Today we’d like to introduce you to Chuck Johnson
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I started working in the broadcast industry (local radio stations) in Maryland but found it did not pay that well, haha! A friend of mine in the industry said, “hey, I have a side hustle DJing weddings, you wanna do that?” Sure, why not?
I found myself connecting with couples in a way that was WAY more satisfying than speaking into the void at a radio station. I just happened to be with people on one of the happiest days of their lives- and I could amplify that by using music and helping them shape an event their friends and family would never forget.
When I found myself in Orlando- I auditioned for Disney Fairytale Weddings over 15 years ago- and have never looked back. The great thing about Disney is that I can be a contractor for amazing weddings there- and have the freedom to run my own DJ business throughout Florida for couples getting married at other incredible locations as well.
Disney taught me one thing well- storytelling. Whether it’s a Disney destination wedding- or a reception at another one of Orlando’s amazing wedding venues, creativity is key. It’s important to help couples customize, personalize, and “tell your story” -rather than simply show up and play music. When you can take all those elements to create something you guests will remember years from now- THAT’S the payoff.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
With any business- there are always challenges. COVID impacted weddings in a big way, and we are still feeling the effects of that. It disrupted relationships, how people meet- and even engagement periods. Sometimes couples are engaged for 1-3 years, so COVID has created wild peaks and valleys of wedding “busy times” of the year.
Florida is a huge destination wedding draw, so couples not from here should understand that. We are different than the rest of the country when it comes to wedding season. While we are typically slower in July, August, and September (a great time for bargains- by the way- if you are getting married inside with air-conditioning) – up north this would be considered prime time. Conversely, in the north, January and February weddings are almost non-existent, but here in Orlando- the weather is perfect.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
While the public may think a wedding DJ just shows up and plays music, it’s much more than that. Unfortunately, some beginner or hobbyist DJs may do just that. But when you can find a DJ who has dedicated their profession to creating unique offerings and memories, it’s a completely different experience.
Personalizing, customizing, and telling your story at your wedding celebration is key. Today’s weddings are not your parent’s wedding. So much has changed in the way receptions have evolved. Brides can have men in their wedding party, and vice-versa. You don’t need to have the exact number of “couples” in a wedding party. They can wear non-matching clothing. You can incorporate your OWN traditions into dated wedding traditions. How about a candy bar instead of a cake? Honestly, there are no longer any “rules” about receptions, other than to make it your own.
My job is to help guide couples to use their personalities to shape their day. I can be your host, MC, make announcements, and of course, play music, all styled to each couple. You want to do a Private Dance away from your guests? Done. Incorporate your college fight song? Done. Customize the dance/song you do with your Dad? Done. The possibilities are only limited to your imagination.
The role of “DJing” weddings has changed so much over the years- I always advise couples to ask this crucial question when looking to hire a wedding DJ: “How can you help me create a personalized and unique experience at my reception, OTHER than just playing music?”
What are your plans for the future?
To help expand upon the DJ/MC’s role at your wedding reception. The DJ isn’t the “star” of the day… you are. How can we tell your story in even more unique and creative ways that will blow your guests away?
Recently there have been a lot of liability issues with wedding venues restricting the use of sparklers, bubbles, fog, or other items that could cause problems. These challenges create new opportunities. I now offer “Virtual Fireworks” for couples who want a memorable way to end their night.
Instead of bubbles/sparklers for a Farewell Dance, I can now project actual fireworks (think animated- but real!) inside the venue. This means while the Last Dance of The Night is happening, so are fireworks! While couples can choose any song to accompany the fireworks, many choose the Disney Fireworks song “Happily Ever After.” As you can imagine, when those fireworks start INSIDE the venue, the “oohs” and “ahhs” of their friends and family fill the room, and it is quite an emotional experience.
I’ve also recently expanded my party offerings to include a (very popular!) Taylor Swift Dance Party. This is perfect for younger kids having a birthday party or a sleepover. The kids get to dance to their favorite Taylor songs, sing karaoke, make friendship bracelets, and get Taylor Swift swag, as well! This package comes with your very own “Swiftie Ambassador” to entertain the kids and with a professional DJ/Karaoke set-up… Mom and Dad don’t have to worry about a thing.
Pricing:
- Starting at $1295
Contact Info:
- Website: https://classicdiscjockeys.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/orlandoweddingdj/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/orlandoweddingdj
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/OrlandoWeddingDJ
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@orlandoweddingdj
