Motor City HDJ Podcast

Wedding vendors are a very special group of people that are the backbone of every celebration. We have the awesome responsibility of transforming a couple's vision into an unforgettable reality.From planners and photographers to florists, caterers, DJs, and beyond, we are the talented professionals who are called on to bring our expertise, creativity, and dedication to create a day filled with love and joy. But what truly sets us apart isn't just our skills—it's our ability to handle stress and unexpected challenges with grace, ensuring everything runs smoothly no matter what.Professionalism is key in this industry, and many vendors distinguish ourselves through the thoughtful etiquette we bring to every event. Whether it's communicating effectively with clients, collaborating seamlessly with other vendors, or managing last-minute changes, these practices are essential to building trust and delivering exceptional service.For those new to the industry or anyone looking to refine their approach, today's episode of the Motor City HDJ podcast is just for you. It is my take on a handcrafted etiquette guide tailored for all of you wedding vendors. I've got insights and best practices to help you elevate your professionalism and exceed your client's expectations so that you can leave a lasting impression on every couple you serve. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, and creating the guest list is one of the most challenging aspects. Not only is it tough deciding who to invite, but figuring out who gets a plus-one can make things even more complicated.As a couple, you're trying to balance your guests' feelings with your own preferences, while considering practical limitations like your budget and venue size. And, if this is your first wedding, you may be unsure about the proper etiquette for handling plus-ones.For guests, the plus-one question can be just as confusing. If your invitation says "and Guest," you might wonder who exactly you're allowed to bring. But if your invitation doesn't mention a plus-one, it could leave you questioning whether or not to attend—especially if you don't know anyone besides the couple.Whether you're the couple or the guest, clarity is important. Today, let's go over the right protocol when it comes to plus-ones. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One of the most time-consuming parts of wedding planning is creating your seating chart. Carefully pairing guests while keeping tables balanced may feel tedious, but it's worth it. A well-planned chart ensures a seamless, luxurious experience where guests feel considered. It also prevents last-minute chaos as people find their seats. However, without a clear strategy, this process can quickly become overwhelming and impact your big day. With the right approach, you can create a smooth, enjoyable atmosphere for everyone. Stay with me. Today, we're talking about the most common seating chart mistakes to avoid—and what to do instead. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2024 was an incredible year for Motor City HDJ. I met new faces, played in new places, and had countless hours of good times all across Michigan! Last year was also one of broadening my horizons and the scope of the services I offer. And I was even reunited with several familiar faces that have become amazing friends to me and Motor City HDJ over the last 25 years. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The holiday season is often called the most joyful time of the year—and it's also one of the most popular for engagements. While this time is traditionally about spending time with family, celebrating traditions, and enjoying festive activities, it's also widely known as engagement season. Are you thinking of proposing this holiday season? Before you drop a knee, you'll want to avoid these common holiday engagement mistakes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Whether you're hosting a wedding or attending a wedding, alcohol often plays a key role in the celebration.From welcome drinks before the ceremony to signature cocktails and Champagne toasts, a carefully chosen drink menu can help create a joyful, social atmosphere that celebrates the couple.However, with so many drink options—especially at weddings with open bars—it can be easy to overindulge.For guests, it might be the result of social pressure or using alcohol as a way to loosen up in social settings.For the newlyweds, the excitement and emotions of the day can lead to excessive drinking as well.Whatever the reason, drinking in excess can definitely interfere with the experience.Overconsumption can lead to moments or behaviors that may detract from the special day.Going beyond your limits can cause you to say or do things you might regret later, and the next day, you may be left with a less-than-pleasant hangover or the dreaded accidental text messages to an ex. To ensure a wonderful and memorable celebration, both for the couple and all their guests, drinking responsibly is key.By drinking in moderation, we can all help create a celebration that leaves everyone with only the best memories.So in today's episode, we'll uncover how to drink responsibly at a wedding. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today's episode, we'll hopefully cut through the confusion and explore some of the key points to help you navigate tipping, which can be a very tricky aspect of wedding planning. The goal is to give you more confidence in finding balance and clarity in a world where tipping can feel out of control. