Christmas parties

[Charlie Brown]

How do you go about them?

Treat them like any other disco? I'll announce the tables and hopefully they will cheer but is there anything else I can do?

Music wise, they'll be 30-50 year olds.

The owner said she wants 'abba and things'

Cheers

[Excalibur]

Good thread Charlie, for I too may be asking the same question. ;) ;) :whistle:

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

Sorry Charlie, but you've taken on all these bookings and you don't know what you're doing?

Sheesh....

[djtrev]

Sorry Charlie, but you've taken on all these bookings and you don't know what you're doing?

Sheesh....

Why so harsh?
The question of how and what appear in lots of threads,Xmas is no different.
The sharing of ideas,I would have thought,was one of the strengths of a forum such as this.
I am sure you wouldn't direct the same response to Excalibur.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

Sorry Charlie, but you've taken on all these bookings and you don't know what you're doing?

Sheesh....

Maybe that was a bit harsh...but you really should know what you are doing before taking these things on.

Yes, if they are join-a-parties, the best ice breaker is to get them competing with each other to see who is the loudest when you call their name. It makes it easier for them to integrate too as they know who else is there.

However, do be careful with this as some groups may not want their name mentioned - eg: police, banks, radio stations (speaking from experience)

If the venue has done their homework, they should be giving out marketing cards to win a bottle of champagne/meal etc. The client fills their details in and you do a draw for the winner. The venue get the opted in filled in cards and can send marketing stuff for the coming year.

The other thing I do is a short table quiz - this will depend on numbers, companies and how much time you have.

Don't forget, most of these parties are dinner/dances and service will take 90 minutes minimum generally, so you'll probably have between 2-3 hours to play.

The main thing people want for an Xmas party is good food, a good drink and to have a good dance. Anything else is an extra.

And remember, don't be too intrusive or take up too much of their time if they are there just for a drink, eat and dance.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

Why so harsh?
The question of how and what appear in lots of threads,Xmas is no different.
The sharing of ideas,I would have thought,was one of the strengths of a forum such as this.
I am sure you wouldn't direct the same response to Excalibur.



You don't know the circumstances behind these bookings or the advice that I have given Charlie thus far on this subject and many many others.

Did you know that Charlie has stayed at my house twice so that he could learn from me? No? Thought not....

Sharing is a strength of this forum. Perhaps you should try it sometime.

[NKR]

Charlie

I have 11 of them to do this year and up to 450 people a time. I think its like any other event and play it by the feel of the night.

One extra piece of advise is don't do anything too competitive as a lot of these folk won't know each other and fueled by Christmas drink that competition can sometimes overflow into aggression in what seems like a flash.

So avoid anything too competitive othat can create too much I'm better than you type of situations or banter scenario's.

Just enjoy it and go with the flow.

[Excalibur]

Why so harsh?
The question of how and what appear in lots of threads,Xmas is no different.
The sharing of ideas,I would have thought,was one of the strengths of a forum such as this.
I am sure you wouldn't direct the same response to Excalibur.

Actually, I would expect him to do exactly that. If the circumstances were as they appear. There were rather a lot of smilies in my post, Trev. ;) ;) These ones, ;) ;) nudge nudge, wink wink.

Sometimes you have to read between the lines a little, and I apologise for the fact that my little whimsy may only be picked up by a handful of folks. Sorry mate, but without a lot of history on here, and a pinch of inside knowledge, it's not obvious or funny.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

So avoid anything too competitive othat can create too much I'm better than you type of situations or banter scenario's.



Such as?

I suggested getting them cheering for their company as an ice breaker, surely you aren't suggesting that could cause trouble?

[Excalibur]

Such as?

I suggested getting them cheering for their company as an ice breaker, surely you aren't suggesting that could cause trouble?

I think perhaps Neil was anticipating Charlie having an inter-table winner takes all Hokey Cokey competition, and advising against it. ;)

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

I think perhaps Neil was anticipating Charlie having an inter-table winner takes all Hokey Cokey competition, and advising against it. ;)

Have you been giving him ideas again?

:lol:

[djtrev]

You don't know the circumstances behind these bookings or the advice that I have given Charlie thus far on this subject and many many others.

Did you know that Charlie has stayed at my house twice so that he could learn from me? No? Thought not....

