Why DJ Companies aren't Found in Shopping Malls

Freehold Mall is Central NJ's finest mall. With anchor tenants such as Macy's, Lord & Taylor, Nordstrom's, specialty retailers like Dick's Sporting Goods, a movie theater, and fine restaurants such as the Cheesecake Factory, the mall regularly draws large crowds from its affluent local and regional demographic. On any given Sunday, the parking lot is packed to capacity, and the mall crawling with shoppers.

One day while visiting the mall, my colleague Greg Nice and I brainstormed about renting a kiosk every other Sunday. We imagined the thousands of shoppers being exposed to our logo, walking by the kiosk where a smartly-dressed DJ was mixing beats; meanwhile, footage of our weddings and Super Sweet 16s was projected on a 50 inch plasma. Greg Nice and I were dressed in our formalwear, ready to chat with prospective customers about their once-in-a-lifetime celebration (with credit card machine on-hand to collect deposits!). To build our Facebook fan page and mailing lists into the thousands, we would introduce an awesome giveaway such as a free Coach bag or i-Pad. A team of hustlers resembling a squad from The Apprentice would work the mall and fill the sign-up sheets with ease. What a pretty picture!

The fatal flaw in the plan came down to price. To have a piece of the success of the Freehold Mall is quite expensive. Renting a kiosk on a monthly basis costs in the vicinity of $4,000. We received a quote for a three month campaign of $7,500 which included two Sunday appearances per month (total of six appearances). Effectively, this meant a daily rental charge of $1,250. Adding in the kiosk build-out, promotional materials, giveaways, and staff expenses, we were looking at $1,600-plus per show. Despite the mall crowds, the rental charge per show seemed too high for the risk of this unproven marketing program. Moreover, I was not convinced that those planning formal affairs would accept the notion of finding their disc jockey at a mall kiosk. After all, mall kiosks are for hawking hair extensions, Dead Sea body scrubs and cellphone accessories!

For now, the best retail store in town is the internet where prospective clients can shop for services 24/7, 365. For annual web hosting and domain name renewal, we pay about $50 per year through Godaddy.com. Talk about cheap rent for a store which attracts droves of targeted customers!

If you haven't stopped by yet, visit our online kiosk at www.ambientdj.com.

Do You Have What it Takes to be a Mobile DJ?

Have you ever considered parlaying your love of music and parties into a mobile DJ career? This article addresses the required traits of a successful mobile disc jockey.

There are three main categories of DJs:

Club/performance DJs - think of your resident DJ at the local dance club, or DJ Skribble or Paul Oakenfold for a big Las Vegas or Miami club.

Bedroom DJs - think of aspiring DJs who create mixes from the comfort of their bedroom "studios."

Mobile DJs - mobile DJs travel with their audio and lighting equipment to a party near you, typically held at a banquet hall. Take note there are two parts to the phrase, "mobile" and "DJ." In addition to the performance (the "DJ" part of the equation), mobile DJs must pack, transport, load-in and setup their equipment (the "mobile" part of the equation).

This article relates to the desired traits of a mobile DJ based on my experience with staffing a successful mobile DJ company:

1) Love of Music/Music Knowledge - Mobile parties typically feature "general audiences." This is not a night out at the club with a 21-30 year old age bracket demanding the hottest dance remixes! Rather, most family style parties/weddings feature guests of all ages - from kids up to grandparents. A good mobile DJ must be a musical chameleon, capable of dropping a big band, reggae or 90s dance set on a dime. Musical programming, the ability to program appropriate songs in a logical manner, can be taught. However, many DJs are natural programmers, having an innate sense for how to order song selections and build dance sets. If you are a music lover across multiple genres or people have commented on your great musical taste, then you would make an ideal candidate for a mobile DJ!

2) Love of People - As a DJ at a party, you are in the center of the action. You will be working closely with a banquet staff, other vendors (such as photographers and videographers) and several hundred amped-up guests. Your outgoing and friendly nature will contribute to a fiesta atmosphere and maximize the fun had by all. Those DJs who genuinely care about their guests will make each party a success, and in time build a list of loyal clientele. A pet peeve of mine is the apathetic wedding vendor - grouchy and anti-social. This is a party... we are in a service business... please smile!

3) Energy - Mobile DJing is a physical job and you'd better eat your Wheaties. You will need to lift and transport gear - some of it heavy, possibly up and down stairs. Not all banquet halls have elevators. Work hours can be irregular, with very late nights followed by early mornings. A basic level of physical fitness is required, and those in better shape will deal with the rigors of the job better. Your passion for the job will provide additional energy to make it through the most demanding weekends.

4) Confidence - Getting on a microphone in front of a group of strangers week after week is not for the feint of heart. You had better be comfortable in your own skin, and also be prepared to take some criticism from guests. DJs can be lightning rods for hecklers and other "haters" who are envious of your position as steward on the wheels of steel. By the same token, there is a fine line between confidence and ego-mania. A successful mobile DJ keeps his ego in check and adjusts the show accordingly to make the party a success.

5) Reliability - Mobile DJs travel to the far corners of the state, and must take great care in plotting their arrival on a timely basis. For a DJ to be late to a party is unacceptable and should be avoided at all costs. DJs who fly by the seat of their pants arriving on their own terms, also place unnecessary stress on the client (not to mention on their boss!). To be a successful mobile DJ, you should be well-organized and willing to build in a nice-sized buffer to absorb any unexpected delays.

6) Maturity - Maturity is less a specific age but more a state of mind. Mobile DJing involves performing at milestone events such as Sweet 16s, Anniversary Parties and Weddings. Mobile DJs should be prepared to honor their performance commitments, even when they would rather be lounging at the beach with friends or attending their child's soccer game. For better or worse, the DJ's work week is a mirror image of the typical worker's. Our work week begins on Friday night! For those DJs with spouses and children, are you prepared to forego some of your family's weekend events in order to DJ?

The final two characteristics below are particularly relevant to "Wedding DJs." Wedding DJs, a specialty within the mobile DJ field, are entrusted with a couple's once-in-a-lifetime celebration. The stakes are much higher than for a birthday party at a local VFW Hall.

7) Attention to Detail - There are an abundance of details to be covered in planning a successful wedding reception. A successful wedding DJ must take detailed notes and carefully prepare for each performance. One overlooked detail could de-rail the success of the party and your business reputation.

8) Ability to Act Well Under Pressure - Even with the best preparation, it is not uncommon for Bridal Party rosters to suddenly change moments before the Grand Entrance, or for other problem issues to arise. A seasoned wedding DJ will remain "cool as a cucumber" and adapt as needed. While there may have been chaos behind the scenes, guests should have no clue!

Ambient DJ Service is always interested in meeting candidates who possess the characteristics above. Contact Gregg at 609.672.1270 or info@ambientdj.com for more information.

100 Suggested Tracks for New Years Eve

2010 is nearly a wrap, and what a year it was! Through good times and bad, music is a gift that can always make us feel better.

