30 Essential Questions to Ask When Choosing Your Wedding DJ

30 Must-Ask Questions to Find the Perfect Wedding DJ for Your Special Day

Selecting the perfect song for your bouquet toss can inject an extra dose of fun and energy into this beloved tradition. When planning your Scottsdale or Phoenix wedding, choosing the right DJ is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. A great DJ does more than just play music. They create the atmosphere, ensure smooth transitions between events, and make sure your guests are engaged and entertained. To help you find the best fit for your wedding, we’ve put together a list of 29 essential questions to ask your DJ. These questions will guide you in selecting a DJ who can bring your vision to life and ensure your day is unforgettable.

1. What is the typical cost of a wedding DJ in my area?

The average cost for a professional wedding DJ can range widely depending on location and services offered. Velvet & Lace Events offers packages tailored to fit different budgets and needs.

2. What exactly does a DJ do at a wedding?

A wedding DJ ensures you and your guests have a great time. This includes managing the schedule, keeping the dance floor lively, and acting as the Master of Ceremonies (MC) to coordinate announcements and transitions.

3. How much experience do you have?

Experience is critical. An experienced DJ is better equipped to execute your vision and handle unexpected situations with ease.

4. Have you performed at my venue before?

A DJ who is familiar with your venue can plan their setup more efficiently and avoid any logistical issues.

5. How do you customize the music playlist?

Find out how the DJ selects songs and how much control you have over the playlist. Be sure they are open to incorporating your preferences and excluding songs you don't want to hear.

6. Can I provide a list of must-play and do-not-play songs?

Ask if you can submit a list of essential songs and songs to avoid. This ensures the music reflects your personal taste.

7. Do you accept guest song requests?

Clarify how the DJ handles requests from guests, and whether they will respect your do-not-play list.

8. How do you get people to dance?

Inquire about the DJ's strategies for keeping the dance floor full. A great DJ knows how to read the room and keep energy levels high.

9. How do you engage guests of all ages?

Ask how the DJ plans to get older and younger guests involved in dancing, ensuring that everyone has a good time.

10. Do you also serve as the MC?

Your DJ should be able to act as the MC, guiding the flow of the evening with clear and professional announcements.

11. What’s your MC style, and can it be customized?

Find out if the DJ follows a standard script or if they can adapt their style to fit your preferences.

12. How do you handle special announcements or events (e.g., first dance, toasts)?

It’s important to know how the DJ will manage key moments during the reception. Ask how they plan to coordinate and announce these events.

13. Do you provide sound and music for the ceremony?

Confirm if the DJ can handle both ceremony and reception music, and whether this is included in their package.

14. Can you provide music before the ceremony begins?

Pre-ceremony music sets the tone as guests arrive. Clarify if this service is available and whether it’s included in your package.

15. Can you edit or fade songs for specific moments?

Ask if the DJ can adjust song lengths, especially for key moments like the processional or recessional.

16. What if you don’t have a song we want? Can you obtain it?

Check if the DJ can download or acquire specific songs that aren’t already in their music library.

17. How extensive is your music library?

Make sure the DJ has a wide-ranging music selection that covers all the genres and eras you want to include.

18. Do you offer lighting options?

Ask about the available lighting packages and how they can enhance the ambiance of your wedding.

19. Do you provide backup equipment?

Ensure the DJ has a contingency plan in case equipment fails. Backup gear is crucial for avoiding technical issues during the event.

20. What is your backup plan in case of an emergency?

Ask if the DJ has another DJ on-call or a strategy in case they fall ill or experience an emergency.

21. How early do you arrive before the event?

Knowing when the DJ plans to arrive ensures everything is set up and ready before your guests arrive.

22. How will you dress for our wedding?

Discuss the DJ’s attire to make sure it matches the formality of your wedding.

23. Will you need a meal provided?

It’s customary to offer your DJ a meal, especially if they will be working for an extended period.

24. Do you require liability insurance?

Some venues require vendors to carry liability insurance. Confirm that your DJ has the necessary coverage to avoid last-minute issues.

25. What is your cancellation policy?

Understand the DJ’s cancellation or rescheduling terms, including any potential fees or deadlines.

26. What is your deposit requirement?

Clarify the deposit amount required to secure the DJ’s services and the schedule for making payments.

27. Do you charge tax?

Ask if taxes are included in the quoted price or if they will be added later.

28. What sets you apart from other DJs?

Ask what makes the DJ unique and what special value they bring to your wedding.

29. Can I work with you directly to plan my reception?

Discuss how involved the DJ will be in the planning process and whether you’ll have direct communication with them to ensure every detail is executed perfectly.

30. Can you provide references or reviews from previous clients?

Finally, ask for reviews or references from previous clients to gain confidence in the DJ’s ability to deliver a great performance.

By asking these questions, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect DJ for your wedding. At Velvet & Lace, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional service, ensuring your wedding day is as unforgettable as you’ve always imagined.