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How to Find the Best DJ for your Wedding

Not every wedding reception has music, but most people like to enjoy dancing with their friends and families after the ceremony. Unfortunately, for many couples, hiring a DJ is an afterthought. A bad DJ can ruin a reception, so make sure that you take some time to find a great option for you. Here are some tips for finding the best DJ for your wedding:

• Start looking early.

DJs book events weeks in advance. The best DJs may even have schedules booked months ahead of time. If you wait until the week before to hire a DJ, you're going to have to settle for a sub-par reception, since the best DJs will already be booked. If you're getting married in peak wedding season, this is especially true. Start looking for your DJ when you start looking for the other people who will help you put your wedding together. Never wait until the last minute.

• Find a DJ comfortable with MC tasks.

Some DJs only do music. While that may be fine if you have a best man who loves the limelight, think about the responsibilities a DJ might be given. For example, who is going to announce your first dance or explain how the dollar dance works? Unless someone in your wedding party is willing to act as an MC, make sure that your DJ will take that role. Some DJs only run the music part of the show.

• Talk to DJs about music preferences.

If you don't discuss music preferences before the big day, you might be disappointed when your oldies-loving friends and family are listening to hip hop all night. DJs usually specialize in one genre or another, but most can adapt to whatever situation you need - as long as they know before hand. Make sure you go over the music choices for the reception at least a week before the big day. Your DJ should be able to accommodate almost all of your requests. If you're really worried about specific songs you want, make sure that you talk to potential DJs about those choices before you decide on one DJ. Obscure songs are sometimes difficult to get.

• Work with a DJ who can be clean OR dirty.

If you're having a wedding reception that includes friends and family members who are all relatively laid back, you may not care if you have unedited music streaming through the speakers. However, if Great-Aunt Anna is in attendance, you may not want to hear curse words in your music. Before you hire a DJ, make sure that he or she can play editing versions of songs if you want a cleaner wedding.

• Talk about payment upfront.

Some DJs charge by the hour. Others have set fees based on both the length and type of music you want. Still others charge extra if they have to act as the MC for the reception. Before you hire a DJ, make sure you talk about fees upfront, including what you should do if you're not happy with his or her work. Sign a contract so that everyone is clear about what to expect.

• Consider space issues.

If your reception is occurring in a small area, a DJ who needs a large stage to set up may not be your best option. Some DJs work with large pieces of equipment, while others have relatively small set-ups. You should also find out how much time they'd need to set up before the reception. Some DJs won't work out simply because the need too much space or prep time.

No matter what kind of music you want at your wedding, begin looking for a DJ right away. Talk to friends and family members who have recently attended or held events to get an idea of who in the area is best when it comes to this profession. Keep in mind that you can instead choose to hire a band, but in many cases, you'll get more variety if you stick with a DJ.