What is the value of the wedding DJ?

The “bread and butter” of a wedding DJ is announcing. Making the announcements that keeps the flow of a reception moving forward is the value of what we do. Otherwise, you would just plug in your phone and have a party - and there is nothing wrong with that! But the more guests you are expecting, and the more of the traditional moments you want to have at your reception, the more a wedding DJ is needed.

When I say “wedding moments”, I’m talking about the stuff that happens at wedding receptions that doesn’t happen at a typical party:
-the formal introduction of the couple into the reception
-organizing the toasts/speeches and making sure those that are giving them are ready with their notes and a glass for toasting.
-the cutting of the cake
-the couples “first dance”
-the parent dances (dance with father and dance with mother).
-bouquet and/or garter toss

Some receptions are different, and not all the above things are done at all wedding receptions, but a good wedding DJs job is to be ready to announce all the above, so that everyone knows what is going on now, and what is coming up next.

Simple – right?

Making sure the announcing voice is clear and loud. There is nothing worse than a muddy sound, or not being able to hear what was said.
Making the announcement clean and understandable. Not using “uh,” and “um” but saying what needs to be said professionally.
Having a little bit of personality without trying to take over the spotlight. Make the announcement then step off.
Also being able to be flexible in the event of a last-minute change (sometimes made DURING the announcement).

Asking a friend or the wedding coordinator to make the announcements for the day may be a cost-effective way to go, but in the end, hiring a professional that has made hundreds of announcements and knows how to keep the flow moving forward and your guests informed, is invaluable!