Your
South Jersey wedding DJ should meet with you at least 1 month prior to your wedding, preferably in person. At that time it's a good idea to discuss the itinerary. Here's a few of the items that we use on our form, and then we tailor the party to suit our client's needs. Map out your plans for the party with the
South Jersey DJ and then agree on them before the date. That way there will be no problems when it comes to showtime! Don't forget that we are a
South Jersey Sweet 16 DJ too!
Gary
www.southjerseyweddingdj.comwww.southjerseymobiledj.comCall us at (609) 744-1936 or email us at
gary@southjerseymobiledj.com
Contact Information
Bride’s Name______________________ Groom’s Name______________________ Address:________________________________________________________________
Bride phone________________________ Groom’s phone ________________________
Bride's e-mail_______________________Groom's e-mail: ________________________
Is there a wedding coordinator? (circle) Yes No
Name: ________________________Phone: ________________________
Email: ________________________ Additional Contact Information:
The Ceremony
Date of wedding ceremony _________________________
Start Time _________________________
Location of ceremony ________________________
Directions to ceremony ________________________
Will the ceremony take place in the same room as the reception? (circle) Yes No
If NO, please describe the area in which the ceremony will take place and where this is in relation to where the reception will take place: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
DJ/MC to be dressed in the following manner:
_ Tuxedo
_ Suit
_ Other _________________
Will we need to use a second sound system for the ceremony? (circle) Yes No
Will we be able to set up in one place for both ceremony and reception?(circle) Yes No
Who will be officiating the ceremony? ________________________
Phone number: ________________________
Email: ________________________
Will the person performing the ceremony need a microphone? (circle) Yes No
Will the bride or groom need a microphone? (circle) Yes No
What time do you expect that guests will begin to arrive? ________________________
What music would you prefer to have playing for guests as they are arriving before the ceremony?
_ Light classical music
_ Classical chamber music (e.g., string quartet music)
_ Soft instrumentals of love songs
_ Smooth jazz
_ Soft vocals of love songs
_ Other: ________________________
Is there a special piece of music that you would like to have played as the grandparents are being seated?
_ Yes: __________________________
_ No: Just continue playing the same prelude music as above
Is there a special piece of music you would like playing as the parents are seated?
_ Yes: ________________________
_ No: Just continue playing the same prelude music as above
Will the mothers be lighting a unity candle before they sit down? (circle) Yes No
If Yes, is there a special piece of music that you would like to have played as they light the candles?________________________
Is there a special piece of music you would like as the Groom/Usher/Minister enter?
_ Yes: ________________________
_ No: Just continue playing the same prelude music as above
Is there special music that you would like to have played as the Ringbearer/ Flowergirls/ Bridesmaids enter?
_ Yes: ________________________
_ No: Just continue playing the same prelude music as above
Music for the Bride to enter:_____________________________________________________
Will there be any music required during the ceremony (e.g., for the Unity Candle, etc.)?
_ Yes: ________________________
_ No
If yes, will there be anyone performing (e.g., singer, musicians, etc.) or will the DJ play the music?
_ Singers/ musicians performing; _ DJ to play the music
If there are performers/singers, will we need to provide a microphone? (circle) Yes No
Will the DJ need to provide background music for the singer? (circle) Yes No
If yes, on CD or cassette? _ CD; _ Cassette; _ MP3 player
Name of song(s): ________________________
Will the performer be providing the DJ with the music or is the DJ responsible for bringing the music for this performer?
_ Performer will bring the music; _ DJ will bring the music
[Note: please provide this information at least 3 weeks prior to the event to ensure adequate time to coordinate these details and make appropriate arrangements.]
Will there be anyone doing a reading? (circle) Yes No
If yes, will the reader need a microphone? (circle) Yes No
Music for the Recessional at the end of the ceremony:_______________________________
After the ceremony the DJ will be expected to:
_ Continue playing appropriate background music as the ceremony transitions into the reception.
_ Provide background music for the reception in a separate location than the ceremony.
Any other special instructions:
The Reception
One key element to making receptions special is the planned Formalities. These are the traditional elements such as your Entrance, First Dance and Cake Cutting. These "Major Focal Points" are the rare moments when all of your guests' attentions are simultaneously focused on the same thing. It is more likely that your guests will remember these moments than any other. Make them your own and your reception will be an original! Major Focal Points include the Introductions/Introduction Music, Toasts, Greeting Guests, First Dance, and The Party.
