The rules of throwing a house party
So, you have decided to throw a house party. That's the easy bit! Now you have to invite everyone, buy the drinks and the nibbles, choose your outfit, and the most important thing of all...... getting your home ready!
House parties generally mean trashing the place. They do with my parties anyway. Unless I hide everything in the most unimaginable places, all my things seem to get covered in alcohol, broken, ripped to shreds or worn around the head in a wild, drunken fashion. However, over the years I have developed a cunning plan which I put into place everytime I decide to throw a house party. And now I'm going to share it with you!
First of all, buying the alcohol. Make sure you have plenty, obviously, and make it a wide range. Some people drink vodka, some like rum whereas other people will prefer beer or wine. Make sure you have a wide selection, or just do what I do and tell people to bring a bottle. This generally allows for some pretty imaginative cocktails! The one thing you must always have at a house party though, is mixers! Plenty of cola and lemonade as well as the odd bottle of orange juice and ginger beer. All the spirits taste lovely, but unless you are planning to get well and truly wasted before anyone has actually arrived, you need mixers to mix them with! Just a helpful hint from me to you - hide the expensive booze, such as champagne! Otherwise, people will drink it, and it will only irritate you!
Secondly, make sure you invite people! Only invite those you like, and try not to invite people that hate other people! Otherwise, you will have some pretty nasty fights on your hands! Tell people if they are allowed to bring a friend, or friends with them, but if they can invite who they like, make sure you set a maximum number of "hangers on" per person. Ensure that you have enough space for everyone that you have invited, and enough chairs!
Locking the bedroom door when you throw a house party is essential! The number of times I have found people doing what they do on my bed has been unreal and I went out and bought a lock for my bedroom door, which only I have the key too. That way, there can be no nasty suprises!
Cover your couches! Blankets and throws are cheap enough to buy, and will prevent any nasty stains on your sofa. The same applies for nice carpets, or furniture that you don't wish to be scratched or broken. Obviously, if you can move furniture out of the way, the better! We don't always have
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Sunday, January 18, 2009
9 Tips for GREAT Wedding Photographs
9 Tips To Better Wedding Photography.
As a savvy bride-to-be, you appreciate the importance of great photography to preserve your wedding memories for decades to come. We’ve assembled nine valuable tips and bits of advice to make your entire photography experience the best possible.
#1: Start early if possible – eight to 12 months before your wedding. Most weddings take place on a Saturday, and many areas of the country have a “wedding season” – so this leaves a limited number of available dates any photographer has. The good ones can fill their calendars quickly, so the earlier you start, the more options you will have.
#2: Technical lingo: what do you need to know? As you delve into the world of wedding photography, you’ll hear various technical terms such as 35 mm film versus medium format. Mainly, you just need to know what you’d like to do with your wedding photos: do you plan to enlarge any to a size greater than 11x14? If so, you may want to find a photographer that can take some of the formal portraits using a medium format transparency film, which is larger than 35 mm and therefore enlarges quite nicely. Anything 11x14 or smaller will enlarge just fine from 35 mm film.
#3: The advantages of going digital. More and more wedding photographers are using digital cameras, and this can offer several advantages. These include: the photographer’s ability to see the photos immediately after taking them, thus allowing reshoots when necessary; the ability to take more photos in a shorter amount of time; the option of viewing the photos online; and more. The bottom line, however, is ‘do you like their work?’ Would you rather have a bad photographer with a digital camera, or a good photographer using film? You get the idea.
#4: What happens to the negatives? It’s an industry-wide practice that professional photographers retain all rights and ownership to the negatives of any photos they take. (Or, in the case of digital photography – the original files of every photo.) You may want to ask your photographer if you have the option of buying the negatives at some point, or how long they will keep the negatives available. Some photographers allow you buy the negatives one year after your wedding.
#5: Thoroughly prepare your list of formal photos ahead of time! Your day will go so much more smoothly, and you’ll be much happier with the final results, if you take the time before your wedding to prepare a very specific, well-thought-out list of photos you’d like taken. This is especially important with more complicated families involving divorce and remarriage.
#6: Assign a friend or family member to help with the formal photos. While taking the formal posed portraits, it speeds the process along tremendously if you can assign someone the job of rounding up the right people for the next photo. It can be quite time-consuming, and frustrating, to stand around waiting while the search for the best man continues. It helps if the person to whom you assign this task is familiar with most of the people in both families and the wedding party.
#7: Be aware of any photo restrictions. Some ceremony sites have restrictions on photography, such as limitations on where the photographer can be during the ceremony, or limitations on flash photography. Check with your officiant and/or ceremony site manager to see if there are ANY photo restrictions you should be aware of, and if there are, be sure to share these with your photographer ahead of time.
