Just a DJ?
After MCing and DJing a wedding this weekend something rather profound occurred to me. Most of my clients don’t consider me, “Just a DJ”. In fact, most of my clients understand the importance of having a Master of Ceremonies at their event to help their guests enjoy the evening, but at Ron and Nicolette’s wedding there was something else that was really important to them, or someONE else rather…
Meet “Grandpa”: (I’m obviously not a photographer…)
This is "Grandpa"
Grandpa is 83 years.
He spent most of the day in a wheelchair and using oxygen, keep in mind the Stanley Hotel is in the mountains of Colorado!
How important is “Grandpa” to the family? VERY important!
Let me explain. I don’t know where Grandpa is from. I don’t know what Grandpa accomplished in his life. I don’t know who Grandpa married, what job he had, or what social status he is. All I know is Grandpa is sitting in front of me across the dance floor and several family members have asked me to play something for him.
To me, the answer was simple. Glenn Miller’s, “In The Mood”.
Grandpa took his oxygen hose off, got out of his wheel chair and danced his heart out for only one verse!
Grandpa Tearing Up the dance floor!
Grandpa Dancing!
You should have seen Grandpa tearing up the dance floor and the smile on his face. For that one short period in time, that one short verse of music, Grandpa was a kid again. He was smiling and having fun like he used to.
Out of breath, he returned to his seat and immediately put his oxygen back on.
Why am I telling you all this?
Life.
I have heard the argument that Mobile DJs aren’t as important as plumbers or electricians. I have heard other DJs say that we can’t change, influence, or save peoples lives like a Doctor or a Firefighter.
I strongly disagree!
What if one of the guests was considering divorce?
What if one of the guests was considering suicide and was “dragged” to the reception?
What if family members have been fighting?
Our performance CAN change someone’s life. We have the power to influence people’s emotions and therefore their behavior, with our vocal performance and music choices.
Think about Grandpa. How long has it been since Grandpa had an opportunity to dance? When was the last time he “got out of the house”? How much time does Grandpa have left before he won’t be able to attend family celebrations?
For that one verse, Grandpa was having the time of his life!
Still don’t believe me…
I have proof.
After playing “In The Mood”, one of the bride’s maids looked me straight in the eye, kissed me on the cheek and then said thank you.
Do I need to say more?
I definitely agree with you on this. I don’t think people know the difference until they experience it for yourself. :-)
This is why you’re so awesome. You don’t simply play music and make announcements. You create happy memories. And that’s why it’s so important to have a professional DJ & Master of Ceremonies at a wedding.
Thanks for sharing!
Wonderful story, beautifully told. Thank you for sharing, Robert.
Dear Robert, I sent you a message about your article on facebook and I will here too. That article was wonderful and well-written, as usual. You are very sensitive to people and their needs. This shows in your handling of many weddings and great comments about them from the people who “didn’t” know they needed a master of ceremonies as well as a DJ. You are definitely both. I’m very proud of you and so is dad. Love, Mom