Your wedding will probably be one of the biggest parties you’ll ever host. So of course you want to make sure everyone has a good time! You could always set up a playlist before the big day and plan for music and dancing after the dinner, but wouldn’t things be much more fun with a DJ? Wedding DJs do so much more than just play music. They’re there to emcee the event and have a talent for keeping the party going.
Doing the Research for your Wedding DJ
Having experienced many wedding receptions at Legacy Stables and Events, we have a few tips on what to look for as you start to research a wedding DJ. First and foremost, you want someone who has experience with weddings. This might seem like a given, but there are many types of DJs out there, and not all of them perform at weddings. Wedding DJs will be familiar with the expectations at a reception, understanding that the guests range in age from 8 to 80 and there will be pauses for things like cutting the cake and throwing the bouquet.
You also want a wedding DJ whose style and music fit with your own personal tastes. Just like with choosing a vendor for flowers, cakes, or catering, it’s important to do some research. Look at Instagram and Facebook for ideas and samples from other receptions. TikTok is another great place for DJ research since that’s the platform where so many people post dances and clips of music. You’ll see posts not just from the DJ but from guests. Also, ask friends and family for references of DJs they’ve enjoyed at other weddings.
Questions to ask the Wedding DJ Before the Big Day
Even for experienced wedding DJs, it’s important to meet with the bridal couple before the day of the wedding. This way you get to know each other a little, they can get a feel for your expectations, and you can go over the details of the wedding day. Here are a few questions to ask to make sure you are prepared when the time comes for them to get the party started.
- How many weddings have you performed at?
- What songs are in your typical playlist?
- Will you allow us to suggest songs, and if so, do you have an online hub for people to submit selections?
- Do you take requests?
- What is included in your fee?
- Will you be able to provide other effects in addition to music, such as lights?
- How much space will you need at the reception hall?
- How early do you need to start setting up?
- How many breaks do you take?
One of the biggest questions to ask is – are you also willing to be an emcee? Wedding DJs do much more than spin music. A good one will serve as the emcee of your big event, introducing the bridal party, and of course the bridal couple for the first dance. They also often help keep things moving with toasts and can add entertainment value by interacting with guests.
When you meet with the DJ, come prepared with a list of what you’ll want them to highlight or introduce during the reception, complete with a pronunciation key for all of the people they’ll be introducing.
Local Experts
If you’re looking for someone who is experienced with weddings and also is familiar with Legacy Stables and Events, you can start your research with our preferred vendors:
Photo Credit: Russell Killen Photography