#8: The day’s schedule – when to take the formal portraits? It can be quite convenient for your guests if you take ALL of the formal shots before the wedding, so that the guests can go directly to the reception after the ceremony, without having to find a way to kill a few free hours. You may also find that it makes your day less nerve-wracking if you and your groom can see each other before the ceremony, and spend a few quiet minutes together. Of course, many couples want that exciting moment when the groom sees his bride – in full regalia – for the first time as she starts down aisle towards him. Either way, make sure that you arrive to the reception in a timely manner, not much later than your guests. You two are the hosts – the stars of the day, and your guests want to see you! Quite frankly, it’s blatantly rude to miss the entire cocktail hour, and swoop in just as the meal is beginning. (Or, heaven forbid, after the meal is served!) So take the time to plan your schedule efficiently, and be sure to leave enough time for any posed photos. Your photographer can help you with this.
#9: Capture the details. Be sure to specify on your photos list any special and unique touches you’ve included in your wedding, so the photographer can capture those details on film. Whether it’s an embellished guest book, a custom pillow for the ringbearer, an embroidered handkerchief passed down from your Grandmother or a beautiful pair of shoes on the bride… you’ll want to have lasting memories of the beautiful details that made your wedding unique and personal.
As a savvy bride-to-be, you appreciate the importance of great photography to preserve your wedding memories for decades to come. We’ve assembled nine valuable tips and bits of advice to make your entire photography experience the best possible.
#1: Start early if possible – eight to 12 months before your wedding. Most weddings take place on a Saturday, and many areas of the country have a “wedding season” – so this leaves a limited number of available dates any photographer has. The good ones can fill their calendars quickly, so the earlier you start, the more options you will have.
#2: Technical lingo: what do you need to know? As you delve into the world of wedding photography, you’ll hear various technical terms such as 35 mm film versus medium format. Mainly, you just need to know what you’d like to do with your wedding photos: do you plan to enlarge any to a size greater than 11x14? If so, you may want to find a photographer that can take some of the formal portraits using a medium format transparency film, which is larger than 35 mm and therefore enlarges quite nicely. Anything 11x14 or smaller will enlarge just fine from 35 mm film.
#3: The advantages of going digital. More and more wedding photographers are using digital cameras, and this can offer several advantages. These include: the photographer’s ability to see the photos immediately after taking them, thus allowing reshoots when necessary; the ability to take more photos in a shorter amount of time; the option of viewing the photos online; and more. The bottom line, however, is ‘do you like their work?’ Would you rather have a bad photographer with a digital camera, or a good photographer using film? You get the idea.
#4: What happens to the negatives? It’s an industry-wide practice that professional photographers retain all rights and ownership to the negatives of any photos they take. (Or, in the case of digital photography – the original files of every photo.) You may want to ask your photographer if you have the option of buying the negatives at some point, or how long they will keep the negatives available. Some photographers allow you buy the negatives one year after your wedding.
#5: Thoroughly prepare your list of formal photos ahead of time! Your day will go so much more smoothly, and you’ll be much happier with the final results, if you take the time before your wedding to prepare a very specific, well-thought-out list of photos you’d like taken. This is especially important with more complicated families involving divorce and remarriage.
#6: Assign a friend or family member to help with the formal photos. While taking the formal posed portraits, it speeds the process along tremendously if you can assign someone the job of rounding up the right people for the next photo. It can be quite time-consuming, and frustrating, to stand around waiting while the search for the best man continues. It helps if the person to whom you assign this task is familiar with most of the people in both families and the wedding party.
#7: Be aware of any photo restrictions. Some ceremony sites have restrictions on photography, such as limitations on where the photographer can be during the ceremony, or limitations on flash photography. Check with your officiant and/or ceremony site manager to see if there are ANY photo restrictions you should be aware of, and if there are, be sure to share these with your photographer ahead of time.
#8: The day’s schedule – when to take the formal portraits? It can be quite convenient for your guests if you take ALL of the formal shots before the wedding, so that the guests can go directly to the reception after the ceremony, without having to find a way to kill a few free hours. You may also find that it makes your day less nerve-wracking if you and your groom can see each other before the ceremony, and spend a few quiet minutes together. Of course, many couples want that exciting moment when the groom sees his bride – in full regalia – for the first time as she starts down aisle towards him. Either way, make sure that you arrive to the reception in a timely manner, not much later than your guests. You two are the hosts – the stars of the day, and your guests want to see you! Quite frankly, it’s blatantly rude to miss the entire cocktail hour, and swoop in just as the meal is beginning. (Or, heaven forbid, after the meal is served!) So take the time to plan your schedule efficiently, and be sure to leave enough time for any posed photos. Your photographer can help you with this.
#9: Capture the details. Be sure to specify on your photos list any special and unique touches you’ve included in your wedding, so the photographer can capture those details on film. Whether it’s an embellished guest book, a custom pillow for the ringbearer, an embroidered handkerchief passed down from your Grandmother or a beautiful pair of shoes on the bride… you’ll want to have lasting memories of the beautiful details that made your wedding unique and personal.
101 GREAT Conversation Starters
101 Great Conversation Starters
We've all been there before,...your introduced to someone, or find yourself with a person you REALLY want to talk to. and to top it off,..nothing comes to mind, plus we dont want to ask Julia Roberts if she liked "Pretty Woman" and watch her zip away at at warp speed from us.Since we live in a time where people pretty much have there heads down and are texting or checking emails,...even at dinner,..great conversation is getting harder and harder to find.So here is 101 ideas for starting a interesting conversation,...pick out 10 you like and take them with you to go grocery shopping, to church, a company meeting, or social outing. Let the fun begin!!!!
