There is a lot of talk among the D.I.Y. set about cost-cutting measures for your wedding.  One I overhear frequently is "don't get a DJ - use your iPod for reception music."  This couldn't be a worse idea.

Think back to the last wedding reception you attended.  What do you remember?  The bride's dress?  The type of flower?  No.  You remember if you had fun.  And 9 times out of 10, "fun" is directly related to the entertainment.

A good DJ will not only play music - they will act as a Master of Ceremonies, keep the party going, make sure that everyone is where they need to be for important events (if you don't have a wedding coordinator!), and play music that the crowd responds to.  If everyone is having a great time dancing to disco, will your iPod know that and keep playing more?  No.  (Not yet anyway, although I wouldn't but it past the geniuses at Apple to come up with that feature in the future!)

So how do you adjust your budget to get a good DJ?  Take a look at your menu.  Do you have a fruit and cheese platter during cocktail hour in addition to passed hors d'oeuvres?  Cut it out.  It is probably about the same price as a DJ.  And I can guarantee that no one will miss it!

The video above was created by the American Disc Jockey Association (ADJA) showing what can happen when iPod weddings go bad.  It's a bit long but I encourage you to watch it if you are considering this option.  It's a real eye-opener.  It turns in to a bit of a commercial for ADJA at the end, but the overall message is great.

(And no, your wedding coordinator will not run your iPod for you all night.)