Sharing is a strength of this forum. Perhaps you should try it sometime.

I was responding to the op and your response.

As for the house guest;no;why should I.Lets hope you taught him well

I am afraid that the more I read on these forums the more I realise that I have little or nothing to share that you or others like you dont already know.
Unfortunately I feel like a newbie most of the time.Either picking up tips and ideas along the way and a lot of the time not having a clue what most of you talking about.

[JAMdisco]

In reply to Charlie, I've done corporate Christmas disco's for the last 3 years - averaging between 6-10, this year I have 11.

I treat them pretty much as a normal disco, obviously depends on the ages but you may be playing to a wide age group (similar to weddings). I always put request slips on the tables before they arrive and just play christmasy songs for the background music while they eat & chat.

They sometimes start giving me requests before they've finished the meal. By the time you start you should have a good idea of what kind of music to play. I usually put a discreet number on the slips (corresponding to the table number they are on) helps later on as you'll know where they came from.

As Darren said, the meal can take anything up to 2 hours so it can get very boring waiting around for the disco to start - that's the downside. The up-side is they (in my experience) are good fun and I always enjoy them.

[djtrev]

The only thing that I can think of Charlie is perhaps during the break between the main course and sweet is do a 'heads or tails' quiz.These can take up very little time.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

I am afraid that the more I read on these forums the more I realise that I have little or nothing to share that you or others like you dont already know.


I disagree. Everyone has something to share or to input, no matter what age or experience.


The only thing that I can think of Charlie is perhaps during the break between the main course and sweet is do a 'heads or tails' quiz.These can take up very little time.

This is a good example. I've done it loads of times, but didn't mention it. It's simple and quick. Good shout Trev.

[djdave01]

The manager at our xmas venue has asked for a music quiz this year, im working on it now.

The hotel is suppling a bottle of wine and box of chocolates for the winning table.

[JAMdisco]

The only thing that I can think of Charlie is perhaps during the break between the main course and sweet is do a 'heads or tails' quiz.These can take up very little time.

This all depends on how many people/tables are there - I've found when doing large parties (150+) they sometimes stagger the service so you may not have everyone 'free to play' at the same time - play it by ear though - does no harm in preparing for it.

[edit] in my experience of these though, people just want to eat then dance - never had anything but good feedback.

[Excalibur]

I am afraid that the more I read on these forums the more I realise that I have little or nothing to share that you or others like you dont already know.
Unfortunately I feel like a newbie most of the time.Either picking up tips and ideas along the way and a lot of the time not having a clue what most of you talking about.
Trev, without the ( polite ) exchange of views and information, forums are useless. We can all give knowledge to others, and accept it in return.

Stick around mate, you'll soon pick up some background. :D

[DiscoMagic]

Last year, between the main and dessert and ran a "beat the intro" music quiz fir the hotel as gigged at for their "join a party nights". The hotel loved it because their customers got an added benefit for nothing.

Whilst dessert was being served I totted up to the totals, but "fixed" them so that two teams always tied winner, which of course had to result in the two teams on the dance floor with a wacky relay race. Winning team got a bottle of house champagne and it broke everyone into "party mode". :)

Worked a treat :D

[hammy]

I cant believe than not one has given Charlie the most important tip yet.

Play xmas songs as well ;) :D

[djtrev]

This all depends on how many people/tables are there - I've found when doing large parties (150+) they sometimes stagger the service so you may not have everyone 'free to play' at the same time - play it by ear though - does no harm in preparing for it.

[edit] in my experience of these though, people just want to eat then dance - never had anything but good feedback.

Dont they usually wait until every table is finished each course before serving the next.
In Charlies situation it appears he is doing a few at the same venue so a word with the management and kitchen to give a 5/10 minute break between main and sweet as part of the arrangements would be an idea he could pursue.

[marting]

Good thread Charlie I have my first xmas party next week which is for 150 people I work with so no pressure there,:Help:
Im glad you asked the question i didn't want to ask, im hoping to play a few games i have an 80s movies music quiz and few games ideas if they are up for it, again going to play by ear.

[Charlie Brown]

Okay, thanks for all your input so far. I appreciate it.

Bit more background info -

This is the first time they have supplied entertainment after the meal. They're paying me from the bar takings (when the Xmas menu was set and agreed they hadnt allocated a budget for entertainment) so it's a gamble. Most of the guests won't even be aware a DJ is playing after the meal.

