So many couples find booking a DJ daunting.
They leave it on their to-do list until the end of the planning process.
How can you find a DJ who will deliver what you want?
Online research is key although sometimes online lists of questions to ask make it harder.
But it really doesn’t need to be a difficult task.
Here are our tips for how to book a wedding DJ.
Tips On How To Book A Wedding DJ
Begin by identifying exactly what you want.
Do you want games?
Lots of interaction and personality?
Or just brilliant music you and your guests will love?
It’s often easier to establish what you don’t want.
Once you know what you are looking for we suggest you read online reviews.
Ignore sponsored posts. Anyone can spend money to get to the top of a page.
Instead look for DJs recommended organically by Google on the strength of their ratings.
When you find one you like ask for an online consultation.
Here you have the opportunity to ask questions and see examples of recent playlists.
Playlists will give you an indication of what they do and most importantly don’t play.
You will be able to see whether their work is going to be in line with your expectations.
Don’t be offended if they decline to email you a playlist.
Remember their music selections set them apart from their competitors.
Make Booking Your A DJ A Priority
DJs are responsible for around 40% of your day.
Entertainment is one of the things your guests remember most.
So your entertainment should be higher up your list of priorities to book.
Once you’ve secured the venue, registrar and photographer you need to think about entertainment.
Most only ask for a small deposit so when find one you like don’t wait to secure them for your date.
The earlier you book a DJ the more choice you will have as the good ones will be booked.
Look Beyond Preferred Suppliers
There are many reasons why a venue recommend DJs.
These might be completely at odds to what you’re looking for.
Always ask why they recommend their suppliers and check their reasons against your priorities.
Photographers are another great source of referals.
They see DJs in action and know what they are like to work with on the day.
Facebook can help for referrals but be aware it can often be the partner of a supplier recommending them.
Ask For RSVP Requests The Right Way
It’s natural you want your guests to have a good time so asking for requests is a logical place to start.
We’ve written before about using your language carefully when asking guests for requests.
Asking for songs the DJ “might” play rather than “will” play gives you the option to veto anything you don’t like.
Remember to make sure the DJ is fully aware of anything you have banned.
Then it won’t accidentally make it into the party on the night.
Give Guidance
Most DJs have years of experience but know music is subjective.
If they don’t have any indication of your tastes it will be harder for them on the night.
It’s important to set time aside to select music and be in the right headspace when you do.
You will chose different songs on a Friday night over a glass of wine than sober at 10am on a Monday.
We always advise you give your DJ the flexibility to have some input too.
They will be able to take your suggestions and add songs which will make the evening flow.
If you do not feel you can trust a DJ it is probably better if you book one you feel you can.
Cost vs Value
The cost of a DJ can vary widely.
Often wedding planning websites set unrealistic expectations for what a couple should pay.
Lower priced DJs usually do it as a second job or hobby.
More expensive ones are VAT registered because they do it full time.
They’ve invested in quality equipment, top level public liability insurance and update their library.
Their businesses are built on reputation and they want to maintain it, so they will never abandon you to take more money elsewhere.
Experienced DJs also understand the psychology of an evening which will play a major part of the success of your evening.
You should expect to pay more for reassurance and peace of mind.
The Hampshire Event DJ Team love talking about wedding entertainment.
We recently talked to the team at Hitched about things your DJ wants you to know.
Click on the orange button and arrange an online consultation.
We’re always happy to chat about music.
All the images in this article are by Tom Langford.
The venue featured is Wickham Estate