Professional Experienced Wedding DJs Serving Asheville • Charlotte • Raleigh • Durham • Greenville SC •Atlanta •Charleston •Miami
At Ready Play Entertainment we take great honor in helping you find the perfect Wedding DJ in Asheville to make this happen! We have years of experience and have received great mentorship from our president and founder, Patrick Lopez, also known aka DJ P-LO . Our president makes sure that all of the Asheville wedding and Party DJs go through a detailed and up to date training working along side him.
The true dedication of our team is making sure you have a great time and great memories.Whether it’s ensuring the perfect Father-daughter dance for that special moment or leaving everyone speechless with non-stop dancing action at your party, we are dedicated to creating great memories and a fantastic time!
Our 5-star reviews provide you with the opportunity to see what our DJs are all about. Our ever growing reviews gives you the in depth outcomes of all our brides , grooms and clients. When it comes to the right fit, Ready Play Entertainment will take every detail in consideration to make your party one to remember!
The big day has arrived!! So what happens on this joyous and special day? Here is a bit of a play by play of what typically happens…Let us explain
During the prelude and ceremony, music takes center stage, playing a significant role in creating an atmosphere of anticipation, emotion, and celebration. The prelude serves as a musical introduction, setting the tone and creating a welcoming ambiance for the upcoming ceremony. It often includes a selection of instrumental pieces, such as classical compositions, contemporary melodies, or personal favorites that hold special meaning to the individuals involved. Our Dj’s (through our planning forms) make sure that right versions and times are cued and ready to play thus making sure we are in complete line of sight and taking direction with day of or wedding planners to have smooth transitions.
As an example, guests gather and find their seats, the prelude music fills the air, gently guiding their emotions and building a sense of excitement. The melodies, harmonies, and rhythms intertwine, creating a harmonious backdrop that engages the senses and sets the stage for what’s to come.
Once the ceremony begins, music continues to weave its enchantment, accompanying the various rituals and moments that unfold. It may include processional and recessional pieces, which announce the arrival and departure of the honored individuals, such as the bride and groom at a wedding or the graduates at a commencement ceremony. These pieces often carry a triumphant or joyous tone, reflecting the significance of the occasion.
During key moments of the ceremony, music can be used to convey deep emotions and create profound connections. Whether it’s a heartfelt ballad, a stirring choral arrangement, or a soulful instrumental solo, these musical interludes have the power to evoke tears, smiles, and memories. They serve as a bridge between the spoken words and the unspoken emotions, enhancing the impact of the ceremony and leaving a lasting impression on all who witness it.
The choice of music during the prelude and ceremony is deeply personal, reflecting the preferences and personalities of the individuals involved. It can range from traditional and classical compositions to modern and popular songs, tailored to reflect the unique spirit of the occasion.
Our planning forms make sure we gather all the information and with the use of modern technology, we will be connected “in the cloud” seeing and making suggestions of songs to choose and play.
After the ceremony is concluded, usually photographers use this moment to capture pictures with the new couple and imediate familes. This whole process can range from 30 minutes to one hour but it all depends. Your guests are usually invited by either the officiant making an announcement or we make it for them. When we are ready to play some music we create an atmosphere that complements the mood of the event and engages the guests. Here are some tasks and responsibilities we typically handle during a wedding cocktail hour:
Smooth Transitions: The DJ ensures that songs transition seamlessly from one to another, maintaining a consistent flow of music. This helps to maintain a pleasant and uninterrupted background ambiance for guests’ conversations and enjoyment.
4. Volume and Song Selection: The DJ monitors the volume levels to ensure that the music is audible but not overpowering, allowing guests to comfortably socialize and enjoy the surroundings. They also consider the crowd’s response and adjust the song selection accordingly, gauging the atmosphere and selecting songs that resonate with the guests’ preferences.
Overall, our DJ’s role during the cocktail hour is to curate a playlist that enhances the atmosphere, sets the tone for the rest of the evening, and provides a musical backdrop that adds elegance and enjoyment to the wedding celebration.