Explore related pagesMore Conversation Starters Wedding Weight Loss 101 The Ultimate New Years Party
iMemoryfilms Party Post blog
Cool stuff from iMemoryfilms
101 Ways To Start A Conversation
Great Conversation Starters
1.Whats the coolest thing you've ever bought on EBAY?2. If your best friend had 3 words to describe you, what would they be?3. Most embarssing moment in high school?4. Worst movie you have ever seen?5. Peanut butter. Crunchy or smooth?6. If money were no object, what car would you buy?7. Favorite song to sing in the shower?8. If you could invite ANYONE to dinner,..alive or dead,...who would you invite?9. Who makes the best margarita?10. Ever find yourself watching the Spanish channels and you have NO idea what they are talking about?11. Whats the first thing you would do with 10 million dollars?12. What book should every man/woman read?13. Ever wished you could personally make over a friend?14. You ever wonder if Dr. Seuss was high when he wrote?15. Your favorite house on "Real World"?16. Whats the all time greatest movie kiss?17. How old is your Facebook picture?18. You think people would forget what they are angry about if they listened to Barry Manilow 100 times in a row?19. Should we invent a gadget that lets you hurt your Dentist as much as he hurts you?20. Ginger or Maryann?21. When was the last time you drunk dialed?22. Favorite all time Muppet?23. What's the habit you're proudest of breaking?24. What web site can you not live without?25. If you could be in one movie, what would it be?26. Who's your favorite TV chef?27. If you were President, whats the first thing you would change?28. Where were YOU on September 11, 2001?29. Name 7 planets in our solar system.30. Whats the capital of Canada? ( answer: Ottawa for you intellectually impaired readers )31. If you could come back as a female singer, who would you be?32. What's the most you've ever paid for a bottle of wine?33. Your favorite Halloween costume of all time?34. Have you ever put a Chinese cookie fortune on your mirror?35. What super power would you most like to have?36. Name 3 things every guy has in his refrigerator?37. Ever taken your Mom to a party and loved it?38. Should we make 70% off a rule on Sundays?39. If you ran your company who would you fire first?40. What are you going to name your first child?41. Your favorite toy growing up?42. Ever stayed in a place you thought was haunted?43. If the Police would let you shoot 3 people in the leg, who would you shoot first?44. Best fast food place ever?45. Whats the worst advice somebody gave you?46. Wal-mart or Target? Which is your fave?47. If you could be invisible, wheres the first place you would go?48. Ever wished you had the closet from "Clueless"?49. Have you ever woke up from a dream and thought for a second you REALLY could fly?50. What's your favorite form of exercise, and eating cheese doesnt count.51. Ever feel guilty that you know all the words to a Cyndi Lauper song?52. Favorite birthday party of all-time?53. Ever wanted to yell out somethig at a wedding when they ask if there is any reason why this couple should not get married?54. What celebrity do people say you remind them of?55. Favorite class in high school?56. Ever wish you could personally thank the owners of In-N-Out burgers?57. Charlie Chaplin is the most famous actor of all time. Name just one of his films.58. When is the last time you actually bought a CD?59. What's your favorite knock-knock joke? ( answer: Dwayne. Dwayne who? Dwayne the bathtub, I'm drowning doesn't count. )60. Scariest movie you have ever seen by yourself?61. To help solve unemployment and make our roads safer, should we make everyone over 70 hire a driver?62. Whats your favorite leftover food?63. Whats the greatest cereal ever made?64. Have you ever stayed home from work or school just to watch game shows?65. Have you ever been in a food fight?66. Best idea you've ever had for a movie?67. Have you ever taken a picture in one of those little photo booths?68. Ever called in sick to work, and then showed up with a really great tan?69. Have you ever given someone a late Christmas gift and it was something you got and couldn't stand?70. Whats your favorite drink to make at home?71. Have you ever wanted to hang out with Hugh Hefner for a whole day?72. In what month is Martin Luther King day? ( answer: January, you moe rons )73. Who was the last person you told a really big lie to?74. Have you ever watched a TV show and thought you could be good friends withone of the stars?75. Have you ever gone out on a date, and went home early so you could go somewhere else,...and run into your date?76. Best place to Christmas shop?77. Ever acted like you were someone else online?78. Favorite thing you ever did with your Grandma or Grandpa?79. What school picture of yours should be hid forever?80. Where were you at the first time you watched a porn movie?81. Your favorite pet ever?82. If you were given a lifetime gift cetificate, what store would you choose?83. Favorite movie candy of all time?84. Who was your first crush?85. Whats the scariest moment you've ever had in your car?86. Who has the best job at your work?87. Worst person you kissed in high school?88. If you could put a plague on a ex, what plague would you give them?89. If you could take your whole family on vacation, where would you take them?90. George Clooney wants you to bring 3 people over to dinner,...who would you take?91. If you could invent just one thing to make life better, what would it be?92. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?93. If you could be paid to do anything, what would you do?94. Whats the oldest thing you still have from growing up?95. What movie can still make you get the kleenex's out?96. What 3 things do you want to make sure you do before you die?97. Who can put you in a good mood faster than anyone else?98. If someone was trying to impress your parents, what would win them BOTH over?99. A perfect night on the town,....what would you do?100. Your company says you can live anywhere you want and keep your job,....where would you live?101. Its 1 in the morning and you open your fridge,...what would you see that makes you really happy?
