Wedding DJ attire...Sign of the times??

[STEVE HANLEY]

Following on slightly from a post Chris Dye (PP Entertainments ) stuck on the Facebook page of this here very forum. I thought I'd ask peoples thoughts on how we as DJ's dress at weddings.

Usually at pre-meets with B&G's I usually tell them. On the night I'll be wearing black dress trousers and a white collared shirt and black tie ( I find suited and booted too stuffy when DJing. Especially in the summer) If a tux and dickie bow is required. I think I'd be up the proverbial.;)

Which brings me on to the wedding I did on Saturday. The B&G booked me over 12 months ago and were heavily into their House /Trance music. At the pre-meet I told them I'd be wearing as above. To which the bride replied "You're kidding me right? I don't think so. Just turn up in whatever you want. It's not that kind of wedding. I shudder at the thought of my DJ dressed like that"

Just wore black trousers and black open necked shirt. Had a superb night with great feedback. I realise the venue(s) dictate sometimes what a dj should wear, but give me this kind of wedding any day of the week. So good people. What are your thoughts? Do you feel that today's young couples getting married want to move away from the stuffy wedding DJ (Mis)conception?

[funkymook]

I wear a 60's styled suit in blue and a thin tie. Looks smart enough for any wedding but also cool enough to not be seen as stuffy. Most of the weddings I did last year have 'hipsters' in attendance, last season they mainly sported a deconstructed tweedy look.

[Shaun]

I used to always go in a nice suit and tie. The last year or two I decided to ditch the suit jacket. Black trousers, black shirt, and tie these days. I still look smart enough, but I feel more relaxed and comfortable than I did when wore a suit. I've even seen me ditch the tie half way through the night (especially in the summer).

[Shakermaker Promotions]

When I have my pre-wedding meetings I wear a long sleeved shirt and smart jeans. I don't generally go suited and booted at weddings anymore. Like you said, it does get a bit stuffy, even in the winter. If I do, the suit jacket generally comes off after an hour or so. Sometimes I will ask what the colour scheme is and if I feel like it, I will match my tie to it but I don't often wear ties that much.

It's funny you mention the Bride & Grooms comments. I have been told so many times "Wear whatever you like" and "Wear what you feel comfortable with".
It might not matter to many customers and maybe some DJ's don't think too much about it either but to me, it does matter. I am a firm believer in first impressions because they DO count. I have 2 full sleeves of tattoos on my arms (obviously) and I am concious of the fact that they could give the wrong impression. The Bride & Groom may not be bothered but their guests don't know do they? They won't know that you've been told to "Wear what you like" etc.

Saying that, neither will the venue. If you're going to a venue you've not visited before, what impression does it give?

I had 2 weddings this summer where the customers more or less insisted that I dressed how I did and that was very casual.
Both were at the same venue (my out of town residency) and both customers were from London and wanted an Alternative vibe. One of the Grooms turned up late to a meeting and he was still in his builders gear. He was covered in tattoos and I really liked them. I had a Fred Perry on and a Harrington jacket. I mentioned that I had ink too and he wanted to see it. I said "Don't worry, I'll be covered up on the night because of first impressions etc etc" and his and his Brides words were "Actually we think it would be pretty cool if you had your ink on show, it looks cool". I must admit, I did feel a bit nervous about it at first but they and their guests were absolutely fine.

It was the same with the other one too and one of their comments was pretty much the same as Steve's. I remember them saying something along the lines of "We don't want someone dressed up in dickie bow tie looking like a penguin or a bouncer".

At the end of the day, I guess it depends on the situation, the event, the venue and what the customer wants and is happy with (in no particular order).

[Shakermaker Promotions]

I wear a 60's styled suit in blue and a thin tie. Looks smart enough for any wedding but also cool enough to not be seen as stuffy. Most of the weddings I did last year have 'hipsters' in attendance, last season they mainly sported a deconstructed tweedy look.

Agreed. If I do wear a suit I usually wear my Ben Sherman suit with a Fred Perry underneath. I don't mind keeping it on all night as it's pretty light. I wear my Ox Blood DM's too.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

I still ask and most want smart/casual these days.