Now that after cocktail hour has finished, we usually are in close communication with the day of coordinator and or wedding planner to continue the celebration! Typically ( and not necessarily in this order) these are things that typically happen during the reception portion of the evening:
1)Introduction of Family and or a wedding party
2)Introduction of the Bride and Groom
3)Welcome Toast or Blessing
4)Dinner Course
5)Toasts
6) Cake Ceremony
7) Special dances
8) Dance Floor Opens
9) Bouquet and Garter Toss
10) Last Song of the Evening
11) Sparler Exit
Let’s break it down a little more…
The wedding party, also known as the bridal party, plays a significant role in weddings and is an integral part of the celebration. The introduction of the wedding party typically takes place during the wedding reception and serves to acknowledge and honor the individuals who are closest to the bride and groom.
The introduction of the wedding party is usually led by the emcee or the DJ, who announces each member of the party as they make their entrance into the reception venue. The order of introduction usually follows a traditional format, starting with the parents and grandparents of the couple, followed by the bridesmaids and groomsmen.
The parents of the bride are typically introduced first, followed by the parents of the groom. This is a special moment to recognize and thank the parents for their love, support, and contribution to the wedding. It is also an opportunity for the couple to express their gratitude for the guidance and care they have received from their parents.
After the parents, the grandparents of the couple may be introduced if they are present at the wedding. This serves as a heartfelt acknowledgment of the older generation’s presence and their importance in the couple’s lives.
Following the parents and grandparents, the bridesmaids and groomsmen are introduced one by one. The bridesmaids are usually introduced first, with each bridesmaid entering the reception venue accompanied by a groomsman or walking alone. The groomsmen are then introduced individually, either walking alone or escorting a bridesmaid.
The introduction of the wedding party is often accompanied by music, and each member of the party may have a designated song or piece of music that plays as they make their entrance. This adds to the festive atmosphere and builds anticipation for the couple’s grand entrance.
Once all members of the wedding party have been introduced, Our emcee and DJ announces the entrance of the newly married couple. This is a highly anticipated moment, and the couple is often welcomed with cheers, applause, and sometimes even sparklers or confetti.
The introduction of the wedding party sets the tone for the reception, creating an atmosphere of joy, celebration, and togetherness. It allows the couple to honor and showcase the important people in their lives, who have supported them throughout their journey to marriage. It also provides an opportunity for family and friends to come together and celebrate the union of two individuals in love
A welcome toast or a blessing at a wedding is a heartfelt and meaningful moment during the wedding ceremony or reception where a person, often a close family member or friend, delivers a speech or message to express warm wishes, blessings, and gratitude for the union of the couple.
The welcome toast typically takes place at the beginning of the reception, and it serves to officially welcome all the guests, express gratitude for their presence, and set a joyful tone for the celebration. It is usually delivered by a designated speaker, such as the father of the bride, the best man, or a close family friend.
The speaker begins by thanking everyone for attending the wedding and for being a part of this special day. They may express their delight in witnessing the love between the couple and the joyous atmosphere of the occasion. The speech may also include anecdotes or stories about the couple, highlighting their journey and the qualities that make them well-suited for each other.
In addition to welcoming the guests, the speaker may extend their gratitude to both sets of parents for their love, support, and guidance throughout the planning process and in raising the couple. They may acknowledge the sacrifices made by the parents and express appreciation for the love and values they have instilled in their children.
A blessing, on the other hand, often has a more spiritual or religious tone. It is a solemn moment where a religious leader, such as a priest, minister, or rabbi, offers a prayer or benediction to bless the couple and their marriage. The blessing may include words of wisdom, guidance, and best wishes for a happy and harmonious union.
During the blessing, the religious leader may invoke a higher power, seeking divine blessings for the couple’s love, commitment, and journey together. They may also ask for strength, patience, and understanding as the couple embarks on their married life, and they may offer prayers for a prosperous and fulfilling future.
Both the welcome toast and the blessing aim to create a warm and inclusive atmosphere, where the couple and their guests feel cherished and uplifted. These moments provide an opportunity for reflection, gratitude, and well-wishing, setting the stage for a memorable and joyous celebration of love and unity.
