If you want a fun-filled, smooth-flowing event, and you've decided to hire a DJ, listen to his or her advice on how best to build energy that increases during your party.

Billy James, an experienced, professional DJ and owner of Phoenix DJ Billy James (shown at left) offers great advice.

Great ideas for all events

We've adapted his excellent pointers on planning a fun wedding to help you maximize the fun at any type of special event celebration—special birthday, wedding anniversary, class reunion, etc.

1. Dim the lights when it's time for dancing. Soft lighting during dinner creates a more comfortable atmosphere. Dimming the lights after dinner will motivate your guests to dance. Determine the desired lighting levels for dinner and dancing when you meet with your reception facility's coordinator. Have your lighting preferences included in your contract with the facility, if possible.

2. Photography should be unobtrusive. If you'll be using a professional photographer or videographer, be sure s/he has the professional skill to capture special moments efficiently and unobtrusively, without taking time from the party for extensive posed shots. Choose a video company willing to use comfortable lighting unless you want your guests to be squinting and covering their eyes on the dance floor and throughout the reception.

3. The  DJ should be next to the dance floor. Avoid seating guests between your DJ and the dance floor. Having the DJ next to the dance floor maximizes his or her ability to control the sound and interact with dancers. (See recommended room layouts at the end of this feature.)

Also, be wary of venues in which you'd be sharing an area with restaurant diners or other parties. Such arrangements almost always result in requests to lower the volume, which will diminish the energy of your reception.

4. Make sure your DJ has a reception planning form. A professional wedding DJ should have a comprehensive reception planning form with suggested music for the grand entrance, toasts, special dances, or announcements. If the DJ you're considering doesn't have one [for any type of party], find a DJ who does.

5. Take the time to plan the Grand Entrance. The Grand Entrance sets the tone and establishes the energy for the entire reception. Work closely with your DJ and facility event director to stage a Grand Entrance that reflects your style and personality, or that of the guest(s) of honor.

Decide who will participate, where they will assemble and in what order, where they will go after being introduced. Be sure to clarify the pronunciation of names, determine appropriate introductions for blended families and, of course, select the perfect music.

Image source: van Rensburg Photos; Phoenix DJ Billy James