It's in the centre of Nottingham, so they're hoping people will come off the street. People aren't eating at a set time. They book a slot from 6-9.

They are happy to play background music until 9.00pm when I turn up.

It's all a bit unorganised but it's my job to keep them there, spending at the bar.

[Excalibur]

I cant believe than not one has given Charlie the most important tip yet.

Play xmas songs as well ;) :D
:doh:


.
.

It's all a bit unorganised .
Oh dear. :( Charlie, google "Trepidation", it's a word I'm already familiar with. :( :( ;) ;) :D :D

[Corabar Steve]

The only thing that I can think of Charlie is perhaps during the break between the main course and sweet is do a 'heads or tails' quiz.These can take up very little time.
All well & good as long as (like one of our regular venues, thst we do a lot of xmas parties at) the meal is not served buffet / carvery style to a few hundred people. Often one lot can be on desserts while the last up are only just finishing their starters. There is no discernible gap between courses. Actually, I can't think of any joiner party that I've done that there has been a gap

[djtrev]

It would probably not work in your situation Charlie but when I worked at a social club on Xmas Eve one of the things that we had to do every year was have a carol singalong.
There is a mix of about 8/10 carols by Max Bygraves(Excalibur will know who he was) and I used to get 8/10 people up to sing one song each,they weren't the whole song just a couple of verses.
As I write this it sounds a bit naff but at the time;70/80's;they loved it.
Happy days!!

Given the background that you have supplied Charlie I am not sure that games and quizes is going to work.
Request slips on the tables seems about the best option at the moment.

Charlie,wasn't this part of a deal you were sorting with a number of venues in your area.If I recall you were asking for djs to get in touch.

If it is then you appear to have given yourself the hardest venue!!

[funkymook]

They're paying me from the bar takings (when the Xmas menu was set and agreed they hadnt allocated a budget for entertainment) so it's a gamble.

I hope it isn't a percentage deal Charlie - I've never known one to pay properly (or fairly) at the end of the night!

[JAMdisco]

Dont they usually wait until every table is finished each course before serving the next.

Like I said, it depends on the numbers present. If it's around 50-60 then yes but for the larger parties it has been known for them to stagger the meals i.e. no gaps as such where everyone is free at the same time.

I've just seen that as it's a 'people-off-the-street' type party, this makes things harder, all I've ever done is organised ticket only type events.

I've been to Nottingham a few times - you really want people off the streets??? :p :p :D

Only joking Charlie, it's quite a nice place in my opinion :)

My main tip would be - don't bother with the games/quizzes etc. Just play good music with a few catchy up-beat xmas tunes thrown in - as you said, if people aren't even expecting a disco it'll be a bonus to them.

One other thing - I advise you setup before the meals - from what I read (and I may have mis-read it) they are playing background music and you turn up, set up, then play so you'll be setting up and clanking around while some will be finishing their meal - that'll only add to the pressure (refer to the other thread that Peter started :) )

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

I cant believe than not one has given Charlie the most important tip yet.

Play xmas songs as well ;) :D

..or not!

I found that just about everyone didn't want them apart from a couple of middle aged ladies who worked part time in accounts...

[JAMdisco]

..or not!

I found that just about everyone didn't want them apart from a couple of middle aged ladies who worked part time in accounts...

I've had some where people don't want any, and some where that's almost all they want (obviously impossible but I usually get asked for Mariah Carey several times some nights lol)

Usually sick to the back teeth of xmas songs come the end of December (glad it's only once a year) :D :D

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

They're paying me from the bar takings (when the Xmas menu was set and agreed they hadnt allocated a budget for entertainment) so it's a gamble.

And you are guaranteed this money?

[JAMdisco]

And you are guaranteed this money?

I was thinking the same - hope you've got a contract in place Charlie and you need to see their til receipt at the end of the night - from memory I think it's called a 'Z' reading (someone may correct me here) where they do a full nights receipt.

[funkymook]

And you are guaranteed this money?

I think 'it's a gamble' means it's not!

I predict 'we didn't take much behind the bar' at the end of the night!

But I'll be more than happy to be wrong for Charlie's sake.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

Let's wait and see what Mr Brown says.

