I’m sure it’s happened to you - you go to a wedding, and no one is dancing. The DJ is playing obscure music that no one recognizes, and they won’t play songs that the guests are requesting. Bad DJ? Not necessarily. Keep reading to learn why you shouldn’t micro-manage your DJ!

When you hire a professional DJ, you are hiring them to perform for you and your guests. They may not be singing or playing instruments, but they are still there to entertain. Here are some tips to have the best reception experience:

• Give them a do-not-play list: If you hate country music and do not want to hear the Chicken Dance even if Aunt Ida requests it, let your DJ know.

• Give them a must-play list: If there are special songs, like one you heard on your first date, or one that you and your friends always danced to in college, put those on the list!

• Let them read the crowd: Part of a professional DJ’s training is in responding to what the crowd likes. You may think you only want to hear current Top 40 music, but if 90% of your guests are on the dance floor for a 70’s medley, your DJ should have the freedom to keep playing similar music.

Your wedding will most likely have a diverse group of guests, so you’ll want to appeal to everyone. Professional DJs know how to play appropriate music during dinner, ramp up the party after dinner, and bring the reception to the top at the end of the night. Trust your DJ to do their job, and don’t try to do it for them.

Photo by Jenn Guthrie