, IL. Hiring a professional DJ will add an energetic ambiance and enhance any setting, making sure all your guests have a memorable experience. With the right music selection and entertaining atmosphere, you can create a magical evening full of fun and laughter that everyone will remember.

Since 1998, An Enchanted Evening has been providing amazing event entertainment in Chicagoland, turning functions like weddings and corporate parties into something extraordinary. If you have an upcoming event in the Chicago area, let us know so we can get started on planning your perfect night! From choosing awesome equipment to scaling up production if needed, here are some of our tips and tricks on how to make the most of your event:

Start Planning Early

The earlier you start planning for your event, the more time there is to prepare. When it comes to hiring an event DJ in Chicago, IL, we recommend starting at least four to six months before your big day. Planning ahead will give you plenty of time to review and discuss music playlist options that fit the theme and atmosphere of your gathering. If you want to save valuable time down the line, choose An Enchanted Evening as your entertainment company; our experienced and professional event DJs can help you make sure everything the night-of will be stress-free.

Our event DJ in Chicago, IL, will make sure to find out what type of atmosphere you’re going for, as well as your goals for the evening. Having this information will help the DJ understand what kind of music to play and how to interact with your guests.

Lights, Sounds, Visuals: Use Your Imagination

The perfect event doesn’t just happen out of the blue; it takes creativity and careful planning. A great place to start when building your atmosphere is by being mindful of the lights, decor, and sound setup. Setting up mood lighting can instantly add a touch of romance or energy to a room while also helping capture beautiful moments throughout the night. When selecting decorations, try avoiding designs that can distract guests from dancing or enjoying the atmosphere.

Finally, make sure you have the proper sound system and audio equipment for your event DJ in Chicago to work with. At An Enchanted Evening, we provide the highest-quality professional-grade equipment so guests can fully enjoy their experience without any worries. From high-end speakers and amplifiers to multiple turntables and other audio accessories, our team will ensure everything is perfectly set up for a successful night.

Involve Your Guests

Creating an environment that involves your guests is a surefire way to keep them entertained throughout the evening. When working with an event DJ in Chicago, IL, you can ask for requests and feedback from your guests to make sure everyone is having a great time. At An Enchanted Evening, our DJs are experts at reading the crowd—they will start off by playing more mainstream music everyone can enjoy and end up transitioning into songs that are tailored to different partygoers’ interests.

In addition to music, consider setting up interactive activities, such as a photo booth. An Enchanted Evening’s photo booths are unique experiences in themselves as they are actually true arcade-style photo booths.

Top Rated Event DJ in Chicago, IL

At our production company, we take quality seriously and make sure to only use the best technology and services to give guests a truly unforgettable experience. Reach out to us today for more information about our services or to learn more about hiring an experienced event DJ in Chicago, IL!

dj chicagoland

3 Reasons to Hire Chicagoland DJ Services

Americans planned more than 2.5 million weddings in 2022. The average cost of a wedding in the US is between $28,000 and $35,000.

So many things go into planning a wedding, from buying the dress, planning seating arrangements, and securing the entertainment. One vendor you need to book is your DJ. Without one, your event will be severely lacking in entertainment and ambiance.

Keep reading if you’re throwing a party and want the best beats around. Here are three reasons you want to hire a DJ in Chicagoland for your event.

1. No Music, No Fun

The first reason you have disc jockeys in Chicago is that without them, there won’t be any music. People come to a function to have fun, and for many, that includes dancing.

Music can also play a part in the overall feel of the event. A talented DJ can adjust the music according to what is happening when it happens.

If your guests are eating, your DJ will switch to music more appropriate for dining, but when dinner is done, your DJ will turn up the beats to get everyone dancing. DJs know how to read a room and keep it going, which is one of the best reasons to hire one.

2. Hear Ye, Hear Ye

Secondly, DJs in Chicago can assist if you need to make announcements during your event. Professional DJs can make excellent MCs for your function and make announcements to the guests when needed. For example, your DJ can let your guests know when it’s time for dinner or when the bouquet is about to be tossed.

You want to ensure you choose a charismatic DJ in your interview, so you know what energy you’ll be getting on the day. You must find a DJ who is comfortable interacting with people. Otherwise, you may end up with a bland party.

3. Tools of the Trade

Finally, another important reason to hire a Chicagoland DJ is that they will have all the right equipment for your event. There are better ways to provide music to your guest than using an iPhone to play music through a speaker.

Instead, hiring disc jockeys means they will supply their own professional equipment. This means you save time and money by not having to source sound equipment while planning everything else.

Find Your Perfect DJ in Chicagoland Today

Planning an event can be stressful, and you need to have everything organized well before the time if you want it to be successful. Take time interviewing several DJs before you commit to one. You want to be sure they know what they’re doing musically and can act as an MC if this is a service you need.