[Charlie Brown]

No, no the money is guaranteed. A signed contract is in place with a agreed set fee.

If any of you are starting your xmas parties before next Thursday, perhaps you could share the playlist or a selection of tunes that worked well? Or what stuff worked last year? I presume it's not too obscure? I'm praying 50 hells angels don't turn up!

Request slips are done and announcing the tables is sorted. Marketing cards, the manager said 'do people really want to fill stuff out on a night out?'

They've just ordered a load of 'shots' and 'shooter drinks' for the first table to get on the dancefloor.

Paul shared a good idea on the phone. 'Twelve days of Xmas' - you put a card saying 'partridge on a pear tree' on one table, 'five gold rings' on another (you get the idea) anyway, we go through the song and each table have to shout/sing what's it says on their card.

It would probably be too messy for that kind of environment though. I'd rather it be in a hotel where people know what to expect and what they're getting. Hey ho, gotta start somewhere!

[DJ Paulie]

I'm doing a xmas gig next sat, not going to be the same as Charlie's gig, no tables, just a bar, a few stools, a small seating area and some shelves for drinks around the walls. (you know what I mean !) They are having food, think it's platters or something like that, (It was last year at a different venue) so if I wanted to put out request slips would it work ? I'm thinking there'll not be many places to put them so people will see them ?

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

Marketing cards, the manager said 'do people really want to fill stuff out on a night out?'



The fact that they've even said that makes them very naive and that they don't really have a clue how to market anything.

If people can win something, yes, they will fill in a card.



If any of you are starting your xmas parties before next Thursday, perhaps you could share the playlist or a selection of tunes that worked well? Or what stuff worked last year?

What is the point in that when you may get a completely different crowd? :confused:

[supersound]

I have losts in my armoury,shared a few ideas with Charlie,12 days,doo wha diddy(same thing)adult pass parcel,and my own ice breaker,table magic,

I used to do the xmas season at our local football stadium many years ago,I had to learn fast.

The big secret is sussing the audience,thers no point in games and banter if the crowd dont want it.Some need a straight disco with no cheese,some are right hair let down crowds.thats where the table magic comes in after coffees.

I ask and record on paper dancing requests.

Ps I am doing a few gigs for Charlie.

Paul

[yourdj]

im hoping to play a few games i have an 80s movies music quiz and few games ideas

not seeing you in action I cant comment but I would perhaps steer clear of time comsuming games unless you have done quizes/compeering before.
Having said that heads and tails is short, easy and effective. Depends on the venue and crowd.

I have a 250 cover restaurant in a 4 star hotel - I am personally going to do a ten second announcement in the middle of the room and start the music as i have two seperate rooms so it makes the logistic of things like that more complicated.



They're paying me from the bar takings


No, no the money is guaranteed. A signed contract is in place with a agreed set fee.

This all looks like a recipe for disaster.
They are paying you in bar takings yet have no confirmed bookings?

I would imagine a corporate christmas sit down meal would have to be organised and paid for by a business weeks in advance and perhaps go through a couple of people to release the funds, but they are hoping that people will turn up on the night. They may get a few small businesses but surely they should have some large companies booked already?

The only game you might be playing is hide and seek. :run:

[Shakermaker Promotions]

Charlie, Just go with the flow of the evening. Don't think about it too much before you start as you'll get yourself into a state worrying about it. Obviously prepare yourself by asking questions on here and that's what you've done.

I've just done my first Christmas Party of the year (26th November) and it was great. I didn't do anything our of the ordinary to be honest with you.

One thing I have ALWAYS done at Christmas Parties (and especially if there is a mix of companies attending) is welcome everybody and play them off against eachother to see who the rowdiest bunch are. I usually say something along the lines of "Let's see who we have to keep an eye on this evening..." or words to that effect and all done in jest.

As someone else said, you do have to be careful sometimes because some don't like having their names called out etc. I always make a point of getting as much information beforehand as possible so I know who is who etc.
Another thing I do is go around the tables as they are seated and let them know that I am taking requests on the night. It doesn't matter how many times I do this though whether it's over the mic or at the tables, someone will always come up and ask "Do you take requests?".

I don't think these gigs are that different to any other gig to be fair. Everyone is up for a party usually and a full range of music usually works. The good thing is that you generally have less playing time because of the meal so most tracks are floor fillers. Once you get into a rhythm, you generally stick to it throughout the party season and tweak it here and there depending on the reaction.

