How to Pick the Right DJ for Your Wedding and What Criteria to Base Your Choice On

I heard a bride ask a really intriguing question the other day at a wedding vendor event. She essentially said, “How do I actually pick a DJ? I mean, I can read reviews and even ask friends their opinions, but hearing that a specific DJ was so great and that they kept if fun and energetic the whole time is so subjective. My idea of fun will likely be different than the next person.” Solid point.

Choosing the right DJ for your wedding can make or break the atmosphere of your wedding day. With so many options available, it's essential to have a clear understanding of what you want and need in a DJ. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the best strategies for finding and vetting a DJ who will perfectly fit your wedding's vibe and ensure a memorable experience for you and your guests.

Understanding Your Needs:

Before diving into the search for a DJ, take some time to consider your specific needs and preferences. Ask yourself the following questions:

• What style of music do you envision for your wedding?

• Do you prefer a DJ who specializes in a particular genre or is versatile enough to play a mix of music?

• What level of interaction do you want from your DJ? Are you looking for someone who will just play music, or do you want them to also serve as an MC, interacting with guests and facilitating the flow of the event?

• Are there any specific songs or artists that are must-haves or must-avoids for your playlist?

• Do you have any specific requests or requirements regarding equipment, lighting, or special effects?

Once you have a clear understanding of your needs and preferences, you can start your search for the perfect DJ.

Research and Recommendations:

Start by asking for recommendations from friends, family, or other wedding vendors you trust. Personal recommendations can be invaluable in finding a DJ who has a proven track record of delivering exceptional service.

Additionally, use online resources such as wedding forums, social media groups, and review websites to research local DJs. Pay close attention to reviews and testimonials from past clients, but remember that one person's experience may not necessarily reflect the quality of service you will receive.

When reading reviews, look for common themes and pay attention to any specific praise or complaints regarding the DJ's performance, professionalism, and ability to read the crowd.

Interviewing Potential DJs:

Once you have a list of potential DJs, it's time to start reaching out and scheduling interviews. Treat these interviews as job interviews, as you'll want to ensure that the DJ you choose is not only talented but also professional and easy to work with.

During the interview, ask the following questions to get a better sense of the DJ's experience, style, and approach:

• How long have you been DJing, and how many weddings have you performed at?

• What sets you apart from other wedding DJs?

• Can you provide references from past clients?

• How do you handle song requests and do-not-play lists?

• What is your approach to reading the crowd and keeping the energy up throughout the event?

• How do you handle technical issues or equipment failures during the event?

• Do you offer any additional services such as lighting, photo booths, or live musicians?

Pay attention to how the DJ responds to your questions and whether they demonstrate a genuine interest in understanding your vision for the wedding. Communication and rapport are key factors in ensuring a successful partnership with your DJ.

Reviewing Contracts and Pricing:

Before making a final decision, request a written contract from the DJ outlining the terms of service, including the date, time, and location of the event, as well as the agreed-upon fee and any additional services or equipment provided.

Carefully review the contract to ensure that all details are accurate and that both parties are in agreement on the terms. Pay attention to any clauses regarding cancellations, refunds, or additional fees for overtime or special requests.

When it comes to pricing, remember that quality comes at a cost. While it's important to stay within your budget, prioritize value over price when choosing a DJ for your wedding. A talented and experienced DJ who can deliver an unforgettable experience for you and your guests is worth investing in.

Checking References and Reviews:

Before making a final decision, be sure to follow up with the DJ's references to get a firsthand account of their experience working with the DJ. Ask specific questions about the DJ's performance, professionalism, and ability to adapt to last-minute changes or requests.

Additionally, revisit online reviews and testimonials to see if there are any new insights or feedback from recent clients. Pay attention to any recurring themes or patterns in the reviews, both positive and negative, and use this information to inform your decision.

Trust Your Instincts:

Ultimately, choosing the perfect DJ for your wedding is a personal decision that should align with your vision and preferences for the event. Trust your instincts and choose a DJ who not only meets your technical requirements but also resonates with you on a personal level.

If you feel confident in your choice and have established open communication and rapport with your DJ, you can rest assured that they will help create a memorable and unforgettable experience for you and your guests on your special day.

Hey DJ keep playing that song…Alllll Niggggght!!!

Finding the perfect DJ for your wedding may seem like a tough task, but with careful research, planning, and communication, you can find a DJ who will perfectly fit your needs and help create the atmosphere you envision for your special day. By understanding your needs, conducting thorough research, interviewing potential DJs, reviewing contracts and pricing, checking references and reviews, and trusting your instincts, you can confidently choose a DJ who will ensure a memorable and unforgettable experience for you and your guests.

The Epic Vibes? - What a Wedding Planner Brings to the Party and is it WORTH the money?

