What size should a wedding cake be?

A 3-tier cake (10, 8, 6 inches) usually serves 75–100 guests. Larger weddings may need more tiers or sheet cakes.

How much does a wedding dessert table cost?

On average, dessert tables cost $3–$8 per guest depending on desserts and display setup.

What desserts are good alternatives to cake?

Cupcakes, donuts, pies, cookies, and mini tarts are fun, affordable alternatives to a traditional wedding cake.

What’s the difference between a last dance and an exit song?

The last dance is the final song on the dance floor. The exit song plays as you leave or during a sparkler or tunnel send-off. They can be the same or different.

Should we go upbeat or slow for the exit?

An upbeat song creates a big sing-along, high-energy goodbye. A slow song creates a romantic spotlight moment. Choose the vibe you want captured in your photos and video.

How long should the exit song be?

Aim for 3–4 minutes. Your DJ can start at the chorus and fade at the perfect time so it feels seamless.

Can the DJ handle clean edits and timing?

Yes. Professional DJs use clean versions, cue guests, and coordinate timing with photographers and planners so the exit feels flawless.

How much should we budget for a wedding DJ?

National averages typically range from $1,000–$1,700 depending on the source. In Washington, DC, couples commonly invest $1,600–$2,200 for full-day coverage on peak dates. Always compare all-in quotes for a fair match.

Does ceremony audio cost extra?

Usually yes. Ceremony sound often requires a second system, wireless microphones, and additional setup time. Expect an add-on of about $300–$600.

Why do big venues or multiple rooms cost more?

Larger spaces or split-room layouts may require extra speakers, microphones, cabling, or an additional system for cocktail hour. More coverage means more gear, setup time, and labor.

What hidden wedding DJ costs should we watch for?

Common add-ons include overtime, travel/mileage, extra systems for additional rooms, dance lighting or uplighting, photo booth services, and peak-season premiums. Ask for a line-item breakdown.

What’s included in professional DJ pricing?

Typically: ceremony audio, cocktail-hour system, reception system, wireless mics for toasts, basic dance lighting, setup/teardown, backup equipment, and planning/prep (timeline review, music pulls, coordination).

Are wedding DJ prices negotiable?

Pros may adjust based on hours or off-peak dates, but established companies usually maintain set pricing to reflect labor, experience, and reliability.

What’s the difference between a cheap DJ and a professional DJ?

Lower-cost DJs may lack backup gear, insurance, MC skills, or timeline management. Professionals bring reliability, polished MC work, and the experience to keep energy and flow on track.

Do DJs charge for setup and teardown?

Most professionals include setup and teardown in their quotes. If it’s not specified, request that it be detailed in writing.

Do DJs bring their own lights?

Basic dance-floor lighting is often included. Uplighting or specialty effects are usually available as add-ons.

How do travel fees work for DJs?

Many DJs include travel within a local radius (e.g., 30–50 miles). Beyond that, mileage or flat travel fees may apply; confirm the details in your quote.

How far in advance should we book our DJ?

Peak Saturdays can book 12–18 months ahead. If you want better availability or pricing, consider Fridays, Sundays, or off-season dates.

How can we save on DJ costs without cutting corners?

Consider off-peak dates, trim coverage hours if your timeline allows, and ask about package pricing when bundling services like DJ plus lighting.

Susquehanna Club Wedding Guide | New Cumberland, PA

Venue ReviewWedding Venues

Jun 15

Written By John Sawyers

Riverside Ballroom, Historic Barn & All-Inclusive Packages (Up to 220 Guests)

New Cumberland’s “Best Kept Secret” overlooking the Susquehanna River.

About The Susquehanna Club

Located at the Defense Logistics Agency installation in New Cumberland, the Susquehanna Club is a lavishly renovated German bank barn with panoramic river views.

Often described as “New Cumberland’s Best Kept Secret”, the venue blends historic architecture with modern banquet amenities.

Address:

Ross Ave, New Cumberland, PA 17070

https://www.defensemwr.com/susquehanna/susquehanna-club

(717) 770-3030

Guest Capacity

According to the official brochure:

Main Ballroom: Up to 220 guests
Riverside Ballroom: Up to 150 guests

Minimum guest counts:

Saturday: 80 (Main) / 100 (Riverside)
Sunday–Friday: 50 guests

This makes the venue ideal for mid-size to large weddings under 220 guests.

Ceremony Options

Outdoor Ceremony Area

$1,000 ceremony fee
$2 per folding white chair
$5 per table

Outdoor ceremony space overlooks the river and lawn area.

Reception Spaces

Main Ballroom

Large dance floor
Private bar
Modern banquet layout
Accommodates up to 220 guests

Riverside Ballroom

River views
Large dance floor
Separate bar
Accommodates up to 150 guests

Susquehanna Club photo of the garden area.

Susquehanna Club exterior image of the lodge.

Room Charges

Room rental includes:

White floor-length linens
Tableware
Glassware
Tables & chairs
White or colored napkins
5 hours (cocktail hour + 4 hour reception)

Room Charge:
$1,000

Whole Building & Outside Area:

$5,000

Deposit:

$1,000 (non-refundable / non-transferable)

Wedding Dinner Packages (2024 Pricing)

Per person pricing:

Grand Buffet or Plated: $59.99
Supreme Buffet or Plated: $50.99
Elite Buffet or Plated: $47.99
Deluxe Buffet or Plated: $42.99

20% service charge added to food & beverage

Wedding cake may be brought in (slicing included, $1 per person to serve)

Susquehanna Club decorated for a wedding.

Open Bar Packages

Per person (5 consecutive hours):

Soda: $4
Soda & Beer: $14
Soda, Beer & Wine: $19
Soda, Beer, Wine & Mixed Drinks: $25

Important notes:

Shots prohibited
Must be 21+ with a valid ID

What Couples Appreciate

On-site catering (must use in-house food/bar services)
Large dance floors
River views
Competitive per-person pricing
Full ballroom service team
Setup & cleanup included

This venue offers strong value for couples who prefer an all-inclusive food and beverage model.

Susquehanna Club interior decorated for a wedding.

DJ Planning Tips for Susquehanna Club

Because both ballrooms operate as banquet-style event spaces:

• Strong dance floor energy works well
• Distributed sound recommended for 200+ guest counts
• Cocktail hour audio may require separate coverage
• Coordinate timeline with in-house catering team

With buffet service and structured ballroom layouts, timeline pacing is important to maintain dance momentum.

Check DJ Availability & Pricing

Susquehanna ClubSusquehanna Club WeddingNew Cumberland PA Wedding VenueCumberland County PA Wedding VenueRiverfront Wedding VenueBallroom Wedding Venue220 Guest Wedding VenueAll Inclusive Wedding VenueBanquet Hall WeddingCentral PA Wedding VenuePennsylvania Wedding Reception Venue

John Sawyers