See Why We're Hawaii's Top Wedding DJ & Entertainment Services

We aim to educate and assist as many brides and grooms as possible by sharing information that can help you to plan and execute your dream wedding in Hawaii. We will periodically post news, resources and other helpful items in this blog space, as well as images and videos of past weddings and events that chose us as the DJ and MC for their special occasion.

How to Create the Perfect Wedding Hashtag

If you are in the wedding planning process and have been scouring Instagram for #weddinginspo, you may have noticed that "wedding hashtags" are an increasingly popular trend. Gone are the days of leafing through plastic-covered wedding albums pages. Now we are living in a digital world full of heart emojis and scrolling through newsfeeds!

If you aren't social media-savvy, a hashtag is a word or phrase that begins with a pound sign (#). It's a way to categorize, or group, photos together on (mainly) Instagram and Twitter. When seeing a hashtag, you would click on the phrase (which is a link) and all the public photos that use that hashtag will pop up on your news feed.

Simple, right?

The way the "wedding hashtag" trend works is that the couple comes up with a creative phrase that represents their love and asks their guests to use it in the photo caption when they upload pictures onto their social media accounts. It is also an innovative way to compile all of your wedding day photos taken by different people from various points of view (someone might want to get Grandma a smartphone before The Big Day!).

But how do you come up with a hashtag that is so distinct that it will set your photos apart from the sea of other celebrations? Here are some tips for coming up with the perfect hashtag for your social media wedding album, and how to spread the word to your guests, as well.

Recruit Friends & Family

Ask your friends and family closest to you what they think would be a fun phrase that best represents you and your partner. Sure, your Great Aunt Edna may have no idea what you are talking about (#hashwhat?), but for the tech generation, this will create even more excitement for the occasion! Make it into a game at your Bridal Shower or take a poll at your Bachelor Party. Your guests will appreciate you asking their input, and you will be sure to have a few laughs in the process.

K.I.S.S.: Keep it Simple, Silly

Did you drain all of your creative juices while planning the flower arrangements or choosing the DJ playlist? That's ok -- just use your names! It is the easiest way to go. "#katieanddanswedding", or "thenewobriens" are some combinations that work. Or, you can be like the celebrities and blend your names in a portmanteau (for example, Steve and Annie could have a hashtag like #stevanniesbigday). Just make sure there isn't already an existing hashtag out there, or else your wedding photos may get mixed up with another couple's from halfway around the world!

Spread the Word

Prepare your guests for your hashtag by including it on your invites, printing it on the cocktail napkins or making a pretty sign that they can read when they walk in. Don't forget to tell your DJ emcee about your idea, as well! They will be sure to remind the guests to tag their photos when they upload them. Explain to your family and friends that this is an important part of the celebration for you. You are inviting them to be a part of capturing those special moments that the photographer may have missed!

...But Stay Unplugged

This certainly is a fun trend to incorporate into your wedding, but you also don't want your family and friends to be glued to their phones. Encourage them to upload the photos after the ceremony and reception so they can enjoy themselves in the moment. And that goes for you, too! Don't carry your phone in your garter or inside your jacket pocket. Technology is wonderful and a picture is worth a thousand words, but nothing will replace those special moments that you can see with your own eyes.

The Perfect Wedding DJs are professional wedding/party DJs with 10+ years experience in Honolulu, Hawaii. If you are having a destination wedding or any other celebration that needs DJs who are capable of making your event unforgettable, visit our Contact page to schedule a call with us!

See what Melanie has to say...

"I had Perfect Wedding DJs for my graduation party and they were so good! Everyone had a good time and these DJs really know what to play and how to get everyone included on the dance floor. They don't just play the modern hits but they also do an awesome job integrating a mix of old school and making sure everyone is having a good time. I definitely recommend these DJs for your next event. You won't be disappointed!

How To Find the Perfect Wedding Photographer (Guest Post)

This month's blog post is written by published and award-winning Edmonton photographer, Emma Wood at Pretty as a Picture Photography in Canada. Thank you for contributing, Emma!

Emma Wood, Owner of Pretty as a Picture Photography

Choosing a wedding photographer can be tough! Yes, there are a million of us out there - but even though we all say we are all different, how do you choose a photographer who is right for you, your partner and your special day?

Here are a few things to consider - and tips on how to choose a photographer that is the perfect fit for your day...

Style

Choosing the style of images you are wanting is going to be the first thing you decide. Each photographer will offer a unique style to the next, so deciding on the style will naturally narrow down the options available to you.