I've actually worn black jeans and shirt for the last couple of weddings.

I had a complaint last week that the DJ didn't look like a DJ as he wore a white shirt, black trousers and even a tie!!

[BossmanKaraokeDisco]

Firm believer in first impressions, always wear Black trousers, Black shirt and black tie with polished shoes. It's all a matter of standards ;)

Dave :beer1::beer1:

[Ryu]

I've only ever had positive comments about my attire (and probably on I'd say 5 occasions) , and I am always, unless it's a teen party/school disco, in a black/grey/brown suit and white shirt, with a range of ties to match event colours (tie is optional, probably tieless 70% of time). I also wear a jacket and trousers with shirt for customer meets.

[leelive]

Duchamp all the way for me....
I have 4 matching shirts and 4 matching trousers so I always have set for each gig.
They are a bit modern and funky... but that is my style.
I wore one of the shirts on holiday last year.... so here is a photo of one.
https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc1/487232_412584682098205_585246695_n.jpg
Lee

[Spirits High]

Right from the start of doing it properly (2006) I've only ever worn trousers (dark grey first now Black) a Black shirt with the Spirits High logo on and black shoes.

No suit jackets, waistcoats or ties here! Once I've been asked to wear "Black tie" and that was a NYE function wear all the guests were in "Black Tie" too.

No complaints from any of my clients. So that's the way it's staying! As Lee's started the photo game here's one of me with a recent B&G

16283

[Corabar Steve]

We always ask what the client wants. Unless Black Tie or Suit & Tie is required, I usually wear a 3 piece suit & grandad collared shirt.



P.S. Sorry Lee, it looks like you're wearing your PJs in that photo.

[DeckstarDeluxe]

White shirt, open collar and jacket. I am thinking of going down a similar dress code to Paul soon though.

its funny a couple of years ago I'd of felt vastly underdressed if I didn't have a tie on!

[Excalibur]

I've even seen me ditch the tie half way through the night (especially in the summer).
In the old CD days, I'd always start fully attired, suit, tie, the lot. I'd usually ditched most of that very early on. :D




I've actually worn black jeans and shirt for the last couple of weddings.

Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaat? Disgraceful. :eek:

Firm believer in first impressions, always wear Black trousers, Black shirt and black

Stay clear of the shadows son, ah say stay clear of the shadows.;)



its funny a couple of years ago I'd of felt vastly underdressed if I didn't have a tie on!
That's because you are. There are standards you know.

[DJIanScott]

Wear whatever you personally feel respectable in, there's no right or wrong in my humble opinion. The venue does matter on certain occasions, but 90% of my work is conducted in a plain black polo shirt, black trousers, black shoes and a ginger Ronald McDonald wig. Ok, so the wig bit was a fib. I've often swerved wearing a tux at black tie events because I'm a working entertainer, not a waiter. Unless I'm asked to step out from behind the kit to host an event centre stage, my regular attire is always welcomed and accepted.

[ukpartydj]

I've got a selection of white striped shirts along with black trousers and black comfy shoes.
Have been considering getting a nice red shirt but think it may not suit me all that well ... maybe I'll put that on the Christmas Wish list!

[DeckstarDeluxe]

That's because you are. There are standards you know.

Sorry Peter but have you actually spoken to anyone getting married in the last few years. I beg to differ with your comment there.

[Johnny P]

generally ask what clients want me to wear - smart casual, suit or black tie. if there for afternoon I generally suggest suit - if just for evening them I suggest smart casual - as the evening is more relaxed. I do not generally like the look of DJs in suits - you can look like an accountant or bank manager - or get confused with long forgotten Uncle Bob and get asked 'are you related to the bride and groom? a logo'ed shirt helps set you apart.

[Ryu]

generally ask what clients want me to wear - smart casual, suit or black tie. if there for afternoon I generally suggest suit - if just for evening them I suggest smart casual - as the evening is more relaxed. I do not generally like the look of DJs in suits - you can look like an accountant or bank manager - or get confused with long forgotten Uncle Bob and get asked 'are you related to the bride and groom? a logo'ed shirt helps set you apart.

