Introduction
Are you worried your wedding might not be as fun as it should be? Sure, everyone is going to be excited to watch you get married, but are they going to be hitting the dance floor and making it thrive?
If you’re worried about getting everyone moving and creating memories, then you’re on the hunt for a DJ. Why? DJs have a superpower. They can read the room. That means if they see people aren’t dancing or enjoying themselves, they switch to something that brings people to their feet.
A DJ is someone you want at your wedding. How do you choose the right DJ, though? In this post, we’re going to cover everything you need to know about choosing one, so your wedding night is magical!
Decide on the Type of Music You Want at Your Wedding
Nothing is worse than having a strong preference for classic rock and being greeted with one of the top 10 country hits of the decade. The best way to pick a DJ that will play the type of music you want at your wedding is to figure out what kind of music you want to have.
A good way to achieve this is to make a list of all of the must-have songs you want played at your wedding and then narrow it down to genre. This is also an excellent time to create a do-not-play list, regardless of the DJ you choose. You want to make sure they don’t play your ex-boyfriend’s favorite song.
Find Out What the DJ Needs to Set Up
It’s always best to ask the DJ you’re interviewing if they need any special equipment that they don’t have; this could be something like microphones. If you don’t have the supplies, it’s best to find a DJ who has all the supplies required.
When asking about supplies, you should also ask about how much space they may need for their full setup. You want to make sure they have plenty of space and that they will be out of the way of the dance floor. Some other good questions to ask are:
- Do any of your DJ packages include special effects such as lighting or strobes?
- Can you dress similarly to the wedding guest? Example: Dress clothes or casual?
- If you’re unable to DJ for the wedding, will someone be available to take your place?
Price for Services
The price of a DJ is an important factor to consider when you’re choosing one. You want one within your budget without trying to haggle them down. Once you figure out your budget, you can ask about their pricing packages. Some DJs work per hour, so it’s essential to ask what their overtime rates are and if they can stay late in case the reception is going better than anticipated.
If you find a DJ that is outside of your budget, you may be able to see if they have installment plans. Sometimes, DJs will allow you to start payments up until the day their services are required.
Don’t forget to ask about any additional fees, such as travel costs, and ask about cancellation fees. No one plans to cancel, but it can be helpful if you need to cancel the DJ services because you found a better deal or your wedding gets canceled. You should remember to ask:
- How much are your services per hour or package?
- Do you charge overtime or cancellation fees?
- Are there any other costs, like travel?
DJ Red Flags
As with most services, there are red flags to know about, so you don’t have a bad experience with your DJ. Here are some other red flags.
No Deposit
While it may seem appealing to hire a DJ who doesn’t demand an upfront payment, this is often a cause for concern. They require a deposit to cover the costs of preparation and equipment setup for your event. This includes things like renting sound equipment, setting up lights, and transporting their gear.
Although a DJ might possess the necessary equipment to play popular songs, different events may have varying sound requirements. A deposit helps ensure that the DJ will bring the appropriate equipment for your specific event. The deposit also helps ensure that the DJ will fulfill their commitment to your event. They must complete the job to receive the remaining payment.
No Reviews or Proof of Their Skills
The DJ’s website or profile page can provide valuable insights into their experience and expertise. While newer DJs may not have extensive portfolios, they should still showcase their skills through online performances or mixes.
A brief video of their recent work can effectively show their style and compatibility for your event. However, if their online presence lacks any demonstration of their turntable skills, it’s better to ensure everything goes well on your wedding day.
No Contract
A legit DJ will always request a contract once the event details have been finalized. This legally binding agreement serves as a guarantee that the DJ will appear at your wedding and fulfill all agreed-upon musical requirements. Any DJ who hesitates to formalize the arrangement should raise red flags. A contract protects you from scams; don’t skip this step. Even if the DJ is a friend, it’s still best to have a contract.
Conclusion
Choosing the right DJ for your wedding is an essential decision that can set the tone for your entire celebration. By following these tips, you can ensure that you find a DJ who will seamlessly blend your musical preferences with the atmosphere of your event, creating a night to remember for you and your guests.
Remember to:
- Prioritize your desired music genre.
- Ask about equipment needs.
- Look within your budget.
Don’t forget to watch for these red flags:
- No deposit.
- Lack of reviews or skill demonstrations.
- Refusal to provide a contract.
With careful consideration and a bit of research, you’ll find the perfect DJ to transform your wedding into a truly unforgettable experience.