Many photographers can do a blend of styles - or even a mix of black & white and colour - but if there’s a specific style that you LOVE - make sure to focus on the photographers that specialize in that niche!

Not sure what style best suits you?? Have a think about these (to mention a few) . . .

Soft and Dreamy
Vibrant and Fun
Edgy and Bold
Documentary / Candid
Candid / Posed
Fine Art

Personality

Your photographer will probably spend more time by your side than your own mother - so I would say personality is a pretty important factor when making your decision!

If you have fallen in love with someone’s style of work, make sure you have pretty much fallen in love with them too before you invite them along to spend the entire day with you! Ok, "love" might be a little extreme, but at least make sure your personalities click -- otherwise it may turn into a very LONG day!!

Do you want someone who is going to make you feel comfortable in front of the camera - and make you laugh throughout the day?
Do you want a photographer who is going to blend into the crowd and go unnoticed? Or someone who is going to take charge?
Does all of the above apply??

Also, don't go by just reviews -- schedule a meeting with them face-to-face. Try to meet with three photographers (or more). This is the best way to really get to know if you are all going to all get along for a whole day! Be prepared to chat about your love story and plans for your wedding, as well. Ask them about their experience, how they like to ‘operate’ on a wedding day, and ask about them and their interests outside of work!

Packages

There’s always a chance that you may just have found your new best friends! So now how do you choose?

Well, what do these photographers offer in their packages?

Unlimited images vs. a limited number?
Digital files vs. prints only?
Colour only vs. black & white AND colour?
Two Photographers vs. going solo?

Think about which package speaks to you and your needs, and then let that factor into your decision.

Price

Once you have chosen a style and you have decided who your candidates are, the price of a the services and products may be a factor as well.

There is a huge range when it comes to price (usually based on experience). The more experience the photographer has to offer, the more you should be prepared to pay.

On the other hand, if the price is relatively low, that may be great for your budget, but consider whether the photographer has enough experience to get you all through the day - and provide the images you are expecting?

Of course, this is not always the case - but please make sure to do your homework!

Location

Location may be another important - but most photographers will travel to any location. Find out if they charge a fee for travel.

Weather

And of course, we all keep our fingers crossed for a beautiful sunny day - but every now and then we are going to get a wet day! Does the photographer have an indoor backup plan? Do they have a suitable studio?

Other Things to Consider

Does the photographer have a portfolio?
Can you get a referral from a friend?
Does the photographer have back-up equipment?
Do they provide a contract?
What is their standard attire?
Will they require dinner?
Do they charge to stay if the reception goes late?

As you go through this list, the ultimate thing to ask yourself, like anything else in life, is...what is important to you? If a photographer can provide it all, then you have found your perfect match -- right after your husband or wife, of course!

The Pretty as a Picture Photography team, led by published and award-winning Edmonton photographer, Emma Wood, is passionate about capturing love and beauty. We specialize in boudoir and wedding photography, capturing the real you with a 'hint' of glamour.

The team also includes our lovely assistants, Monica and Abigail, and our go-to glam-girl, Jess of Clean Slate Makeup and Beauty, who will have your hair and makeup picture-perfect for your shoot.

We want your dreams to come true – to come to life in images that you will treasure forever. Visit www.prettyasapicture.ca to learn more about us!

7 Love Quotes for Your Wedding Vows

People have searched for years and years to find those perfect words to capture the essence of love. But that's the one thing about life-long partnership: the feeling is indescribable!

If you have chosen to write your own vows for your wedding, we know that there is a chance you are tapping your pen on a piece of paper, trying to come up with the right words that don't include "um", "like" and cliches like "love from above". Well, The Perfect Wedding DJs have found 7 quotes about love that may jump-start your creative juices as you proclaim those life-long promises to your future-spouse. We hope that you can relate to them and they inspire you as you craft the most important words you will ever say, apart from "I do!"

The Perfect Love Quotes for Your Wedding Vows

Feel free to download these quotes and share them on your social media pages -- they are perfect for Instagram and giving a shout-out to the one you love!

What is your favorite love quote?

How To Choose a Wedding DJ

The wedding ceremony is over, photos have been taken, toasts have been made and dinner has been served. The day has been perfect, and now all that is left is to dance the night away!

When choosing entertainment for your wedding reception, there are certain things you may want to keep in mind when interviewing DJs. How long have they been in business? How many weddings have they provided entertainment for? Have they performed in the venue? Are they familiar with certain musical genres and traditions?

