Wedding DJ

From LoveToKnow Weddings

Having the right wedding DJ can make or break your reception. In this article, you’ll find out what you need to know to choose the right wedding DJ for your celebration.

Where to Find a Wedding DJ

Referrals are a great way to get started on your search for a wedding DJ. Ideally, you will have already seen that DJ in action at another wedding, but a word of mouth referral can certainly get you started on the right track. You can also ask within your own circle of wedding vendors about a qualified wedding DJ. Often, wedding vendors will develop relationships with other service providers to foster mutual business. You can take advantage of that relationship and save valuable research time and maybe even a few dollars.

In addition, you can check online for a local wedding DJ. Bridal sites and DJ directories can provide contact information for locally based vendors.

Getting a DJ with Personality

Remember, your wedding DJ is more than someone who just changes CDs. Your DJ is essentially your Master of Ceremonies. He or she manages your agenda, sets the mood of the party and controls the flow of the evening. A wedding DJ should have a commanding presence, a congenial and pleasant demeanor and the ability to take control of a situation. Professionalism, courtesy and the ability to articulate are high amongst the constellation of wedding DJ attributes. Beyond those basics, you are free to make your choice based on personal preference. You may decide on a DJ that projects a smooth and classy demeanor or someone that is high energy and fun. Whatever your choice, make sure to pick someone who will fit with the tone of your reception.

Wedding DJ Contract

Ideally, several things should have already happened before your sign the final contract.

You will have met at least once with the representative of the DJ company.
You will have seen a live or recorded sample of the wedding DJ’s work.
All terms and expectations of service have been clearly defined and reviewed.

Here are a few of the basics to look out for in your wedding DJ contract:

Make sure that the wedding DJ that you expect is the one you are actually going to get. You may develop a great rapport with a company representative, expect him to work your reception, only to find that you’ve been assigned another wedding DJ at the last minute.
The contract should stipulate how the wedding DJ and crew are going to be fed. It is a point of etiquette to order extra meals for the DJ staff.
Specify load in times, start time (when the DJ should be ready to play) and end time.
If the party continues beyond the specified end time, charges for any overtime incurred should be clearly spelled out.

As a final note, be sure to keep the lines of communication open between you and your wedding DJ. Carefully review your music selection, what music should be played at what time and your reception agenda. Also, be sure the DJ is familiar with pronunciation of the names of the bridal party.