I would think being stood behind a couple of grands worth of Disco equipment would help clarify if you are the DJ or not. I guess its horses for courses and all that, but I hold the opposite view, far preferring a suit. I have to add, the suits I wear are generally quite nice suits. Nothing stuffy about it, just smart, I guess if you look comfortable in a suit, wear one, if not, wear what you are comfortable in, in accordance with the dress code discussed with the customer.


....in fact....no....thinking about it...all the other people attending a wedding in a professional capacity are likely to be smarter dressed than a Polo TShirt. I consider myself a Wedding Professional, therefore.....MC's, Registrar's, Hotel/Venue Management....all smartly dressed....so to should the Entertainment, in mu opinion.

[Jim - Scotland's Party DJ]

In an ideal world I'd be able to wear my http://www.:Censored::Censored::Censored::Censored:eshirt s.com/ but I usually wear a suit, shirt and tie is optional.

I think I might do a casual kilt and black shirt look for my Christmas parties though.

[surround sounds]

Each to there own really
I normally set up and dismantle in smart jeans and logo shirt
Once i have set up i get changed in to suit or trousers and shirt.

[Excalibur]

I've got a selection of white striped shirts along with black trousers and black comfy shoes.
!
Good man. What's with everyone wanting to dress in all black? :confused: We're DJ's, not :Censored: ninjas!


Sorry Peter but have you actually spoken to anyone getting married in the last few years. I beg to differ with your comment there.
See below.



..in fact....no....thinking about it...all the other people attending a wedding in a professional capacity are likely to be smarter dressed than a Polo TShirt. I consider myself a Wedding Professional, therefore.....MC's, Registrar's, Hotel/Venue Management....all smartly dressed....so to should the Entertainment, in mu opinion.

I wholeheartedly and unreservedly agree. However, as the function goes on, I am quite likely to divest myself of surplus articles of clothing, mind you. :D

[BeerFunk]

....in fact....no....thinking about it...all the other people attending a wedding in a professional capacity are likely to be smarter dressed than a Polo TShirt. I consider myself a Wedding Professional, therefore.....MC's, Registrar's, Hotel/Venue Management....all smartly dressed....so to should the Entertainment, in mu opinion.I also agree with this. I wouldn't like to be dressed anywhere near casually, when the bar staff and waiting staff are dressed smartly.

Again, it really does depend on a number of things - but given the choice I opt for a shirt and tie at a minimum.

[deltic]

Each to there own really
I normally set up and dismantle in smart jeans and logo shirt
Once i have set up i get changed in to suit or trousers and shirt.


+1 as do I always set up in casuals and change.

[BossmanKaraokeDisco]

Stay clear of the shadows son, ah say stay clear of the shadows

Know what you mean lol, just personal preference, often wear similar when out socialising.

And as someone else said, all the other professionals will be suited and booted, very rare you see a photographer that isn't.

[funkymook]

I do not generally like the look of DJs in suits - you can look like an accountant or bank manager - or get confused with long forgotten Uncle Bob and get asked 'are you related to the bride and groom? a logo'ed shirt helps set you apart.

That's the plan - helps you blend in when you raid the buffet.

[Corabar Steve]

Good man. What's with everyone wanting to dress in all black? :confused: We're DJ's, not :Censored: ninjas!

Hey, if it's good enough for Johnny Cash.....

[DazzyD]

I usually wear black trousers and a either a plain black shirt or a striped black and dark grey shirt. That way I am quite invisible (other than a silhouette) behind the decks. After all, when you look like me why on earth would you want attract attention to yourself and stand out?? :zip:

[wensleydale]

I've never worn a suit or tie (with the exception of dinner suit when called for), much to the odd "doesnt look very professional comment" on here a few years ago.

Just dark trousers and a casual shirt.


Would happilly amend my attire if requried but it's never come up or been an issue.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

....in fact....no....thinking about it...all the other people attending a wedding in a professional capacity are likely to be smarter dressed than a Polo TShirt. I consider myself a Wedding Professional, therefore.....MC's, Registrar's, Hotel/Venue Management....all smartly dressed....so to should the Entertainment, in mu opinion.