People
We've all been there before,...your introduced to someone, or find yourself with a person you REALLY want to talk to. and to top it off,..nothing comes to mind, plus we dont want to ask Julia Roberts if she liked "Pretty Woman" and watch her zip away at at warp speed from us.Since we live in a time where people pretty much have there heads down and are texting or checking emails,...even at dinner,..great conversation is getting harder and harder to find.So here is 101 ideas for starting a interesting conversation,...pick out 10 you like and take them with you to go grocery shopping, to church, a company meeting, or social outing. Let the fun begin!!!!
Explore related pagesMore Conversation Starters Wedding Weight Loss 101 The Ultimate New Years Party
iMemoryfilms Party Post blog
Cool stuff from iMemoryfilms
101 Ways To Start A Conversation
Great Conversation Starters
1.Whats the coolest thing you've ever bought on EBAY?2. If your best friend had 3 words to describe you, what would they be?3. Most embarssing moment in high school?4. Worst movie you have ever seen?5. Peanut butter. Crunchy or smooth?6. If money were no object, what car would you buy?7. Favorite song to sing in the shower?8. If you could invite ANYONE to dinner,..alive or dead,...who would you invite?9. Who makes the best margarita?10. Ever find yourself watching the Spanish channels and you have NO idea what they are talking about?11. Whats the first thing you would do with 10 million dollars?12. What book should every man/woman read?13. Ever wished you could personally make over a friend?14. You ever wonder if Dr. Seuss was high when he wrote?15. Your favorite house on "Real World"?16. Whats the all time greatest movie kiss?17. How old is your Facebook picture?18. You think people would forget what they are angry about if they listened to Barry Manilow 100 times in a row?19. Should we invent a gadget that lets you hurt your Dentist as much as he hurts you?20. Ginger or Maryann?21. When was the last time you drunk dialed?22. Favorite all time Muppet?23. What's the habit you're proudest of breaking?24. What web site can you not live without?25. If you could be in one movie, what would it be?26. Who's your favorite TV chef?27. If you were President, whats the first thing you would change?28. Where were YOU on September 11, 2001?29. Name 7 planets in our solar system.30. Whats the capital of Canada? ( answer: Ottawa for you intellectually impaired readers )31. If you could come back as a female singer, who would you be?32. What's the most you've ever paid for a bottle of wine?33. Your favorite Halloween costume of all time?34. Have you ever put a Chinese cookie fortune on your mirror?35. What super power would you most like to have?36. Name 3 things every guy has in his refrigerator?37. Ever taken your Mom to a party and loved it?38. Should we make 70% off a rule on Sundays?39. If you ran your company who would you fire first?40. What are you going to name your first child?41. Your favorite toy growing up?42. Ever stayed in a place you thought was haunted?43. If the Police would let you shoot 3 people in the leg, who would you shoot first?44. Best fast food place ever?45. Whats the worst advice somebody gave you?46. Wal-mart or Target? Which is your fave?47. If you could be invisible, wheres the first place you would go?48. Ever wished you had the closet from "Clueless"?49. Have you ever woke up from a dream and thought for a second you REALLY could fly?50. What's your favorite form of exercise, and eating cheese doesnt count.51. Ever feel guilty that you know all the words to a Cyndi Lauper song?52. Favorite birthday party of all-time?53. Ever wanted to yell out somethig at a wedding when they ask if there is any reason why this couple should not get married?54. What celebrity do people say you remind them of?55. Favorite class in high school?56. Ever wish you could personally thank the owners of In-N-Out burgers?57. Charlie Chaplin is the most famous actor of all time. Name just one of his films.58. When is the last time you actually bought a CD?59. What's your favorite knock-knock joke? ( answer: Dwayne. Dwayne who? Dwayne the bathtub, I'm drowning doesn't count. )60. Scariest movie you have ever seen by yourself?61. To help solve unemployment and make our roads safer, should we make everyone over 70 hire a driver?62. Whats your favorite leftover food?63. Whats the greatest cereal ever made?64. Have you ever stayed home from work or school just to watch game shows?65. Have you ever been in a food fight?66. Best idea you've ever had for a movie?67. Have you ever taken a picture in one of those little photo booths?68. Ever called in sick to work, and then showed up with a really great tan?69. Have you ever given someone a late Christmas gift and it was something you got and couldn't stand?70. Whats your favorite drink to make at home?71. Have you ever wanted to hang out with Hugh Hefner for a whole day?72. In what month is Martin Luther King day? ( answer: January, you moe rons )73. Who was the last person you told a really big lie to?74. Have you ever watched a TV show and thought you could be good friends withone of the stars?75. Have you ever gone out on a date, and went home early so you could go somewhere else,...and run into your date?76. Best place to Christmas shop?77. Ever acted like you were someone else online?78. Favorite thing you ever did with your Grandma or Grandpa?79. What school picture of yours should be hid forever?80. Where were you at the first time you watched a porn movie?81. Your favorite pet ever?82. If you were given a lifetime gift cetificate, what store would you choose?83. Favorite movie candy of all time?84. Who was your first crush?85. Whats the scariest moment you've ever had in your car?86. Who has the best job at your work?87. Worst person you kissed in high school?88. If you could put a plague on a ex, what plague would you give them?89. If you could take your whole family on vacation, where would you take them?90. George Clooney wants you to bring 3 people over to dinner,...who would you take?91. If you could invent just one thing to make life better, what would it be?92. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?93. If you could be paid to do anything, what would you do?94. Whats the oldest thing you still have from growing up?95. What movie can still make you get the kleenex's out?96. What 3 things do you want to make sure you do before you die?97. Who can put you in a good mood faster than anyone else?98. If someone was trying to impress your parents, what would win them BOTH over?99. A perfect night on the town,....what would you do?100. Your company says you can live anywhere you want and keep your job,....where would you live?101. Its 1 in the morning and you open your fridge,...what would you see that makes you really happy?
