Wedding DJ checklist: 8 questions to ask before you book
Eight questions that separate a great wedding DJ from a risky booking — from music and MC skills to backup gear and timing.
Your DJ sets the energy of the whole wedding — the ceremony, the first dance, and whether the floor stays full at midnight. Before you sign anything, run through these eight questions.
1. Have you played weddings like mine?
Weddings have a flow that club sets don’t. Ask for experience with your style — and, for a bilingual crowd, whether the DJ can host in more than one language. We’ve run Russian, Ukrainian and mixed English-speaking weddings across San Diego for 20+ years.
2. Can you MC, not just play music?
A wedding DJ is also your host — announcements, introductions, keeping the timeline on track. A confident, bilingual MC keeps every guest included and the evening moving.
3. How do you take requests?
You’ll want a mix of your must-play list, a do-not-play list, and room for live requests. A good DJ reads the floor and adapts in real time instead of running a fixed playlist.
4. What does the setup look and sound like?
Ask about speakers, wireless mics and lighting — and whether it suits your venue size, indoor or outdoor. For backyard and vineyard weddings, check that they bring a power generator.
5. Do you have backup gear?
Professionals carry spare mics, cables and a plan B for critical equipment. One failed speaker shouldn’t stop your first dance.
6. Can we add karaoke?
Some of the most memorable receptions pair a DJ set with karaoke later in the night. If that appeals, book a team that does both with one setup.
7. How far ahead should we book?
Good dates — especially summer and holiday weekends — go early. Lock your date as soon as your venue is set.
8. What’s included in the quote?
Confirm hours, travel, setup and removal so there are no surprises. Clear pricing up front is a sign of a professional.
Ready to check your date? Tell us about your wedding and we’ll come back within hours.