Below are some of Ambient DJs' suggested tunes for New Years Eve. The collection is an assortment of New Years-themed music, current dance floor hits and dance records for any season. Take these tunes for a spin, celebrate the New Year, and prepare yourself for a fresh new year of possibilities in 2011! Please comment below with some of your suggested New Years Eve favorites!


To read our New Years Eve 2011 playlist that contains current dancefloor hits, click here.  That said, the list below contains many classic selections fit for any year!

1) New Years' Eve Countdown Tool - The Groove Junkies ("5.4.3.2.1... Happy New Year! Let's take this party to the next level.... DJ, hit me one time").

2) Auld Lang Syne - Guy Lombardo

3) New Years Eve Party Medley - Bobby Morganstein Productions (a medley of upbeat marches to welcome the New Year!)

4) 1999 - Prince

5) Champagne Life - Ne-Yo

6) Pop Champagne - Jim Jones, Ron Brownz & friends

7) New Years Anthem - Fatman Scoop, DJ Class w/The Disco Fries

8) Holiday - Madonna

9) Do I Do - Stevie Wonder

10) I Love Music - The O'Jays

11) Let the Music Play - Shannon

12) Take Your Time (Do it Right) - S.O.S. Band

13) I Want Your Love - Chic

14) The Roc Boys - Jay-Z

15) Teach Me How to Dougie - Cali Swag

16) Green Light - John Legend

17) The Time (The Dirty Bit) - Black Eyed Peas

18) Raise Your Glass - Pink

19) Put Your Drinks Up - DJ Mad

20) Love Come Down - Evelyn "Champagne" King

21) Got to Be Real - Cheryl Lynn

22) You Dropped a Bomb on Me - The Gap Band

23) Rock With You - Michael Jackson

24) High Energy - Evelyn Thomas

25) Purple Rain - Prince

26) B.M.F. (Blowin' Money Fast) - Rick Ross

27) Romans Revenge - Nikki Minaj

28) Kush - Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg & Akon

29) Tonight is the Night - Le Click

30) Lady (Hear Me Tonight) - Modjo

31) The Bomb (These Sounds Fall Into My Mind) - Bucketheads

32) 1,2,3, 4 (Sumpin' New) - Coolio

33) You Be Killin' Em - Fabolous

34) Lighters Up - Lil Kim

35) Galvanize - Chemical Brothers

36) Jungle Love - Morris Day and the Time

37) Tarzan Boy - Baltimora

38) Heaven Scent - Bedrock

39) DJ's Got Us Fallin' in Love Again - Usher

40) Bottoms Up - Trey Songz

41) Blame It (on the Alchohol) - Jamie Foxx & T-Pain

42) Everybody Have Fun Tonight - Wang Chung

43) C'mon Eileen - Dexy's Midnight Runners

44) Fresh - Kool & the Gang

45) Runaway - Kanye West f/Pusha T

46) Bedrock - Young Money f/Lloyd

47) I Love to Move It - Real II Reel

48) Take Over Control - Afrojack f/Eva Simmons

49) Only Girl in the World - Rihanna

50) All I Do is Win - DJ Khaled & Friends

51) Show Me Love - Robin S.

52) Make the World Go Round - Sandy B.

53) More and More - Captain Hollywood Project

54) Don't Hurt Me - Haddaway

55) Rock the Casbah - The Clash

56) Another One Bites the Dust - Queen

57) Last Night a DJ Saved My Life - Indeep

58) It's the End of the World as We Know It (and I Feel Fine) - R.E.M.

59) Raise Your Weapon - DeadMau5

60) New Years Day - U2

61) She's a Bad Mama Jama - Carl Carlton

62) You're the One for Me - D-Train

63) Atomic Dog - George Clinton

64) Shots Through the Heart (Mashup) - Lil Jon versus Bon Jovi

65) Just a Dream - Nelly

66) Party Up! - D.M.X.

67) You Spin Me Round - Dead or Alive

68) Right Round - Flo Rida

69) All Night Long - Lionel Ritchie

70) Where It's At - Beck

71) Get Like Me - David Banner f/Chris Brown

72) That's The Way I Like It - K.C. & the Sunshine Band

73) Night on Disco Mountain - David Shire

74) Dancing Queen - ABBA

75) My First, My Last, My Everything - Barry White

76) You Rock My World - Michael Jackson

77) Stereo Love (Paki & Jaro RMX) - Edward Maya f/Vika Jigulina

78) True - Spandau Ballet

79) I Wanna Be Your Lover - Prince

79) We No Speak Americano - Yolanda w/D Cup

80) Make You Sweat - Dr. Hollywood f/Led Zeppelin

81) Dance4Life - Tiesto f/Maxxi Jazz

82) I'm in the House - Steve Aoki

83) Pump it Up - Danzel

84) Aftermood Put Your Hands Up to the Bone - Chris Moody vs. Riz

85) I Like It - Enrique f/Pitbull

86) Xxxo - M.I.A.

87) Pon di Floor - Major Lazer

88) Murder She Wrote - Chaka Demus & Pliers

89) Broader than Broadway - Barrington Levy

90) Limb by Limb - Cutty Ranks

91) Dude - Beenie Man

92) Hold You - Gyptian

93) Lil' Freak - Usher f/Nicki Minaj

94) Dirty Talk (Laidback Luke RMX) - Wynter Gordon

95) One - Swedish House Mafia

96) Resurrection - PPK

97) Fancy - Drake f/T.I. and Swizz Beats

98) Lover Girl - Teena Marie (R.I.P.)

99) Return of the Mack - Mark Morrison

100) Do You Realize? The Flaming Lips

For those of you located in Central NJ, DJ Jagged will be DJing/VJing at Brewsters Pub in East Windsor, NJ on New Years' Eve from 8:30 PM until close. DJ Greg Nice will be appearing at the Kenji Asian Fusion restaurant in Hamilton, NJ from 8 PM until 1 AM.

New York Party People - DJ Iron Mike will be appearing at the Diya Lounge in Long Island.

Contact info@ambientdj.com for more information on any of these events.

Happy New Year everybody!

DJ Spinz Wins Ambient DJ Holiday Quiz

Congratulations to Christopher Smith, aka DJ Spinz, for winning the annual holiday quiz presented at the Ambient DJ holiday party. He scored 9 out of 12, and won a USB thumb drive encrusted in jewels (bling, bling!).

Here are the questions and correct answers:

1) Jesse Lambros’ Ambient DJ business card lists the following DJ name:

a) Stav the Greek, b) Stav da Freak, c) Jesse the Mind, d) DJ Jesse Nice.

2) In 2010, Ambient DJ used all of the sales/marketing strategies below except for:

a) direct mail, b) barter, c) billboard advertising d) WeddingWire

3) As of 11/30/10, the legal name of the company is:

a) Gregg’s Renaissance Entertainment Group (“GREG”), b) Ambient DJ Services LP, c) Ambient Deejay Service, d) Ambient DJ Service LLC

4) Who among the following did NOT perform under the Ambient flag in 2010?

a) Randy Jenkins, b) Larry Sargent, c) Brian Dzbenski, d) Greg Nice, e) none of these, they all performed for Ambient in 2010.