People
Monday, January 12, 2009
How To Hire the Right DJ
How To Hire A Wedding Disc Jockey
When you start thinking about entertainment for your wedding, Remember there is more to it than just hiring someone to play music.
First you need to get some referrals. Some great resources to start with are friends, family, parents, photographers, caterers and hotels.
You can also use major search engines such as Yahoo, Google, WedPro Search.com or others. There are also Bridal Magazines and the Yellow pages.
Next, make a chart out of the names and numbers you get so you can keep notes as you talk to each one that you call.
One of the most puzzling things you will notice is the great disparity of pricing from one DJ service to the next. However, we suggest that you leave the question about price for last. First you need to find out what makes the DJ worth their fee and there are many differences in what they provide. Remember, your entertainment can make or break a reception. While it may be attractive to shop for a DJ by price, just as with every other wedding service vendor, price alone is not the definitive factor in this decision. All DJ services are not equal. Ask these questions in order...(bolded questions are more important)
Are you available for my date?
Do you provide a written contract?
How many playing hours are included?
Is set up time and travel included?
How early do you arrive to set up?
Do you charge by the hour or do you have a package?
Is there an extra charge for additional hours?
Can you explain how you conduct the evening?
Do you provide a wedding reception planner? Is it available on-line?
What do you wear?
Do you do the announcements? Are you the Emcee?
Are you open to requests? From us? From the guests?
How large is your music collection and is it varied.
How do we pick our music for the event?
Is a wireless mic for speeches included?
Is basic dance lighting included in the price?
How long have you been in business?
How many WEDDINGS have you done?
Are you the DJ who will be at the reception?
What type of equipment do you have? (Discuss with them if it's professional equipment)
Do you bring back up equipment?
How much is your deposit/retainer?
What is the total price for the package?
Are there any additional charges?
How is payment arranged?
Remember, there is a lot of prep work that should be done prior to the wedding by the DJ. He/she should be able to explain what they will do for you in advance to ensure the success of the event. This includes providing a planner, sample format of how the evening will go, a tentative timeline, making sure they have the music you want and more. Advance preparation is what a professional DJ does as part of their service.
A true professional will spend a minimum of 10-20 hours preparing for your reception. This includes going over your plans (consultations), music purchasing and editing, setting up and tearing down equipment, working with other vendors, etc. In other words, what you are paying for is more than just a body playing music!
Music however, is a very important element at your wedding reception. You have thought about the music you would like and probably imagined the evening as you would like it to be. If the DJ does not have a sufficient music library, you may find your guests won't be on the dance floor as much as you would like. A budget DJ simply has not invested the amount of money necessary to provide you with a first class selection of music. At a minimum, 5,000 songs is a necessity today for a professional, and 10,000 or more songs is a very good music library. Therefore, it is important for you to select a DJ who has invested in an extensive music library. However, along with having the song titles, your DJ should also have a variety of music genres AND the know how to blend them into a pleasing mix. Also, find out if the DJ encourages requests from the guests or does he/she have a set music program. Decide in advance which you prefer.
As the guests begin to arrive and enjoy cocktails and as they enjoy their meals it is nice to have quiet background music playing. At some point after the arrival of the Bridal Party, it is customary for a toast(s) to be made to the new couple. For this, a wireless microphone is a necessity. A wireless microphone allows each speaker to be more relaxed and comfortable and make their speech where they are and a wireless microphone reaches places a standard microphone cannot. A professional DJ should never charge extra to bring or use a wireless mic. Today, it should be a standard part of his equipment setup.
After you book a DJ, you will need to reach them. Knowing they are available full-time without additional costs to you is comforting. Also, having a toll-free telephone number could save you quite a bit of money. A well designed website may provide extra benefits such as the newest included perk, an on-line planner and even their music library.
