33 Crucial Questions to Ask a Wedding DJ Before You Hire Them

You've already made the tough decision of whether to have a band or DJ, but the work isn't over. Now, you need to hire your dream music mixer and decide what questions to ask a wedding DJ during the selection process. Preparing interview questions will help you avoid classic wedding music mistakes, get to know your potential pro, lessen the chance of them playing inappropriate songs and ensure you know exactly what you're getting when the wedding day arrives.

So, if you're searching for the best questions to ask a DJ for a wedding, you're in the right place. Start by using The Knot Vendor Marketplace to find local talented music pros in your area. Not only can you read reviews from real couples, but you can easily contact them directly through our site. Once you set up a time to chat about your wedding, use this list to facilitate the conversation. We guarantee these thought-starters will help you find the perfect pro in no time.

Questions to ask wedding DJs: Printable Checklist | Background and Experience | Music Style | Budget and Packages | Logistics

Printable Wedding DJ Questions Checklist

Need a way to quickly access your questions to ask a wedding DJ? Print or save this list on your phone so you can check off each inquiry while on the go.

Photo: Design by Natalie Romine

Background and Experience Questions to Ask a Wedding DJ

To ensure you and your partner are picking the right pro, you'll need to get an idea of their DJing knowledge. Ask these six questions so you feel comfortable that you're making the right decision.

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1. How long have you been DJing weddings?

This is one of the most important questions to ask a DJ before booking them for your wedding because you need to know how long they've been in the industry. A pro with more experience can effortlessly execute your vision.

2. Can we watch you perform before our wedding?

It's common for live wedding bands to host showcases where potential clients can see them perform live, and this may be true of your wedding DJ too. Ask if they have any events that are open to the public so that you can get a feel for what their performances are like. If this isn't an option, you ask if they have a video reel as a substitute.

3. Have you ever worked at our venue before?

If the wedding DJ is familiar with venue space, you'll be at a huge advantage. A wedding DJ who has performed at your venue will know the best spot to set their equipment, how the acoustics work, the venue's rules and much more.

4. Can you send us a list of reviews from your other clients?

Don't know what questions to ask the DJ for a wedding consultation? Then ask this one so you can get a look at how the DJ works with real couples. Take notes on how many couples liked the DJ's music style, professionalism and energy.

5. Will you be the DJ at our wedding?

There's a possibility that the person you have your first meeting with won't be the one DJing your wedding––this is sometimes the case if you're dealing with a DJ company. If the person isn't the pro you'll have on the big day, ask to meet them before signing on the dotted line so you can get to know them.

6. What makes you different from other wedding DJs?

This is the vendor's time to shine and give their elevator pitch. Sit back and see if the person seems passionate about their job when they're asked to speak about what makes their work special. An enthusiastic DJ will make any wedding fun.

Photo: Forester Fotografos,DJ: Exel Eventos

Music Style Questions to Ask a DJ for a Wedding

One of the most important parts of picking the right DJ is ensuring their music style fits yours. Here's what to ask a wedding DJ to guarantee you both are on the same musical page.

7. What's your performance style?

Before you sign any DJ contracts, you'll want to learn more about the potential DJ who may preside over your event. Start by asking about their performance style. Nicole Otero, who has 22 years of DJ skills and is the Owner of TCM DJ Events, suggests asking questions like, "Do you have nightclub experience?" and "What's your mixing style?'' These preliminary conversations will help you visualize what kind of event you'll have with that particular pro, which allow you to make an informed decision later.

8. What type of music do you specialize in?

If you only want to hear the top country hits of the 2000s on your wedding day, you'll need the right person for the job. Once you ask about their specialty, you and the DJ can decide if you're a match.

9. What are your favorite wedding songs to play?

When compiling a list of things to ask your wedding DJ, add a few that'll help you get a feel for their personality. While it's vital to hire a pro that fits the criteria for your event, it's just as helpful to understand who they are. "It's human nature to want to feel a connection with someone in order to trust them," says Otero, noting that asking questions like this will help you establish a great relationship with your pro.

10. Can we give you a list of must-hear and do-not-play songs?

To create the setlist you want, ask your potential DJ if you can give them a list of your favorite songs. "I ask questions that help me to better understand our client's music preferences, and we use a program to coordinate selections in a private planning portal," says Duerell Jones, a professional DJ who has catered to and amazed music listeners since 2012. "Clients are also encouraged to share various lists with us, like must-play songs, songs to play if possible, dedications, songs to play only if requested and a do-not-play list."

11. Will you take song requests from guests during the event?

Some DJs may prefer to have a final setlist in advance, while others might be open to taking requests throughout the wedding reception. Ask this important question during the hiring process to know exactly what to expect for your nuptials.