5) Which of the following organizations is Ambient DJ currently a member of?

a) NJDJN b) ADJA c) NRA d) all of the above.

6) True or False: In 2010 DJ Jagged coined which of the following as Brian Dzbenski’s “DJ Name”:

a) DJ Mercer da Ville, b) DJ Extreme, c) DJ Vice, d) DJ Brian Dee-Lite

7) In 2010, Ambient DJ’s biggest marketing folly (from a financial return perspective was):

a) bridal show at Windsor Ballroom, b) pizza box ad campaign, c) search engine optimization campaign, d) social media. Note: Trick question! The bridal show featured too many DJs and too few brides. The pizza box campaign was a breakeven proposition, but I would not do it again.

8) True or False: Ambient DJ was shafted on an $800 wedding fee in 2010 (i.e. bad debt). Despite the economy, there were no collections problems in 2010.

9) Which of the following locations did DJ Jagged NOT perform at in 2010?

a) Philadelphia, b) White Plains, NY, c) Manhattan, d) Massachusetts

10) Ambient DJ’s financial performance in 2010 (i.e., sales), featured:

a) decline of 5% b) growth of 0-5%, c) growth of 5%-15%, d) growth of 15%-plus

11) Which of the following is NOT a stated Ambient DJ strategy for 2011:

a) increased pricing, b) continued focus on presentation, c) intelligent lighting acquistion, d) video marketing (i.e., YouTube corporate site).

12) Correctly spell the name of the female rap artist whose recent track is called “Roman’s Revenge.” Nicki Minaj

** Tie Breaker #1:

Reveal the DJ name of my Southeast Asian DJ brother in NYC who I periodically perform with DJ Emm Bangkok (his real name is Emm Pakdee)

** Tie Breaker #2:

How many countries are found on the African continent? 54!

Holiday 2010 Listener

Every holiday season, I compile a CD to give as a stocking stuffer to family, friends and DJ colleagues. Rather than using the typical Top 40, overplayed fare, I attempt to add more substantive, soulful selections that might stand the test of time. Here are my selections of 2010.

Midnight (New Years Countdown Tool) - Groove Junkies. Use it for New Year’s Eve, or use the back portion “let’s take this party to the next level. DJ hit me one time!” for any party.

Champagne Life - Ne-Yo. Will this song be in your New Year’s set? It will be in mine "let's toast it up!"

C.R.E.A.M. (mashup) - Wu-Tang Clan versus the Beatles. Cash Rules Everything Around Me! The Beatles portion is a snippet from “And I Love Her.”

Runaway - Kanye West f/Pusha T (explicit) - This world is full of creeps, so why not toast these scumbags, jerkoffs, and "douchebags" (my favorite ‘Ye West reference). Rolling Stone rated this track its top single of 2010.

1976 - RJD2. This vintage-sounding funk production was recently composed by Philadelphia-based producer “Ramble John” RJ Krohn, better known as RJD2.

Do I Do - Stevie Wonder. Through the years I have increasingly appreciated the catalog of Stevie Wonder who produces the most soulful yet danceable tracks such as this, Superstition and many more.

Trem Da Central - Claudio Jorge. This track is from a genre known as Brazilian Funk. I love both funk and Brazilian music, so what a perfect genre.

Habla mi Corazon (Kevin Yost Remix) - Lemongrass. Lustrous, lounge music with a sexy female vocal in Spanish.

Depois Do Carnival (Spiritual South Remix) - Azymuth. Pack your bags for Rio Carnivale! I discovered this track via international tastemaker Gilles Peterson.

Aquilas Coisas Todas - Luisito Quintero. Smooth Latin house music, packed with percussion and a killer trombone solo. This track was played out by Louie Vega.

My House (Dennis Ferrer Remix) - Aaron Carl. Smooth sexy house off the Ovum Fall Collection compilation from some years back, but still sounds remarkably fresh and polished.

Waiting for Your Love - Onda. One of my favorite tracks from Francois K’s “Deep and Sexy” series.

Some Chords - DeadMau5. From Mouse’s latest album 4 x 4 =12, I always love the raw urban, yet melodic nature of his distinctive sound. Check out the video on YouTube where the protagonist’s head is deformed as a snare drum!

Flawed (Pink Noise Mix) - Morel. Morel was a frequent collaborator with Deep Dish prior to their break-up. Check out his patented moody house music.

99 Problems - Hugo. An acoustic rock cover of Jay-Z’s standard with a twist. Try this at your next hipster party!

Do You Realize? - The Flaming Lips. Sure, I attended the Flaming Lips concert earlier this year, but it's such an amazing track lyrically and capable of providing an epiphany.

Coming soon, Ambient DJs' top 25 dance tracks of 2010 as ranked by our various music mixologists (i.e., DJs).

Toys 4 Kids - A Worthy Community Event

In our consumer-driven and materialistic society, sometimes we lose sight of the meaning of the holidays. About a spirit of community and giving. For the past eleven years, K&B Tattooing in Hightstown, NJ has been spearheading the Toys 4 Kids toy drive for local underprivileged children. This dedication by K&B and its manager Joe "Mac" McEneany culminated in the donation of over 1,100 toys in 2009. That's a lot of smiles!

The 2010 Toys 4 Kids program held a party on Sunday December 5th at Tavern on the Lake on Main Street in Hightstown. Attendees were asked to bring at least one unwrapped toy. In return, they enjoyed a delicious meal provided by Tavern, a visit from Santa Claus (delivered via the Hightstown Fire Company), and music provided by DJ Brett Gash. Brett is a friend and colleague of mine who has been involved with the toy drive program since its inception.

I attended the event with my sons Zach and Max. The day before, I took Zachary toy shopping at Target and explained to him the concept of a toy drive. On Sunday, he was very happy to place our donated toys in the Santa's sack! Door prizes donated by local businesses were also up for grabs via the purchase of tickets which were then drawn at random from a bag. Included on the prize table was a pair of size 8 Ugz boots!

The final count of donated toys for 2010 is not yet in, but I'm sure that it is a huge number. Please keep this event in mind for 2011, as it is for a great cause, the people involved are great, and the party is a lot of fun!

DJ Brett Gash provides the holiday tunes in his Abominable Snowman T-Shirt!

Congratulations to Great Looks 4 Less Hair Salon

Chase and Denise Taylor, co-owners of the Great Looks 4 Less hair salon in Lawrenceville, recently invited me to stop by their store's one year anniversary/holiday party. Held this past Sunday at their beautiful store in the Mercer Mall, I took up the Taylors on their offer, also donating a couple of door prizes.

Music is the gift that keeps on giving, so Ambient DJ often gives away gift certificates to the Princeton Record Exchange (one of my favorite hangout spots!) Or, for contests where the contestants are geographically dispersed, we award i-Tunes gift cards. Heads up - all of Ambient DJs' Facebook fans are eligible to win our next drawing on 12/24/10 for a $25 i-Tunes gift certificate (become a fan at www.facebook.com/ambientdj)!