Formal Introduction
Your Introduction is usually the first Major Focal Point of the evening. To kick off the reception, you will be formally introduced as a married couple. If you don't make Formal Entrances on a regular basis you may be unprepared to take full advantage of this moment. For many couples, their first inclination is to make a hurried beeline for their table. This is the exact opposite of what you should do.
Your guests have been waiting for this moment to express their love and excitement. Let them. After you enter, STOP, look and listen. You may find that the applause you are receiving gets noticeably louder when you simply stop to present yourselves. Take in this moment... look around... smile... enjoy it. Give your guests what they want, an opportunity to see the emotion on your face!
By pausing to acknowledge your guests, you are reciprocating the love they are demonstrating with their presence and applause. After a few moments, make your way to your table. Simply presenting yourself to your guests this way is the small but important difference between just entering and actually “Making An Entrance.”
The Introduction Music
Walking in to the right song can help energize a room. Pick an upbeat song that you like, perhaps one with a message or feeling that resonates with you. Choices for this are virtually unlimited. Past requests have included songs from U2, Barry White, Sinatra, Led Zeppelin, Elvis, and many others.
Fun songs might include “Pump up the Jam” an upbeat rocker or the 80's New Wave classic, "Walking on Sunshine" by Katrina and the Waves. Imagine walking in, pausing and then planting a big kiss on each other, much to the delight of your family and friends.
Toasts
Remind any and all Toast Givers about their duties and when they will happen. Usually the Toasts come at the beginning of the reception, just after your Formal Introduction, before the meal. Unless otherwise instructed, the wait staff is likely to have the champagne poured for all guests prior to your Intro. For some reason, Best Men often think their Toast will be later and may be unprepared unless reminded.
Tips for those that are going to offer toasts:
1. Raise your glass. A Toast can be as easy as thanking the guests and asking them to congratulate the Bride and Groom by raising their glasses in unison. It doesn't have to be any more complicated than that. If you want to get into humorous or touching stories about the Groom's past or how wonderful the Bride is, feel free to do so. Just remember where your end point is. If you get hung up or lost, go to the "Toast". This will make you look like a Pro.
2. Toast Givers should also keep in mind the comfort level of the guests and the reception timetable. Sometimes the ceremony and wedding party pictures take longer than expected. Or for some other reason there may be a large gap of time between the ceremony and reception. A long winded Toast while hungry guests are waiting to eat is inconsiderate. Unless you are the Best Man or father of one of the Newlyweds, keep it short or consider giving your Toast later, after guests have gotten their meals.
3. Prepare notes if you like. Speaking in front of a large group of strangers can be intimidating. There's nothing wrong with preparing an outline and having it in front of you.
It is not required for the Bride and Groom to speak but it adds a much appreciated touch of class when they do. It can be something as simple as thanking the guests for their participation. They will appreciate that you took the time to publicly express your gratitude to them.
Often, Brides and Grooms will take this opportunity to express appreciation to parents, relatives, mentors, friends and others who have made an important difference in their lives.
Greeting Guests
Your reception is a brief window of time when those closest to you are all in the same place. Chances are this moment will never be duplicated. As a Bride or Groom, you are usually the first to get served your meal. This works to your advantage. You can then use the rest of the meal time to mingle with your guests. If you have a smaller number of guests it's a bit easier. However, the more guests you have, the more conscious you need to be about time.
First Dance
Every First Dance is as unique as the couple performing it. While performing a choreographed dance isn't a necessity, those who do always win the admiration of their guests. Some newlywed couples choose to add extra emphasis to their First Dance by performing it directly after their Introduction.
Whatever song you choose, your comfort is important. If one or both of you shy away from the spotlight, you may not wish to be the lone couple on the floor for the entire song. Be specific about how long you want to be out there before others are invited to join in.
Prior to the wedding day, instruct your wedding DJ or Band Leader to have others join at the appropriate time. If you are planning a Father/Daughter Dance or other protocol dances, you can have the First Dance edited or faded out early if you like.
Get The Party Started!
Eventually all guests will be invited out to join you on the dance floor. A good slow dance is a great way to start off the Open Dance portion of the evening. It's the style of music most likely to get the best response, especially for those that have just finished their meals or are older. From there, momentum can be built and your celebration can be in full effect in no time.
The Bride and Groom are a like a "Guest Magnet". Where you go your guests are likely to follow. If you stay out on the dance floor during the beginning of open dancing, your guests are more likely to participate as well.