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, we'll break down what you can and can't expect from your wedding party, offering guidance on how to navigate the often tricky territory of wedding planning etiquette, all while keeping your friendships intact. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It is a very special, very super-sized episode with my friends Lauren + Jon. And they were here to talk about the DIY wedding because it is growing in popularity these days. It allows couples more control over the whole wedding experience, but it can come with frustrations and obstacles. However, most people that plan DIY weddings say they wouldn't change a thing. So I had my friends over. They are an amazing couple that my wife and I feel could quite possibly be the world's foremost experts on planning the DIY wedding. Lauren + Jon crafted one of the most memorable and epic wedding weekends we have ever attended. And I was super thrilled that they were actually with me in person to join me and talk about how they pulled it off. -- -- -- -- -- --This episode is sponsored by E2iDesign. Visit them at their website here or follow them on social media @e2idesign.Consider starting a walk team to support the Alzheimer's Association.-- -- -- -- -- --NORTH CAROLINA VENDORSVENUECamp Ton-a-WandahPHOTOGRAPHYMaddie Kay PhotographyPLANNERKathryn Rose Event CompanyMOBILE BARJack's 47POPSICLESBuggy Pops Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The wedding planning process is a chore. Unless you personally know each vendor you've chosen for your big day, there can be warning signs that tell you the person you found on Google may not be right for you. No matter what kind of party you're throwing, finding vendors you can vibe with is super important during wedding planning. Today, we're going to look at some of the warning signs that the vendor you've hired may not be what you expected. And I've got questions you can ask yourself to start thinking about these things.E2iDesign is the sponsor of this podcast. Visit their website e2idesign.com or on social media @e2idesign. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's no secret that planning a wedding can be stressful. But managing that stress isn't the easiest thing to do. It's completely natural to feel the pressure of planning one of the biggest moments of a person's life.Today, I'm going to talk about eight ways you can deal with the anxiety of wedding planning and maybe even help bring you back down to a more calm frame of mind.This episode is sponsored by E2iDesign. Visit them at their website here or follow them on social media @e2idesign.---Alzheimer's Association Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The 2023-2024 NFL season is finally over and we've got a winner. Spoiler alert: it isn't the Detroit Lions. With the Super Bowl in our rearview mirror, I wanted to use my platform to gush for a little bit about our team and give you my thoughts on last season, but really, look ahead to 2024 and talk about this team that got us excited about football in Detroit again.This episode is sponsored by E2iDesign. Visit them at their website here or follow them on social media @e2idesign.---Alzheimer's Association Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How many new (to me) venues did I play in 2023? How many miles did I travel last year? What percentage of my business was weddings?Find out all this and more on the first episode of 2024!Also, I rant a little bit about the Detroit Lions and their current playoff run. Let's get it!This episode is sponsored by E2iDesign. Visit them at their website here or follow them on social media @e2idesign.---Alzheimer's Association Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For wedding industry professionals, it's engagement season. 'Tis the season for the giving and recieving of engagement rings. But why? And what brought them about? Today's episode dives deeper in to their origins, their evolution, and their cost.This episode is sponsored by E2iDesign. Use this link to visit their website or add them on social media @e2idesign. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Not every couple will have an "Old Fashioned" wedding. And the "Destination: Wedding" doesn't make sense for most people. On today's episode, I want to offer up a few different ideas of wedding vibes I've experienced in an effort to help you discover yours. If you're planning your wedding, this episode is for you. If you're just a casual listener, thanks for being here!This episode is sponsored by E2iDesign. Use this link to visit their website or add them on social media @e2idesign. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After four months of being on the go, I finally have a minute to tell you what's been going on with me and Motor City HDJ. This episode is all about my summer and the clients that made it awesome. From Ludington, MI to Hendersonville, NC, Summer 2023 was one for the books!---This episode is sponsored by E2iDesign. Visit them at their website here or follow them on social media @e2idesign.---Alzheimer's Association---Barn 1888---Pub Quiz w/JR Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a very special episode of the Motor City HDJ podcast.Today's episode pays tribute to the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation.It is on this day that we gather together to commemorate a day of remembrance and gratitude: Memorial Day. