Are you planning to hire a DJ to provide entertainment at your wedding reception?  Having a DJ instead of a live band at your reception offers a number of benefits, including allowing you to play a wider variety of music at your reception while also spending less on entertainment than you would typically pay for a live band.  Nonetheless, it is still important for you to take several steps to make certain the DJ you hire will be a good fit for your big day.

Step #1:  Meet Ahead of Time

It is essential for you to meet the DJ before hiring him or her to provide entertainment at your wedding.  Otherwise, you run the risk of hiring someone who simply doesn’t fit in with the image or style of reception you want to have.  You should feel comfortable with the DJ’s personality and feel as if the DJ is listening to and understanding your needs.  You should also discuss the dress code for your wedding at this time in order to make certain the DJ is willing and able to meet your expectations.

Step #2:  Discuss the Song List

In addition to hiring a DJ whose personality and image meshes well with your wedding plans, you also need to hire someone who offers the type of music you want played at your reception.  Be sure to discuss the playlist before you finalize any agreements and make certain the DJ has all of the songs you want played for special dances and events you want played at the reception.

Step #3:  Discuss Working the Crowd

The DJ’s job isn’t just to play music - it is also about getting the crowd involved and making sure everyone has a good time.  Therefore, you should ask the DJ how he or she plans to work through crowd.  Experienced DJs should be able to suggest fun dances or games that he or she can implement in order to get the crowd on their feet and having fun.  Ideally, you should watch a video of the DJ in action or even attend a reception where he or she will be performing if possible.

Step #4:  Put it In Writing

Once you have settled on the play list and the activities the DJ will be responsible for, put it all of the information in writing.  That way, there will be no confusion regarding expectations and you can be certain everything will run smoothly.

Step #5:  Meet Again Before the Reception

A couple weeks before the reception, you should meet with the DJ again in order to make certain you and the DJ are still on the same page.  You should also provide your DJ with any pertinent information about the reception, including the order of special events so he or she can organize the entertainment properly.