Look at our services if you’re looking for a DJ in Chicagoland for your next function. With experience from more than 6,000 events, our professional DJs will engage your guests for an incredible evening of fun and dancing.

event dj

5 Types of Events That Are Perfect for a DJ

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!

disc jockeys in chicago

What Can Disc Jockeys in Chicago Do for Your Event? A Closer Look

Music makes everything better. It moves people both physically and emotionally, and of course, sets the mood for any event.

Gracenote, the world’s top music database, now records over 200 million songs! With a dizzying number to choose from, how do you pick the right music?

Call in a DJ! Disc jockeys in Chicago know how to excite every crowd. Keep reading to learn how they can elevate your next event!

Perfect Tune Selection 

Disc jockeys understand music. More importantly, they skillfully read a crowd and know what music works for different types of events.

Have you ever attended a party where your host killed the vibe with their music selection? It happens often when somebody plays what they like without taking who they’re with and why they’re there into consideration.

A DJ creates extensive playlists unique to each event that they play. You can expect a number of crowd favorites, and every once in a while something new that everybody will love.

DJ Chicagoland Pumps Up The Volume

When you put a DJ in the house, the volume will turn up! This means that your guests will dance, laugh, and then leave with amazing memories.

Disc jockeys do not simply sit there and press play. They get on the mic and pump up a crowd!

Master Of Ceremonies

Weddings and many other events require a professional host. This helps the night’s entertainment run seemlessly.

Often, a skilled disc jockey will serve as both. This means that they make important announcements and talk you through special moments while coordinating it all with the music.

No Pressure On You

Hosting an event means talking to every invited guest. Many of your loved ones will want attention throughout the night.

This leaves little time for dealing with pressing matters, like providing music. That actually requires constant attention, as moods change, people request songs, and other important matters require a pause.

Hiring disc jockeys, Chicago, takes a ton of pressure off of you. It leaves you free to actually enjoy yourself.

Professional Equipment

Playing music requires equipment, like a laptop, speakers, and a microphone. This stuff costs a lot of money.

Plus, it requires time and effort to haul around. Fortunately, professional disc jockeys provide it all and set everything up.

How Much Does A DJ Cost?

In America, the average wedding DJ will cost you about a thousand dollars. Sometimes people pay a little more when they want their event to run longer or somebody more experienced. 

Prices may rise in bigger cities, like Chicago, where a bigger population creates higher demand. You can expect to pay more on prime dates, like holidays, as well.

When budgeting, do not cut costs in this department. Music plays an integral role at all events, so you only want the best.

Hire The Best Disc Jockeys In Chicago

Your DJ governs the tone of your entire event. Only hire the best disc jockeys in Chicago to turn up your special event.

Our entertainment company provides only skilled music minds with top-notch personalities. Set up your consultation today!

djs in chicago

5 Compelling Reasons to Hire a DJ For Your Chicago Wedding

More than 2,015,603 Americans tie the knot every year. This number brings the marriage rate to about 6.1 per 100,000 of the population. For many people, they choose to mark this day with a celebration, whether indoors or outdoors.

Having a celebration brings together your friends and families to help you commemorate this special day. As you know the party gets more fun when DJs in Chicago are there to keep your guests entertained.

The right disc jockey will play good music during your wedding to set the tone for the whole occasion. Even better, DJs have no reservations when it comes to religion or traditions. They play whatever you want to compliment the audience.

So, why else should you hire a wedding DJ for your wedding entertainment? Here are five compelling reasons.

1. DJs in Chicago Prolong the Party

What’s the memorable part of a wedding? That has to be food and entertainment. However, your guests need continuous entertainment to get the energy of enjoying the food.

A DJ will amplify the party’s mood as long as your guests want to get entertained.

2. Play Special Requests All Day

Getting down to the dance floor means singing along to a spontaneous musical whim. A solo artist or a band won’t give you this kind of experience. On the other hand, a DJ plays what you want to hear.

As you know, nothing beats the feeling of having fun over a song that you love. You can request a special playlist or leverage the DJ’s extensive database.

3. DJs Come With Sound System

You should hire the best wedding DJ in town because they come with a high-quality sound system. This will help greatly if you have many guests at the reception. A high-quality sound system also ensures you entertain the guests without causing a nuisance to the adjacent neighborhood.

Even better, a professional wedding DJ in Chicago will come with a backup sound system to save the day in case of a technical problem.

4. Set the Tone at the Reception

Wedding receptions are full of activities. Some guests want to catch up while others want to feast after a long day. This can create confusion if there is no one to set the tone. That’s where a disc jockey steps in to save the day.

Professional DJs in Chicago will handle the occasion with experience. For instance, your DJ can play the role of a master of ceremony to make announcements and ensure that everything runs smoothly.

