When it comes to planning the soundtrack of your wedding reception, there is a lot of information that is needed by your DJ before the day begins. From the obvious items, such as the music selections for your most important events, it is equally important to clearly communicate your overall wishes with your DJ. Here are a few of the most important things to tell your wedding DJ to ensure your wedding reception is the one you have always dreamed about!
Tell your wedding DJ your songs for your wedding’s most important moments.
The first item is all of the songs for your important moments. These “most-important” moments include your wedding party introductions, your first dance, any parent dances, or any special dances you would like to have at your reception. Along with these songs, your DJ also needs to know the names of the people involved in those moments. Telling the DJ the people involved ensures that everyone sharing the big moments with you is recognized!
Tell your wedding DJ how to pronounce any important names.
During your wedding, your DJ will need to make announcements for the grand introductions and events such as the father/bride and mother/groom dances, speeches/toasts, the blessing of the meal, etc. The best practice is to give your DJ the spelling of the names of your entire wedding party and presenters and include a phonetic spelling of the names – especially if any are hard to pronounce. Another method I prefer is having the bride/groom call my cell phone and leave a voice message with everyone’s name.
The overall vibe of your wedding you want.
Every wedding is unique, and the desired vibe you are looking for might differ from most wedding receptions you have been to. If you want everyone to dance and party, tell your DJ that! If you are going for a more low-key style wedding, let the DJ know. Also, let your DJ know any genres of music you absolutely love or do not care for and want to avoid at your wedding. With this information, the DJ can curate a playlist unique to your wishes and guests.
Any “must-play” songs.
Tell your DJ any requests and “must play” songs you might want at your event. Also, tell them if there is a special meaning behind one of the songs. If there are any songs you know some of your guests will like (for example, a high school or college anthem you and your friends absolutely loved), let your DJ know!
Are you are a member of a sorority/fraternity and have a special song? Tell the DJ so he can shout out the people who will understand why you wanted that song played at your wedding!
Would like to have your parent’s first dance song played at your wedding during the reception? Let the DJ know so he can dedicate it to them when he plays it.
The number of songs you request is up to you, but remember you hired a professional DJ and not a jukebox. I recommend giving the DJ between 10-20 songs of different genres and artists that you would like to hear and letting your DJ build the night from that information.
Any DO NOT PLAY songs.
Sometimes the list of “off limit” or “do not play” songs is just as crucial to the DJ as the must-play list! The absolute last thing your DJ wants to do is play a song that you absolutely hate or any song that you associate with a bad experience in your life. Also, let the DJ know if you prefer “dirty” or “clean” versions. Always keep your guests in mind (for example, will there be any small children at your wedding). Still, as a general rule, we typically avoid “dirty” versions and only play clean versions of songs (they are just as much fun) unless otherwise specified.