I have my first wedding in a few weeks. I have my first paid gig in only 3 days! It’s a private party. I have been DJing for over a decade…. But I have never been an active gigging performer. Deep breaths. Best believe I am binging your videos while processing my entire music library for gain/loudness
As a young ICU nurse I was told to know what the 3 worst things that could happen with my pt as I started my day and have a plan for each of them and you will never be caught off guard. Solid advice my man.
Solid video for the beginners and some of us more advanced wedding DJ types. A few that I've come up with over the years that I could add to the list to help one and all: 1.) Ask the couple what the dress code is. Even if they seem "cool and casual", they could expect you to show up in a tuxedo and just assume that's what all wedding vendors where. Be specific and even ask what the color scheme is for the evening to ensure you match (royal purple and silver, rose gold and regular gold etc) 2.) *Practice setting up your entire stand + kit + equipment until you can do it quickly* There are many people who show up before the wedding and if they witness you dinking around all clumsy like with your set up, word could possibly get to the couple or other important people. One bad impression can scratch you off the "top vendors list" in a heart beat. PRACTICE!!! 3.) Understand power consumption of all your equipment as well as power outlet placement for the venue. Heard a wild story once of a "top of the line" DJ who showed up to a venue only to discover he was on the wrong side of the room and couldn't reach the outlet. Strung a 100' long 10 guage wire across the entire dance floor that showed up in all the photos and videos of the wedding......supreme level cringe. On top of that, if you have to 15" tops, two subs, all your accessories, (amps for those with passive speakers) and a whole Gigbar light FX truss.....buy what's called an "ammeter" and figure out how many amps you're actually pulling. If it's above 15, you'll need to split up the power between outlets on a different grid. Grid meaning you may have to wire one top and sub to an outlet outside that's on a separate break so you don't trip the power for the dining hall in the middle of the dancing portion. 4.) *No wedding is ever on time or goes according to plan* This point is worth *endless* reiteration and emphasizing. If you can't think on the fly and find solutions or "riff" as they say to cover for something going wrong, you're in the improper business/gig in life. I had a wedding, no joke where the bride's mom came up to me five minutes before the grand entrance and briefly said "forget the itinerary we're remaking it right now" and left me standing there. Had to physically run to one of the bridesmaids and force her to be my go to correspondent between the wedding party and me the rest of the night so it wouldn't unravel before it had begun. Expect the unexpected! 5.) Have a pre wedding questionnaire the bride and groom have to fill out together. If all you do is say "yes" to everything that comes your way and all you have is to ancient Yamaha 10" passive speakers, no amp, and Virtual DJ with no controller......weddings are not for you. Understand what you can and can't do for people *clearly* before saying yes to any event/wedding. This is *their* big day, not yours. Hopefully this helped somebody out there. Cheers to the rest of the wedding DJ's and happy New Year.
Re #1, I remember one wedding a few years ago I did, where I happened to know the bride and groom personally - we weren't besties, but we were acquaintances and Facebook friends for years prior. I knew the bride was a fan of the TV series 'Chuck', of which I am also a fan. They didn't specify a song for the cake cutting, so I played the theme song to Chuck (it's performed by the group Cake). The bride gave me that "zomg this is so perfect!!!!" look; she had that look of happiness the entire time; it was just the most perfect thing. It's fantastic to be able to do things like that, which is why this is important.
i'm that nerd that used a tv as my schedule. somewhat timed out completely. the day of event coordinator was highly impressed. she laughed at my little notes/comments. lol
I use Google docs for my timeline and add the brides and the wedding coordinators email on there and have them verify everything on the final meeting. Final meetings are either video chat or over the phone.
When you said “Ben” as the example name, I thought “I would totally use Sarah for the bride out of instinct, because my boss’s name is Ben and his wife’s name is Sarah” and then you did it! It’s so stupid but it got me hyped this morning
Being a owner of a wedding venue is a huge perk for me as a DJ. Im there for the bookings and they see my setup and different packages, meeting with them usually 3 or 4 times before their wedding. AND yes having a cheat sheet is a must for every wedding dj, I label their names all over the back of my booth 😀 Great video Nick
Regarding Tip 6...you say "it can get too much". My couples typically ask for something along the lines of "the new mrs and mrs smith" for their entrance. Now soon after, if I'm saying that again following the first dance it feels too repetitive. Completely agree on the ending though great tip!
