Hey everybody, DJ Sam House here, looking back on Amy and Tony's wedding at the Portofino Hotel in Redondo Beach on August 2, 2008. We all enjoyed an amazing ocean view while the celebration unfolded, and the night was every bit as beautiful as the setting.
Amy's favorites, all night long
Here's what made this reception so much fun: Amy picked her favorite music ahead of time using my online music planning page. Because she had already told me what she loved, I could play nothing but her favorites, and her family and friends danced all night long. When the soundtrack is full of songs the couple truly loves, the energy in the room is different. Everyone can feel it.
A look at the night
I snapped a few pictures from the reception with my iPhone and promised better party photos once the photographer sent them. The ocean view and the packed dance floor tell most of the story anyway.
Planning tip: choose your music before the big day
Giving your DJ your music preferences ahead of time is one of the easiest ways to make a reception feel personal. Here's a simple way to start:
- Must-plays: the handful of songs you can't imagine the night without.
- Do-not-plays: anything you'd rather skip, no matter who requests it.
- Moments: songs for your entrance, first dance, parent dances, cake cutting and last dance.
- Vibe: a few artists or decades that capture your style, so your DJ can fill in the blanks.
A short, clear list is better than a 300-song playlist. It gives your DJ direction and still leaves room to react to your guests.
Congratulations again, Amy and Tony. Thank you for trusting me with your music.
If you're planning a wedding and would love a DJ and MC who treats your day like it's the only one, get in touch and tell me about your plans. You can also see how I approach wedding entertainment.