How to choose a dj for your wedding

Is the "Chicken Dance" a dirty word in your book? Find out how to hire the perfect disc jockey for your non-traditional event.

 

The Hustle. The Macarena. The Electric Slide. By themselves they're kind of cute, but put them all together in a wedding reception playlist and watch your guests roll their eyes (unless of course they've had too much to drink, in which case prepare for things to get ugly when they hit the dance floor.)

Not every bride wants a DJ who plays the "classics." Not every brides wants a DJ who chats it up before every song. And, not every bride wants a disc jockey as old as her parents. Simply put, modern brides and grooms are on the hunt for the "anti" wedding DJ who can spin all the hot songs AND take into consideration the likes of older guests who may not be gaga OVER Lady Gaga.

So how can you make sure you're hooking up with a wedding vendor that gets your unique musical tastes? Here's some pointers:

1. Be Clear On Your Likes and Dislikes
Hit your old CDs and print up copy of your iTunes playlist BEFORE you start looking for your wedding disc jockey. Once you have a list of songs both you and your groom adore and approve of, google the worst wedding songs of all time and add a "Do Not Play" list to your arsenal. After you've pulled it together THEN start reaching out to DJs in your area and make it clear what you like, don't like, and what expectations you have for your reception.

2. Get References From The Musical Experts 
Not loving the list of available wedding DJs in your neck of the woods? Why not call your fave local radio station, bar or dance club for recommendations? Typically, someone on staff will know someone they can refer you to who will totally be in synch with your unique musical vision and tastes.

3. Set Clear Perimeters
What kind of music are you planning on playing at your cocktail party? How many sets are you anticipating? Can your guests make requests? Should your DJ hold off playing racy songs or ones with explicit lyrics? These are all questions you should be prepared to answer BEFORE you schedule your first consultation. The idea is to create an entertaining flow that fits your event and profile as a couple. If you're super low-key and don't mind letting your DJ work the room, make that clear. If you have a very precise vision of what you want, make sure it's written into your contract prior to the big event.

4. Define the Details and Dress Code
It's going to look kind of funny if your groom and all his guys are wearing suits and your DJ shows up in a tuxedo, right? The same thing goes for a DJ unprepared for a "surprise" drummer or saxophonist solo.  Set guidelines, make introductions, and ensure ALL your wedding reception entertainment is on the same page. This may be your day, but you won't be able to make sweet music with your groom if your message OR needs are totally out of tune with your talent.

5.  Make sure that your DJ comes RECOMMENDED!  
This is important because there are so many dj's out there that "say" what they can do but haven't yet proven it.  Here's one in the DC area that we recommend:

Planet DJ Productions


Who are you choosing for your DJ?  What type of music are you going to have?  Get involved below: