Corporate Holiday Party

How to Find the Right DJ for Your Corporate Holiday Party

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

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

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

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

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?

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.

hiring a disc jockey

5 Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Disc Jockey for Chicago Weddings

In 2022, a record of 55,305 weddings was expected to occur in Chicago after many postponed their original dates during 2020-2021. This means that finding the right DJ for your wedding is even more of a challenge as you need to book one well in advance. 

However, if you are in the market for hiring a disc jockey, making a quick decision could lead to a disaster. 

Before you start your search for disc jockeys in Chicago be sure to avoid these top 5 mistakes. 

1. Hiring a DJ with No Wedding Experience

You have many options for disc jockeys but not all of them are perfect for a wedding. This is because some DJs might have never worked at a wedding before. 

So, if you find a DJ that has experience in clubs but not weddings then you might want to think twice. A wedding DJ requires knowledge of traditions, is adaptable to last-minute changes, and can customize their performance. 

2. Having a Limited Playlist

Your wedding is all about you, so you should be in charge of your music. If your DJ has a limited playlist and it doesn’t include some of the most popular wedding songs then you could be in for a big disappointment. 

Before hiring a DJ in Chicagoland ask about their song selection. If they don’t have your favorite song then see if they can add it to their collection. 

3. Deciding Based on Price

According to the Knot, Chicago was the 3rd most expensive city in the country to get married. So, it is no surprise that one of your first questions is how much does a DJ cost.

While negotiating with your budget in mind is a smart idea, it shouldn’t be a deal breaker. When you decide on a DJ based on the price then you may lose quality. Instead, find a middle ground when comparing disc jockey costs to pick a fair price and the perfect DJ to make your wedding reception special. 

4. Choosing a DJ with Low Energy

A wedding is full of emotion, excitement, and energy. The last thing you want is to hire a DJ that brings the party down. Therefore, you should assess your DJ’s personality to see if they have what it takes to keep the party going. 

Their attitude isn’t the only factor. You also want to know if they have the right disc jockey equipment to provide a high vibe. Audio and visual stimulation is important so that your guests hear the music and get in the right mood with lighting. 

5. Not Interviewing the DJs

You can choose a DJ by reading online reviews, however, this isn’t the last step in picking one. Meet with each potential DJ in person to ask them questions and get to know them.

You can even get a sample of their work in person or view a recording of one of their other gigs.  

The Importance of Hiring a Disc Jockey for Your Wedding

The great part about hiring a disc jockey in Chicago for your wedding is that you get versatility. Your playlists can be endless and customizable and the energy is interchangeable. However, you need to find a professional DJ that caters to your wedding needs. 

Contact us for a personal consultation to get all your wedding DJ questions answered. 

background dinner songs

Background Dinner Songs to Play at Your Wedding in Chicago

Weddings account for a more than $61 billion industry, due in large part to the fact that people go above and beyond to make this day special and memorable. The smallest details make a big difference, which is why so many people begin planning their weddings a year to a year-and-a-half from the date. 

Many of our memories are tied to music, so your song selection is essential. While you probably start with the songs for the first dance, walking down the aisle, mother-son, and father-daughter dances, don’t forget about background dinner songs that will set the mood. 

With the right wedding dinner playlist, you’ll create an amazing environment that people will remember when they think back to your special day. Keep reading so that your wedding dinner is a success by choosing the right music. 

Sade – “By Your Side”

If you’re looking for deep, romantic, meaningful, slow-tempo songs for weddings, Sade’s “By Your Side” is an excellent choice. From the beginning musical riff to the opening lyrics, “Did you think I’d leave your side, baby?”, this one creates a night of enchantment for the special couple and their guests. 

When you have excellent DJ services, they’ll go above and beyond to help you get the song list that you’ll appreciate. Listen to this song and let the lyrics and melodies sink in. From here, you’ll decide whether you want this as part of your wedding dinner. 

It’s a popular option for brides to walk down the aisle and for first dances. Sade is a lifelong artist that has plenty of great songs for weddings, so it’s likely that you’ll want to add a few more to your wedding playlist as well. 

Pharell – “Happy”

For something more upbeat, you can’t go wrong with Pharell – “Happy”. He’s an artist that has dabbled in different music genres, and this song is a crowd pleaser. 

Disc jockeys in Chicago are sure to have it on file, and it’s pleasing to the ear enough to play multiple times throughout the evening. Always check for this song’s availability when you’re shopping around for disc jockeys in Chicago. 

Bill Withers – “Lovely Day”

As you shop around for the best DJs Chicago has to offer, make sure to request Bill Withers’ “Lovely Day”. It’s a favorite song for weddings and summer gatherings of all kinds. 

The “Lovely Day” chorus will have you hooked, in addition to the bass, which moves the song and will have you tapping your feet and eventually getting up and cutting a rug. You can play the entire song or add it to your list of instrumental dinner songs. Either way, you can’t go wrong. 

Stevie Wonder – “Isn’t She Lovely”

Finally, what’s a wedding without a little bit of Stevie? “Isn’t She Lovely” provides the perfect touch when you’re looking for romantic wedding music that the entire crowd will appreciate. 

There’s a reason this song has been used for years for weddings and romantic-themed advertising. 

