Big weddings create big stresses. I do not think there is a more stressful event in our lives than planning our own wedding reception. There are factors beyond the dinner and dances that drill deep into our persons. Family dynamics play a major role in the success of the wedding. A wedding DJ plays a central part in smoothing out some of the edges.

This past weekend I DJed two wedding receptions in St. Louis and both were polar opposites. Even with preparation from my clients, I am still amazed as to how much you don't know about a crowd until they are infront of you. One wedding was a church wedding with a reception at the Savoy, while the other was an onsite ceremony overlooking downtown St Louis at Windows Off Washington. Both weddings were smooth, full of good energy and were not affected by the challenges that plagued them.

Here is a short list of some of the challenges of both:

• Both were hot days
• 200+ guests
• Large bridal parties
• Last minute timeline changes
• Special handling for step parents
• Last minute song changes
• Wardrobe malfunctions

You can imagine the difficulty a non-seasoned DJ would have dealing with just one of these challenges. I have been a wedding DJ for more than 20 years and I like to avoid these myself, but far too often it is part of the wedding reception experience. I can't count how many times a challenge has occurred moments before I am set to make an announcement, introduction or to play a special song. It can be very stressful. I train our DJs to expect the challenges. We walk into receptions with the expectation that things are going to change, we are better adjusted to handle those stresses when they arise. The bonus here is, if we are blessed at an event without challenges, it is that much easier either way when you are prepared.

Here are a few of important traits to look for in a Wedding Disc Jockey:

• Attractive appearance
• Good smile
• Is married or knows someone who is
• Has a calm demeanor
• Has good social graces

Weddings have always had a sweet spot in my heart. I like sitting in at ceremony and listening to the vows. As a married man myself, it is good to hear again and again how important marriage is. Being married is why I can sit through stressful moments and be more calm. I know that if I can be patient while others are freaking out, I can deliver that song and announcement in a way that moves everyone on to the next thing. Being a good wedding DJ means to be a good eraser of stress and to provide the next big moment.