Turning Your Wedding Day Dreams into Reality:

Our team has over 1000 weddings under our lenses. We’ve navigated all the obstacles and ended up triumphant. We’d like to think that we know a thing or 2 about how to make your wedding day flow as seamlessly as possible. So what’s the scoop with Wedding Planners / Coordinators, are they actually helpful?

Think of your wedding planner as the co-director of your love story film. They're not just there to check boxes; they're the creative minds who make sure your vibe shines through every detail. From colors to decor, they're the dreamweavers who transform your vision into Insta-worthy reality.

Budget Hacks Without Losing the Cool:

You don't need to break the bank for a spectacular wedding. Your wedding planner is the financial badass who helps you make the most of your budget. They've got the hookup with cool vendors, know where to splurge and where to save, so you can have the wedding of your dreams without dipping into your avocado toast fund.

Squad Goals - Vendor Dream Team:

Meet the Avengers of weddings: your planner's vendor connections. They've got the 411 on the best photographers, DJs, and florists in town. No need to spend hours scrolling through Instagram; your planner's got the hookups, making sure your wedding is epic

Zen Masters Through the Process

Stress? Ain't nobody got time for that!! Your wedding planner is your chill pill. As you get closer to the big day, they're behind the scenes, handling the nitty-gritty details and smoothing out any wrinkles. You just focus on looking great; they've got the rest covered.

Meet the Co-Pilot: - Month-Of Coordination

Month-of coordination is like having a co-pilot for your wedding adventure. You've got the main plans down, and now your coordinator is sliding into the DMs (Direct Management, of course) to make sure everything is set for liftoff.

The Ultimate Vendor Whisperer:

Your month-of coordinator is the VIP pass to the coolest party in town. They get cozy with your vendors, making sure everyone's on the same wavelength. No miscommunication, just good vibes and smooth sailing.

Timeline: The Blueprint for Serenity:

A month before the big day, your coordinator drops the timeline like the hottest mixtape. From "I Do" to dance floor domination, they've got it all mapped out, ensuring your day flows like a perfectly curated playlist.

Troubleshooting Secret Service:

Life happens, but you won't even notice. Your coordinator is on secret serive duty, handling anything unexpected with stealth and style. They're the secret weapon that keeps your day drama-free and full of happy vibes.

The Grand Finale - Day-Of Coordination

Your Day, Their Masterpiece:

Day-of coordination is your wedding day's superhero. You've done the legwork, and now your coordinator swoops in to make sure everything is as awesome as you imagined. You get to be the star; they're the backstage magicians making it all happen.

Running the Show:

From ceremony kick-off to party finale, your day-of coordinator is the puppet master behind the scenes. They cue the confetti, make sure the cake-cutting is Insta-worthy, and handle any hiccups like a boss, leaving you free to soak in the love.

Vendor SWAT Team:

On the big day, your coordinator is the general of your vendor SWAT team. They handle deliveries, set up the chill zones, and ensure everyone's on point. You don't need to worry about a thing – your crew's got it covered.

Emergency Squad:

Every epic tale has its challenges, but your coordinator is your savior in a crisis. Whether it's a wardrobe malfunction or unexpected rain, they've got the plan B, C, and D to keep your day shining bright.

The Final Countdown - Why Most Couple Needs a Wedding Planner

Your wedding is the big ticket show, and every couple deserves to rock on, stress-free. With a wedding planner by your side, you're free to dance through the day, knowing every detail is handled, and your vibe is on point.

Time Is Your Biggest Commodity, Respect the Clock and Enjoy Your Return on Investment

Wedding planning can be a time suck, but your planner lets you reclaim those hours. Focus on the fun parts, let the experts handle the rest, and enjoy every moment leading up to your big day.

Your Creative BFF:

Beyond the contracts and timelines, your wedding planner becomes your creative BFF. They're invested in your vibe, making sure your wedding is as unique and cool as you are. It's not just a business transaction; it's a creative collaboration.

Should just I hire a “day of”, “month of” or the whole enchilada?

Any wedding planner who knows what they’re doing will be able to help you pinpoint which service(s) will actually help you and won;t sell you some crap that you don;t need just to make more $.

Conclusion:

So, lovebirds, as you gear up for the most epic day of your lives, remember: a wedding planner isn't just a luxury; it's your backstage pass to a stress-free, insanely cool celebration. Whether it's full-blown planning or the ninja moves of month-of or day-of coordination, having a planner means your wedding is not just a day but an unforgettable experience crafted just for you. Let the countdown to awesome begin! 🎉💖

PS…So who do we recommend in Chicago? We are big fans of BAROJ EVENTS - Ask for Rojin and tell her that Jeremy Glickstein Photography sent you! :)