The party that I had on Saturday was a mixture of young ladies and oldies and I expected it to be a bit of a tough one but everyone danced to everything which was great. I also think that just because it's a Christmas party doesn't mean that you have to force the Christmas tunes down their necks, especially in November. I played one Christmas song (apart from the background music early on) and that was Mariah Carey. As the weeks go on, I think the guests do expect the odd Christmas tune here and there. Last year I had a lady come over and ask when I was going to play some Christmas stuff. That was one of the last parties I did and no'one else had even commented at the ones before that.

Introduce yourself, make any announcements etc and kick off with something that you think will fill the dancefloor. Once they're up, keep them up. I generally kick off with Black Eyed Peas - 'I've got a feeling' and then take it from there.

Most of all - Enjoy it!

[Charlie Brown]

Good post Gary. Somehow I missed it!

Well I'm on the bus in my tux armed with my laptop.

I feel like it's my first day at school - I'm bricking it!

Wish me luck. Full report later on!

[Shakermaker Promotions]

Good luck to you! Look back at the advice on this thread early on during the meal and if it comes to it....use it.

I'm sitting here listening to the latest Beastie Boys album and just noticed what the time is. Better get changed and out the door. It's only 5 minutes so I'll still be there on time.
Tonight is a small party for 50 people from 2 companies. I had the exact same people last year and it was also on a Thursday and everything was done and dusted by 10.45pm. We'll see how tonight goes. A report will follow.

[Alchemy]

Good luck Charlie, I'm sure that you'll be fine :beer1:

[Excalibur]

All the best Charlie, keep us posted.

[Charlie Brown]

Mixed emotions.

I arrived way too early at 7.00pm. There were two large notices on the door 'Reservations only. Sorry for any inconviance caused' (Huh? Yet they want people to walk off the street for a few drinks?)

The bar looked very busy because people hadn't sat down yet. I just waited around for ages. I started at 9.20pm and gave a good introduction. Most people were still eating their mains but some had finished their deserts ages ago. Tricky.

The request sheets worked well but there was a lot of random stuff 'theme tune from About a Boy'

The dancefloor area was minute. A couple of sofas shoved out all the way. People started to dance near their table and booth - it was quite odd.

Eventually people ventured over to the 'dancefloor' I played a complete mix mash of songs. From Rockin' Robin to JLS.

After 12.00pm people started to drift. I was meant to finish at 1.00am but was asked to cut the music at 12.30am.

The manager came over and asked if I could do anything with the price. I nipped outside for two minutes and decided I would.

I've reduced my fee by £25 for all parties Monday - Wednesday on the condition I finish at 12.00am.

I feel a bit deflated because initially it was very hard. At best, I had 15 on the floor but lots of people singing/swaying etc in their chairs/standing by the bar.

There wasn't any advertising in the windows or board outside. :confused:

I raised these points with the manager (the guy who asked for the deduction, I hadn't been dealing with him originally) and he took them on board.

Apparently tomorrow is fully booked and it's a Friday night. From the 8th December onwards, wine isn't included in the meal - I think that'll make a difference to their bar take ins.

If people knew entertainment was on, I think it would be really popular. It's known as a trendy 'chill out bar' I had two vodka & tonics and half a pint of beer....£15.40

[Charlie Brown]

Anybody got any other ideas? Anything? Doesn't matter how crazy it is? Should I design them a poster to put on the window?

[NKR]

Anybody got any other ideas? Anything? Doesn't matter how crazy it is? Should I design them a poster to put on the window?

Get free drinks put on your Ryder. I won't go out on hotel/venue function work without soft drinks and a couple of pints thrown in - Oh and food.
You are the entertainment not their marketing manager. That is their issue.

[Kernow]

Get free drinks put on your Ryder. .

I think a hire van full, might be pushing your luck a bit ? :eek: ;) :D

Just hang in there Charlie. Each one you do will a learning process that will help you refine your routine for the next. :thumbs_up:

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

Anybody got any other ideas?

Yeah, don't reduce your price by £25 a night just 'cos the manager asks...

Why on earth would you do that for Charlie? :confused:

You've already negotiated the price.