Seating: Guests are usually directed to their assigned tables or seating arrangements. Seating cards or a seating chart may be provided to help guide guests to their designated spots.
Meal Service: The dinner portion involves the serving of the main course and other accompanying dishes. Depending on the wedding style, it can be a plated dinner, buffet-style, family-style, or even a combination of these options. The couple may have chosen a specific menu in advance, which is then prepared and served by the catering staff.
Toasts and Speeches: The dinner portion often includes heartfelt toasts and speeches. Key individuals, such as the best man, maid of honor, parents, or close friends, may be invited to share their well wishes, memories, and words of encouragement for the couple. These speeches are usually made after or in between meal courses, and they add a personal touch to the celebration.
Slideshows or Photo Presentations: The couple may choose to showcase a slideshow or a photo presentation during the dinner. This can be a compilation of photographs depicting the couple’s journey together, childhood memories, or significant moments shared with family and friends. It provides an opportunity for guests to reminisce and celebrate the couple’s love story.
Entertainment: Some couples opt to include entertainment during the dinner portion. This can range from live music performances, a DJ playing background music, or even a live band to create a lively and enjoyable atmosphere while guests dine.
Special Dances: Wedding receptions often feature special dances, which are typically held after or in-between meal courses. The first dance, where the newly married couple takes the dance floor together, is a cherished moment. Other dances, such as the father-daughter dance and mother-son dance, may also take place during this time.
Cake Cutting: The dinner portion may culminate with the cutting of the wedding cake. The couple usually gathers around the cake, and with the assistance of a cake knife, they cut the first slice together. This tradition symbolizes their unity and marks the transition to the dessert portion of the evening.
Overall, the dinner portion of a wedding reception provides an opportunity for guests to enjoy a delicious meal, share heartfelt moments, and engage in celebratory activities. It sets the stage for a joyful and festive atmosphere as the evening continues, creating lasting memories for everyone involved.
When toasts are given during a wedding, it is typically a special moment where selected individuals, such as the best man, maid of honor, or close family and friends, deliver speeches or toasts to honor and celebrate the couple. Here’s what generally happens during this portion of the wedding:
Timing: Toasts are usually given during the reception, specifically during a designated time, such as after the meal or between courses. The timing is often coordinated by the emcee, wedding planner, or the couple themselves to ensure a smooth flow of events.
Introduction: The person giving the toast is typically introduced by the emcee or the master of ceremonies. They may provide a brief introduction, sharing their relationship with the couple and their role within the wedding party.
Toasting Etiquette: The person giving the toast usually stands up and raises their glass to get the attention of the guests. They may begin by addressing the crowd, saying something like “Ladies and gentlemen” or “Distinguished guests.” This prompts the guests to raise their glasses as well.
Speech Content: The speaker then proceeds to deliver their speech, which is often a combination of heartfelt anecdotes, well wishes, and personal reflections about the couple. They may share stories that highlight the couple’s love story, qualities that make them special, or memorable moments they’ve shared together. The tone can be humorous, sentimental, or a blend of both, depending on the speaker’s style and the couple’s preferences.
Cheers: At the conclusion of the speech, the speaker may lead the guests in a cheer or ask everyone to raise their glasses for a toast. This is typically done by saying something like “Let’s raise our glasses and toast to the happiness and lifelong love of [couple’s names]. Cheers!” Guests then clink their glasses together and take a sip to celebrate the couple.
Additional Toasts: Sometimes, multiple toasts may be given during the wedding. For example, the best man may give a toast, followed by the maid of honor, parents of the couple, or other close friends or family members who wish to honor the couple. The order and number of toasts can vary depending on cultural traditions and personal preferences.
Reactions and Applause: After each toast, guests usually respond with applause, showing appreciation for the speaker and their heartfelt words. The couple may also have an opportunity to respond or express their gratitude to the person giving the toast.
Toasts are a cherished part of weddings, as they allow loved ones to share their affection, well wishes, and support for the couple. They create memorable moments of connection and celebration, adding a personal touch to the overall wedding experience.