Choose the Best Background Dinner Songs

These background dinner songs are excellent options that will strengthen the vibe and create amazing memories on this special day of your life. Consider these songs as you look to put together a playlist that you’ll love. 

An Enchanted Evening has everything you need to make your special day one to remember. To learn more about our services, get in touch on our website, or call us at (847)490-1000. 

professional dj

What to Look for When Hiring a Professional DJ

It’s your big day; you’re finally married to the person you love most and surrounded by the most important people in your life. Now it’s time for the reception. 

Did you hire the right DJ or make a mistake that could ruin the night

It’s no exaggeration to say that having the right DJ at your wedding or event is crucial to keeping your guests in a good mood. That’s why you should consider certain factors when hiring them. Here’s what to consider when partnering with a professional DJ in the Chicagoland area. 

They’re Professionals

Yes, a DJ is an artist, and having a certain uniqueness will make them memorable and fun to work with. However, you also want a professional DJ that takes their reputation and job very seriously. 

For instance, you want them to arrive on time. You want someone with experience who knows how to read the room and react accordingly. If the crowd needs amping up, they’ll know what to play and how to bring people to the dance floor. 

There are a ton of disc jockeys in Chicago, but you want a professional that will fit the mood of your event. Weddings and family-friendly events mean no swearing, for instance. 

They Can Handle Emergencies

A violinist wouldn’t show up to a concert without their instrument, and an actor wouldn’t come to the set without memorizing lines. In the same way, a DJ should show up with all the equipment they need to keep the music coming through the night. 

That also means preparing for any emergencies or technical problems. It happens! A professional wedding DJ should have equipment backups and know what to do if anything goes wrong. 

They Have Good Reviews

Hiring an event DJ can be stressful, but reading reviews and testimonials can help put your mind at ease. Reviews will tell you a lot about a DJ, including their professionalism, personality, and ability to create a memorable night. 

Good DJs will have tons of reviews from past clients, and a great testimonial will help to paint a picture of the night. 

Another important piece of information you’ll get from reviews concerns the value.

The cost of hiring disc jockeys in Chicago varies, and factors such as how long you need them will affect that price. When hiring a professional DJ, you’ll often notice they offer packages for different events. Reviews can tell you more about affordability. 

They Answer Your Questions

Chances are that you have some questions about what to expect. A professional DJ will answer any questions you have, tell you about their different services, give you a good quote, and so on. 

If you have any requests for songs or need to know what kind of events they’ll do, now is the time to ask. Talking to them will also give you a good idea of whether they’re a good fit for your event too. 

Find a Professional DJ

To amp up the crowds and keep the party going, you need a professional DJ. Use these tips to help you find the perfect match. 

If you’re searching for DJs in Chicago, look no further! We’ve got you covered. Simply contact us to learn more and get a personal consultation.  

how much do DJs cost

How Much Does a DJ Cost for a Wedding?

Summer is here and it is a great time to have a wedding. Beautiful wedding weather will continue through the fall and many couples are taking advantage.

Did you know that the average wedding costs nearly $23,000? This average figure is skewed by the pandemic, as wedding costs were closing in on $30,000 in 2019.

Entertaining your guests is at the top of the priority list. Your goal as a couple is to throw a party that every guest will never forget.

This leaves many couples wondering how much do DJs cost at a wedding. Read on to learn about hiring a DJ and other topics related to wedding entertainment.

How Much Do DJs Cost?

The cost of a DJ depends on the services that you want and the options that you select. The best way to look at DJ hire costs is to start with a base price.

There are a number of factors that drive the base price. Location plays a major role in DJ pricing. DJs working in large cities like Chicago are going to cost more than one covering a rural Illinois area. In Chicago, the cost of a DJ ranges from $1,200 to $3,585.

The duration of the wedding is another driving factor. A five-hour wedding is going to cost more than a three-hour wedding. A DJ’s hourly rate is up to $150 so additional time is naturally going to increase the price.

Continue reading for a breakdown of other costs that may impact your quote. Explore DJ add-ons that are popular at Chicago weddings:

Photo Booths

Adding a photo booth to your wedding is one of the best ways to make it a memorable evening. Some companies provide a makeshift photo booth with a portable camera on a tripod.

Instead, we offer an Arcade photo booth cabinet. It is a heavy-duty metal structure with a built-in camera. All electronics are fully integrated into the photo booth including a professional-style printer.

Your guests can use our touchscreen monitor to select photos and printing options. Within 7 seconds, they are given 4 photos on a 2×6 photo strip. Guests can use our full array of photo props making for a fun session.

Lighting

Many wedding couples want specialized lighting to make their wedding venue even more special. High-quality lighting can spruce up even the dullest venue.

The newlyweds may want the ballroom to illuminate in specific colors. There is even the capability to write your name on the ballroom wall in our lighting.

Video Montage

There are so many great memories to share with your wedding guests. What better way than to display them on a projector screen for all to see?

The best wedding DJs can offer you a video montage service. They accompany your best video clips with the perfect song to draw the room’s attention.

Recapping Wedding DJ Pricing

Wedding DJ pricing is going to vary based on the couple’s needs. Variables like time, location, and add-ons are going to increase or decrease the price accordingly.

The best way to lock in a reliable price estimate is by meeting with a wedding DJ. If you are wondering how much do DJs cost for a wedding, contact us today to schedule an appointment.