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why can't we just have a good time without worrying about being too loud? It's every couple's nightmare to have their wedding shut down because of noise ordinance violations. I'm here to help prevent disaster! Today, I give you advice on how to avoid the cops pulling the plug and offer my thoughts on why good DJs be on top of things in the first place.E2iDesign sponsors this episode. Find them on their website or social media @e2idesign.Join me in the fight to find a world without Alzheimer's Disease. Start or join a walk team TODAY at ALZ.org. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Of all the wedding vendors I know, I've known Cayna the longest. Our families have been friends for over 30 years, and I FINALLY got to sit down with her and talk about her passion for floral design and coordination. You'll hear her tips for maximizing your floral budget and what she sees as the standard for a good centerpiece, and she'll tell you that it's okay to talk about your ideas.Connect with Cayna on her website, Facebook and Instagram.E2iDesign sponsors this episode. Find them on their website or social media @e2idesign.Join me in the fight to find a world without Alzheimer's Disease. Start or join a walk team TODAY at ALZ.org. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today's episode is a conversation in the "let's get you on the podcast" category for a while now. My pal Lindsey Dardas of Hollyhock Design is an event planner/coordinator/design guru, and I'm thrilled she joined me on the podcast. You'll hear the origins of our vendor relationship, she'll talk about her process, and you'll hear all about how she keeps a cool head when the fires start.Find her on Facebook, Instagram, WeddingWire, and The Knot. If you need guidance or creative direction, Lindsey can handle it!This episode is sponsored by E2iDesign. Find them on their website or social media @e2idesign.Join me in the fight to find a world without Alzheimer's Disease. Start or join a walk team TODAY at ALZ.org. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever wondered where we get the phase "something borrowed, something blue" from? Do you even know why brides wear white dresses? And why do we propose with diamond rings with a bended knee? Today, I take you through some of the origins of the most common wedding traditions we've just gone along with. The next time it comes in conversation, you'll have the context to impress your friends. Or even win on Jeopardy! Who knows?This episode is sponsored by E2iDesign. Find them on their website or on social media @e2idesign.Join me in the fight to find a world without Alzheimer's Disease. Start or join a walk team TODAY at ALZ.org. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I took a dive into the dumpster fire that is Reddit to see if we could find some r/weddingdrama. It didn't take long, so I decided to pull a few stories and offer my take on these cringey wedding scenarios.This episode is sponsored by E2iDesign. Find them on their website or on social media @e2idesign.Join me in the fight to find a world without Alzheimer's Disease. Start or join a walk team TODAY at ALZ.org. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HAPPY NEW YEAR, MOTOR CITY!It's the first episode of 2023, the first episode of Season 3, and it's a look back at the biggest year for weddings and events in recent history! Listen as I discuss new venues I played, new places I've traveled, familiar faces I've worked with, and trends that took over the year.This episode is sponsored by E2iDesign. Find them on their website or on social media @e2idesign.Join me in the fight to finding a world without Alzheimer's Disease. Start or join a walk team TODAY at ALZ.org. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do you think you can tackle the wedding experience without a budget? Are you just winging it without a backup plan? Is it impossible for you to make decisions? I got you covered! Today's episode is all about confronting your fears in order to avoid disaster.This episode is sponsored by E2iDesign. Find them on their website or on social media @e2idesign. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I'm back after a 2-month break with another great idea for you and your event! If you've been stressing about how you're going to even come close to greeting every single guest at your wedding, this episode is for you. Today, I talk about 4 creative ways to get actual face time with each person at your wedding.This episode is sponsored by E2iDesign. Find them on their website or on social media @e2idesign.It's Walk season. Visit the Alzheimer's Association and get involved with the Walk to End Alzheimer's. It's free! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I've never really described my process from start to finish. So today, you get to hear it directly from me! If you're still deciding on mobile DJ entertainment for your event, this is a good one for you to listen to. I go into detail about each step in my process, from initial consultation to lights up the day of. If you're already a client, get excited knowing that you'll get to experience all of this!This episode is sponsored by E2iDesign. Find them on their website or on social media @e2idesign. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Americans are sick of going to weddings. And with that comes some pretty salty attitudes. Basically, wedding guests can be rude and not even know it. Today's episode is a frank discussion of what you can do to avoid guests that are only there to cause drama, get too drunk, or just be flat out nincompoops (sp?).This episode is sponsored by E2iDesign. Find them on their website or on social media @e2idesign. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

