Birthday's - Ours!

[Shakermaker Promotions]

So,

How would you deal with this?

Next year it's my 40th birthday, my mums 60th and my nephews 18th. I want to do a big party for all of us and it's been spoken about already. Now, I'd like to DJ myself for a couple of reasons:
1. Because I know what each of us likes
2. Because I don't see why I should pay for someone else when I can do it all myself

Now, I know it's going to be my 40th and a big deal should be made of it as it's a landmark but does it really matter if I do it myself? I know a few people may say that (a) I might be being a tight wad by not getting someone in to do it, (b) It's only one night so why not just get someone else and have the night off etc etc...and I would agree to some extent BUT it will also be my mum and nephew's birthday's too and I want them to be special.

What would you do?
Have you done your own party before?

Am I being snobbish, egotistic etc..?

I don't class myself as either of the above but I DO have confidence in what I do simply because over the years I have had so many compliments on my skills as a DJ (whatever they are!?). For someone that was a nervous wreck when they first started out all those years ago and was physically sick before gigs, the compliments have done me the world of good and I will argue with anyone that I am not an ego maniac.

I think I have made my mind up already but I'd like to hear what you think.

Ta!

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

I think if you want to do it yourself, then fair enough - it's your choice.

Personally though, I'd want to relax and not have to worry about setting gear up and if people were dancing etc.

If you get a DJ that's versatile enough and would work with you with playlists etc, then you shouldn't have too many problems, I would have thought.

Saying that, I might know just the man, who's in your neck of the woods....:D

[DJ Frankie]

Personally I would have the night off with your family and friends and enjoy your birthday. Maybe get someone on here who you can trust to do it.

[Vectis]

It's my 40th later in the year and I'm gonna have my roadie son play all my fave tunes on our rig. Hey, I might even help set up!

[rob1963]

Hiya Shakermaker.

There is no right or wrong answer here. It all comes down to what you would prefer to do.

On one hand, I can understand people who think you should get someone else to do it, so you can have a drink, relax & enjoy the party.

Equally, I can understand those who would suggest you should do it yourself, as you know the DJ will turn up & will play the music everyone likes.

If I was in your shoes, I would do the gig myself, partly because I prefer playing to a room full of friends & family rather than a room full of strangers.

When my brother got married, he wanted me to be the best man, but I wanted to do the disco...so I did both! I set up the gear in the morning, so when the evening came & my best man duties were over, I just went to the other end of the room & started the disco...and it was a brilliant evening.

Whichever decision you make, I'm sure you'll have a great party!

:)

[ross@rds]

I would have the night off but if a loacal dj is a good friend them he might do it for free using your gear or if you have other djs working for you get them to do it.

[BeerFunk]

I have DJ'ed for friends and family before, and regretted it. Forget about it, hire a good DJ and enjoy yourself!

[MickyP]

I also love doing the music myself, especially when I know the crowd.
But, in your situation, one really major consideration you should account for, is this...

What do your family think of the idea?

If it was a big 40th 50th 60th or whatever, and it was mine, or the wife's special occasion, then I know for a fact that my nearest and dearest would want me to take the night off, and enjoy my/their special occasion.

It wouldn't take too much time to let the prospective DJ know exactly what type of night, (music wise) you or your family would like.

Again, it's a personal thing, but for me.... chill out, enjoy the company of your family and friends, and tell the DJ prior to the event, exactly what you want.

MP

[wensleydale]

i did my wedding last sep- pre recorded most of it and did half an hour live, as did my best man.
went exactly as planned.

however, if you really want someone to do it who is reliable and versatile, Basingstoke is only down the road.....