Tips to Save You Money When Hiring a Wedding DJ
By: Lisa Bronart
A great wedding DJ can really make all the difference at your wedding reception. You and your guests will appreciate the time you spend now finding the right DJ to complement your wedding.
Expectations from Your Wedding DJ
What are looking for in a DJ? How much do you want to be involved in choosing the music- is the DJ flexible in letting you pick out some of the music? How long do you want him to play? Do you want your DJ to interact with your guests? Do you want a DJ that is more low key or one that can “get the party started”
Interview Several DJ Prospects
Ask your friends and recently married couples you meet for recommendations. Talk to at least 3-5 different DJ’s and see what services they offer. Make sure their personality fits in with the theme of your wedding. Ask how they get people up and dancing. Have they worked at your wedding location before- it will be helpful if they are familiar with the hall or reception location. Ask what his wedding attire is- most DJ’s should have a suit or tuxedo.
Be Up Front with Your Budget
Discuss your budget with the DJ- and ask about special offers and packages. He can tell you best way to spend your money when it comes to hiring his DJ services. He may be able to stay longer or work for less if her gets a longer break or if you forgo the disco ball. Often the DJ will work with other wedding professionals such as limo services or pianist and you can get an adjusted rate. It is usually more costly to hire the DJ as part of package through the wedding hall so if money is an issue than take the time to hire a DJ on your own.
Booking Your Wedding DJ
Book your DJ about 8-12 months in advance. If you are having a Christmas wedding a DJ may be difficult to find. Most DJ’s will require a deposit to hold your wedding date. Take the time to meet your DJ in person and avoid hiring over the phone. You can always talk to several DJ’s over the phone and then meet with a select few. If possible listen to his sound system.
Special Requests
Feel free to make them! Most DJ’s will have you fill in a sheet asking you about your likes/dislikes and what song you would like played for special dances. Father- Bride Dance, couples first dance, etc. As well as other part dances like Chicken Dance or Macarena. Don’t rule these dances out entirely- they do get people who normally wouldn’t dance up and on the dance floor. An experienced DJ will discuss ideas that he has to help you and your guests have a wonderful time at your wedding reception.
Lisa Bronart writes Guide and Tips for Finding a Wedding DJ for The Perfect Wedding Guide Directory. She worked in wedding industry for over ten years and now works as free lance writer.