So, you’re planning your dream wedding, and you want every detail to be perfect, right down to the music.
Choosing the right DJ can make or break the atmosphere of your reception, so it’s important to know how to choose a DJ that’s the best fit.
As seasoned wedding planners here at Weddings by Kristy, we’ve seen it all when it comes to wedding entertainment.
In this blog post, we’ll share our expert advice on choosing the perfect wedding DJ to keep your dance floor packed and your guests smiling all night long.
Our Expert Tips for Choosing the Perfect Wedding DJ:
First things first, don’t leave choosing your wedding DJ until the last minute. The best ones get booked up fast, sometimes even a year or more in advance!
According to Nate Clancy, local DC and VA DJ at imthedj.net, “The best DJs are usually booked 9–16 months out,” so be sure to start your search early.
As soon as you’ve set your wedding date, start researching and reaching out to potential DJs. This gives you ample time to find the right fit and secure their services for your date.
Just getting started on your wedding planning journey? Be sure to grab our Free Wedding Planning Checklist HERE for expert advice, budgeting breakdowns, and self-paced action items.
2. Do Your Homework
When you’re on the hunt for the perfect wedding DJ, it’s important to do your homework.
Take some time to research local DJs in your area. Check out their websites, social media profiles, and any reviews you can find.
This initial research allows you to get a sense of their style, level of experience, and the kinds of events they’ve worked on in the past.
Once you’ve compiled a list of potential candidates, dive deeper into their background and portfolio. Look for testimonials from past clients and examples of their work, such as playlists or videos from previous weddings.
This will give you insight into their ability to create the atmosphere you envision for your special day.
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Let us take care of all the logistics and research so you can focus on what truly matters – enjoying your special day to the fullest.
Once you’ve narrowed down your options to a few potential DJs, it’s time to set up some meetings.
Don’t just rely on phone calls or emails; Meeting face-to-face (or virtually) allows you to get a sense of their personality, professionalism, and whether they’re the right fit for your wedding day vibe.
Prepare a list of questions to ask your wedding DJ during these meetings, covering everything from their music selection process to their equipment setup.
This leads us to our next tip…
4. Ask the Right Questions
Asking the right questions can help you gauge whether a DJ is the right fit for your wedding. Some questions to ask a wedding DJ include:
How do you handle song requests from guests?
Do you have backup equipment in case of technical issues?
Will you act as the MC for the evening, making announcements and introductions?
What is your policy on overtime if the party runs late?
Grab our complete list of Questions to Ask Your Wedding DJ Before Bookinghere!
Communication is key when it comes to choosing your wedding DJ.
Be sure to discuss your vision for the day, including your musical preferences, any specific songs you want (or don’t want) to be played, and the overall atmosphere you’re aiming for.
A great DJ will be able to tailor their playlist and performance to match your style and preferences.
This is why it’s important to click with your DJ on a personal level. Pay attention to how they respond to your ideas and whether they show genuine interest and enthusiasm for bringing your vision to life.
A DJ who understands your style and preferences will do a fantastic job creating a playlist and vibe that’s just right for you.
EXPERT TIP: “The DJ is someone you’ll interface with and rely on for your entertainment. Connect with them, don’t sub it out [to your planner], because music and mixing can make or break a great reception. Music evokes emotional responses and we want all the happiest moments on the dance floor.”
Experience matters when it comes to choosing your DJ. Look for someone who has plenty of experience DJing weddings specifically, as they’ll be familiar with the flow of the day and how to appeal to multiple generations while still keeping the party going.
Don’t be afraid to ask for references or testimonials from past clients to get a sense of their track record.
When considering your budget, remember that while investing in an experienced DJ may come with a higher price tag, it’s worth it for the peace of mind and quality entertainment they provide.
Consider allocating a portion of your budget to securing a skilled DJ who can elevate your wedding reception and create unforgettable memories for you and your guests.
EXPERT TIP: “How much should you pay for a DJ? The only correct answer is… whatever you’re comfortable paying. Do not rely on The Knot, etc. They will not have an accurate answer for your area and your expectations. As mentioned before, interview DJs and decide who can accomplish a perfect wedding day.”
At the end of the day, trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right or if you’re not clicking with a particular DJ, it’s okay to keep looking.
You want to feel confident and comfortable with your choice, knowing that they’ll help make your wedding day unforgettable.
So, there you have it! Choosing the perfect wedding DJ is all about doing your research, asking the right questions, and trusting your instincts.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to finding the DJ of your dreams and dancing the night away with your nearest and dearest.
Cheers to love, laughter, and a killer dance floor!
Stay tuned to Weddings by Kristy for more tips and advice on planning your perfect day. Happy planning!
At Weddings by Kristy, we’re here to help you navigate every aspect of your wedding planning journey, including choosing the perfect DJ. With our expert guidance and support, you can relax and enjoy your special day knowing that every detail is taken care of. Book a Free Consultation with us today to get started!
[…] sure you secure the right vendors for you out the gate! Read our recent blog posts on How to Choose A Wedding DJ and 10 Questions to Ask a Wedding Planner Before Securing Them, to get you […]
Meet Kristy
Hey there! I grew up in the dry heat of Phoenix, AZ but now live in my favorite swamp, Washington D.C. My dream job? Owning a cat cafe. Just kidding (kind of). I’ve wanted to be a wedding planner for as long as I can remember. But not just any planner. The cis-heteronormativity of the wedding industry kind of gives me the ‘ick,’ so I’ve built a team to help all couples celebrate their love in a way that feels good to them. Not how society says ‘this is what a wedding should look like.
[…] sure you secure the right vendors for you out the gate! Read our recent blog posts on How to Choose A Wedding DJ and 10 Questions to Ask a Wedding Planner Before Securing Them, to get you […]