[WWDJ]

Yeah, don't reduce your price by £25 a night just 'cos the manager asks...

Why on earth would you do that for Charlie? :confused:

You've already negotiated the price.

I agree and a contract is in place.

[Shakermaker Promotions]

I really don't understand why you felt the need to reduce the price by £25.00. You were there to do a job, you did it. They asked you to finish early, you didn't decide to finish early! Just because they can't advertise and market the nights properly doesn't mean that you should miss out on money.

If you suddenly had to stop at some point in the evening for whatever reason (illness, equipment failure etc) which resulted in you not fulfilling the agreement then I could understand a reduction in price possibly.

One extra thing though Charlie.... You say you got a taxi to the venue etc. What did you do about backup just incase something went wrong?

[Corabar Steve]

Surely the £25 reduction is just a reflection of the earlier finish?


I've reduced my fee by £25 for all parties Monday - Wednesday on the condition I finish at 12.00am.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

Surely the £25 reduction is just a reflection of the earlier finish?

So if someone had booked you until 1am and asked you to finish earlier, you'd knock the price down would you, even though it's no fault of your own that the night finished earlier?

[Corabar Steve]

So if someone had booked you until 1am and asked you to finish earlier, you'd knock the price down would you, even though it's no fault of your own that the night finished earlier?
Where does he say that's what he did? No mention is made of last nght's fee.

[Shakermaker Promotions]

Steve, he said he was originally booked until 1.00am.
If I was booked until 1.00am and was asked to finish early, it wouldn't be my fault as I would be prepared to work until the end so I would not reduce my fee.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

Where does he say that's what he did? No mention is made of last nght's fee.

And no mention of last night either if you wish to be pedantic.

I wouldn't re-negotiate the fee on the strength of one night and I certainly wouldn't agree to it on a night while I was working.

I would take a more business like considered approach and speak to them the next day about it.

[Corabar Entertainment]

So if someone had booked you until 1am and asked you to finish earlier, you'd knock the price down would you, even though it's no fault of your own that the night finished earlier?If someone changed the times of an advance booking, then yes, we would. Just as if they requested a longer playing time we'd charge more.

On the night, if it just finished early, then no, there wouldn't be any reduction, but Charlie's talking about a renegotiation of advance bookings with a shorter playing time for a reduced fee.


I wouldn't... agree to it on a night while I was working.

I would take a more business like considered approach and speak to them the next day about it.:agree:

[Charlie Brown]

Darren is right (for a bloody change)

I shouldn't have discussed money with them last night. I did reduce my fee there and then. Last night was a learning curve for all of us. They clearly didn't make the money on the bar (I know that's not my fault) but I've kept well in with them.

By me lowering my fee, I'm pretty much guaranteed the work without them cancelling any. I know it's not business minded but there you go. I don't regret it.

I've spoke to the MD and explained all the problems we had. Tonight I've got ten free cocktails to play around with.

I'll report back later. I might post a amateur video of the venue/how I announce the tables/start the evening off - perhaps you'll get a feel for it then and help me along the way.

It's all a learning curve.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

Tonight I've got ten free cocktails to play around with.



Instead of the vodka? :D

You'll be fine and yes, it is a learning curve.

Enjoy it and try and think before you agree something.

[funkymook]

I'd be a bit concerned that you now appear to have a new verbal contract for these gigs - which as we know aren't worth the paper they're printed on! Put it in writing if you haven't done so already, you don't what to be arguing about what was agreed if they decide they want to mess you around!

[Charlie Brown]

Two tables of twenty have left all ready. Quite a lot of tables left and people at the bar but just a couple of drunken idiots dancing.

I'd rather turn down all the money and not do the gigs. I find it embarrassing and cringworthy. I'm just stood here like a dork.

[Booche]

Two tables of twenty have left all ready. Quite a lot of tables left and people at the bar but just a couple of drunken idiots dancing.

I'd rather turn down all the money and not do the gigs. I find it embarrassing and cringworthy. I'm just stood here like a dork.

Having fun then mate lol just think only another 22 to do :o

[Charlie Brown]

:boxer2:

[chrisj]

Ah but Charlie, think about the money. I have a mate who is just a children's entertainer and works entertaining the children as they leave a minature railway train and wait to see Father Christmas. He says there are 3 trains each day approx 2 hrs apart and he gets terribly bored waiting for the next train...but the money is worth it.
I thought the 13th I did tonoght was a bad one but at least it finished at 10pm and they were all there until the end.
I hope your nights get better Charlie and a few more stay longer to enjoy it.