Attached is a sample itinerary. Please let us know what you would like to have as part of your reception by checking the items:
___ INTRODUCTION OF BRIDAL PARTY: (Or just Bride and Groom)
___ WELCOME AND THANK YOU TO GUESTS: This is usually done after the intro by the Bride and Groom / Parent / Friend.
___ FIRST DANCE: Bride and Groom will start off the evening with “their” song.
___ TOAST: Typically given before or during dinner by the Best Man (also the Maid of Honor if desired) to toast the Bride and Groom.
___ BLESSING / GRACE: Before Dinner, given by: Minister / Parent / Family member / Guest.
___ DINNER - HORS D’OEUVRES, BUFFET, OR SIT-DOWN DINNER:
During any style of dinner, background music will be played at a conversational level. We want your guests to be able to comfortably enjoy dinner conversation, so music level will be kept low. (Music suggest: Jazz / Classical / Big Band / New Age / AC L. Rock)
___ FATHER/BRIDE DANCE: Following the first dance, Bride and Father share a slow dance together.
___ MOTHER/GROOM DANCE: After the Bride/Father dance, The Groom escorts his mother out for this special dance.
___ BRIDAL PARTY DANCE: Next, the Bride & Groom, Parents, All Bridesmaids/Groomsmen are invited to dance.
___ OPEN DANCE FLOOR: All guests are invited to join the bridal party on the dance floor to dance to a mix of the best music fast and slow, old and new
___ CAKE CUTTING: We will invite the guests to view the Bride & Groom cutting the cake.
___ BOUQUET AND GARTER TOSS: The Bride will toss the bouquet to the single women, then the Groom will take the garter off the Bride and toss it to the single men.
___ GARTER ON: The man who catches the garter will place it just above the knee of the woman who catches the bouquet. Or, the woman who catches the bouquet will place it above the knee of the man who catches the garter!
___ DOLLAR DANCE/HONEYMOON DANCE: (Optional) Also called the “Good-luck” or “Honeymoon dance”. Guests will give money for a dance with Bride & Groom. Maid of Honor & Best Man will coordinate. Slow dance music will continue as long as guests are in line.
___ FINAL DANCE: The last song of the evening.
___ OTHER ITEMS and Comments
Date of wedding reception:____________________
First guests expected to arrive at the reception at what time?_______________
Bride and Groom expected to arrive at the reception at what time?_______________
Reception planned on ending at what time?____________________
Location of Reception:___________________________________________________________
Directions:____________________________________________________________
Host/Hostess, Function Manager, or point of contact for the Reception:_____________________Phone: _______________________
Wedding Coordinator_______________________Phone: ____________________
Photographer _______________________ Phone: ____________________
Videographer _______________________Phone: ____________________
Number of People Attending: __________Predominant Age Range:______________
General type of music that you would like at the reception:__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Describe the type of Atmosphere that you would like at the reception:_____________________________________________________________
Bride’s favorite music:__________________________________________________
Groom’s favorite music: ________________________________________________
Preference for music playing as guests are arriving at the reception:
_ Smooth Jazz;
_ Easy Listening
_ Traditional Jazz
_ Soft vocals;
_ Big band;
_ Classical;
_ Other:_____________________________
Introduction of the Bridal Party Music Choice: _____________________________
Parents of the Bride___________________________________________________
Parents of the Groom:_________________________________________________
Grandparents of the Bride: _____________________________________________
Grandparents of the Groom: _____________________________________________
Flower Girl(s):________________________________________________________
Ring Bearer(s):________________________________________________________
(Groomsmen and Bridesmaids as they are to be coupled and as they are to be announced such as “Sister of the Bride, …”)
Bridesmaid:___________________________________________________________
and
Groomsman:__________________________________________________________
Bridesmaid:___________________________________________________________
and
Groomsman:__________________________________________________________
Bridesmaid:___________________________________________________________
and
Groomsman:__________________________________________________________
Bridesmaid:___________________________________________________________
and
Groomsman:__________________________________________________________
Bridesmaid:___________________________________________________________
and
Groomsman:__________________________________________________________
Bridesmaid:___________________________________________________________
and
Groomsman:__________________________________________________________
(If there are additional attendants, please check here and continue on the back or a separate sheet). _ More on back
Best Man:____________________________________________________________
Maid / Matron of Honor:_________________________________________________
(Please circle one – Maid of Honor if she is single; Matron of Honor if she is married)
Bride and Groom to be introduced as:
“MR. and MRS._________________________________"
Bride and Groom referred to informally by friends and family as:
Bride:_________________________Groom:_________________________
[When introduced, we recommend having the Bride and Groom go directly into their first dance for several reasons: the guests' attentions are directed to the dance floor, it officially "opens" the dance floor for other guests who might want to dance during the meal, and it sets the tone from the very beginning that you want this to be a wonderful celebration. What is your preference?]