Great audio thank you!!! Pro tip keep or ask for an invitation flyer and just keep it at your desk, this way you won't forget their name at the event.🎉
Beginning to experience more and more venues that only allow 30 min to 1 hour setup times. (Crazy AF but it happens) Challenging to say the least, but it’s best to know this ahead of time so you can strategize your setup the night before.
Great video. I no longer do printed sheets, I do pdf downloads and have them running on main computer, and download to thumbdrive, and phone as well. This also allows you to share easily. Speaking of backups in your video, I make a folder that has all the important songs for special moments, and ceremony, and put them on thumbdrive, my lighting control tablet, and main computer. :) Always appreciate your vids! Keep up the good work.
Wow, these wedding DJ tips are absolute game-changers! As someone planning a wedding in Cleveland, finding the right Cleveland DJ service is crucial, and this video provided invaluable insights. From reading the crowd to creating seamless transitions, these tips will undoubtedly help make our special day unforgettable. Thanks for sharing such valuable advice - can't wait to put it into action and dance the night away with the perfect soundtrack!" Lime Lights Entertainment provides best Dj services in Cleveland.
1. Break down the client/vendor wall. 2. Make that cheat sheet a hard copy. Paper doesn't have to be recharged. 3. Get your car totalled on the way, and STILL show up and rock the wedding on time (true story). 4. Always personalize it! "Bride & Groom" is so impersonal. 5. I personally don't use timelines. I make sure I know the order of things, then select tentpole times during the event-what time does the ceremony start? What time is dinner supposed to start? What time do I end? Because plans always change, and one change in plans can adjust *every*single*time. So it's not a big deal if the cake cutting happens at 8:15 instead of at 8:22. As long as I know the order, I can be flexible on the timing. 6. It's their event! You might as well remind people why they're there by mentioning their married names at least a couple times throughout the night. 7. The one time you need that backup will be the one time you wish you had it. Don't make it a wish, make it a sure thing. Good tips, my man.
Bro can I just say thank you Like wow this so helpful You speak so clearly and it’s very easy to understand and just u know like casual And your personality is just amazing 😂
Great video Nick as a single OP I look for advice to improve my Weddings. Here in jersey you know I'm surrounded by some big players SCE, POSH, ELITE etc so I need to be on top of my game. Thanks brother
@@NickSpinelli I just found it interesting how most DJs diss them and now two popular DJs are finding them ok now. Obviously Mackie wants to step it up.
@@guyhermanson3002 haha yeah idk. I can’t give you my opinion until I hear them for myself. Once I hear them I’ll deff make a video with my honest opinion. I don’t hold back on that shit
When I was starting out the guys subcontracting me did not want me to know who I was working for - those events were where I would await instruction. Nowadays, I give the instructions.
Great tips my brother!!!:). Absolutely love your mindset and the way you do things! Passionate, Funny and REAL:). Appreciate everything you give back to the industry bro!
HI NIck, Regarding your back-up. Totally get to have a back up plan. However do you bring back up of speakers and Subs as well? I can see having a back up controller on hand or mics and cables, and laptop. But I would think packing extra equipment would be a hassle - especially if you don't have room to pack it all. What's your advice / thoughts on this?
Sooooo what do you guys think of the background with the blue light? Is it cool or is it too much? #MyUplightsHaveNothingElseToDo
Looks slick with the uplights !
Nice vibe 👍
Doesn't even notice until now. Thats a good thing
Makes you pop.
Background looks good. You're separated from it well, looks good. Keylight working well too.
I have my first wedding in a few weeks. I have my first paid gig in only 3 days! It’s a private party. I have been DJing for over a decade…. But I have never been an active gigging performer. Deep breaths. Best believe I am binging your videos while processing my entire music library for gain/loudness
As a young ICU nurse I was told to know what the 3 worst things that could happen with my pt as I started my day and have a plan for each of them and you will never be caught off guard. Solid advice my man.
amen!!