5. Have Peace of Mind

Planning and doing a wedding can be pretty hectic. However, you don’t need to micromanage things on the biggest day of your life. Hiring a DJ to handle your wedding entertainment gives you peace of mind.

Moreover, a wedding DJ will save you from the stress of dealing with bands or solo artists. For instance, you won’t wait for endless minutes to transition to the next song. You also won’t deal with artists that develop sore throats when entertainment is at its peak.

Hire the Best Wedding DJ

You’ll experience thrilling wedding entertainment if you hire professional DJs in Chicago. You want someone who comes with a backup sound system to ensure entertainment doesn’t stop.

Contact us today to schedule a meeting with professionals in the industry.

dj chicagoland

DJ or Band: How to Make the Right Choice for Your Event

If you’re one of the 2 million-or-so couples who will be getting married in the United States this year, you’ll be facing the age-old question: band or DJ?

This can be an agonizing decision for couples to make, as both options have their merits. So how should you make the decision between a wedding band or DJ in Chicagoland?

Keep reading as we discuss how to go about choosing the music for the most important day of your life!

Consider the Atmosphere

It’s always worth reflecting on the atmosphere you envisage at your wedding reception. Do you want a formal environment, or something more relaxed?

One of the best reasons for choosing disc jockeys in Chicago is the fantastic festival atmosphere they can bring to a wedding. They’re guaranteed to get everyone out of their seats and onto the dance floor, playing tune after tune of your favorite tracks.

Brass bands can be better suited to black-tie events, so when choosing your music option, it’s also worth remembering the dress code, reception venue, decoration, and all other aspects of your wedding day.

Compare Costs

As with every component of your wedding, the cost of a band vs DJ will be a factor. You might be wondering how much does a DJ cost in comparison to a band? The prices of wedding bands can vary greatly, according to how many musicians play, and what their reputation is.

Meanwhile, wedding DJs’ prices typically come in a little lower than wedding bands. At An Enchanted Evening, we offer an all-inclusive package that is not limited by the number of hours, nor by an hourly rate. You can take a look at the full details of our DJ services here.

Make Sure Your Taste Is Known

Every couple has their own individual and shared tastes in music, which can be one of the best reasons for choosing disc jockeys in Chicago. Bands often have a repertoire, and while they might be able to prepare a few of your favorites, they rarely have the diversity you’d get with a DJ.

Wedding DJs can tailor their playlist to those tunes you know and love. Whether that’s the Macarena or simply matching the music to the room with a fast or slow tempo track. They will also be able to exclude all the songs you don’t want to listen to at your wedding.

Are You Looking for a Wedding DJ in Chicagoland?

Having thought about the atmosphere you want, your wedding budget, and your music taste, you’re ready to decide between a band and DJ for your Chicagoland wedding. We’ve seen is that on these fronts, opting for a DJ is a safe bet, as you can ensure you and your new spouse’s favorite tracks get played.

Don’t forget if you’re looking for wedding DJs in Chicago, An Enchanted Evening is here to help. Click here for a personalized consultation so we can get to know your taste in music and specific needs for your big day.

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Band versus DJ: What’s right for your wedding?

“Should get a band or a DJ for my wedding?” may be one of the most common wedding planning questions, but it doesn’t always come with a clear-cut answer. (And the answer can be different for every couple!)

Some couples prefer the live performance of a favorite dance band while others love the energy of a professional wedding DJ. Either way, you should always make sure to do your due diligence when researching both options; there are a lot of amateur DJs and bands that can don’t deliver what they promise (a personalized play list that keeps guests on the dance floor) OR can leave couples stuck without wedding reception entertainment in case of an emergency.

That’s why we’ve put together a list of wedding DJ questions that weeds out the amateurs and warning signs to watch for that indicate your wedding DJ is way less than professional. However, if you’re still grappling with the choice between a band a DJ, this table breaks down the question quickly and easily.

Wedding band versus DJ

  DJ Band
Keeps guests
on the dance
floor
Yes-if you choose an experienced pro! Yes-if you choose experienced musicians!
Cost Yes-Typically lower than a band No-Typically highest cost wedding entertainment
Emcee for
reception
Yes-Can make announcements and add personal touch Yes-Can make announcements and add personal touch
Play list Endless Limited
State-of-the-art equipment Yes-ask to see the DJ’s equipment (and be concerned if they can’t or won’t show it to you) Yes-usually
Dinner music Yes-ask to make sure it is included, along with these other wedding DJ questions No-not usually but some groups can customize their act so a few musicians can provide soft dinner music and a full dance band later
Lighting Yes-high-quality wedding DJs offer this (usually as part of a package) Sometimes
Back-up plan (in case of illness or emergency) Yes-ask DJs before hiring to make sure they have back-up DJs and equipment (amateurs don’t) Yes-ask bands before hiring because some won’t

