Once you have decided that you want a DJ to provide the music for your wedding reception, you have to pick the DJ. Picking the right DJ for your wedding can seem like a daunting task because you know that the DJ sets the tone for the reception.
Pick a great DJ, and it is going to be hard for your reception to be anything less than spectacular. Pick a so-so DJ, and even with the best food and venue, you are still probably only going to have a so-so reception.
However, there are so many choices in DJs that you may be overwhelmed. Even if Limelight Entertainment is not your choice, we want you to be confident and knowledgeable when selecting your DJ, so here are our top tips for picking your wedding DJ or you can look at this site.
Know What To Look For And Where
The most common option is to go with a DJ whose primary business is weddings. These wedding DJs know the ins and outs of wedding receptions and may even be great at serving as an emcee to make announcements. To find one of these, do the usual web searching and asking for referrals from other vendors.
If your focus is on having great dance music, you may consider a DJ from the local club scene. These DJs may actually charge cheaper rates, but they won’t necessarily be experienced with weddings.
To find one you can start by asking at local clubs. If you really want to go all-out on music, you may be able to find a wedding DJ who is also renowned for its great music or a club DJ who has lots of wedding experience.
These can be ideal options, but be aware that they may cost you. A professional wedding DJ of this variety will probably be well known in your area. Just ask vendors.
Seek Out Recommendations
Whether your venue provides a list of recommended wedding DJ’s, or your friends’ brothers’ cousin used the DJ at their wedding, we always suggest meeting with prospective wedding DJ’s that come highly recommended from sources you know and trust.
The next step? See if the DJ has an upcoming gig in your area, or vet DJ’s on YouTube by searching for performances. Like what you see? Then, set up a meeting.
Hear Samples Of The Wedding DJ’s Work
Once you’ve found a DJ or two that seems right for your wedding, ask to see examples of their work. This could be a video of a live performance, a mixtape, or sample playlists. The more important to you the quality of the music is, the more you should see and hear before hiring.
You Can DIY, But You May Need Help
Of course, you don’t need a professional DJ to have music or even a dance party! You can set up the sound equipment and have your playlist ready when the reception begins. Just remember to crossfade the songs so there’s no pause in the music.
You’ll also want to put someone else in charge of watching over the music, just in case. This person can respond to any issues that arise and keep meddlesome guests away (not that you’ll have any of those). With someone you trust safeguarding the music, you’ll be free to dance like crazy!
Get A DJ With Contract
As with all vendors, you should get a contract. Don’t work with someone who won’t provide one! Be sure to check our guide to hiring wedding vendors for general tips on finding, vetting and reviewing contracts.
Investigate
Take your time to search them out. Go out to some events and get the contacts of the DJ’s behind the parties you enjoyed. Ask friends and family to recommend a few and then create a list.
Carry out some level of research on those on your list. What equipment are they using? What attitude do they exude when on duty? Read reviews and then decide who to pursue.
Stand Your Ground
You may have picked out a DJ, now be sure to communicate exactly what you want. Some DJ’s may wish to side-track you and have their own way, don’t let them. Make him listen to you and your demands. If that’s such a hard thing for him to do, it’s time to change DJ’s.