Advice from the Experts
Advice from the Experts
Scott Conley
Scott is one of the top and busiest wedding DJs in the Los Angeles area and a long time and founding member of Dream Team Entertainment and Events. Scott is a constant professional with a large list of high profile, happy and repeat clients. One of the most common responses from clients and guests after his events– “It was the best wedding they had ever attended!” Scott has a history of tailoring events to make each party as unique as the Bride and Groom.
Here are a few highlights from our recent interview with Scott:
1. In your opinion what’s made you one of the most sought after wedding MC/DJ’s in the business?
I think it’s two things. Experience, and listening. It sounds simple, but it’s surprisingly hard. Experience is a no-brainer. I have done small intimate 50 person events, and I have done 1000+ guest events. Every event is different and unique to the client. Experience helps me anticipate needs, flow of an event, music choices, even the difference to timing between having a buffet or a sit-down plated dinner. That leads me to the listening part. It’s so important for me to understand from the client what they are envisioning for the evening. I tell everyone, “set the scene” for me. I want to understand what they are hoping for, which lets me know how I can best tailor my skills, music, and interaction to the event. Even something as simple as “where is the bar?” If the bar is in another room, then you have the tug of war between good drinks and good music. That can be a challenge.
2. What is your advice to someone choosing entertainment for their wedding?
Be confident and comfortable with your choice. If you can’t trust your entertainment – walk away. And talk through EVERYTHING. The last thing you want is to be worrying about details on your wedding day. I tell everyone, I want to go over all of the details before your event, so you can forget about it on the day of. The only thing you should have on your mind on your wedding day is your spouse. We will have discussed music, formalities, entrances, special dances, and any other specific requests in advance, so you can really be present and enjoy your special day.
3. What is one of the biggest mistakes you see bride and grooms make when planning a wedding?
The internet can be a bride and grooms best friend, and worst enemy. It gives everyone DIY ideas – and that may work for some, but it is a mistake to add TOO much to your plate. Hire experienced and competent professionals to take care of things on your wedding day. Yes, there will always be budget constraints, but in my experience, there are two places to sink your money – food, and entertainment. Those two things have the potential to make or break your event. The design/type of chair covers you have, while important, probably could be a place to save a few $$.
4. Can you share one secret to a successful reception?
Understanding your audience. And you need to look in the mirror. You are the best judge of personalities, age, music style, etc. Tell your MC/DJ all about your guests, and yourself – and we can plan accordingly. My goal is for every single person at your event to enjoy themselves – and that doesn’t necessarily mean dancing for 2 hours straight. Grandma Beth may just really want to sit, tap her feet, and enjoy watching everyone else dance. Don’t worry, we’ll have her up dancing a little bit too!
Oh, and of course, hire Dream Team Entertainment. Although, that’s not much of a secret anymore!