1. Does the DJ serve as the host / Master of Ceremonies?
While playing music is the most obvious responsibility of a wedding DJ, it is certainly not the only one. Many couples don’t realize that one of the biggest responsibilities of a skilled wedding DJ is to coordinate the evening’s events as the emcee. The role of the DJ is the single biggest difference between your guests remembering a wedding that was smooth and effortless or one that was awkward and clumsy. A million little moments need to stay on schedule, from announcements and introductions to toasts and the first dance.
A Dj serving at the Master of Ceremonies should be confident on the microphone and able to make important announcements and introductions in a classy, charismatic manner. Professionals will spend time preparing their announcements and have pride in their ability to pronounce everyone’s name correctly. A professional clearly understands their boundaries and will never try to upstage the bride and groom by putting undue attention on themselves.
2. What do you do to encourage guests to dance?
Experience teaches a wedding DJ the need for variety throughout a wedding reception. A DJ’s job is to appeal to the masses by playing all styles of familiar party music. An experienced wedding DJ will understand that everyone is passionate about “their style” of music and know how to tap into that passion and present it in a manner that everyone on the dance floor can get excited about together. They will know how to correctly weave in and out of many different styles of music and, ultimately, keep the party going all night long. The DJ should prepare with you prior to the wedding to learn the music your friends and family like and what to avoid playing.
3. When should we talk to our DJ?
Consult with your DJ a few weeks to a month prior to your wedding to confirm details, the reception schedule and get answers to any last minute questions. Your DJ should show up to the reception an hour to an hour and a half before it begins to setup and remain available for questions and requests during the event. Choose a DJ that keeps the door of communication open.
4. Can you do the music for my ceremony or pre-function area for cocktail music in the same package?
Every DJ is different, but most DJs will gladly handle the music for your ceremony and cocktail reception. Ask about this upfront so your DJ can include this in your package and you avoid last minute changes and requests, which often incur additional fees.
5. Do you have a back-up plan if the DJ gets sick?
Always ask about the back-up plan in case your DJ gets sick or an emergency comes up. Your wedding will go on, but your reception can stall if there isn’t a back-up DJ willing to take over at the last minute.
6. Do you take song requests from guests?
You may assume that all DJs will gladly take song requests from guests, but this may not be the case. This could be due to the DJ having a limited collection of songs or not knowing some of the common songs guests request. Pass on any DJ who says they are not open to taking song requests on the spot!