Top 14 Questions to Ask Your Wedding DJ or Band

There’s a short list of everything your guests are sure to remember and your DJ or band are near the top of that list. It is on the DJ or band to get everyone dancing and having a great time. Think back on some of the weddings you’ve been to. You might not remember every great DJ, but can you remember the bad ones? I sure can.

To ensure you get the best DJ or band you can, here’s the top 14 questions to ask when you first talk to your potential candidates.

1. Do you have our date available?

An obvious first question. Also check to see if they will be doing any other events on your date. It takes a hot minute to get DJ equipment set up; you do not want to be rushed.

2. How many weddings have your worked?

It’s important that you don’t have amatures playing your wedding. Working a wedding is a bit different than working a middle school dance. Asking how long they’ve been DJ-ing or playing and how many weddings they’ve done gives you an idea of how professional they are. They may also be able to provide you with references from happy customers.

3. How broad is your repertoire?

More likely than not you have a list of special songs you want played at your reception. Reception grand entrance, your first dance, dances with your parents, any other special songs to you and your fiancé. You definitely want to make sure your band is able to play them. For either your band or your DJ, it’s important that they can play songs from multiple genres. You want to get your guests dancing with some great pop songs and some classic hits. Plus, more than likely you’re going to have two or three generations of attendees, so a good mix of new and old will make everyone happy.

4. What are the total costs and fees?

While you may have set aside a little extra cash to ensure you get the best entertainment you can, you should still stay within your budget. You also want to make sure you know ahead of time about any extra charges you might incur. For example, some DJs will charge a fee if they have to lug their equipment up and down stairs.

5. Have you played at our venue before?

Not a necessity, but always a bonus to have a seasoned vet that already knows the layout and acoustics of your space.

6. Do you include lighting?

Many DJs will include lighting in their package, but don’t assume that all of them will.

7. Do you provide anything else in your package?

Some DJs will bring some fun extras with them, like a photo booth.

8. Will you play during cocktail hour/dinner?

Cocktail hour and while your guests are eating are not fun, dancing moments, but it’s still good to have some background music. Check with your band or DJ to see if they will play during those times, otherwise, you may need to look into making a Spotify playlist.

9. Is there some time we can see you beforehand?

This is especially important with live bands. You definitely want to make sure they are what you want before you commit. If you can’t see them play live, ask if they have any performances online.

10. Will you also Emcee the reception?

Someone needs to take the reigns during the reception to make sure everything runs smoothly and all the right introductions are made. It would be a load of the bridal party if your DJ can take care of this. Just make sure they coordinate with your wedding planner first.

11. Do you have a backup plan in case of an emergency?

You always want to be prepared for the worst. If the equipment fails, your DJ should have backups. Or if your DJ falls ill or has some other emergency, they should have a plan set in place where someone of equal talent is waiting in the wings to replace them.

12. How do you handle guest song requests?

While you want your guests to have a great time, this is ultimately your day. Your DJ or band should feel comfortable telling people no, especially if the song they’re requesting is on your “Do Not Play” list.

13. How much is your deposit and when is the final payment due?

There’s a lot you’re paying for all at the same time. You want to make sure you how much to pay, when, and how to pay it well in advance.

14. What is your refund policy?

In the event of an unlikely cancellation.

Just with many other vendors for your wedding, you want to make sure you leave the interview with a solid idea of whether or not you want this person/people to be a part of your big day. You should ask yourself if you are on the same page and if the potential DJ/band understands your vision for your wedding. If the answer is no, then it’s on to the next candidate.

Make sure you come prepared to any interview with your list of questions, including any special requests you may have. Music is an important aspect of any event and the songs played will evoke memories for years to come. You deserve the best reception possible. Good luck and have fun!

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