I have seen photographers, videographers and chocolate fountain suppliers all dressed down and in fact when we do a photo booth we dress in black jeans, black trainers and either a black polo or shirt and people have never said anything about it.

I used to be in the 'must wear a suit' camp, but I do believe that people are a lot more casual these days and that a lot of people simply don't care!

[ppentertainments]

Even starting the fb thread I have relaxed further on my attire for weddings and DJ'ing in general.

It does make a difference as to what suits you and you feel comfortable with. I've lost over 6 stone in weight this year and now feel more at ease wearing polo shirts etc. In fact a wedding the other week I wore a logo polo shirt all night. Meetings now sees me in smart jeans with polo shirt.

For me the only must at the moment are polished shoes and suit and tie if performing during the afternoon at weddings.

A seminar I attended at the NADJ conference earlier in the year has someone talking about dress and how a lot of DJ's attend meetings wearing suit, tie and carrying a portfolio - she likened this to a car salesman and I thought then 'hang on, that's me'.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

I've lost over 6 stone in weight this year

Wow!

How did you do that?

[Ryu]

I have seen photographers, videographers and chocolate fountain suppliers all dressed down and in fact when we do a photo booth we dress in black jeans, black trainers and either a black polo or shirt and people have never said anything about it.

I used to be in the 'must wear a suit' camp, but I do believe that people are a lot more casual these days and that a lot of people simply don't care!

Perhaps there is is a bit of change in attitudes afoot. Be interesting to see if it's specified by brides more over the coming year.

[ppentertainments]

Wow!

How did you do that?
Stopped eating lol

Seriously - I joined slimming world. Went from 19st11 to 13st8. I would never say it's easy but something happened which just triggered me and never looked back :D

[Shaun]

Stopped eating lol

Seriously - I joined slimming world. Went from 19st11 to 13st8. I would never say it's easy but something happened which just triggered me and never looked back :D

That's fantastic. A huge well done to you.

[Jim - Scotland's Party DJ]

Even starting the fb thread I have relaxed further on my attire for weddings and DJ'ing in general.

It does make a difference as to what suits you and you feel comfortable with. I've lost over 6 stone in weight this year and now feel more at ease wearing polo shirts etc. In fact a wedding the other week I wore a logo polo shirt all night. Meetings now sees me in smart jeans with polo shirt.

For me the only must at the moment are polished shoes and suit and tie if performing during the afternoon at weddings.

A seminar I attended at the NADJ conference earlier in the year has someone talking about dress and how a lot of DJ's attend meetings wearing suit, tie and carrying a portfolio - she likened this to a car salesman and I thought then 'hang on, that's me'.

Ha I once went to a client meeting in a suit and the girl asked if I'd come straight from work - I found it funny because I hadn't come from work and I actually dress up more to DJ than in my day work (and I'm a teacher!!!)

Also I just wanted to say absolute dogs :Censored::Censored::Censored::Censored::Censored: :Censored::Censored::Censored: on losing all of that weight mate. I work out pretty hard and have lost a decent amount of weight since getting serious about it a few yeas ago but nothing like that. Major props.

[DazzyD]

Just echoing the congrats, Chris! Maybe you could start and lead your own Slimming World Class for us North-East "Fatty-DJs"!!! ;)

[Jonathan Ford]

I generally work in a suit with an open collared shirt. To echo a comment earlier in the thread, I caught sight of myself in the mirror at a recent wedding, and noticed I looked like I was dressed for work. Though I was smartly presented, the suit wasn't dressy enough for an evening out or to be a "stage outfit". My Xmas residency this year requires me to wear all black, and it's actually pretty comfortable, so I think that's the way I'll be going in future.

When I ask clients if they have any preference as to what I wear, the answer has pretty much always been "whatever you're comfortable in".

