Choosing a DJ

So, Jer and I are at the point where we need to pick our DJ. It is something that I have been putting off for quite awhile in hopes that we would win the lottery and be able to hire a band, but alas, that has not happened so we're settling on the economic solution of hiring a DJ. I've read several posts on "The Knot" about the best DJ's (and the worst!) so I wanted to compile what I have discovered in one post.

1. Music By Design - We met Tony at the Hinsdale Wedding Walk and he was seriously awesome. I was totally in love when he asked me, "What's the one thing you are looking for in a DJ?" and I said, "No Cheese" and then he points to his business card and it reads "No Cheese." So hilarious! Well I followed up with Tony and am super impressed. They have an awesome online music management tool that allows you to pick your songs, and gives you a music library to choose from. It's really quite impressive and already helpful - you can use it before you book with them (we haven't booked yet). The only negative to Music By Design is the cost - it's pretty pricey for everything we want. I love how they keep telling us that you pay for the good quality, when in this economic environment I think they should be happily reducing rates (to the acceptable amount, of course!). But that is another post.

2. Toast And Jam - For whatever reason the lady that I was working with at Toast and Jam just wasn't that great. Maybe I couldn't judge tone, maybe I just didn't like her name (it's possible!) but I just wasn't that impressed. We were going to do an in-person meeting but I was just so not into it that we cancelled. However, I'm debating going back and rescheduling the meeting since they get top marks from the gals on the Knot.

3. Style Matters - Ok, so they get another RAVE. Thus far, working with Spencer has been a dream come true. My only concern is that from what I've heard he is super non-cheese, and we like a little cheese - like a few pop-tunes ala Michael Jackson are totally fine. I just am worried that we'll be a little too mainstream for him, but we do have an inperson meeting with Spencer and I'm super excited to meet him. Their prices are the best so far - $200/hour, though they don't offer Friday discounts. Still, super excited about Style Matters. Only negative is that I don't think they have the super helpful planning tools like Music by Design - but I'll update the post once I learn more (so there may be no negatives at all!).

4. Show on the Road Productions - So my mom made me look into these guys since she's used them in a past event. I was not impressed. By far the most expensive and most un-responsive. I would avoid them at all costs - but that is just me!

So, this is where we stand on the fun DJ selection! I'll update the post once a decision has been made.

We did decide on our FIRST DANCE - which Jer and I are so excited for (it's a surprise, but guess if you want!). And we'll walk into the reception to Viva La Vida from Coldplay - how awesome is that?

Ok, that's all for now! Ciao!