6 Tips for Choosing a DJ for Your Wedding Reception

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February is National Wedding Month in the United States, sponsored by the Association of Bridal Consultants of America. So, I thought this might be a good time to provide a simple list of six things you should think about while picking out a DJ for a wedding reception. Of course, these tips can be used for other types of parties, as well.

Choosing the right disc jockey for your wedding entertainment can be the key to the success of the event. Below are some questions that should always be asked before saying “how much do you charge?”

1. What type of party experience does the DJ have?

Is he or she experienced enough to handle unforeseen circumstances that may arise? DJs should offer appropriate music during certain times. Dinner and cocktail music should be played during the meal. Dance or upbeat music gets played afterward, when the couple feels it is appropriate. Additionally, the DJ should work well with other professionals, such as the caterer and photographer.

2. What type of events does the DJ regularly play?

Obviously one would prefer the answer “weddings.” Many disc jockeys serve other markets and only do weddings when one comes along. Weddings are unique events, different from proms and clubs, and should be treated that way by entertainers. There is certain etiquette that needs to be displayed in a wedding entertainer, and an inexperienced DJ can end up ruining your wedding reception.

3. Can the DJ provide local references?

The key to DJ service is repeat business and word of mouth advertising. Ask for phone numbers or email addresses of past customers and have questions prepared to ask these reference about their experiences with the DJ.

4. Is the disc jockey’s price a good value?

Shop around, but don’t settle for the bottom line. There are bargain DJ services where you get more than your money’s worth. There are also services that will charge you too much. Watch out for companies that will try to take advantage of a couple preparing for a wedding.

5. What type of equipment will your DJ use?

Make sure all the equipment is professional — no home speakers and home-built lights. You are, hopefully, hiring a professional who takes his job seriously. Make sure they have made an investment in equipment. Expect the best. No bride and groom should have to worry about the microphone or speakers dying in the middle of their reception!

6. Will the DJ play a wide variety of music?

You want to find a DJ that will entertain everyone at the reception. Ask for a sample music listing. The music library should contain everything from big band, oldies, disco, country, rock, and should be on digital compact disc. They should also offer to purchase any of your special songs that they do not have in their music library.