I received a tour from one of the stylists, and was impressed by the upscale and warm feel of the store, and by its well-dressed staff. The store was buzzing with activity on this Sunday afternoon. Great Looks 4 Less differentiates itself as a "multi cultural hair salon" that develops personalized hair treatment plans for its clients, and at prices that are very affordable, particularly considering the pampered service that you will receive. One unique service offered is eyebrow "threading" - threading is an ancient form of hair removal used in such regions as India, Pakistan and the Middle East. Attention Mercer County-area brides: GL4L can get your hair, makeup and eyebrows/lashes looking perfect for your big day!

During my time, I enjoyed chatting with the GL4L staff, as well as some of its other friends in the local business community who came out to show their support. Hilary Morris, from Hilary Morris Public Relations, attended with her family who enjoyed photos with Santa. Debbie Schaeffer from Mrs. G's Appliances donated a prize, and drew for the lucky winner. Recently re-elected Mercer County Clerk Paula Sollami Covello was also in attendance.

There are some interesting parallels between the DJ business and the Beauty Salon business. First, we are both in service businesses and face a wide array of competitors due to low barriers to entry. Second, some consumers view our respective businesses as mere commodities and seek out the lowest possible price. Yet, many consumers realize the "value" of superior service and are prepared to pay a higher price. Similar to GL4L's dedication to providing superior services "4 Less", Ambient DJ seeks to provide high-quality music & entertainment services at prices that are still relatively affordable. Who would you rather have DJ your wedding - the "Supercuts DJ" or a company such as Ambient DJ that delivers a more intensive and personalized service?

Check out this salon when you can! It is located a few doors down from the Shop Rite in Mercer Mall at 3371 Brunswick Pike, US Highway 1, Mercer Mall, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648 (p. 609.378.5360). And listen up - some new, international music mixes will be making their way to GL4L's airwaves in January 2011 courtesy of Ambient DJ!

The interior of the Great Looks 4 Less Salon located in the Mercer Mall

Ambient DJ President, Gregg Hollmann, poses with lucky winner of PREX gift card. Am I really this tall?

Debbie Schaeffer from Mrs. G's draws for a door prize

Salon co-owners Denise Taylor (L) and Chase Taylor (R), pose with Hilary Morris (C)

What is Dubstep?

The last few years have experienced the rise of a style of music known as "dubstep." Dubstep is a genre of electronic dance music that originated from London in 1999-2000. Its overall sound has been described by allmusic.com as "tightly coiled productions with overwhelming bass lines and reverberant drum patterns, clipped samples, and occasional vocals." Dubstep is always nearly between 138 and 142 beats per minute (BPMs). Dubstep productions are typically in minor keys, dissonant in nature, and with syncopated rhythms.

Ambient DJs' take on dubstep? It is mostly too raw and visceral for a formal affair, and probably for just about any family gathering! For an underground house party filled with ravers or hipsters, a grimy dubstep set could be just what the doctor ordered. We occasionally receive a request for dubstep at our club gigs or at high school or college events. Dance floor results have been sketchy at best. For an example of dubstep, check out the music video at the bottom of this blog post. The track is a remix by Flux Pavilion of "All the Eastern Girls" by the Chapel Club. If anything, watch this video for its amazing old school video arcade imagery.

A sub-set of dubstep, called "grownstep" features dubstep rhythms, but is more melodic - however, this is a relative statemen! Check out the video below, and tell us what you think about dubstep! If you like it, please share some favorite tracks that we should put into our music crates.

To download a free "grownstep" mix by DMC Champion DJ Shiftee, check out the following link.

Dear Santa (Letter from a DJ)

Dear Santa,

While I am a grown man, toys are still very important to me. I am particularly fond of audio-visual gear. While it's true that I already own some of these items, it's always a pleasure to play with the latest and greatest toys.

Forget about the Ugz boots this year, and please bring me the following:

* Pioneer CDJ-900s (2),

* Pioneer Mixer model DJM-800 (1);

* Technics 1200 turntables, the industry standard! (2); (sadly Panasonic no longer produces these... hope that you can pull some strings!);

* Martin MAC 550 Moving Heads (with matching cases!);

* An Apple i-Pad (the 64 GB version would be splendid!). I will use this device to run my entire business conglomerate on-the-go;

* Apple MacBook Pro (17" monitor);

* 15" Yorkville Powered Speakers, Model EF500PB (2); if these are two heavy for your sack, then I'll take two 15" Electro-Voice SXA250 Powered Speakers instead.

For stocking stuffers, consider:

* Blizzard Lighting's LED lighting Pucks so that I can uplight everything! (next year I will even uplight your cookie and glass of milk!);

* Gift certificate for Dubspot Music Academy in Manhattan (www.dubspot.com) to receive training in production and scratching!

* $250 gift certificate from Promo Only (www.promoonly.com) for additional music videos and subscriptions;

* $100 gift certificate from Amazon.com - to download additional music, and books related to business. I might use this towards Keith Richards' autobiography "Life";

* $100 gift certificate from Crooklyn Clan.net - to download the hottest mash-ups and video remixes;

* All-expenses paid trip to the WMC (Winter Music Conference) being held March 8th-12th in Miami.

Thanks Santa!

Festively,

Gregg Hollmann

Ambient DJ Service

Opulent Wedding Reception at the Elkins Estate

This past Saturday, November 6th, Ambient DJ crossed state lines to provide the music and entertainment at the new Mr. and Mrs. Eric and Ji-May Jen's wedding reception. The reception was held at the opulent Elkins Estate in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania. The 42-acre estate contains five buildings, the most notable being Elstowe Manor and Chelten House, both Horace Trumbauer designed mansions. Elstowe Manor was the summer home of William L. Elkins, a prominent Philadelphian businessman who was integral in the formation of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company and SEPTA.

The reception was held in Elstowe Manor, a 45 room manor built in the style of Italian High Renaissance. Eric and Ji-May chose to have their grand entrance and first dance in the foyer, with the bridal party entering down the grand staircase in dramatic fashion. The parents of the bride and groom entered to Diana Ross' "I'm Coming Out" which I then mixed in to "Mo Money, Mo Problems" for the bridal party members. Eric and Ji-May entered to the chorus of Jagged Edge's "Let's Get Married" (remix), and then enjoyed their first dance to a special edit of the Foo Fighter's "Everlong" (acoustic version). After taking a group photo in the foyer, the guests walked up a short carpeted staircase into the grand ballroom - a very long space with perhaps 20 foot high ceilings.