My thoughts on the events of the last 24 hours in Uvalde, TX. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Today is basically just a gripe session for me. I've often been asked, "Well, why wouldn't we just want to make a playlist and do the music part ourselves?" It's the sound of nails on a chalkboard to me. There are many reasons you should trust a professional, and I talk about 5 of them in today's episode.This episode is sponsored by E2iDesign. Find them on their website or on social media @e2idesign. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

I'm back on track for 2022! This time it's another insightful conversation with one more of the amazing people I've gotten to work with over the years.Today I talked with Chelsey about her brand, her style, her love of karaoke, and what she would tell her younger self with what she knows now. I've had the pleasure of working with her a couple times, and if you're looking for someone to tell your story, Bella Reel Films is it. Chelsey and her team will capture your moments for you in a way that will keep you laughing, crying…all of the feels!This episode is sponsored by E2iDesign. Find them on their website or on social media @e2idesign. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Weddings are back! And as of this moment, we are poised for a monster year. According to wedding trend and planning experts, this year will see the most weddings since 1984. And I gotta say: I'm kind of excited about it!The last two years have been a challenge for the wedding and event industry and to know that we're finally bouncing back feels so good!Today's going to be one for all you numbers nerds out there. I've got plenty of facts and figures to discuss. I'll bring it full circle on how all the statistics tie in to your wedding planning for 2022 AND 23. Spoiler alert: it's all about flexibility.This podcast is always sponsored by E2iDesign. Find them on their website and check them out on the socials: @e2idesign. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

TikTok is all the rage these days, so I wanted to embrace my inner-Gen-Zer and go for broke. There's no avoiding this social media platform, so why not grab hold and look for inspiration?Today, I talk about some #WeddingTikTok trends I've seen that I really like that are starting to take off. I also discuss the #WeddingRules that bother me to my core and why you should avoid being so entitled and picky (rant over.)This podcast is always sponsored by E2iDesign. Find them on their website and check them out on the socials: @e2idesign. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

What a fun conversation with my pal Danielle: wedding and event planner/coordinator extraordinaire! We had such a wonderful time chatting about everything from what makes a successful wedding to the best choices for a late-night snack.My new vendor friend is a powerhouse of planner that likes to build relationships with her clients and help other event vendors maintain that same dynamic. She's got some great advice for you on how to set realistic expectations with your budget, how to navigate COVID times, and how to enjoy your event knowing you're working with the best.This podcast is always sponsored by E2iDesign. Find them on their website and check them out on the socials: @e2idesign. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Season 2 is here! The first episode of the new year is a look at what’s in store for season 2 of this podcast, a quick recap of the end of 2021, a look ahead to 2022’s events, and a nod to everyone’s best friend. As always, the podcast is sponsored by the one and… Read more The post 201 – Happy New Year (And Thank You For Being a Friend) appeared first on Motor City HDJ.

Welp…it’s been 2 months since the last episode and here I am again. Today it’s a taste of past, present, and future. Let’s chat about where I’ve been over the last couple months, what I’ve got planned for the next couple, and what we’re dealing with now. Also, this is the last episode of season… Read more The post 129 – In It For the Long Haul appeared first on Motor City HDJ.

IT FINALLY HAPPENED! After a month of waiting (thanks to Olivia showing up 2 weeks early) I was finally able to sit down with Debbie Gauthier and Susan Hilse, two AMAZING volunteers of the Michigan Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. They’re just regular people like you and me, but they wear purple capes as superhero… Read more The post 128 – What It Takes to Volunteer: Debbie Gauthier & Susan Hilse, Alzheimer’s Association appeared first on Motor City HDJ.

May of 2021 will go down for me as one of the craziest awesome months on record. We’re talking about babies, weddings, promotional items, and a whole lot more! I wanted to update you on all the goodness going on as I start the 2021 season. The post 127 – It’s Gonna Be May: An Update appeared first on Motor City HDJ.

This episode is brought to you by…YOU! Thank you for feeling comfortable enough to ask my opinion on how to safely host events in 2021 and beyond. As we work to get everyone vaccinated and eventually ditch the masks, how can we party safely? I answer questions like: How can I make my now smaller… Read more The post 126 – More of Your Questions Answered appeared first on Motor City HDJ.

