Let’s get this party started!
Today we’re talking about all things music and we’re going to go over some of the forgotten questions that are important when talking to your potential future DJ.
While some questions like “do you have my date available” seem rather straightforward, others like “will music play during breaks” seem like they’d be obvious, but might be terrible to find out about on your wedding day.
So, without further ado, let’s go over some awesome questions to ask your DJ when trying to find the best fit for you and your guests!
Requests
Something to think about when booking a DJ is how much leeway you want your guests (as well as the DJ) to have during the event. Whether you want to provide your guests with limitless requests or prefer to keep dances to a strict set list, you’ll want to ask your DJ all about their process with this and what they’re willing to accommodate.
What kind of packages they offer is always something to discuss prior to placing your deposit. Depending on the variety, many DJs nowadays offer anything from uplighting to fog/cloud-filled first dances and everything in between. Most are offering much more than your typical song choices and introductions. It’s important to know what kind of budget you have going into the meeting, and your non-negotiables, as well as your “nice-to-haves”. This can help limit sticker shock and help you choose what you do need over what you may not.
Expectations
I can’t say it enough. Please clarify with all of your vendors any minor details you might think come as second nature. Anything from “will you be playing music at my ceremony” to “what time do you arrive and set up?”. These are likely easy questions to answer for the vendor, but just ensure you ask. Communicating your expectations and needs from the very beginning of working with your DJ can lead to wedding magic!
Timing and Performance
Another big item on the question list is when and where your DJ needs to be. If you would like them to emcee the event, it’s important you discuss what services they offer and if it costs extra to do so. What kind of crowd games can they offer to get your guests involved? What will their attire be like? Can you see them in action prior to your event? These questions will help you get a feel for how the DJ will perform and can help you narrow in on what you want your event to look like.
It’s good to ask about anything else on your mind – even if it seems like a hypothetical situation at this point. How does the DJ handle a rowdy crowd? What if no one dances? What will they do? While these are likely not to happen, it’s good to get a feel for how your DJ of choice will handle these tricky situations. Additionally, it’s always good to ask for the extra fees involved if you so choose. Is there a charge for travel? What if you run over time and want to stay an extra hour? Just be sure to weigh your options and cover everything – that way you go in knowing what you want!
I hope these questions get you thinking about what other questions you may have. Choosing a DJ is one of the biggest choices for your wedding, in my opinion, as they help your event run smoothly and without errors.
If you need some recommendations for an awesome DJ in your area, give me a call! I’ve got a preferred vendor list that I’d love to share with you and can help set up your best of the best vendor dream team!
Lexi
Cover image by Brad Barnwell Photography