Finally, Listen to the DJ as they speak. Does he/she have a pleasing voice and personality? Remember, what you hear on the phone will be twice as good or bad when amplified on a sound system. Make sure the person you are talking to is the one that will do the wedding reception. If they try to pawn you off on one of their employees, ask to speak to the DJ who will be doing the reception. Never, ever accept someone you have never talked to. Remember, having confidence in WHO you hire is of prime importance in all your planning. As with all things in life, quality and professionalism is priceless.
When you start thinking about entertainment for your wedding, Remember there is more to it than just hiring someone to play music.
First you need to get some referrals. Some great resources to start with are friends, family, parents, photographers, caterers and hotels.
You can also use major search engines such as Yahoo, Google, WedPro Search.com or others. There are also Bridal Magazines and the Yellow pages.
Next, make a chart out of the names and numbers you get so you can keep notes as you talk to each one that you call.
One of the most puzzling things you will notice is the great disparity of pricing from one DJ service to the next. However, we suggest that you leave the question about price for last. First you need to find out what makes the DJ worth their fee and there are many differences in what they provide. Remember, your entertainment can make or break a reception. While it may be attractive to shop for a DJ by price, just as with every other wedding service vendor, price alone is not the definitive factor in this decision. All DJ services are not equal. Ask these questions in order...(bolded questions are more important)
Are you available for my date?
Do you provide a written contract?
How many playing hours are included?
Is set up time and travel included?
How early do you arrive to set up?
Do you charge by the hour or do you have a package?
Is there an extra charge for additional hours?
Can you explain how you conduct the evening?
Do you provide a wedding reception planner? Is it available on-line?
What do you wear?
Do you do the announcements? Are you the Emcee?
Are you open to requests? From us? From the guests?
How large is your music collection and is it varied.
How do we pick our music for the event?
Is a wireless mic for speeches included?
Is basic dance lighting included in the price?
How long have you been in business?
How many WEDDINGS have you done?
Are you the DJ who will be at the reception?
What type of equipment do you have? (Discuss with them if it's professional equipment)
Do you bring back up equipment?
How much is your deposit/retainer?
What is the total price for the package?
Are there any additional charges?
How is payment arranged?
Remember, there is a lot of prep work that should be done prior to the wedding by the DJ. He/she should be able to explain what they will do for you in advance to ensure the success of the event. This includes providing a planner, sample format of how the evening will go, a tentative timeline, making sure they have the music you want and more. Advance preparation is what a professional DJ does as part of their service.
A true professional will spend a minimum of 10-20 hours preparing for your reception. This includes going over your plans (consultations), music purchasing and editing, setting up and tearing down equipment, working with other vendors, etc. In other words, what you are paying for is more than just a body playing music!
Music however, is a very important element at your wedding reception. You have thought about the music you would like and probably imagined the evening as you would like it to be. If the DJ does not have a sufficient music library, you may find your guests won't be on the dance floor as much as you would like. A budget DJ simply has not invested the amount of money necessary to provide you with a first class selection of music. At a minimum, 5,000 songs is a necessity today for a professional, and 10,000 or more songs is a very good music library. Therefore, it is important for you to select a DJ who has invested in an extensive music library. However, along with having the song titles, your DJ should also have a variety of music genres AND the know how to blend them into a pleasing mix. Also, find out if the DJ encourages requests from the guests or does he/she have a set music program. Decide in advance which you prefer.
As the guests begin to arrive and enjoy cocktails and as they enjoy their meals it is nice to have quiet background music playing. At some point after the arrival of the Bridal Party, it is customary for a toast(s) to be made to the new couple. For this, a wireless microphone is a necessity. A wireless microphone allows each speaker to be more relaxed and comfortable and make their speech where they are and a wireless microphone reaches places a standard microphone cannot. A professional DJ should never charge extra to bring or use a wireless mic. Today, it should be a standard part of his equipment setup.
After you book a DJ, you will need to reach them. Knowing they are available full-time without additional costs to you is comforting. Also, having a toll-free telephone number could save you quite a bit of money. A well designed website may provide extra benefits such as the newest included perk, an on-line planner and even their music library.
Finally, Listen to the DJ as they speak. Does he/she have a pleasing voice and personality? Remember, what you hear on the phone will be twice as good or bad when amplified on a sound system. Make sure the person you are talking to is the one that will do the wedding reception. If they try to pawn you off on one of their employees, ask to speak to the DJ who will be doing the reception. Never, ever accept someone you have never talked to. Remember, having confidence in WHO you hire is of prime importance in all your planning. As with all things in life, quality and professionalism is priceless.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Ultra Cool 80's Party!!!!!!
Girls Just Want to Have Fun…And So Do Boys
80s Theme Party
Bottle Labels
Like, Omigod! Are you itching to get back to a time when everything was "totally" cool? Why not relive it all with an 80s party? Celebrate in style with shoulder pads, swatch watches, a single, silver sparkle glove and wayfarer sunglasses. The music, the movies, the TV shows even the toys made it an era to remember, and the perfect party theme for a birthday party, bat/bar mitzvah, or something to throw just for the fun of it!
