Alot of energy, thought and some times even tears go in to planning the perfect seating chart for a wedding reception. During this important process be sure to make sure you factor the DJ into your thinking. These are only considerations. Ultimately as with everything the final decision is and always should be up to you. It's YOUR Wedding, YOUR way!Sit guests as far as possible from the DJ.
This is a fairly obvious consideration for some, but many times the DJ shows up to find he is within handshake distance of your guests and large empty spaces elsewhere in the room. The DJ should ideally be immediately adjacent to the dance floor with about a 10' x 10' area in which to set-up. (My gear uses about half this space) and at least 15' between the speakers and the nearest table. More is better here, the extra room creates a nice transitional space but there is such a thing as too far. There are many things a DJ can do to minimize the impact of amplified music on guests nearby but this basic fact always remains true...the closer the guests are to the source of the music (speakers) the louder the music will be.
BONUS TIP! Make sure that you have an official floor plan from the catering hall, or create a detailed map (measurements, serving table locations, outlets) Often Caterers will supply these diagrams with the tables drawn in YOU DO NOT HAVE TO ACCEPT THIS LAYOUT. I have never met a caterer who wasn't willing to work with a bride regarding placement of the tables. However many caterers are used to certain set-ups and may resist changes. Remember no matter which service your talking to YOU are the customer. YOU are paying the bills. YOU get what you want!(within the boundaries of the law...of course)
***The picture above is not mine and is not credited
Next Up....Respect your Elders! Where should my great Aunt sit?
Come back again next week for another great article from DJ Slam!