[Alchemy]

Bear with it Charlie, this is early for Christmas parties and the ones nearer to Chrimbo will be better.:)

[DJ Paulie]

Think of it this way Charlie, everyone who DOES come in will see you & your rig. Everyone of those people are potential clients. Think of it as a advertising venture ! (make sure you've got plenty of business cards) :)

[Jonathan Ford]

Two tables of twenty have left all ready. Quite a lot of tables left and people at the bar but just a couple of drunken idiots dancing.

I'd rather turn down all the money and not do the gigs. I find it embarrassing and cringworthy. I'm just stood here like a dork.

I wouldn't worry to much Charlie. It doesn't sound unusual for a city centre join-a-party, particularly if the guests aren't expecting a disco.

[jason-sherwood]

The owner said she wants 'abba and things'

Cheers

my ultimate nightmare. i would politely decline:)

[Charlie Brown]

Awful lot better tonight. I feel like a proper DJ. The NHS 'sexual health team' have just requested 'Great balls of fire' :eek:

[katman]

Awful lot better tonight. I feel like a proper DJ. The NHS 'sexual health team' have just requested 'Great balls of fire' :eek:

Goodness Gracious !!!

[Vectis]

The NHS 'sexual health team' have just requested 'Great balls of fire' :eek:

... well I doubt that they're walking around wearing badges that broadcast their professions, so that really does beg the question how do you KNOW they're from the sexual health team???? :confused: :D :D ;)

[Jiggles]

so that really does beg the question how do you KNOW they're from the sexual health team???? :confused: :D :D ;)

Yes Charlie... How do you know them... :eek:

[Paul The Party Dj]

That's the thing about Christmas bookings - you really never know what you are going to get.

Even once you've seen them arrive, you never know how it's going to turn out. You can make all kinds of predictions about one night of the week being better than another, or the nights the room is fully booked being better than the night where it's only half full, but anything can happen.

Take each night as it comes, relax and smile, talk to guests early if you get the chance off and on mic - encourage them to give you requests and dedications before the dancing starts, have fun!

This year I've cut right down, I couldn't get a venue contract that paid me what I wanted, so I'm only working a few nights. I had this weekend off and now I can't wait for next weekend!

[NKR]

Could be worse Charlie you could be lugging the gear in and out that I am doing. I have to lay over 100m of speaker cable and zone up the desk. 4 cabs for room fill and a front of house system. 2 down and 8 to go following 23rd being cancelled. 504 booked in for next Friday and 475 on next Saturday.

Don't worry Charlie we were due to finish at one this Friday and all bar 7 of the 275 in had left at 12:10, so its not just you. Its just works Christmas do's.

[Stu]

Think yourself lucky, my xmas parties are booked until 2am! Friday just gone was excellent; free bar, young company so full dancefloor to High Street Bar music all the way up intil 2am finishing on Avicci Levels!

Saturday night, 38 guests at the start. No free bar. 10 people left soon as the meal finished. Got to midnight all but 12 people gone. Decided to go into some more high street music as the guests left were all youngish. Kept them going till 1:15 when they started to get tired out so get it in my mind that it's home time - happy days early finish......

Next minute, i've got another 10 people gatecrashing the suite! They have come in from another function room complaining that their DJ was really old and only playing 80's music.

Buggers danced till 2am, finished with Big Bad Wolf - Ducksauce

Bar takings, £217.



You just gotta take them as they come, and think about the moula!

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

What on earth is high street music Stu?

[Corabar Steve]

What on earth is high street music Stu?
I would guess funky house / hed kandi type stuff

[Shakermaker Promotions]

That's what I was thinking of. I should imagine it's the RnB type stuff that infests the charts at the moment along with the dancier tracks both commercial and on their way out. That's kind of what I played when I did places like Litten Tree, Yates's and Chicago Rock etc..

[Stu]

Yeah it's just the kind of music you would expect to hear in any bar in the high street. So top 40 dance, R&B, house all that kinda stuff.

I don't think it's an official genre as such, just what i would class that selection of music as.