80's Theme Party Invitations
The fun starts as soon as the invitation arrives. Watch out for Inky, Blinky, Pinky and Clyde with a personalized 80s invitation that brings us all back to the days of pixilated video game greatness.
Remember your first concert and the hours you spent playing air guitar for Bruce Springsteen, The Police and Madonna? Well, here’s your chance to have your own concert ticket. A personalized ticket invitation with all the party information on it is a unique way to start the festivities. Add a magnet backer to the invitation and your guests will have a great souvenir from your party.
Wow your friends with a personalized caricature invitation from Creations for You. What could be more fun than the guest of honor (or you!) dressed in a favorite 80s outfit on the front of the invitation?These fabulous invitations are works of art to be treasured long after the party is over. And, the caricature can be used again for a sign in board, photo opportunity, centerpieces, even thank you notes.
Feeling creative? Why not design your own invitations? Use basic card stock paper in bright colors and announce your party with phrases like “Your Invited to a Most Excellent Party” or “Join Us for a Totally Awesome Party.” “Party on dude!” Throw a candy necklace in to the envelope and your all set!
Make sure to let your guest know to come in their best 80's fashion – bright neon colors are a must, jelly shoes, shoulder pads, off the shoulder sweatshirts, wide belts and cream colored suits with half shaven faces like on Miami Vice!
1980's Party Decorations
The action for this party will be on the inside but you can still let your guests know they’re in for a fabulous time with a few outdoor decorations. Place small twinkle lights in the bushes and trees surrounding your house. A banner hanging on the front door welcoming guests to your party makes for a perfect entrance. Keep your rock star image going and choose the one that says “Now Appearing.”
Add bunches of colorful balloons beside the front door or just inside it. There are so many choices; milestone birthday balloons, solid colors, or mix and match and add a Mylar guitar or music note. You can attach the balloons to old cassette tapes to weigh them down, pile them together and you have a fantastic centerpiece or buffet decoration!
And don't forget to decorate your guests too! Hand out neon headband glasses, fingerless gloves, and candy necklaces, and everyone will be ready to party hearty!
Tableware and Beyond
It doesn’t matter if you’re serving a full meal or just appetizers and desserts; make sure your tables look as festive as the rest of your party. There are a variety of colorful party plates, napkins, and cups - just choose the color combo you like best! But be sure to place them all on gold metallic tablecloths, reminiscent of the traditional 1980's gold lamé clothing!
Or for a different spin, have paper plates featuring a popular 80's cartoon grace your table. Care Bears, Strawberry Shortcake, and Scooby Doo were all huge during the 80's.
Light up glassware is a must for your party. No matter what you’re serving, everyone will love drinking out of these glowing glasses.
Want to save on dishes? Why not serve all your drinks right out of the bottle? But not just any bottle! Creations for You will design a custom label just for your party (or choose from one of the pre-existing styles.) Use it on water, beer, wine even champagne bottles. Be sure to buy extras; these make wonderful party favors.
Entertainment
The 80s was all about music and you will certainly want to have it playing all night long. Pull out your old albums and spin the tunes. Your guests will be singing and dancing all night to the music of Hall and Oates, The Police, Wham, Phil Collins, the list goes on and on. In case you still don’t have a turntable, create cds of your favorite music - make additional copies because your guests will surely want one. Need some ideas? Be sure to include these songs on your "mix tape":
Thriller - Michael Jackson
Like a Virgin - Madonna
Every Breath You Take - The Police
When Doves Cry - Prince
Walk This Way - Aerosmith and Run DMC
Call Me - Blondie
Livin' On a Prayer - Bon Jovi
Pour Some Sugar On Me - Def Leppard
Hungry Like the Wolf - Duran Duran
Sweet Child o' Mine - Guns N' Roses
When everyone gets tired of dancing, be ready with some party games. Play 80s style charades or a trivia game. After all, Trivial Pursuit was the game. Will anyone remember the tv show that featured those little blue men (The Smurfs) or know who really did shoot JR? You’ll have as much fun making up the questions as your guests will have playing the game!
Make sure to document everyone dressed wearing their finest 80s fashion. Using personalized cameras from Creations for You, have everyone take pictures. Be sure to buy extras, because these cameras make great party favors. Or, for instant gratification, use a Polaroid or digital camera so you can see your photos right away!
80's Party Favors
Like the 80's, your party will have to end at some point. Send your guests home with a personalized candy bar, a sweet souvenir of your 80's night. A delicious milk or dark chocolate candy bar surrounded by a custom designed wrapper from Creations for You is a tasty way to end the evening.
Rubik’s cube puzzles, yo yos, leg warmers and lip gloss are all great party favors too. Pass them out early and you can have yo yo contest or who can solve the Rubik’s cube puzzle race.Your 80's party will be so much fun; your guests will anxiously await your next event! With ideas and products from Party411.com you know that all your celebrations will be memorable ones.
80s Theme Party
Bottle Labels
Like, Omigod! Are you itching to get back to a time when everything was "totally" cool? Why not relive it all with an 80s party? Celebrate in style with shoulder pads, swatch watches, a single, silver sparkle glove and wayfarer sunglasses. The music, the movies, the TV shows even the toys made it an era to remember, and the perfect party theme for a birthday party, bat/bar mitzvah, or something to throw just for the fun of it!