During the cake ceremony at a wedding, several traditional events and activities take place. Here’s a typical sequence of events that occur during the cake ceremony:
Cake Placement: The wedding cake, often a beautiful and elaborately decorated centerpiece, is typically placed in a prominent location within the reception venue. It may be positioned on a dedicated cake table or display, adorned with flowers, decorative elements, or a personalized cake topper.
Introduction: The emcee or master of ceremonies announces the cake cutting ceremony, inviting the newly married couple to the cake table. This announcement serves as a cue for guests to gather around and witness the special moment.
Couple’s Arrival: The couple makes their way to the cake table, often accompanied by music or applause from the guests. This moment is often met with excitement and anticipation, as it symbolizes the couple’s first joint task as a married couple.
Cake Cutting: The couple stands together in front of the wedding cake, typically holding a knife together. With guidance from the emcee or a designated person, they cut into the cake, usually slicing a small piece from the bottom tier. This act signifies the sharing of their first meal as a married couple.
Feeding Each Other: Once the initial slice is cut, there is often a playful tradition where the couple feeds each other a small bite of cake. They may do this by gently placing the cake on a fork or using their hands to feed each other. This act symbolizes their commitment to care for and support one another.
Toasts and Well Wishes: As the cake cutting takes place, guests often gather around, raising their glasses and offering cheers and well wishes to the couple. It’s a joyful moment filled with applause, laughter, and heartfelt sentiments.
Cake Serving: Following the initial cutting and feeding, the catering staff or designated individuals take over the cake serving process. They slice the remaining portions of the cake and arrange them on individual plates for distribution to the guests. Alternatively, if it’s a smaller wedding or an intimate affair, the couple may personally serve slices of cake to their guests.
Photo Opportunities: The cake cutting ceremony provides excellent photo opportunities, and professional photographers and guests often capture this momentous occasion. The couple may pose together with the cake or with family and friends while enjoying their first bites.
The cake ceremony is a cherished tradition in many weddings and symbolizes the sweetness, unity, and shared joy of the couple’s new life together. It also serves as a delightful opportunity for guests to partake in the celebration by enjoying a delicious slice of wedding cake.
There are typically three special dances that commonly take place during a wedding reception. These dances hold significant meaning and provide memorable moments for the couple and their guests. Here are the traditional special dances:
First Dance: The first dance is a highly anticipated moment and often kicks off the dancing portion of the reception. The newly married couple takes the dance floor together and shares a romantic dance. The song choice is usually a meaningful and special one for the couple, representing their love story or a song that holds sentimental value. The first dance allows the couple to showcase their bond and create a beautiful moment of connection.
Father-Daughter Dance: The father-daughter dance is a touching and emotional dance between the bride and her father. This dance signifies the special relationship between a father and his daughter. The song choice is often a sentimental one, reflecting their bond and the love shared between them. It’s a heartwarming moment where the bride and her father have the opportunity to create lasting memories.
Mother-Son Dance: The mother-son dance is a tender moment where the groom dances with his mother. This dance celebrates the unique connection between a mother and her son. The song choice for this dance is also typically sentimental and meaningful. It allows the groom and his mother to share a heartfelt moment together, often bringing tears of joy to their eyes.
These special dances are usually announced and coordinated by our emcee and DJ to ensure a smooth transition between each dance. The couple may choose to have these dances back-to-back or space them out throughout the evening. The special dances provide an opportunity for the couple to honor and celebrate their relationships with their parents while sharing intimate moments with their loved ones. It’s a time to create lasting memories and share in the joy of the celebration.
When the dance floor is opened by the DJ at a wedding reception, it marks the beginning of the lively and celebratory dancing portion of the evening. Here’s what typically happens when the dance floor opens:
Announcement: The DJ or emcee grabs the attention of the guests and announces that the dance floor is now open. They may use a microphone to make the announcement or may rely on the music and their energetic presence to gather people’s attention.
Song Selection: The DJ selects an upbeat and popular song to kick off the dancing. The song choice is often a well-known and energetic track that encourages guests to get on their feet and join the festivities. The genre of music played may vary based on the couple’s preferences and the overall theme of the wedding.