The country is making progress to slow the spread and eradicate COVID. For this episode, I wanted to talk about how that will play a part in the wedding and event industry for this year and beyond. I also share my experience with getting round 1 of the Moderna vaccine. It’s excitingly overwhelming! SPONSORED BY… Read more The post 125 – Masks, Events, Vaccines…Oh My! appeared first on Motor City HDJ.

Today's episode is a change of pace from the typical conversation with other vendors. I wanted to highlight one of the amazing fundraising/awareness organizations I continue to work with and fight alongside. I had such a great time chatting with Nicole about their annual event Walk to End Alzheimer's and the many facets to what this group does. Visit the links below for additional resources on facts, figures, and how to get a Walk team started!Annual Facts and Figures: https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/facts-figuresBrighton Walk Website/Start a Team: act.alz.org/brightonBrighton Walk Facebook Group/Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BrightonWEAMain Website: alz.orgThis podcast is always sponsored by E2iDesign. Find them on their website and check them out on the socials: @e2idesign. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Today’s episode is a change of pace from the typical conversation with other vendors. I wanted to highlight one of the amazing fundraising/awareness organizations I continue to work with and fight alongside. I had such a great time chatting with Nicole about their annual event Walk to End Alzheimer’s and the many facets to what… Read more The post 124 – Nicole Colley, Alzheimer’s Association appeared first on Motor City HDJ.

So…COVID isn't going anywhere (at least not for now.) BUT, with the vaccine making its rounds, many have had questions about how we'll handle events for this year.Good news! I have all the answers! Well, not all of them, but at least the ones I can answer regarding how I and Motor City HDJ will handle events moving forward.Tune in for my answers to your questions about wedding venues, guest lists, travel, healthy, safety, and how it all fits together in this (hopefully) vaccinated worldThis episode is sponsored by E2iDesign. Find them on their website or on social media @e2idesign. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

So…COVID isn’t going anywhere (at least not for now.) BUT, with the vaccine making its rounds, many have had questions about how we’ll handle events for this year. Good news! I have all the answers! Well, not all of them, but at least the ones I can answer regarding how I and Motor City HDJ… Read more The post 123 – COVID is Here to Stay appeared first on Motor City HDJ.

I’m so happy that the first interview of 2021 is with my pal Kara Zummer. Our first time working together professionally was at a brewery (more on that in the episode) and now she’s bringing the sweets to everyone who calls on her. We talk about our origins working together, how she got her start,… Read more The post 122 – Kara Zummer Baking (or “I Found the Spatula!”) appeared first on Motor City HDJ.

I'm so happy that the first interview of 2021 is with my pal Kara Zummer. Our first time working together professionally was at a brewery (more on that in the episode) and now she's bringing the sweets to everyone who calls on her. We talk about our origins working together, how she got her start, what she's up to, and our unhealthy obsession with "The Office."This podcast is always sponsored by E2iDesign. Find them on their website and check them out on the socials: @e2idesign. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

My thoughts on what happened in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, January 6, 2021. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

My thoughts on what happened in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, January 6, 2021. The post 121 – Free Speech appeared first on Motor City HDJ.

Happy New Year, Motor City! For this first podcast episode of 2021, I threw caution (and notes) to the wind. This episode is simply me winging it with a discussion about how 2021 will look for the industry.This podcast is always sponsored by E2iDesign. Find them on their website and check them out on the socials: @e2idesign. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Happy New Year, Motor City! For this first podcast episode of 2021, I threw caution (and notes) to the wind. This episode is simply me winging it with a discussion about how 2021 will look for the industry. This episode is sponsored by E2iDesign. Connect with them on Facebook and Instagram @e2idesign or on their… Read more The post 120 – Winging It appeared first on Motor City HDJ.

What else is there to say? This year has been one for the record books. It’s the (somewhat) annual year-in-review episode of the podcast. Join me as I talk about 2020 and what it means for me, Motor City HDJ, the event industry, and 2021. If you think this episode sounds more buttery and amazing… Read more The post 119 – 2020: The Year That Was appeared first on Motor City HDJ.

What else is there to say? This year has been one for the record books. It's the (somewhat) annual year-in-review episode of the podcast. Join me as I talk about 2020 and what it means for me, Motor City HDJ, the event industry, and 2021.This episode is sponsored by E2iDesign. Find them on their website or on social media @e2idesign. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.