The room was configured in 3 sections: the front area is where the bulk of the guests sat at large circular tables. The middle section contained the Sweetheart Table and long rectangular tables for the bridal party. The dance floor and DJ booth were located at the back of the ballroom. Of note, the side walls of the middle section, as well as the back wall (behind the DJ booth) were covered with 16 foot high pipe and drape (i.e., curtaining) that was uplit in blue to match the color of Ji-May's bridesmaids dresses. The wedding cake, the Sweetheart table and select other table centerpieces were accentuated with pinspotting. The wedding cake in fact looked like a piece of art (see photo below). Ambient DJ backlit its facade in blue, matching the uplighting of the pipe and drape. Finally, the side walls of the dance floor area were wood-paneled, and uplit in amber. The combined effect of the room was jaw-dropping modern grandeur!

Eric, the groom, made a welcoming speech and gave guests an outline of the event: six meal courses and eight speeches in what was described as a "foodcentric" wedding. Catering company Feastivities (www.feastivitiescatering.com) did an awesome job of efficiently running through the six courses, allowing plenty of time for open dancing. Our MC Brian D. skillfully navigated guests through an ambitious program of speeches, food courses and contests. After several courses, we displayed a video slideshow on our largest screen (10 foot horizontal). Thereafter, the screen was removed, revealing the DJ booth and dance floor.

The dancing kicked in, and kicked in hard at around 9 PM. The dancefloor was electrified with energy and packed with younger guests. The bride and groom were right in the heart of the action! Several outstanding breakdancers dazzled guests with their savvy execution of moves such as the windmill. My early club set featured tracks like DJ's Got Us Fallin' in Love (Serafin RMX) - Usher, Dynamite - Taio Cruz, Stereo Love - Edward Maya, Like a G6 - Far East Movement. Later in the evening, I mixed more 90s hip hop and R&B, and a late night performance of of Danzel's "Pump it Up" took the party to the next level. The evening concluded at 11 PM with sweaty guests dancing to Donna Summer's "Last Dance" and an encore performance of Bon Jovi's "Livin' on a Prayer."

Brian and I received a commendation from a smiling bride and groom at night's end. It is always rewarding to take on a challenging engagement and then deliver the client's vision. Eric and Ji-May's wedding will surely rank as one of the most memorable of 2010. It was a privilege spending time in Elstowe Manor, an opulent setting far removed from my daily experiences in the New Jersey suburbs.

I would also like to shout-out videographer Jack Dempsey of Kleer Video Productions (www.kleervideo.com) who we worked closely with throughout the evening.

Contact Ambient DJ at info@ambientdj.com or 609.672.1270 to discuss planning your own dream reception! You can become a fan on our Facebook page at Ambient DJ Service, or on Twitter at AmbientDJs. Finally, our corporate website is www.ambientdj.com.

Silent Auction - John Paul Geijer Foundation benefiting Prostate Cancer

On Saturday November 20th, Ambient DJ provided music at a silent auction held at Hightstown Engine Co. #1 in Hightstown, NJ. This event was a fundraiser benefiting the John Paul Geijer (pronounced 'guy-er') Memorial Foundation. John Paul Geijer was a family man of Hightstown who was diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer in 2003, and passed away in 2006 after a courageous fight. Born in Ohio in 1940, John's life work included coaching sports for some thirty years for his son, John, and daughter, Jacqueline, as well as teaching religious education at St. Anthony of Padua in Hightstown. Additional details of John's story can be read here.

The goal of the Foundation is to save lives and prevent others from the ravages of prostate cancer. For example, the Foundation funds prostate cancer screenings for those in financial need. It also has established prostate cancer libraries in local hospitals. According to statistics, one in six American males will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime! Yes, this is bad news, but the good news is that if detected early, prostate cancer is highly treatable. That is why it is so critical to get tested early and often, before the cancer becomes metastatic, spreading to other areas of the body.

Many people turned out for the event, to support a great cause and also for a chance to take home some outstanding items donated by local businesses and individuals. After dining on a delicious spread of food, guests were offered three opportunities to win:

(1) door prizes announced throughout the evening;

(2) "tricky trays" - guests placed tickets in bags for items of interest, with a winner drawn by random; and

(3) silent auction - using their assigned registration #, guests bid on items of interest. There was an extensive inventory of items, including sports memorabilia, toys, designer sunglasses, a dinner cruise, restaurant gift certificates and DVD sets.

In terms of my job, I played dinner music - primarily oldies, and then moved into more upbeat fare while guests were bidding, creating an exciting auction environment. I also shared emceeing duties, keeping guests informed about the rules, and gently motivating them to bid generously!

At 8 PM, bidding was closed, and Terri Geiger (John's wife) took the microphone and did a great job of drawing the prize winners for the Tricky Trays and getting the silent auction winners checked out. After Terri's announcements were concluded, I fielded requests and kept the children entertained with current dance hits by the likes of the Black Eyed Peas and Justin Bieber.

I was quite excited that my bid was sufficient to win a four hour private cruise on a 1962 yacht around New York Harbor for up to four people! I also won a "30 Rock" prize pack, with DVD packages for all four seasons, at a bargain price. Unfortunately, somebody outbid me in the final moment for an amazing DVD prize package with crime drama seasons including Miami Vice and NYPD Blue.

To follow and support the ongoing activities of The John Paul Geijer Memorial Foundation, you can join their Facebook Fan Page, or else visit www.johnpaulgeijer.org. Thank you to all who came out to support this great cause!

What are the Odds? 2010's Double Dose of Twin Weddings.

As DJs, we strive to win business over the long-term and become the "family DJ." In 2010, I had the opportunity to become the family DJ for two unique families, but on an accelerated basis. The first, the Lohmann sisters (Holly and Julie) are twin sisters. They were both married in 2010 - Holly and Tim were married on April 17th, while Julie and Tyler were married on September 18th. Holly had her reception at the Olde York Country Club (www.oldyorkcc.com) in Chesterfield, NJ, while Julie had hers at the Inn at Fernbrook Farms (www.innatfernbrookfarms.com) (also in Chesterfield). Both reception sites were amazing choices for their rustic country settings, great service and food.

I also had the opportunity to DJ the weddings of another set of twin sisters in 2010 - Jennie and Katie Serenelli. Imagine the excitement for the Serenelli family as both sisters were married in July! Coincidentally, Jennie and Chris had their reception on July 10th at the Olde York Country Club in Chesterfield, the site of the first Lohmann wedding! Katie and Marc's reception was held further south at the Pennsauken Country Club on July 31st.

Twin sisters tend to have similar personalities, and even musical tastes. At least, this was the case for Julie & Holly; and Jennie and Katie. I did take great care to avoid duplicating tracks from the other sister's wedding where possible. It was also nice to see many familiar faces during the second performance in each series. My recollection is that Holly and Julie are identical twins, while Jennie and Katie are not. Regardless, each twin sister bore an uncanny resemblance to the other - it was convenient that at each reception one sister wore a white wedding dress to help avoid any confusion!

My only regret is that I was unable to get photographed with each set of twin sisters - these photos would have made a nice addition to this blog entry. The photo below features Holly toasting her sister Julie at the Inn at Fernbrook Farms.