Invitation to Dance: The DJ encourages guests to join the dance floor by inviting them to come forward and start dancing. This can be done through engaging and energetic announcements, gestures, or even stepping onto the dance floor themselves to lead by example. The goal is to create a fun and inviting atmosphere that encourages everyone to participate.
Group Dances: The DJ may initiate group dances or line dances to get everyone involved. These can include popular dances like the Electric Slide, the Macarena, or the Cha-Cha Slide. The DJ often guides the guests through the dance steps, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and included. These group dances are a fun way to break the ice and encourage even the shyest guests to join in.
Requests and Variety: Throughout the evening, the DJ takes song requests from the guests, ensuring a diverse and dynamic playlist that caters to different musical tastes. They play a mix of genres and styles, keeping the energy high and the dance floor full. The DJ also maintains a good flow between songs, seamlessly transitioning from one track to another to maintain the momentum and keep the party going.
Interaction and Entertainment: The DJ interacts with the crowd, engaging them with lively announcements, dance challenges, or interactive games. They may also use lighting effects, fog machines, or other visual elements to enhance the overall ambiance and create an immersive dance experience.
Slow Dances: Interspersed between the upbeat and energetic songs, the DJ plays slower songs to provide couples and guests with the opportunity for romantic and intimate moments on the dance floor. These slow dances allow guests to sway, hold hands, and enjoy more tender moments during the festivities.
Throughout the dancing portion of the evening, the DJ’s role is to create an exciting and inclusive environment that encourages everyone to let loose and celebrate. The dance floor becomes a space where guests can come together, show off their dance moves, and create joyful memories alongside the newly married couple.
Bouquet Toss:
Garter Toss:
These activities add an element of entertainment and anticipation to the wedding reception, involving both single men and women in a lighthearted tradition. The bouquet toss and garter toss are often followed by the bride and groom returning to the dance floor for more celebration and dancing with their guests.
The last song of the night at a wedding holds significance as it marks the final moments of the celebration. Here’s what typically happens during the last song:
Song Selection: The last song is chosen carefully to create a memorable and uplifting moment. It’s often a well-known and popular song that resonates with the couple and their guests, evoking feelings of joy, unity, and celebration.
Announcement: The DJ or emcee announces that it is the last song of the night, inviting everyone to come together on the dance floor to enjoy this final moment. This announcement often prompts guests to gather around, creating a sense of togetherness.
Crowd Participation: The last song is an opportunity for everyone to join in and dance together. The couple, along with their guests, take the dance floor, forming a lively and enthusiastic atmosphere. Friends, family, and loved ones may link arms, dance in circles, or create a large group dance, fostering a sense of unity and celebration.
Singing and Celebrating: Guests may sing along to the lyrics of the last song, adding their voices to the celebratory atmosphere. Laughter, cheering, and applause can be heard as the crowd embraces the final moments of the wedding celebration.
Grand Exit or Send-Off: In some cases, the last song of the night may coincide with the grand exit or send-off of the couple. This is when the newly married couple bids farewell to their guests as they prepare to leave the venue. The last song provides a joyful soundtrack as the couple makes their way through a pathway of guests, sometimes lined with sparklers, bubbles, or confetti, creating a magical send-off.
Final Farewells: As the last song comes to an end, guests often approach the couple, offering final well wishes, hugs, and congratulations. This moment provides an opportunity for the couple to express their gratitude to their loved ones for being a part of their special day.
Memories and Reflection: The last song of the night allows everyone to reflect on the memorable moments shared throughout the wedding celebration. It’s a time to cherish the memories made, the connections formed, and the love that permeated the entire day.
The last song serves as a memorable and joyful conclusion to the wedding reception. It allows the couple and their guests to celebrate together, creating a final moment of unity, happiness, and shared memories before bidding farewell to an unforgettable day.