[STEVE HANLEY]

Some excellent replies in this thread. Thanks guys:beer1:

[Javlingames]

I think as the performer it's always nice to wear something a little bit different to the guests, whether it be a trendy suit, blazer , whatever. Just something that makes you stand out from the rest .

[BeerFunk]

With reference to asking the client, I know you can only go on what they tell you, but do you think that if you put the question to them directly, you might just get an overly polite answer?

If you ask how would you like me to dress, they're not likely to demand you dress up to the nines (although I'm sure some might!). What I mean is that they may well say dress in whatever you're comfortable in, but then might be a little disappointed if you show up dressed too casual.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

I think as the performer it's always nice to wear something a little bit different to the guests, whether it be a trendy suit, blazer , whatever. Just something that makes you stand out from the rest .

What about at a wedding where the centre of attention should be on the B&G and not the DJ?

[Corabar Entertainment]

With reference to asking the client, I know you can only go on what they tell you, but do you think that if you put the question to them directly, you might just get an overly polite answer?

If you ask how would you like me to dress, they're not likely to demand you dress up to the nines (although I'm sure some might!). What I mean is that they may well say dress in whatever you're comfortable in, but then might be a little disappointed if you show up dressed too casual.

We ask the clients on our event questionnaire, so they can tick whichever box they want or write in their own. The most popular choices are most definitely 'Suit, no tie' or 'Smart Casual' (ie Shirt and trousers) - I couldn't say which was most popular without counting, followed by 'Suit with tie' and 'Black Tie' most definitely bringing up the rear.

I must admit, I personally am not a fan of the trousers, shirt and tie look without a jacket. That, to me, does make you look like you're having 'a day at the office'. Same I think that polo shirts are too casual for a wedding (although great for setting up / break down, and, indeed, have just had a lovely new lot of polos, hoodies, sweatshirts & fleeces made up with our logo on for just this purpose).

Very few other wedding suppliers are involved FOH as much as DJs are, and I think that if you are 'on show' throughout, presentation is important (just like the equipment).

[Excalibur]

I think as the performer it's always nice to wear something a little bit different to the guests, whether it be a trendy suit, blazer , whatever. Just something that makes you stand out from the rest .
I agree. Being mistaken for the wine waiter or Maitre D doesn't help a lot. :D


What about at a wedding where the centre of attention should be on the B&G and not the DJ?

I'm so tempted to be flippant here, and say how horrified I am by that concept, but we're being serious here, so I won't. I don't understand the either/or bit. How can a couple who may easily spend all night chatting to Great Aunt Mabel and Uncle Billy be ( or be made ) the centre of attention for the whole night? :confused: What's wrong with the DJ drawing attention to them at appropriate times, and getting on with his job at others?

If the implication is that the person(s) pressing the buttons are the main focus of the night, then I'll cheerfully hire them the gear, and watch as the Bride and Groom knock out some tunes.

Once the formalities are over, it's my job to make the night a success, in whatever way seems most suitable. If that draws attention to me, then so be it. I can live with that.



Very few other wedding suppliers are involved FOH as much as DJs are, and I think that if you are 'on show' throughout, presentation is important (just like the equipment).
Absolutely. The whole topic summed up in a nutshell.






Only problem is, we seem to be incapable of any consensus on what the correct presentation is. It was ever thus. :D:D

[Javlingames]

What about at a wedding where the centre of attention should be on the B&G and not the DJ?

A great Dj will always make the b&g feel the centre of attention.

A Well dressed Dj also helps towards stage presence. Seriously lacking at the moment in some djs. Ah the days when djs used to actually put on a bit of a show!! Anyway that's another thread for another day

[STEVE HANLEY]

What about at a wedding where the centre of attention should be on the B&G and not the DJ?

Totally agree. I have my lights set up so you can barely see me behind the decks. When you look like me that's a bonus:)

[Essex Disco]

I've always worn black trousers, shoes and a black short sleeved shirt. However it does get annoying when your asked to refill the jug on the table so I will be getting some embroidered shirts. All still black but just so as I stand out from the venue staff. I think all blacks is best as you can rig and de-rig in them should you choose, doesn't show sweat or marks as much as white or other colours should you become stuck. In the winter I usually wear a black t-shirt underneath.

