El Amor Entra Por La Música: Planning Your Latin-American Wedding

With tips from DJ Martin

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Whether you want to pepper in a few classic Latin tunes, or plan a full-on bilingual affair, we understand the importance of nailing the perfect cultural balance for your big day. After all, your family and loved ones are an extension of your marriage, and we want them to woven into the fabric of your event. 

We sat down with our very own DJ Martin to discuss tips and philosophies to check all the boxes, and ensure a night to remember. 

Q&A + Tips By DJ Martin

GLT: ​Can you tell us a little bit about the music you grew up listening to?

Martin: Growing up I would listen to a lot of Norteños (Mexican country music) because of my mom. The music she played would fill up our home while she’d cook and clean. I still have images of her dancing and singing along to the music as she went about her chores. As I grew older, I loved listening to rock, especially classic and alternative. When I got to high school I was introduced to Hip Hop and House music and was instantly hooked. To this day, 90s hip-hop is still my favorite era (even though I do keep up with today’s music).

GLT: As a private event DJ, I always ask my clients for "Insider Info" about songs and artists that hold a special place in their history. What's an example of a song that you personally tie to a "warm and fuzzy" memory that might be a good option to mix into a dinner playlist for instance?

​Martin: The song that makes me feel nostalgic is a song called “Suena” by Intocable, my sister would have this song on almost every time I would walk into her room, and so I think of her every time I hear it. 
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GLT: Now, let's get down to brass tacks - Do you have any general tips for someone planning a multi-cultural wedding?

Martin: The number one thing I always tell clients is that planning your wedding is a great excuse to research and learn more about your culture! Every culture has a plethora of traditions, some of which can be lost with generations, so I always say don’t be afraid to do some digging and find out more. Ask your grandma or even do some Google searching to weave new meaning into your event. Not only will this pay off by making your family feel included, but it will weave a new personal story into your memory book.

The unique combination of different cultures we experience in the US can yield endless unique combinations, and a mesh is never a bad thing, so long as you stay true to your own personality and roots. Take for instance, the Dollar Dance at a Mexican wedding. While it is a common Mexican tradition, I’ve had couples request American music for the dancing. This way, they put their own personal twist on it!

GLT: Any other hot tips to help ensure smooth sailing for those planning a Latin-American wedding?

Martin: This one might be obvious, but be sure to hire an experienced DJ! I cannot stress this enough, multi cultural weddings are a challenge in their own, having a DJ who is bilingual who can MC and can play music for both sides of the family really goes a long way! Also, ask the DJ if they are familiar with any traditional dances your culture may have and how you can incorporate them into your wedding.  
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GLT - On that, note what's your philosophy on MCing a bilingual wedding? Any tips or suggestions to make all guests feel included?

Martin - Whenever I MC a bilingual wedding I ask the bride and groom how much English/ Spanish they want me to use through the evenings. Most couples prefer me to MC everything in English and to mention the important items (cake cutting, bouquet toss, etc.) in both English and Spanish.  I like to make jokes in both English and Spanish to make everyone feel welcome and to lighten the mood in the room. I have had couples that prefer the majority of the Wedding be in Spanish with only some things being announced in English. When speaking to the parents, I normally introduce myself in English and then based on their responses, will speak to them in either English or Spanish. Ultimately, it’s up to the Bride and Groom and what they feel comfortable with (based on their guests). 

GLT - Can you suggest some "crossover" songs or artists that tend to work for both a Latin & American crowd?

Martin - Sure!:
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Danza Kuduro
Daddy Yankee 
Shakira
Gloria Estefan 
Elvis Crespo
Anything Pitbull 
Marc Anthony 

(For more ideas, check out Martin's "Latin Wedding Spice" playlist). 

GLT - I'm sure it's hard to choose, but can you describe one of the most memorable moments you've experienced DJing a multi-cultural wedding or event?

One wedding I DJed featured a traditional Mexican dance called “El Baile de rosas” or “The Roses Dance.” The dance started off slow, with the entire wedding party surrounding the bride and groom and throwing rose  petals at the feet of the bride and groom. The music then picked up and the entire wedding gathered around the bride and groom and danced with them for the duration of the song. It was truly a marvel to be seen and it definitely left a lifetime memory for me. ​

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For more info on DJ Martin, you can check out his mixes, bios and reviews HERE.