Pros & Cons of iPod DJs

Posted by Khris in DIY Guides

Are you considering ditching the DJ and using an iPod as your sole source of music entertainment at your reception? You’re not alone!

iPod weddings are being more and more popular amongst the tech set, but is it for you? Here’s a list of pros and cons to help you determine if using your trusty pod pal is your best bet.

Pros and Cons of iPod Receptions:

PROS
* You have 100% creative control over the play list. No cheesy DJs, no chicken dance, no YMCA.
* You have control over the “script” of the reception. You decide when the music breaks, what’s said, and who says it.
* Using an iPod may be cheaper than hiring a DJ. If you already own an iPod, you’re already on your way to saving some cash.
* You can use the iPod for more than music. You can show slideshows and movies, too, and even store photos, files, and contact lists.

* You get to keep the iPod after the wedding.

CONS
* You’ll need at least an iPod Nano to hold all the songs you’ll need for a 5 hour reception.
* You’ll need a trusted, sober, articulate, reliable friend (or two) to act as emcee.
* You’ll need someone to watch over the iPod to pause the music, adjust the volume, or work out any kinks that happen along the way.
* An iPod playlist isn’t always flexible. Your guests won’t be able to request fave dance songs. (This could be a positive, actually!)
* If you don’t already have a vast music collection, you’ll need to buy more songs. That can be expensive! Remember: you may love SLAYER more than anything in the universe, but Grandma and many of your guests may not wish to start a pit when Reign in Blood starts.
* You’ll probably have to rent a PA system/sound equipment and learn how to use it before the reception.

Is an iPod Wedding For You?

Posted by Khris in DIY Guides

When my husband and I got married waaay back in October 2000, we didn’t have live music or a DJ. Instead we opted to burn our own CDs (this was pre-iPod) and, with the help of a trusted friend, played them throughout the reception. It was awesome and we’d do it again in a heartbeat.

With the advent of the ubiquitous iPod and the availability of online music downloads, being your own DJ is easier and more accessible than ever. We’re seeing more and more of our friends and acquaintances replacing DJs with iPods and, for the most part, we’re loving it.

However, being your own DJ isn’t for everyone. DIY Bride has compiled a list of questions and points to ponder to help you decide if going the DIY music route is for you.

1. 1. Why do you want to DIY? This is an important question because it helps establish your DIY priorities. If you’re doing it to save cash, that’s great to be aware of that as you begin researching your DIY options. If you’re doing it for creative control, that’s perfectly valid, too. Your experience may be different than someone who’s doing it for budget-only reasons.
2. Do you have the time and resources to research your options?
3. What do you know about iPods, digitial music, and sound systems?
4. Does your venue allow you to bring in your own music? Do they have special rules for DJs/music such as permits, noise level ordinances?
5. What does your personal music collection look like? Do you have enough music to entertain your guests for 4 – 6 hours? Do you have enough music that’s family-friendly and that’ll appeal to a wide audience? SLAYER may be cool with you and your friends but Grandma may not appreciate Reign in Blood.
6. Do you know where to rent sound equipment? Does your venue provide it? Do you know how to use it?
7. Who’s going to emcee? Do you have a trusted friend or relative to take over that responsibility? Is he or she reliable? Well-spoken? Sober? Not likely to tell embarassing stories about you?
8. What equipment will you need to buy? Is it within your budget?
9. What music will you need to buy? Is it within your budget?
10. Do you know how to plan out a soundtrack for your reception? What music do you start off with? How do you transition from cocktails to dinner to dancing seamlessly?

2007 Toilet Paper Dress Contest

Posted by Khris in Contests

It’s time to whip out your favorite brand of toilet paper! CheapChicWeddings.com is hosting their annual Toilet Paper Wedding Gown contest. The contest runs from May 1 – June 15. The winning prize is $500 bucks. That’s a lot of 2-ply quilted TP love.

Remember my favorite from last year? (It came in 2nd. She was robbed!)

Epicurious, How I Love Thee

Posted by Khris in Crafter's Toolbox, DIY Projects & Tutorials

If you’re considering going DIY on any of your catering or baking items, you must visit Epicurious.com. Not only do they have incredibly yummy recipes for, oh, EVERYTHING, they have a section devoted to weddings . Featuring everything from tips and ideas for showers to easy-to-follow video tutorials, this is a must-visit spot on your wedding surfing journey.

Book Sneak Peek

Posted by Khris in DIYBride News

Hiya DIYers,

I got my first look at the cover of my first DIY Bride book today. Wanna peek?

The DIY Bride: 40 Fun Projects For Your Ultimate One-of-a-Kind Wedding is available as a pre-order on Amazon.Com . (I understand it’ll be shipping in early-January.)