With these questions rolling around in your head, what will make you ultimately say the words “Yes, you’re hired!”? Crichton Uale of The Perfect Wedding DJs discusses his opinion in an interview with Wedding Lovely:

“A couple should look for a DJ who embodies the kind of event they are looking for. If you are wanting a fun, non-traditional, backyard-party-type of wedding, you’ll want your first impression of a DJ to be a fun, non-traditional kind of guy or girl when you first meet up with him/her. However, if you are looking to throw an elegant, classy, traditional wedding, then expect to meet with a DJ who is dressed nicely and carries himself/herself well.

Also, make sure your DJ is a good communicator. Emails, texts or calls should be responded to promptly. Failure to do so could be a major red flag. More than anything, make sure you have a clear idea of what you want your wedding to be, and that your DJ, and all other vendors, buy into your vision. If the DJ is trying to make you fit his/her mold, bail immediately.”

Check out this checklist for some more questions to consider when interviewing wedding DJs.

Questions to Ask Your Potential Wedding DJ

Is my date available?
Have you played at my venue before?
How long have you been in business?
How many weddings have you done?
What sets you apart from your competition?
Do you provide any other services, such as lighting design?
What are the prices of your packages?
Does your pricing include set-up and tear down at the end of the night?
Do you have any other services, such as lighting design?
How far in advance do I need to book with you?
What do you charge if the event goes over the agreed upon time?
Do you have a refund policy?
Do you have any video sample of recent events?
Can I give you a list of requested songs we want to be played/don’t want to be played?
What equipment do you use to play/choose your music?
Will you require a wireless connection?
Are you open to guest requests?
What is your microphone situation?
May we use them for announcements and speeches?
How many people will be working the event?
Will you require dinner?
Do you have formal attire?
How large is your set up?
Will you provide music in between sets?

See what Nicole has to say...

"The Perfect Wedding DJs were amazing! They definitely added their special touch to our wedding day! Our guests could not stop raving about the music selections during dinner and the dancing hour. They met my expectations and even went above and beyond. They also did a beautiful job with our lighting. Which added extra elegance and finesse to our venue."

5 Songs That Will Rock Your Wedding Reception

Choosing the right combination of songs for your wedding reception is the perfect way to drive the celebration’s energy and emotion so the party lasts all night long. However, between the dress-fittings, cake tastings, vow writing and seating arrangements, making time to agonize over Ed Shareen or Frank Sinatra is a task that often finds its way to back burner.

That’s where the professionals come in. The Perfect Wedding DJs have heard countless song requests since they started in the wedding industry in 2001. And even though music evolves over the years, there are still some oldies alongside the newbies that they have found ring tried and true alongside those church wedding bells.

Are you looking for song suggestions to make your reception a night to remember? Then sneak a peek at our recent guest-approved picks! These tunes are the most loved and most requested at our events. Just don’t forget to pass out the boogie shoes at the door. Your friends and family are going to need them!

Cupid Shuffle - Cupid ft DJ Unk

Guests of all ages will enjoy this song, which spawned a popular line-dance in 2007. So there will be no guess-work for your foot-work with this one! Plus, if people want more, you could also throw in DJ Casper’s “Cha Cha Slide” to keep them movin’.

Uptown Funk - Mark Ronson ft Bruno Mars

With a touch of 1980s boogie, “Uptown Funk”’s killer bassline will have dancers getting’ down and groovin’ across the room, ready to dance the night away!

I Got a Feeling - Black Eyed Peas

The words to this song are symbolic to the newlywed couple, so join them in singing that “tonight’s gonna be a good night”, and mix it with your stellar dance moves.v

Twist & Shout - The Beatles

No one can go wrong with this moptop song. Everyone, no matter how old or young, knows how to twist, and this one will get the whole crowd out on the floor (Yes, that means you too, Grandma!).

Celebrate - Kool & The Gang

Wooo hoo! Everyone loves a little crowd interaction, and the notorious lyrics to this disco tune a great sing-a-long addition to your big night’s playlist.

See what Loren has to say…

“The Perfect Wedding DJ's made our reception come together exactly how we wanted. They set the tone and pace for our program with no lulls. They kept us and our guest (300+) engaged and entertained throughout the evening; laughing, playing quick games, all accompanied with great music! We had SO many phone calls the next day complimenting our program. Chrichton made sure to make all our wants and needs accommodated to. Nothing we asked was him seemed to hard of a task, and he made us feel really comfortable reminding us that it was OUR wedding day and we could do things just how WE wanted to. They truly are the "Perfect Wedding DJ's" and I'd highly recommend them to friends and family. They're THE BEST!!!”