Solid video for the beginners and some of us more advanced wedding DJ types. A few that I've come up with over the years that I could add to the list to help one and all:
1.) Ask the couple what the dress code is. Even if they seem "cool and casual", they could expect you to show up in a tuxedo and just assume that's what all wedding vendors where. Be specific and even ask what the color scheme is for the evening to ensure you match (royal purple and silver, rose gold and regular gold etc)
2.) *Practice setting up your entire stand + kit + equipment until you can do it quickly* There are many people who show up before the wedding and if they witness you dinking around all clumsy like with your set up, word could possibly get to the couple or other important people. One bad impression can scratch you off the "top vendors list" in a heart beat. PRACTICE!!!
3.) Understand power consumption of all your equipment as well as power outlet placement for the venue. Heard a wild story once of a "top of the line" DJ who showed up to a venue only to discover he was on the wrong side of the room and couldn't reach the outlet. Strung a 100' long 10 guage wire across the entire dance floor that showed up in all the photos and videos of the wedding......supreme level cringe.
On top of that, if you have to 15" tops, two subs, all your accessories, (amps for those with passive speakers) and a whole Gigbar light FX truss.....buy what's called an "ammeter" and figure out how many amps you're actually pulling. If it's above 15, you'll need to split up the power between outlets on a different grid. Grid meaning you may have to wire one top and sub to an outlet outside that's on a separate break so you don't trip the power for the dining hall in the middle of the dancing portion.
4.) *No wedding is ever on time or goes according to plan* This point is worth *endless* reiteration and emphasizing. If you can't think on the fly and find solutions or "riff" as they say to cover for something going wrong, you're in the improper business/gig in life. I had a wedding, no joke where the bride's mom came up to me five minutes before the grand entrance and briefly said "forget the itinerary we're remaking it right now" and left me standing there.
Had to physically run to one of the bridesmaids and force her to be my go to correspondent between the wedding party and me the rest of the night so it wouldn't unravel before it had begun. Expect the unexpected!
5.) Have a pre wedding questionnaire the bride and groom have to fill out together. If all you do is say "yes" to everything that comes your way and all you have is to ancient Yamaha 10" passive speakers, no amp, and Virtual DJ with no controller......weddings are not for you. Understand what you can and can't do for people *clearly* before saying yes to any event/wedding. This is *their* big day, not yours.
Hopefully this helped somebody out there. Cheers to the rest of the wedding DJ's and happy New Year.
Re #1, I remember one wedding a few years ago I did, where I happened to know the bride and groom personally - we weren't besties, but we were acquaintances and Facebook friends for years prior. I knew the bride was a fan of the TV series 'Chuck', of which I am also a fan. They didn't specify a song for the cake cutting, so I played the theme song to Chuck (it's performed by the group Cake). The bride gave me that "zomg this is so perfect!!!!" look; she had that look of happiness the entire time; it was just the most perfect thing. It's fantastic to be able to do things like that, which is why this is important.
You see, this is a perfect example of thinking outside the box and really providing a unique experience. Respect!!
i'm that nerd that used a tv as my schedule. somewhat timed out completely. the day of event coordinator was highly impressed. she laughed at my little notes/comments. lol
I use Google docs for my timeline and add the brides and the wedding coordinators email on there and have them verify everything on the final meeting. Final meetings are either video chat or over the phone.
When you said “Ben” as the example name, I thought “I would totally use Sarah for the bride out of instinct, because my boss’s name is Ben and his wife’s name is Sarah” and then you did it! It’s so stupid but it got me hyped this morning
Great info! If Barry Goldberg ever needs a stand-in, you're it!
Can you share your typical backup list of things that can go wrong? That would be really helpful for those that might draw a total blank.
I'm doing my very first Wedding DJ event this weekend. Your videos are just what I needed to prep. So much good advice. Thank You!!!
love the respect you have for the married couple who is trowing, indeed the most expensive and important party of their life
Being a owner of a wedding venue is a huge perk for me as a DJ. Im there for the bookings and they see my setup and different packages, meeting with them usually 3 or 4 times before their wedding. AND yes having a cheat sheet is a must for every wedding dj, I label their names all over the back of my booth 😀 Great video Nick
Nice!
That’s a good idea for someone like me with terrible memory for details. I get lost in what I’m doing sometimes.
Regarding Tip 6...you say "it can get too much". My couples typically ask for something along the lines of "the new mrs and mrs smith" for their entrance. Now soon after, if I'm saying that again following the first dance it feels too repetitive. Completely agree on the ending though great tip!
