DJ Jon Ryu started by making mixtapes for friends and family as a kid and fell in love with DJing while in college. For the past 20 years, he’s worked to perfect the art of reading the crowd, playing the right song at the right moment, and seamlessly transitioning between songs. DJ Jon started his career in the underground house/trance scene in the 90s and has performed at a multitude of venues, including the World Electronic Music Festival in 2000. For the past ten years, DJ Jon has brought his passion to weddings, bringing elegance to wedding ceremonies and receptions throughout the DMV. We asked Jon to share his thoughts on DJing and music, and here’s what he said!
What is your relationship with music? What does it mean to you?
“I grew up listening to classic and alternative rock, classical, pop and hip hop. Music is a form of expression that enhances all aspects of my life – it helps me to improve my mood and to reduce stress, and generally makes everything better! I grew up playing the violin and guitar, which helped me develop an exceptional ear for musicality and timing that is required to DJ proficiently. I love all types of music and appreciate the profound effect music can have on one’s mind, body and soul – and the way it brings people together!”
What do you enjoy about being a wedding DJ?
“I LOVE music – different rhythms and melodies, and I LOVE entertaining – DJ’ing is the perfect way to combine both. I also enjoy the responsibility of helping the order of events flow naturally and of facilitating/emceeing the various formalities, in addition to helping create an awesome party atmosphere. From the moment I got my first set of turntables, I knew this was the perfect medium to channel my love for music. DJing for weddings gives me the opportunity to work with all different types of music, something that you can’t get DJing for any other type of event.”
What’s your favorite kind of couple/crowd to work with?
“I enjoy working with couples that have an appreciation for different types of music, and understand that the party is about making sure all of their guests are having a great time. I love working with clients that are as serious as I am about making the party awesome but are also as laid back as I am while doing it. I also love DJing weddings because weddings are elegant, refined and also a safe place to let loose on the dance floor.”
What’s the best one or two pieces of advice you give to couples?
“Enjoy your special day without worries, and leave the execution to me and the other professionals you’ve hired. Planning a wedding can be incredibly stressful, but if you’ve done a good job putting together a competent team then you should be able to relax and just have fun on your big day!”
What are some fun or interesting things about you that couples might want to know?
“I love working out and learning about health/nutrition. I am an avid sports fan and you can find me rooting for teams from Philly, my hometown, in my spare time.”
