What should you ask your wedding DJ beside the price?

You've set your wedding date, have a beautiful venue and now you're on to the next crucial step: finding the perfect DJ. While the cost is an important factor, a great DJ is so much more. Their expertise, personality, and professionalism will ultimately define the vibe of your wedding.

So, once you’ve confirmed their availability and they’ve shared their packages, what else should you be asking? Here's a checklist of key questions to ask your wedding DJ that go beyond the price tag.

1. The Logistics & Professionalism

A wedding DJ is a vendor, not just a performer. They need to be reliable and professional in every aspect of their service.

• "Will you be the DJ at our wedding?" This is a huge one. Many larger companies have multiple DJs. You want to make sure the person you're building a rapport with is the one who will actually be at your reception.

• "Do you have a backup plan?" This applies to two things: a) if they get sick or have an emergency, and b) if their equipment fails. A professional DJ should have a network of trusted colleagues they can call on and backup equipment on-site.

• "What will my DJ wear?" You'll want to make sure their attire fits with the formality of your wedding. Most professional DJs wear formal or semi-formal attire for the event itself, but it’s worth confirming so they match the tone you've set for your day.

• "Have you worked at our venue before?" A DJ who is familiar with your venue's layout, acoustics, and power outlets will have a much smoother setup. If they haven't, ask if they're willing to do a site visit to ensure everything runs perfectly.

2. The Music & Vibe

This is where the magic happens. A great DJ isn't just a playlist—they're a vibe manager.

• "How would you describe your DJing and MCing style?" Do they just press play, or do they actively mix and transition between songs? Do they have a high-energy, interactive MC style, or are they more low-key, making only essential announcements? Their personality should match the atmosphere you envision for your day.

• "How involved can we be with the music selection?" This is critical. Some couples have very specific playlists, while others prefer to give the DJ creative freedom. Discuss your comfort level. Will you provide a "must-play" list or a "do-not-play" list?

• "What is your policy on song requests from guests?" This is a question with no wrong answer, but you need to be on the same page. Are requests welcome? Or would you prefer to keep a tight rein on the playlist to maintain a specific mood? A good DJ can navigate this, even discreetly declining a guest's request if it's on your "do-not-play" list.

• "Do you play clean music?" This is an important question, especially if you have children or more conservative guests attending. Many DJs have access to radio-edited versions of popular songs, but it's essential to confirm their policy on explicit lyrics and what they're willing to play.

3. The Details & "What Ifs"

Don't overlook the small but important details that can make or break the experience.

• "Do you have liability insurance?" This is a critical question. A professional DJ should carry liability insurance to protect themselves and you in case of an accident. This could be anything from a guest tripping over a cable to accidental damage to the venue. Ask for a certificate of insurance for your peace of mind and to satisfy any venue requirements.

• "Do you provide a wireless microphone for speeches and toasts?" This is a must-have for a smooth reception timeline.

• "Do you offer any other services, like lighting or a photo booth?" Many DJs offer these add-ons, and bundling them can often save you money and simplify your vendor list.

By asking these questions, you'll be able to confidently choose a DJ who not only fits your budget but also understands your vision and has the experience to bring the party of your dreams to life.