A sparkler exit is a popular and visually stunning way to conclude a wedding celebration. It involves the couple making their grand exit while surrounded by guests holding lit sparklers. Here’s what typically happens during a sparkler exit:
Preparation: The wedding planner or coordinator organizes the sparkler exit logistics, ensuring that there are enough sparklers for the guests. They distribute the sparklers and provide instructions on how to handle them safely.
Gathering: Guests are directed to a designated area outside the reception venue, typically near the exit or entrance where the couple will be leaving. They form two lines, creating a pathway for the couple to walk through.
Lighting the Sparklers: As the couple prepares for their exit, guests are instructed to light their sparklers. Lighters or pre-lit candles are provided to ensure that everyone’s sparklers are lit at the same time.
Music and Announcement: The DJ or emcee plays a lively and celebratory song to create an energetic atmosphere. The guests are informed that it’s time for the sparkler exit and are encouraged to wave the sparklers as the couple walks by.
Couple’s Exit: The newly married couple emerges from the reception venue, often hand in hand or with linked arms. They walk through the pathway created by the guests, surrounded by a magical display of lit sparklers. This creates a beautiful and memorable scene, with the sparklers providing a sparkling backdrop for the couple.
Cheers and Celebration: As the couple makes their way through the sparkler-lit pathway, guests cheer, clap, and celebrate their love and union. It’s a joyful and festive moment filled with excitement and well wishes.
Photography and Videography: Professional photographers and videographers capture the sparkler exit, documenting the magical and enchanting scene. The photographs and videos become cherished keepsakes for the couple, capturing the love and excitement of their grand exit.
Final Farewells: At the end of the sparkler exit, the couple reaches the designated getaway vehicle, such as a car or horse-drawn carriage, signaling the end of the celebration. They may take a moment to say goodbye to their guests, receive final hugs and well wishes, before departing to begin their married life together.
The sparkler exit provides a captivating and memorable end to the wedding day. It creates a sense of enchantment and celebration as the couple is surrounded by the glowing light of the sparklers and the love and support of their guests.
Excited about the wedding? It might be a bit overwhelming ?We have you covered:) Let’s help you get started with scheduling a phone call here.
We make a point to be there at least 2 and a half hours before the beginning of the ceremony start time. That’s gives us plenty of time for setup, going ahead and meeting the planner ( if we haven’t worked with them before), Go over any last minute changes to timelines and greet everyone with a smile!
YES we have packages that include everything that you need for ceremony audio. Speakers, Wireless Microphones, Music to play during that time and YES making sure people are heard.
We do request a vendor meal for any wedding. Between setup , doing the party and breakdown it can be a 8-9 hour day for us day for us. We do ask to partake in our vendor meal when everyone is eating. Thank you.
NO. There is a NO drinking alcohol policy for all of our musicians and Dj’s. Non alcoholic drinks are fine 🙂
Yes, All of our DJs, Musicians are prepared how to handle a situation where they may need to make adjustments, if equipment isn’t working correctly.
Yes, we have several DJ and musicians who work with our team and we always check-in the week of the event.
If a DJ or photo booth attendant or musician is sick or has an emergency, we will notify our client immediately and provide an experienced, professional staff for the event.
Yes, we carry a $2 million liability insurance and we can add your wedding/event venue on it.
During our initial conversations, we’ll discuss the music you want for your wedding or event. Based on your music choices, we’ll select the DJ that best fits your needs. All of our DJs are very professional and experienced, and have done hundreds of different type of weddings and events so everyone is equipped with hundreds of music styles on their computers to play music.
As most of our brides really think ( and we agree) MUSIC is what really makes the party. YES The Flowers, the dress, the food are important, but family and friends will remember how much fun they had dancing the night away. To answer that question as soon as you can. Our peak months ( May and October) book up fast.
No worries we are here to guide you through the planning process with the help of a scheduled consolation and we would walk you through your whole day and how to see your vision come to life! Let’s schedule a call here
ReadyPlay Entertainment is a full marketing and music company. We aim to bring you the absolute best DJ’s, bands and musicians for any special occasion that you may have. From weddings and social galas to college concerts and corporate entertainment.Inquire about our top notch talent and make your special event a one to remember
