Following up on Part 1, here are the next five tips to consider and questions to ask when choosing a Wedding DJ. Asking the right questions ensures a smooth and memorable celebration.
In this post, we’ll cover these next 5 tips:
- Guest Requests: How do they handle song requests during the event?
- Equipment: What sound and lighting setup do they use?
- Backup Gear: Do they bring spare equipment in case of technical issues?
- Contingency Plans: What’s their backup plan for emergencies?
- Booking Timeline: How far in advance should you book?
Let’s dig deeper into the 5 questions above:
6. How do you handle guest song requests?
How a DJ manages song requests can have a big impact on the energy and flow of your reception. An experienced DJ knows how to strike the right balance between keeping guests happy and sticking to the event’s planned vibe.
Here’s a common strategy DJs use to handle requests:
| Timing | How Requests Are Handled |
| Early Reception | Open to requests, as it’s easier to fit them in. |
| Peak Dancing | Selective, focusing on songs that match the energy. |
| Special Moments | Rarely accepts requests to keep planned sequences. |
This method helps maintain the energy and respects your carefully chosen playlist.
With access to a massive library of over 60,000 songs, a professional DJ can handle many requests while tactfully declining those that don’t fit the mood or your approved music style. They’ll assess each request based on how it aligns with the energy of the moment and the overall flow of the event.
It’s also worth asking your DJ how they deal with persistent or inappropriate requests. Their answer will give you insight into their professionalism and ability to keep the music – and the party – on track.
7. What equipment will you use at our wedding?
Make sure your DJ has the right equipment to provide top-notch sound and lighting for your wedding.
Here’s a quick equipment checklist to review:
| Equipment Type | What to Look For |
| Main Speakers | High-quality tower speakers that deliver clear, powerful sound without being portable models. |
| Subwoofers | Bass systems that suit the venue’s acoustics and comply with local sound regulations. |
| Microphones | A variety of options, including wireless handheld, wired backups, and lapel microphones for speeches. |
| Lighting | Adjustable dance floor lighting to match the atmosphere of your celebration. |
| Backup Gear | Extra essential components and power supplies to ensure seamless music all night. |
When discussing equipment with your DJ, use this checklist as a guide.
Key Questions to Ask Your DJ
- Sound System Setup: Ask for photos of their full setup to ensure the speakers and other equipment meet your expectations.
- Venue Coordination: Confirm that the DJ will handle power needs and adhere to sound restrictions at your venue, especially for subwoofers.
- Additional Gear: Check if they offer extras like wireless microphones for speeches, lighting for the dance floor, video screens for slideshows, or backup power options.
Lastly, schedule a soundcheck at the venue. This will help ensure everything sounds great and that the DJ is prepared with backups for any technical hiccups.
8. Do you bring spare equipment?
Having quality equipment is crucial, but having backups is just as important. Technical issues can happen, and your DJ needs to be ready. Here’s a breakdown of the backup gear your DJ should have on hand.
| Primary Equipment | |
| Main Console | Secondary mixer or controller |
| Music Source | Duplicate laptop or device with the same playlist |
| Audio Cables | Extra XLR and power cables |
| Microphones | At least 2 spare wireless microphones |
| Power Supply | Surge protectors and backup batteries |
Discuss these details with your DJ to ensure they’re fully prepared for any situation.
Key Questions to Ask
When going over their setup, make sure to confirm these points:
- Redundant Systems: Do they have duplicate systems for critical equipment like mixers and music sources?
- On-Site Support: Can they quickly access extra gear or technical help if something goes wrong?
- Testing Routine: How often do they test and maintain their backup gear?
Warning Signs
Watch out for these potential issues:
- The DJ can’t clearly explain what backup equipment they bring.
- They claim they’ve never needed backups.
- They only bring one set of essential equipment.
- Their backup systems aren’t regularly tested or maintained.
Don’t hesitate to ask detailed questions – being proactive ensures your big day runs smoothly!
9. What’s your backup plan for equipment problems?
Having a backup plan for equipment issues is essential to keep your wedding day running smoothly. While spare gear (as mentioned in Section 8) is important, a clear strategy ensures that technical hiccups don’t disrupt the celebration.
Emergency Response Protocol
When technical issues arise, a quick response can minimize interruptions. A solid protocol might include:
- A backup sound system with an extra speaker and mixer ready to go
- Alternative power sources, such as battery backups or generators
- Corded microphones with all necessary cables as a fallback
- Pre-set alternative audio routing options for seamless transitions
Essential Backup Gear
A well-prepared emergency kit can make all the difference. Here’s what it should include:
- A tested backup laptop loaded with the same music library
- Pre-made mixes stored on separate devices like an iPod or tablet
- Extra power strips and extension cords
- Ground lift plugs and hum eliminators to address audio interference
- Various audio adapters and connectors to handle unexpected needs
Venue-Specific Preparations
Professional DJs should take extra steps to prepare for the unique challenges of each venue:
- Arrive at least two hours early to test all equipment
- Identify and map out power outlets and electrical access points
- Set up redundant systems for quick switchover if needed
- Secure cables safely while ensuring they don’t detract from the venue’s appearance
10. When should we book you for our date?
Booking your DJ early plays a big role in ensuring your wedding entertainment is exactly what you want. With more couples planning weddings, the booking timeline has stretched out quite a bit.
How Far in Advance Should You Book?
Couples are now reserving their wedding DJs 12-18 months ahead of time. As Chris McMahon, owner of McMusic Events, explains:
“Although we normally see couples hiring their wedding DJ 9-12 months in advance, we are suggesting that you do it much earlier – 12-18 months in advance if you want to have a choice in DJs or other wedding vendors.”
Planning for Busy Seasons
If you’re planning a summer wedding, you’ll want to act even faster. Popular weekend dates during peak wedding season fill up quickly, and venues book out early. The most popular month for Weddings is October, followed by September, June, and May. This makes locking in your DJ as soon as possible even more important.
Reserving Your Date
To secure your DJ, you’ll typically need to provide a 25%-50% deposit and sign a contract. Ensure the contract clearly outlines details like cancellation terms, service guarantees, payment schedules, and other conditions.
Timing Tips to Keep in Mind
Here are a few tips to help you plan your DJ booking:
Consider November-April dates – you’ll likely have more options and flexibility.
Book your venue first – this sets the stage for everything else.
Plan ahead for May-October weddings – these dates are in high demand.