FINDING AMAZING ENTERTAINMENT When looking for a wedding DJ there are several things you need to keep in mind before making a decision: Experience – anyone can turn up with a laptop and call themselves a DJ. There is no regulation, unfortunately, but a good DJ will know how to work the crowd and make changes and adapt when needed to keep the guests happy all night. Reviews – there is nothing better than a customer taking the time to write an excellent review. Before booking, make sure you check out what previous couples thought of their services. Equipment – presentation and attention to detail are so important. A variety of lighting effects should come as standard as well as a clear, crisp sound system. The more lighting options available, the better choices you have to create the perfect ambience. Customer service – your supplier should take care of your needs and respond as quickly as they can. The wrong DJ can ruin your night, with people sitting for large parts of the night bored. Entertainment is one of the most important aspects of your day and many guests will be talking about it for years to come, so do your research! Couples looking for entertainment for the ceremony and wedding breakfast should consider the piano. Before making a decision, it’s important to hear the performer live, so you can see first hand if they will be a good fit for your day. I try and arrange a coffee with my clients to talk in person about their song requests. I’m also happy to learn pieces and record clips for them before the big day. Ben Barrs www.facebook.com/bbdjpremierdisco CHOOSING A CELEBRANT A celebrant will create a ceremony that is all about you. Their beliefs don’t come into it. It can be non-religious or you can add prayers or hymns. Pretty much anything goes! You’re free to choose where you have it and when you have it, so it could be on a boat in Crete or in a castle ruin in Wales. Where do you find a celebrant? A quick google search will lead you to a variety of directories. How do you know if they’re any good? Ask them if they are trained by a recognised body such as AMC, FOIC or Civil Ceremonies Ltd. Check out their reviews and take a look at their social media pages and website. How active are they? How much have they invested in their business? What information do they give? What experience do they have? How versatile are they? Do they have the right look? What should I keep in mind? Always look for a celebrant who offers a no obligation discovery call. It’s important to find someone who speaks your language and makes you feel comfortable. Celebrants are as individual as you are, and they vary greatly in their style and manner. How much will a celebrant cost? Like anything in life, celebrant fees vary according to what is offered. Ask them how they work and what services they can provide. Some celebrants can tailor your ceremony according to your available budget and your personal requirements, so it’s always worth asking if they can be flexible. Celebrant fees range from £250 to more than £1,000. Unless you find someone who is so perfect that you’re willing to pay any money to have them, then my advice would be to pitch it somewhere in the middle to find someone who is committed to providing high standards and is reliable. Remember, the best part about having a celebrant is that it makes your wedding ceremony different and personal to you. Louise Goode www.louisegoodecelebrant.co.uk www.andrewab.wedding www.andrewab.wedding 48
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