Great tip on announcing their full names at the end.
This is super clutch. Thanks Guy!
Great tips Nick!
Great audio thank you!!! Pro tip keep or ask for an invitation flyer and just keep it at your desk, this way you won't forget their name at the event.🎉
True about the extra copy. I
I also email a copy of my cheat sheet to the venue and wedding planner the week before the event.
Could you make a video on the questions you ask your bride and groom before the wedding ?
I’m hoping you made a video for a note sheet! 😀
Best Wedding DJ video of the Century!
Wow, thank you!
Thanks for your tips✊🙌👍👍👍👍
Saying the couples names over & over throughout the day is a fire idea! using that for sure!
Works well for me and my memory is TRASH haha
I literally have my first wedding gig September 22nd..this? Is a SERIOUS HELP to me
good luck bro!
Great tips. Most of these I do over the last 20 yrs.
Definitely ALWAYS make a cheat sheet. Things often change, but at least you have a starting plan.
Big facts!!
A must!
I agree... pay them for the day..😎
yupp!
DJing my first wedding post-pandemic and this video was really helpful. Times have surely changed. Thank you Nic 🙃🙃🙃
Hi Siri great Tip Thank You 🙏
Great vid Nick and a good refresher on the Super Bowl aspect, to always have a backup plan!
Thank you so much for Being straight forward with your experience and share it .
Beginning to experience more and more venues that only allow 30 min to 1 hour setup times. (Crazy AF but it happens) Challenging to say the least, but it’s best to know this ahead of time so you can strategize your setup the night before.
Got me with the back up wife 🤣🤣🤣
I can really appreciate how you highlight “vision” like a good leader should.
Great work, Nick.
game changing? uhhhh, i don't think so.......more like LIFE CHANGING!!!!!!!!!!! YEA BOYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!
Thank you for all the tips! Super helpful!
DJ Nick layin' down truths!
Ima tryinnnnn
We live and die by the "CHEAT SHEET"!
heard dat
Great reminders for us vets and priceless game for newbs. You're providing a great service!
thanks alot for this video! I have my first wedding gig in 3 months!
Wedding
Information
Sheet
Aka WIS !!
Solid tips
Thanks for this, man!
Can you please help me out with a video on 25th wedding anniversary,how to start music,introduction and what kind of music do you start with?
Nick...great reminders! Do you bring extra speakers as a backup as well?
I agree with everything! i
Thanks Steve!
Solid video, I live by pretty much all these things.
Good stuff bro!
On the money excellent tips
Always be evolving as a DJ
Thank you Nick. These tips are 🔥🔥🔥
Glad you like them!
Great tips Nick!
Thanks man!
Thank you for all your help,your tips are a blessing.
Really good video, really good tips, thank you ☺️
Nice to see you on the UA-cam. Great content and videos are awesome.
Hey thanks man!
Great tips. Thanks 🙏
Good Wedding DJ Tips. Thank you. 😎🎧
Good stuff man. Keep it coming
Thank you for being so positive!
Definitely use a chest sheet, now timing may be different but at leasyou have a vision to go off on
Gracias 💕
Oh yes definitely cheat sheet
Bro you are the Official "DJ Nick Stand UP" Good tips, and TOOOOOO Funny!!!!!!!
lmao thank you
Great video. I no longer do printed sheets, I do pdf downloads and have them running on main computer, and download to thumbdrive, and phone as well. This also allows you to share easily.
Speaking of backups in your video, I make a folder that has all the important songs for special moments, and ceremony, and put them on thumbdrive, my lighting control tablet, and main computer. :)
Always appreciate your vids! Keep up the good work.
Great tips man, thank you!
nice thing... I also do the same.. backup plan will always help and at some point I'll not got off guard...
That was a POWERFUL video 😉 good stuff Mr. Nick Spinelli
This video in particular was 🦆ing on point!
Wow, these wedding DJ tips are absolute game-changers! As someone planning a wedding in Cleveland, finding the right Cleveland DJ service is crucial, and this video provided invaluable insights. From reading the crowd to creating seamless transitions, these tips will undoubtedly help make our special day unforgettable. Thanks for sharing such valuable advice - can't wait to put it into action and dance the night away with the perfect soundtrack!"