Bride and Groom will:
_ go into their first dance;
_ go to form a receiving line;
_ be seated and have the first dance later (If so, when?)
Song for the Bride and Groom’s first dance:________________________________
_ We would like to dance to the entire song by ourselves.
_ We would like to dance, by ourselves, to only part of the song then fade it out when
appropriate.
_ We would like the wedding party to join us part way through the song.
_ We would like all the guests to join us part way through the song.
_ We have another idea indicated here:
Will a "Welcome" be offered? (circle) Yes No
If Yes, by whom?________________________________________
Will a "Blessing" be offered? (circle) Yes No
If Yes, by whom?____________________________
Will a toast (or toasts) be offered? _ Yes; _ No
If Yes, by whom?____________________________
Will food be served to the guests? (circle) Yes No
Format: _ buffet; _ plated meal; _ hors d’oeuvres only; _ food stations; _ other:_________________________________
Preference for dinner music:
_ Smooth Jazz;
_ Easy Listening
_ Traditional Jazz
_ Soft vocals;
_ Big band;
_ Classical;
_ Other:_____________________________
Will the centerpieces be given away? (circle) Yes No
If yes, would you like us to coordinate this? (circle) Yes No
Will there be a cake-cutting ceremony? (circle) Yes No
What type of music would you like to be played during the cake-cutting? (check one)
_ Background music alone (e.g., smooth jazz or soft love song);
_ Other______________________
Will there be a Groom's Cake to cut as well? (circle) Yes No
If yes, continue with the same music above or is there a preference for different music you would like playing during this?
_ Same music as above;
_ Different song:___________________
Will the Bride dance with her father / other appropriate individual? (circle) Yes No
If yes, to what song? ____________________________________________________________
Name of person:___________________________ Relation:_____________________________
Will the Groom dance with his mother / other appropriate individual?(circle) Yes No
If yes, to what song? ___________________________________________________________
Name of person:___________________________ Relation:_____________________________
Will the Bride and Groom be having a “Dollar Dance” (also known as an “Apron Dance,” or “Honeymoon Dance”)? (circle) Yes No
[Tip: One of the special parts of the reception is having a dance in which the Bride and Groom are joined on the dance floor by all of the other married couples. We can play a nice romantic slow song and throughout the song, calling off the number of years of marriage. When couples hear the number of years that they have been married, they are asked to stand to the edge of the floor. This ultimately leads to the last 2 couples being the Bride and Groom and then the longest married couple, enjoying the rest of the dance. It is wonderfully sentimental, is a great way to
share the celebration of your marriage with other married couples whose marriages have provided a source of inspiration to you through the years. Some Brides and Grooms then present a small token to that couple as an acknowledgment, e.g., a bottle of wine, a rose to the lady, or in some cases, Brides choose to present their bouquet to the lady.]
Would you like this special dance for all of the married couples, and through the song determining the longest married couple? (circle) Yes No
If yes, will the Bride and Groom be presenting anything to this longest married
couple?______________________________________________________________
Will the Bride be throwing her bouquet? (circle) Yes No
Song Choice___________________________________
Will the Groom be throwing the garter? (circle) Yes No
Song Choice___________________________________
Man who catches the garter to put the garter on the leg of the woman who catches the bouquet? (circle) Yes No ***OR***
Woman who catches the bouquet to place the garter on the Man who catches the garter? (circle) Yes No
Song Choice___________________________________
Song for the Bride and Groom’s last dance:___________________________________________
_ We would like to dance our last dance by ourselves:
_ We would like to have everyone join us on the floor for the "last dance."
During the last dance:
_ Bride and Groom to go around the circle after their last dance to say a quick farewell to each guest
_ After going around the circle to say farewell, guests to form a “tunnel” for the Bride and Groom to walk under on their way out
_ No special last dance for the Bride and Groom – just end the reception with one last song for everyone.
Will the Bride and Groom be honeymooning? (circle) Yes No
If yes, where?________________
Bride and Groom’s future address:__________________________________________________
Phone:_______________________________________________________________
Are there any songs or types of music that you do NOT want played?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________