DJ Jagged's Top 20 of Fall 2010

Ambient's Gregg Hollmann, aka DJ Jagged, submits his Top 20 dance floor hits of Fall 2010. Mr. Jagged's musical genome includes preferences for electronic dance music, international influences, alternative rock, grunge and provocative hip hop. Musically well-rounded, DJ Jagged excels in diverse party environments, ranging from mainstream family affairs - to formal events - to underground house parties.

In countdown fashion, here's the list. Drumroll, please.......

20) I Remember - DeadMau5 & Kaskade

19) The Suburbs - Arcade Fire

18) Rad Anthem - Rad Omen

17) Xxxo - M.I.A.

16) Lil Freak - Usher f/Nikki Minaj

15) 99 Problems - Hugo

14) Hot Tottie - Usher w/Jay-Z

13) One - Swedish House Mafia

12) Deuces - Chris Brown f/Tyga and Kevin McCall

11) B.M.F. (Blowin' Money Fast) - Rick Ross

10) Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) - Shakira

9) Club Can't Handle Me - David Guetta and Flo Rida

8) Misery - Maroon 5

7) We No Speak Americano - Yolanda and Dcup

6) Keep it Goin' Louder (DJ Alvaro Remix) - Major Lazer

5) Like a G6 - Far East Movement

4) Bad Romance (Grum Remix) - Lady Gaga

3) DJ's Got Us Fallin' in Love Again (Serafin Remix) - Usher

2) Dynamite - Taio Cruz

1) Stereo Love (Paki & Jaro Remix) - Edward Maya & Vika Jigulina

Classics in Rotation

1) Zombie Nation - Kernkraft 400 (Seasonal Selection)

2) Electric Feel - MGMT

3) Welcome to Jam Rock - Damian "Gong" Marley

4) That's the Way I Like It - K.C. & the Sunshine Band

5) Mystic Voyage - Roy Ayers

6) That Girl - Stevie Wonder

7) Waiting for Your Love - Onda

8) The Breaks - Kurtis Blow

9) Sucker M.C.'s - Run-DMC

10) Last Night a DJ Saved My Life - Indeep

11) Cali Spaces - Mark Farina

12) Valerie - Amy Winehouse

To book DJ Jagged for your next party, contact info@ambientdj.com or call 609.672.1270. To view his bio, click here.

To view his track list for 2010's Halloween Mix CD "Zombiance" click here.

Ambient DJs' Gregg Hollmann Published in DJ Times

Ambient DJ President, Gregg Hollmann, had his article "Eureka Moments - Lessons Learned at the DJ Expo" published in the November 2010 issue of DJ Times (www.djtimes.com). This article was one of the cover stories. The article lists takeaways from some of the best seminars of the DJ Expo given by the likes of Steve Moody, Jason Jani, Jason Canaan, Peter Merry and the Wedding All-Star Team (MC Johnny K., Adam Weitz, Mike Walter, Mike Berrios, Elisabeth Scott-Daley and Big Daddy Sean McKee).

I will provide the link to the article when the online version becomes available.

Big shout-out to DJ Times for publishing my article and comping my DJ Expo fees for 2011! For those of you who don't subscribe to DJ Times or attend the annual International DJ Expo in Atlantic City, what are you waiting for?

Please follow us on Twitter at AmbientDJs.

How to Plan a Successful Sweet 16 Party

Congratulations Sweet 16!

Your sweet 16 celebration is more than just a birthday party. It is a celebration of your graduation into the world of young adulthood. With today's culture of over-the-top “Super Sweet 16” extravaganzas, it is easy to get swept up in the excitement of planning a great celebration. The following is a guide on how to focus on the most important aspects of this joyous and festive occasion.

1) Date & Time

You should select a date and time when the majority of your guests (both friends and family) are available. Friday and Saturday evenings tend to be popular choices for that reason, but a weekday during the summer vacation or Christmas break might also be good times to throw your party. Be careful to select a date that does not fall close to major holidays or clash with important school functions. It would be a big disappointment to plan your party close to a holiday only to find out many of your guests cannot attend due to family obligations.

Regarding the time of your party, if you have an afternoon party it is typically cheaper than an evening event at most catering halls. However, a daytime Sweet 16 may present a brighter room environment that is not conducive to a DJ dance party. Ultimately the date and time depend on what works best for the style of party you want and your budget, so give it some careful consideration, and consult with your friends and family prior to the date to avoid any schedule conflicts. As for the length of a Sweet 16 party, formal catering halls typically allot four hours per party.

2) Budget

In planning a Sweet 16, we recommend that families establish a budget. Important components of this budget include hall rental, food, invitations, decorations/favors, dress, music/entertainment, photography, videography and party props/prizes. Usually, the hall rental and food will be the largest expense items. Should you opt for a catering hall, expect the price of your party to increase significantly. At a catering hall, most likely you will be charged per guest. Menus may include finger foods, and/or served buffet platters such as salad, baked ziti and chicken piccata.

The total price of a Sweet 16 party can range from $1,000 or less, to the tens of thousands of dollars. We recommend that you spend as much as your budget will allow for. If you find it necessary to reduce expenses, certain components are subject to do-it-yourself solutions (such as photography and videography). We do not however recommend that you substitute a disc jockey with an i-Pod, as the guests will expect to spend the greater part of the evening dancing (most teenagers eat quickly), and a bad DJ (or none!) could result in a boring party.

3) Venue

Where are you going to hold your party? Will you rent out the grandest ballroom in town and throw an extravaganza worthy of Super Sweet 16 status? Or will you select a local rental hall (e.g., Elks Club, American Legion) in which food and decorations can be brought in? The selected party location is a reflection of your vision and budget. Perhaps you have a beautiful backyard that's perfect for a party! Or maybe you have a particular restaurant or catering hall in mind. Don’t be afraid to get creative, but make sure that the space is within your budget and offers the type of party atmosphere that you want for your big day!

4) Guest List and Invitations

A celebration is always better when we surround ourselves with friends and family who love and care for us. Your guest list is one of the most important parts of your celebration. Think about the party you want, and then envision the special people you most want to share that memory with. Particularly for high-energy dance parties, the guest list may primarily feature friends. Will you invite girls, boys, or both? Other Sweet 16 parties feature a balance between family and friends.

People need to know you are having a party! Let them know where, when ,the time the party starts and stops. Most teens need a ride to and from events, so this is especially important for them to coordinate transportation to and from the party. Make sure to include an RSVP date, as this allows you to know in advance exactly who is coming and how many people will need to be fed.

We recommend sending out a “Save the Date” notice two or three months prior to the event date, with invitations being mailed out approximately six weeks prior to the party date. These communications can be sent out cost-effectively via social media (e.g., Facebook).

5) Theme

Do you have a theme? It could be as simple as your favorite color for the decorations, or as elaborate as a Phantom of the Opera costume celebration. We encourage you to think outside of the box and select a theme that is personal to you! Below, we list sample Sweet 16 themes:

* Alice in Wonderland

* Broadway (New York-style)

* South Beach (Miami-style)

* Jersey Shore

* Pretty in Pink

* Black and White

* Blacklight Party (room in illuminated in ultraviolet light and guests are provided glows sticks or glow rings)

* Twilight Saga (or another favorite movie)

* Sports-related (favorite sport or sports team)

* Summer luau

Whatever theme that you select, be sure to let your guests know what to expect. Do guests need to wear a costume, a suit or dress, a specific color, etc.? Don't leave the details to chance - let people know what to expect!