ALSO Black boxers ALWAYS. Made the amateur mistake of ripping my trousers with red boxers on, not a great look!

[Benny Smyth]

Black branded polo shirt, black branded fleece for the colder nights, dark jeans and safety shoes. There are several reasons for this:

- Distinguish me and my...oh let's call him a technician (since he doesn't like the term 'DJ Bitch') from the guests.
- I'm there to work, not be apart of the party.
- It's comfortable to wear during the event, as well as set up and take down.

Never had a comment about my attire. Various companies have a uniform, so I do too. Sound engineers, techies and similar trades wear polos. I could wear a branded shirt, but I always fear that it looks a bit 'Wetherspoons'.

If you wear a suit, a tux or a chicken outfit then that's great, but this works for me. :)

[SamV]

It doesn't matter what you wear, if you're a good enough DJ everyone should be nude by the end of it anyway :daft:

[atlanticdisco]

Dress in black and blend in with the dark stage lol

Seriously though, over the years majority of dress attire for weddings has been black shirt with our logo and black trousers.

[ppentertainments]

Well timed thread resurrection

My past 3 weddings i have done wearing black jeans and black logo polo shirt - didn't make any difference, except i felt more comfortable.

One was at a good residency i have and the manager approved of the more casual approach.

[DeckstarDeluxe]

I have some black shirts made with the company logo on. Don't feel quite as stuffy and not had any comments either way.

[yourdj]

We ask the clients on our event questionnaire, so they can tick whichever box they want or write in their own. The most popular choices are most definitely 'Suit, no tie' or 'Smart Casual' (ie Shirt and trousers) - I couldn't say which was most popular without counting, followed by 'Suit with tie' and 'Black Tie' most definitely bringing up the rear.

I must admit, I personally am not a fan of the trousers, shirt and tie look without a jacket. That, to me, does make you look like you're having 'a day at the office'. Same I think that polo shirts are too casual for a wedding (although great for setting up / break down, and, indeed, have just had a lovely new lot of polos, hoodies, sweatshirts & fleeces made up with our logo on for just this purpose).

Very few other wedding suppliers are involved FOH as much as DJs are, and I think that if you are 'on show' throughout, presentation is important (just like the equipment).

I might add that option to my bookings (what do you want the DJ to wear)?

Agree on the tie and especially on a tux when its not a very formal occasion although different attire can suit different types of people and frames.

I tend to look like this most the time. I am sat in bed with some ice cream so I may need jacket to hide the fat in the future ;) :

16918

[Excalibur]

Well timed thread resurrection

My past 3 weddings i have done wearing black jeans and black logo polo shirt - didn't make any difference, except i felt more comfortable.

One was at a good residency i have and the manager approved of the more casual approach.

I'm sure I must have done that on occasion, but nowadays, shirt and tie is the most casual I get. ( At the start of the night :D) Funnily enough, the last two brides who got in touch said there was no need for the tie, if I wished.

[yourdj]

I'm sure I must have done that on occasion, but nowadays, shirt and tie is the most casual I get. ( At the start of the night :D) Funnily enough, the last two brides who got in touch said there was no need for the tie, if I wished.

No offence to you but I think you wold look far better not wearing a tie. I noticed Derek Pengelly and similar ditching the tie for a more casual open neck shirt and suit approach and they looked far better for it. My neighbour was a video person (70yo) and he looked 10 years younger / and more approachable when he did not wear a tie. He looked a bit like one of those teachers at school who should just retire and enjoy themselves before that.

Definitely depends on the venues and clients. wearing a suit in a social club full of people who think wedding attire is shorts and t shirt may make you look like a dick and vice verser at a 4 star hotel with everyone donned in posh suits, dresses and fascinators. :)

[Excalibur]

Definitely depends on the venues and clients. wearing a suit in a social club full of people who think wedding attire is shorts and t shirt may make you look like a dick and vice verser at a 4 star hotel with everyone donned in posh suits, dresses and fascinators. :)

One word, Toby: Chameleon