How to DJ a Wedding Reception

Regardless of whether you are a new or experienced DJ, a wedding reception is an event that requires a distinct and careful approach in order to satisfy the bride, groom and guests. This event is one of the most important days of the bride and groom's lives, so there will be a lot of pressure on you as the DJ to make sure the music is special, appropriate and, most importantly, entertaining.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Equipment, including a turntable, mixer and/or speakers

1. Meet with the bride and groom before the wedding as far in advance as possible. Ask them to list their favorite artists, as well as any singers or bands they specifically do not like. This will give you a good sense of the type of music they enjoy and are likely to be happy hearing at their wedding reception.
2. Prepare a CD of both slow and upbeat songs you would recommend to be played during the wedding, and give it to the bride and groom. Include songs that the bride and groom are likely to be familiar with, but feel free to add less popular songs you think they might enjoy based on your previous discussion. This will showcase your flexibility, as well as your range.
3. Create playlists of the songs that the bride and groom specially request and have them prepared well before the wedding. Make extra copies of the CDs that hold each playlist so that you will have a backup in the event of an emergency. Be sure to review each playlist with the bride and groom before the wedding to confirm that you have the right version of each song.
4. Make sure you have all the necessary equipment to DJ the wedding reception. You will most likely need to provide your own CDs, turntables or mixers, laptop computer and other basic equipment. If the wedding reception is being held at a venue that regularly hosts this type of event, the venue will most likely provide the speaker system--but be sure to confirm this well in advance.
5. Agree to an appropriate amount of payment for your DJ services. You should base this amount on the number of hours you will be asked to play music. Include any additional expenses for travel and overnight accommodations. Be sure to sign an agreement upfront that explains all of these fees, and allow for unexpected expenses, such as purchases of requested songs or last-minute rentals of equipment.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that the bride and the groom's music tastes may well differ from your own. Even if you dislike a certain song, if the wedding party wants to hear it you must play it.

Who Can Help:

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