80's Theme Party Invitations
The fun starts as soon as the invitation arrives. Watch out for Inky, Blinky, Pinky and Clyde with a personalized 80s invitation that brings us all back to the days of pixilated video game greatness.
Remember your first concert and the hours you spent playing air guitar for Bruce Springsteen, The Police and Madonna? Well, here’s your chance to have your own concert ticket. A personalized ticket invitation with all the party information on it is a unique way to start the festivities. Add a magnet backer to the invitation and your guests will have a great souvenir from your party.
Wow your friends with a personalized caricature invitation from Creations for You. What could be more fun than the guest of honor (or you!) dressed in a favorite 80s outfit on the front of the invitation?These fabulous invitations are works of art to be treasured long after the party is over. And, the caricature can be used again for a sign in board, photo opportunity, centerpieces, even thank you notes.
Feeling creative? Why not design your own invitations? Use basic card stock paper in bright colors and announce your party with phrases like “Your Invited to a Most Excellent Party” or “Join Us for a Totally Awesome Party.” “Party on dude!” Throw a candy necklace in to the envelope and your all set!
Make sure to let your guest know to come in their best 80's fashion – bright neon colors are a must, jelly shoes, shoulder pads, off the shoulder sweatshirts, wide belts and cream colored suits with half shaven faces like on Miami Vice!
1980's Party Decorations
The action for this party will be on the inside but you can still let your guests know they’re in for a fabulous time with a few outdoor decorations. Place small twinkle lights in the bushes and trees surrounding your house. A banner hanging on the front door welcoming guests to your party makes for a perfect entrance. Keep your rock star image going and choose the one that says “Now Appearing.”
Add bunches of colorful balloons beside the front door or just inside it. There are so many choices; milestone birthday balloons, solid colors, or mix and match and add a Mylar guitar or music note. You can attach the balloons to old cassette tapes to weigh them down, pile them together and you have a fantastic centerpiece or buffet decoration!
And don't forget to decorate your guests too! Hand out neon headband glasses, fingerless gloves, and candy necklaces, and everyone will be ready to party hearty!
Tableware and Beyond
It doesn’t matter if you’re serving a full meal or just appetizers and desserts; make sure your tables look as festive as the rest of your party. There are a variety of colorful party plates, napkins, and cups - just choose the color combo you like best! But be sure to place them all on gold metallic tablecloths, reminiscent of the traditional 1980's gold lamé clothing!
Or for a different spin, have paper plates featuring a popular 80's cartoon grace your table. Care Bears, Strawberry Shortcake, and Scooby Doo were all huge during the 80's.
Light up glassware is a must for your party. No matter what you’re serving, everyone will love drinking out of these glowing glasses.
Want to save on dishes? Why not serve all your drinks right out of the bottle? But not just any bottle! Creations for You will design a custom label just for your party (or choose from one of the pre-existing styles.) Use it on water, beer, wine even champagne bottles. Be sure to buy extras; these make wonderful party favors.
Entertainment
The 80s was all about music and you will certainly want to have it playing all night long. Pull out your old albums and spin the tunes. Your guests will be singing and dancing all night to the music of Hall and Oates, The Police, Wham, Phil Collins, the list goes on and on. In case you still don’t have a turntable, create cds of your favorite music - make additional copies because your guests will surely want one. Need some ideas? Be sure to include these songs on your "mix tape":
Thriller - Michael Jackson
Like a Virgin - Madonna
Every Breath You Take - The Police
When Doves Cry - Prince
Walk This Way - Aerosmith and Run DMC
Call Me - Blondie
Livin' On a Prayer - Bon Jovi
Pour Some Sugar On Me - Def Leppard
Hungry Like the Wolf - Duran Duran
Sweet Child o' Mine - Guns N' Roses
When everyone gets tired of dancing, be ready with some party games. Play 80s style charades or a trivia game. After all, Trivial Pursuit was the game. Will anyone remember the tv show that featured those little blue men (The Smurfs) or know who really did shoot JR? You’ll have as much fun making up the questions as your guests will have playing the game!
Make sure to document everyone dressed wearing their finest 80s fashion. Using personalized cameras from Creations for You, have everyone take pictures. Be sure to buy extras, because these cameras make great party favors. Or, for instant gratification, use a Polaroid or digital camera so you can see your photos right away!
80's Party Favors
Like the 80's, your party will have to end at some point. Send your guests home with a personalized candy bar, a sweet souvenir of your 80's night. A delicious milk or dark chocolate candy bar surrounded by a custom designed wrapper from Creations for You is a tasty way to end the evening.
Rubik’s cube puzzles, yo yos, leg warmers and lip gloss are all great party favors too. Pass them out early and you can have yo yo contest or who can solve the Rubik’s cube puzzle race.Your 80's party will be so much fun; your guests will anxiously await your next event! With ideas and products from Party411.com you know that all your celebrations will be memorable ones.
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