6) Entertainment

Your selected DJ entertainer provides the voice and vibe for your once-in-a-lifetime celebration. Choose wisely as this person or company can make or break your party!

We recommend hiring a professional DJ company with Sweet 16 and teen dance party experience. A professional mobile DJ will have an up-to-date music collection of radio-edited teen dance music across genres such as hip hop, R&B, pop and club. They will also be able to play appropriate music for dinner and the adults in the audience. Professional DJs utilize professional-grade equipment (such as wireless microphones that can be used for the candle lighting ceremony) and bring back-up equipment. In addition to preparing your playlist and emceeing the party, many disc jockey companies provide valued-added services such as “wow factor” intelligent lighting shows, ambient uplighting, custom monograms, photo booths, music video mixing and video slideshows.

At the end of the evening, you and your guests should have enjoyed a magical evening of dancing to your favorite songs, quite possibly to a dazzling light show.

7) Candle Lighting

A Sweet 16 tradition that you may wish to incorporate is the candle lighting ceremony. In this ceremony, the birthday celebrant dedicates a candle to a family member/friend or to a group of friends, relatives, or other special people in their life. A candle may also be lit in memory of a family member. Typically, the Sweet 16 says a few words as to why they are dedicating the candle and then asks the person or persons to step forward and help light the candle. Most times, once the invitee is asked up, a special song is played as they walk up and while the candle is being lit. These song selections are coordinated in advance with your DJ. Once all candles have been lit, the guests sing Happy Birthday to the Sweet 16 celebrant, and she blows out the candles and makes a wish.

Should you have a candle lighting ceremony? On the one hand, the ceremony includes many of the guests at the party and creates great photo opportunities. On the negative side, the ceremony typically takes 20 or 30 minutes that might better be spent dancing. Also, certain Sweet 16 celebrants may be anxious about speaking on the microphone in front of their family and friends. In this latter case, we recommend either omitting the ceremony, or else having the disc jockey read a script provided by the Sweet 16.

Be sure to check with your catering hall to see if they provide the candles and accessories related to the candle lighting ceremony. If not, then you can either purchase kits, or else bring your own candles. We recommend the long, sturdy candlesticks that might be found on one’s dining room table. Also be sure to bring matches or a safety lighter. Girls with long hair should be extra careful during the candle lighting ceremony!

Other formalities that you may wish to include for your Sweet 16 include a grand entrance, a father-daughter dance, or a grand finale. Please consult the song list below for track selections.

Happy planning,

Your Ambient DJ Mixologists with special acknowledgement to Christopher Smith (DJ Spinz)

ABOUT AMBIENT DJ SERVICE

Ambient DJ Service is an award-winning mobile disc jockey company based in East Windsor, New Jersey and serving the Tri-State area. Ambient DJ specializes in weddings, corporate parties and sensational teen dance parties. For more information, visit us online at www.ambientdj.com or http://ambientdj.blogspot.com. Add us on Twitter at “AmbientDJs” or on Facebook at “Ambient DJ Service.”

Ambient DJ is your one-stop-shop for unforgettable Sweet 16 celebrations! Ambient DJ brings you top-notch pros who will walk you through the planning process and then rock your party. From room lighting to introductions, candle lighting and music selection, Ambient DJ has you covered. For those who seek the very best in disc jockey entertainment, contact Ambient DJ Service today for a free consultation.

Sweet 16 Song Ideas

Grand Entrance

1) Tik Tok - Ke$ha

2) Dynamite - Taio Cruz

3) Sweet 16 - Hilary Duff

4) Viva la Vida - Colplay

5) Pump it Up - Danzel

Father-Daughter Dance

1) Daughters - John Mayer

2) Sixteen Candles - The Crests

3) Will You Light My Candle? - From the Broadway musical Rent

4) Isn’t She Lovely? - Stevie Wonder

5) Child of Mine - Carole King

Open Dancing (these songs will change to reflect the latest and greatest radio hits!)

1) Teenage Dream - Katy Perry

2) Just the Way You Are - Bruno Mars

3) I Like It - Enrique Iglesias f/Pitbull

4) DJ’s Got Us Falling in Love Again - Usher

5) Stereo Love - Edward Maya f/Vika Jigulina

Copyright 2010, Ambient DJ Service, LLC. All rights reserved.

Halloween Mix CD by DJ Jagged

For some devious Halloween season fun, check out this mix by Ambient's DJ Jagged. Mr. Jagged takes a dark trip through grunge, alternative, dub and electronica, before ending in party set fashion with current dance floor favorites by the likes of Far East Movement, Usher and Yolanda and D-Cup. The link is shown below, followed by the track list.

Feel free to leave your comments below.

http://www.mediafire.com/?2pgdx4c173v72i5

Tubular Bells - Mike Oldfield

Release the Boar - Salem

Change (in the House of Flies) - The Deftones

No One Knows - Queens of the Stone Age

Time to Pretend - MGMT

XXXO - M.I.A.

Gone Space Trippin' - Peter Munch

Zombie's Walk Dub - Tino

Ghosts - Quivver

Rad Anthem - Rad Omen

Around the World - Daft Punk

Dynamite - Taio Cruz

Like a G6 - Far East Movement

DJ's Got Us Fallin' in Love (Serafin RMX) - Usher

Keep it Goin' Louder (DJ Alvaro RMX) - Major Lazer

We No Speak Americano - Yolanda f/D-Cup

After the Soma - Nigel Richards

DJ Greg Nice - Fall 2010 Picks

Manhattan-bred Gregory Lambiase, aka DJ Greg Nice, submits his Top 20 for Fall 2010. Greg's specialties include weddings, corporate parties, mitzvahs and bar/club. With his energetic personality and stage presence, let DJ Greg Nice take your party to the next level!

"DJ Greg Nice's" Top 20/Fall 2010

1. Usher ft. Pitbull - DJ's Got Us Falling In Love

2. Edward Maya & Vika Jigulina - Stereo Love (Molella Remix)

3. Rihanna - Every Girl (*New* )

4. David Guetta & Flo Rida - Club Can't Handle Me

5. Katy Perry - Teenage Dream (Brian Cua Club Mix)

6. Ke$ha - Take It Off

7. Jay Sean ft. Nicki Minaj - 2012 (Jump Smokers Mix)

8. Usher ft. Jay Z & Ester Dean - Hot Tottie

9. LiL Jon ft. LMFAO - Outta Your Mind

10. LMFAO - Get Crazy (Jersey Shore Theme)

11. Yolanda Be Cool ft. Dcup & Nablidon - We No Speak Americano (I Like That)

12. Pitbull ft. T Pain- Hey Baby (Drop it to the Floor) (*New* )

13. Daft Punk - Around The World (Chris Moody Rework) (Throwback)

14. Bruno Mars - Just The Way You Are

15. Sean Kingston ft. Nicki Minaj - Letting Go

16. Miley Cyrus - Who Owns My Heart (*New*)

17. Esmee Denters ft. Justin Timberlake - Love Dealer (*New* )

18. One Repulblic - Marching On (Timberland Remix) ( *New* )

19. Shakira - Loca ( Freemasons Radio Edit ) (*New*)

20. Jennifer Lopez - Let's Get Loud ( Throwback ) (DJ Note -Mixes well with Shakira's - Loca).

To book DJ Greg Nice for your next party, contact info@ambientdj.com or 609.672.1270.