Tips for choosing the best wedding entertainer

  • Always research DJs and bands before hiring (i.e. on social media, YouTube, The Knot, Wedding Wire, etc.)
  • Don’t hire a wedding DJ or band without asking important questions (i.e. amount of time included in contract, overtime fees, amount of musicians included in band, etc.)
  • Be careful about hiring entertainers that raise any of these red flags.
  • If you want a particular musician or DJ, make sure you request that individual right away. Some bands or businesses have a list of musicians and pros that alternate performances.
  • Take note of reviews, but be extremely cautious about hiring a friend of a friend that performs at weddings as a side job.
guests at wedding reception enjoying dances during wedding reception order of events

How to Choose the Best Songs to Play at a Wedding

The energy of a packed dance floor can feel electric—especially when the best songs are played at a wedding. While creating that energy might seem as easy as putting together a list of your favorite songs, the right wedding playlist is crafted from using a combination of do’s and don’ts that get guests out on the floor.

Don’t make your guests blush (with your music choice).

Even if you are hosting an adults-only wedding reception, be aware that you may still have to “PG-down” your wedding playlist. This doesn’t mean you have to play kiddy songs, but it does mean that may have to take those risqué songs off the wedding playlist. The good news is that you don’t have to cross those songs permanently off your playlist. Save them for your post-reception party with your close friends!

Do include your guests’ favorites.

It’s okay to hate the chicken dance or ban a song or two that you absolutely can’t stand. When compiling a do not play list, make sure you keep it short. You don’t want your guests to wander away because they are not playing any songs they like! (Put the bar or a water cooler near the dance floor too, so guests don’t need to go too far to stay hydrated.)

Don’t leave your reception leaderless.

As tempting as it might be to just let wedding songs play, the best wedding dances are full of energy—usually from the DJ or band. In addition to entertaining guests and uping the fun factor, a DJ or band leader can make announcements (like for your first dance and introducing your bridal party!) and steer guests to key moments.

Do take requests.

Your wedding reception is all about entertaining your guests. Taking requests is a great way to do so! Obviously, there is a risk in taking live requests. You may have to take part in the YMCA (or watch everyone else do so!) If you want to make sure those annoying songs aren’t played, you can take requests on your wedding website or via your reply cards. This approach gives you the chance to veto any wedding songs that you truly hate.

Don’t forget to connect your vendors.

If you want to make sure that everything goes smoothly and all those important moments are recorded, connect your venue staff contact with your DJ and your DJ with your photographer and…so on and so on. (A really good DJ already knows to connect with them. Make sure you ask the DJ about this with this list of wedding DJ questions.) This important step ensures that your DJ can set up on time and your photographer (and videographer) is in the right place to get the best shots at the right time.

Do hire a really, really good DJ.

An experienced wedding DJ is experienced for a reason. Take advantage of it! If you want to host a memorable wedding reception, use this list of questions to interview wedding wedding Djs and hiring tips to choose the best pro for your wedding day. You and your guests are sure to enjoy the result (and the memories!)

collage of pictures from epic wedding dance

Quick Guide to Chicago Wedding DJ Prices

When you’re planning a wedding, you don’t have a lot of time—-especially not for contacting every wedding DJ in Chicago! That’s why we’ve put together some of favorite wedding reception planning tips that can help you make sense of those wedding DJ prices and quotes, so you and your guests enjoy a memorable night of dancing and fun.

https://bloganenchante.wpengine.com/2019/06/07/how-do-i-start-planning-an-awesome-wedding-reception/
https://bloganenchante.wpengine.com/2018/12/11/wedding-reception-dance-planning-checklist/
https://bloganenchante.wpengine.com/2019/01/18/ways-to-find-and-hire-a-good-wedding-dj/
https://bloganenchante.wpengine.com/2018/11/02/bad-wedding-dj-watch-for-these-signs-of-a-terrible-dj/
https://bloganenchante.wpengine.com/2019/04/16/what-is-included-in-a-wedding-dj-cost/
https://bloganenchante.wpengine.com/2018/01/31/hiring-a-wedding-dj-what-to-look-for-in-the-contract/
https://bloganenchante.wpengine.com/2018/10/19/10-tips-for-selecting-the-right-first-dance-song/
https://bloganenchante.wpengine.com/2018/09/20/7-preps-for-an-awesome-wedding-dance/

https://bloganenchante.wpengine.com/2018/09/06/7-tips-for-packing-your-wedding-dance-floor/
https://bloganenchante.wpengine.com/2018/08/03/ways-to-capture-memories-at-your-wedding-reception/
https://bloganenchante.wpengine.com/2018/06/27/8-ways-to-entertain-the-kids-at-your-wedding-reception/
https://bloganenchante.wpengine.com/2019/07/11/top-tips-that-get-you-the-smoothest-photo-booth-rental/
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.