Lime Lights Entertainment provides best Dj services in Cleveland.
This was well done
Video quality on point and great video content! This made me feel good af because I’ve already been doing most of these which is awesome!
LFG
Good video! Back up wife 😂🤣got it haha
how this video so underrated. 😤
Great stuff man!!! This video looks crystal clear!! Learned a few nuggets
Thanks Jim!! I watched a few videos about lighting and it really helped my camera shoot more clear it’s crazy. The more you know haha
Helpful info. Thanks
1. Break down the client/vendor wall.
2. Make that cheat sheet a hard copy. Paper doesn't have to be recharged.
3. Get your car totalled on the way, and STILL show up and rock the wedding on time (true story).
4. Always personalize it! "Bride & Groom" is so impersonal.
5. I personally don't use timelines. I make sure I know the order of things, then select tentpole times during the event-what time does the ceremony start? What time is dinner supposed to start? What time do I end? Because plans always change, and one change in plans can adjust *every*single*time. So it's not a big deal if the cake cutting happens at 8:15 instead of at 8:22. As long as I know the order, I can be flexible on the timing.
6. It's their event! You might as well remind people why they're there by mentioning their married names at least a couple times throughout the night.
7. The one time you need that backup will be the one time you wish you had it. Don't make it a wish, make it a sure thing.
Good tips, my man.
What’s the best speakers and mic for weddings
Some great stuff as usual!
Love your videos! Funny, you do all these 7 steps and have been doing it for years. Love the blue room!
Thanks so much!
Great video Nick!
Thanks MoJoe! Love your vids as well!
Great tips and great content, thanks for sharing 👍🏻👍🏻
Bro can I just say thank you
Like wow this so helpful
You speak so clearly and it’s very easy to understand and just u know like casual
And your personality is just amazing 😂
I'm new here. Lol this is funny and good stuff! I'm definitely smelling what your steppin in!
Haha thank you Dnette
Cheat sheet? I use a cheat book. I dont use an online planner but I have a composition notebook with ALL the info in it
Freaking great tips 👍
Thank you Allen!
Great video Nick as a single OP I look for advice to improve my Weddings. Here in jersey you know I'm surrounded by some big players SCE, POSH, ELITE etc so I need to be on top of my game. Thanks brother
NJ is NO JOKE haha
Subscribed to you and been following you for some months now. Love the videos and I truly appreciate all your sound advice bro
I appreciate that! Thanks man
I’d like to know how you make your cheat sheet
Solid tips!
Thanks bro!
Tip 4 people love hearing their names do it in everyday conversations as well
Have you checked out the new Mackie SRT series of speakers yet? Barr and Webb both did videos on them already.
Yeah I seen them, not toooo shabby. I'm a big RCF guy tho lol
@@NickSpinelli I just found it interesting how most DJs diss them and now two popular DJs are finding them ok now. Obviously Mackie wants to step it up.
@@guyhermanson3002 haha yeah idk. I can’t give you my opinion until I hear them for myself. Once I hear them I’ll deff make a video with my honest opinion. I don’t hold back on that shit
What extras do you offer at weddings? Any best 1 man show extra entertainment items to bring?
This is awesome, thank you! Definitely use a cheat sheet hahha my memory for that kind of detail is not happening LOL
How much you recommend I should pay a helper, for daily rate?
When I was starting out the guys subcontracting me did not want me to know who I was working for - those events were where I would await instruction. Nowadays, I give the instructions.
Love it!
what do you call the couple during introductions?
Their first names
Great 💎
thanks man!
Great tips my brother!!!:). Absolutely love your mindset and the way you do things! Passionate, Funny and REAL:). Appreciate everything you give back to the industry bro!
Thank you so much Freddie!
As a starting out DJ this video was extremely helpful! Much appreciated. Keep up the great work
Never used a cheat sheet. I'd be interested in a video on this please?
HI NIck, Regarding your back-up. Totally get to have a back up plan. However do you bring back up of speakers and Subs as well? I can see having a back up controller on hand or mics and cables, and laptop. But I would think packing extra equipment would be a hassle - especially if you don't have room to pack it all. What's your advice / thoughts on this?
5:18 in case the world ends lol priorities
I arrive 2 hrs early every single time
that's the major key!