Coming soon - DJ Jagged's Top 20 of the Fall!

Ambient's DJ Spinz (L) and DJ Greg Nice (R)

Wedding Reception in Cape May

Cape May is a charming town. According to Erik Kent from njwedding.com, it is a little known fact that Cape May is the third most popular wedding destination in the United States. This hidden treasure of New Jersey was an ideal setting for Christopher and Debbie's intimate wedding reception to be shared with a small group of family and friends. Chris and Deb selected the Peter Shields Inn. Built in 1907 and located along the ocean on Beach Drive, the Inn is named after Peter Shields, a wealthy businessman from Pittsburgh.

The interior of the Inn was spacious, cozy and decorated in Victorian charm (e.g., stained glass windows, animal statues). The ceremony took place outdoors on the front porch on a sunny but somewhat gusty October afternoon. Deb and Chris exchanged customized declarations of love for one another and heartfelt vows in a very emotional ceremony. Afterwards, cocktail hour and a served lunch were enjoyed indoors.

Ambient DJ provided music for the ceremony, cocktail hour and reception party. Formalities were streamlined, with the newlyweds enjoying their first dance to Ben Folds' "The Luckiest." Late in the afternoon, Chris made a surprise dedication of Otis Redding's "That's How Strong My Love Is" to his new bride.

Guests enjoyed an afternoon of dancing on a very slightly sloped dance floor across a variety of musical styles that included disco, funk, Motown, 80s, classic rock and modern dance fare. With the food and service top-notch, the Peter Shields Inn and Cape May delivered a truly unique and unforgettable wedding reception.

Attention couples of all ages - whether it's to attend a wedding reception or to have a romantic getaway of your own, Cape May is an excellent destination.

Ambient DJ Now Offers Dancing Under the Stars

Ambient DJ is proud to offer its clients the opportunity to dance underneath a breathtaking universe of twinkling stars and moving clouds. This effect is accomplished by a fixture known as the Bliss Light 15. This effect is most suitable for venues with high ceilings and unobstructed ceiling surfaces. The results are a "Wow Factor" effect that would be ideal for evening formal events such as weddings, Sweet 16s or Proms.

As per the manufacturer:

The Bliss Light 15 generates an enormous universe of stars over a windblown blue nebula cloud field. The beams radiate at 160 degrees from the lens, covering all surfaces from immediately in front of the projector to hundreds of feet away. The Bliss Light is equipped with newly developed laser and LED lighting elements and Multiphase High Resolution Holographic Optical elements on synchronous motors. It is carefully tested and FDA approved for its safe viewing of the laser beams up to a few inches of the lens.

Also, see the attached Youtube video of this effect in action:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V3AtGjrdbqw

A DJ's Poem

When's the last time that you read a poem about a DJ? The poem below captures the imagery of a hot dance party and what a good DJ brings to the table.

A DJ's Poem

Guests dance and move to the groovy sounds.

Lights twirl and twist as the speaker pounds.

"Hands in the air and pump your fists, now make some noise"

The DJ insists.

The crowd reacts in a frenzied state.

The wait staff dancing while clearing plates.

The floor is packed the room is hot.

Mr. DJ's showing what he's got.

Party people dancing with delight

As the music plays into the night.

The maestro plays a song request.

Another happy smiling guest.

The tempo moves to a slower pace

With couples dancing face to face.

The DJ plays the final song

Inviting all to sing along.

Out of nowhere you hear a shout

"One more song 'till they kick us out!"

The crowd erupts into a chant

"one more song" they rave and rant!

The DJ cues the next tune

As a danceable beat fills the room.

The song plays for a while then ends with a snap.

The crowd whistles and yells then dismiss with a clap.

I was a witness.

I watched it unfold.

The DJ played hits for the young and the old.

He played what they wanted missed not a request.

Yes, I am your DJ, thanks for being my guest.

Author - Unknown.

To see this DJ come to life, visit www.ambientdj.com or contact us at info@ambientdj.com or 609.672.1270.

DJ Spinz - Fall 2010 Top Songs

Feel that crispness in the morning air? Yes, it's Fall, and time for our disc jockeys to update their Top 20 song playlists. DJ Christopher Smith, aka DJ Spinz, aka the Caramel Kingpin, dials in with these high potency dance floor fillers for your teen dance party. For those of you unfamiliar with DJ Spinz, he is a multi-faceted performer who emcees, mixes, dances, runs games, clowns around with guests, and even beat boxes! Chris' song selections are presented in countdown fashion. Drumroll please...............

20) Holdin You Down (Circles)- Jazmine Sullivan

19) Only Girl In The World- Rihanna

18) OMG rmx - Usher ft DJ Class and Fatman Scoop

17) The Only Exception- Paramore

16) Hold Yuh- Gyptian

15) Dueces- Chris Brown ft Tyga

14) Misery- Maroon 5

13) Your Love- Nicki Minaj

12) Billionaire- Travie Mccoy

11) 2012- Jay Sean ft Nicki Minaj

10) Ridin Solo- Jason Derulo

9) Teenage Dream- Katy Perry

8) Club can't Handle Me- Flo Rida

7) California Gurls- Katy Perry

6) Dynamite- Taio Cruz

5) Dj Got Us Fallin' In Love- Usher ft Pitbull

4) I Like It- Enrique Iglesias ft Pitbull

3) Like A G6- Far East Movement

2) Just the Way You Are- Bruno Mars

1) Airplanes- B.O.B ft Hayley Williams

Top 5 Songs In DJ Spinz's i-Pod

5) One- Swedish House Mafia ft Pharell

4) The Rave (Tocadisco Remix) - Dr. Kucho

3) Pacha On Acid- Afrojack

2) Yep That's Me- Jamie Foxx

1) Still Got It- Drake

To book the highly-rated DJ Spinz for your teen dance party, wedding, or company holiday party, contact info@ambientdj.com or dial 609.672.1270. Follow Ambient DJ on Twitter @ AmbientDJs, or subscribe to our Facebook fan page at "Ambient DJ Service." To subscribe to our e-mail list for exclusive special offers, please send an e-mail to info@ambientdj.com with your full name and e-mail address.

Coming soon.... DJ Jagged and DJ Greg Nice's Autumn song selections! To view DJ Iron Mike's Top Fall selections, click here.