12. What filler music will you play while not at the DJ booth?

There will be a point or two when your DJ needs to leave the booth to eat, use the bathroom or stretch their legs. While they're away, you don't want total silence, so inquire about what songs they will play during their absence.

13. How do you encourage a shy crowd to dance?

If you want a packed dance floor all night long, your DJ will play a major role in keeping guests on their feet. This is one of the best questions to ask your wedding DJ because it separates the pros from the rookies. See what their techniques are for keeping energy levels high—perhaps they have a go-to song that always gets everyone moving, or they like interacting with the crowd to keep them engaged. Regardless of their approach, this question will help you confirm your pro will make your party one to remember.

14. Can you help us create a wedding playlist?

Not everyone is skilled in knowing the best wedding songs for each moment of the day. After getting a general idea of what songs you want to hear, ask if they have any suggestions for your playlist and if they can craft the perfect one for you.

Photo: Laurie Bailey Photography

,DJ: DJ Lady Bunny

Budget and Packages Questions to Ask a DJ for Your Wedding

Your wedding budget will determine what kind of DJ you can hire. Here are important questions to ask your wedding DJ to help you make the best financial decision.

15. What's included in your pricing package?

The cost of a wedding DJ often depends on how long they'll perform, as well as any additional add-ons, like visual effects or emcee services. Ask what kind of packages they offer so you know what you'll receive with your payment.

16. Will you also act as an emcee?

You need to know if your wedding DJ is willing to assist in keeping the wedding on schedule, make announcements and keep the energy up. Ask if the DJ has emcee experience and for examples of their work to ensure it's the feel you're looking for. If the DJ doesn't offer this service, that's okay. Talk with your wedding planner about who should take over this task.

17. Does your contract include an overtime clause?

When your reception is coming to a close, you might be tempted to keep the party going, and we don't blame you. But you must confirm if your wedding entertainment contract includes an overtime clause. While you would have already paid for your pre-determined time slot before the event, some contracts may have pricing for additional time. You'll need to confirm if extending the celebration is an option for both your venue and your DJ before you ask about going over.

18. Does your rate include setup and breakdown services?

You want to get the most accurate estimate of your wedding DJ costs so you don't go over your budget. Ask if they charge extra for setup and breakdown times so you know if it's something you can afford.

19. Does your package include lighting?

Your wedding venue might already have special event lighting, but if it doesn't, this is a good question to ask a wedding DJ before hiring them. See if the DJ has GOBO, sound-activated or laser lighting to help make your reception unforgettable.

Photo: James x Schulze,

DJ: DJ Brian B Official

Logistics Questions to Ask a Potential Wedding DJ

Now let's get into the granular details. Ask these essential questions so everything is ready to go for the big day.

20. Are you available on our wedding date?

This is most likely something you already asked in your wedding inquiry email. Once the DJ says they're free on your wedding weekend, you can feel comfortable asking all the questions above and below this one on our list.

21. Do you bring backup equipment?

Some wedding venues, especially those in unique locations, might not have all the equipment necessary for your wedding DJ to perform. During the hiring process, ask if they can provide any extras they need.

22. How much space do you need for yourself and your gear?

You'll have to work with lots of vendors during the planning stage to figure out how much space they need at your venue, and your wedding DJ is one of those people. Your venue area isn't unlimited, so ask your musical vendor as soon as possible how much room they need so you can plan for it in your design scheme.

23. Do you have any special requirements for your vendor meal?

Wedding DJs are one of many vendors that require a meal while they're working during your wedding day. Ask if your potential DJ has any allergies or dietary restrictions so they can be properly accommodated.

24. What's your plan B for inclement weather for outside events?

If you're unsure what questions to ask your wedding DJ, this one's an absolute must if your nuptials will be outdoors. In case of bad weather, ask your pro what options they have for protecting their DJ equipment while keeping the party going.

25. Will you have a soundcheck on the day of?

Most, if not all, wedding entertainers will need a soundcheck on the morning of the wedding to confirm that everything is good to go. Ask a potential DJ if they'll take the lead on coordinating this with your venue.

26. Do you require liability insurance?

While this answer will most likely be yes, this is still one of the top questions to ask your DJ for your wedding. Don't forget that electrical equipment can be hazardous too.

27. What's your cancellation policy?

Whether you change your date or want a different music vendor, you need to know your options. Ask for this policy written in a sample contract so you can refer to it later.

28. How many breaks do you need throughout the evening?

Wedding vendors need breaks too, so it'll be helpful to know how many they'll schedule throughout your event. This question can give you an idea of what wedding reception activities to plan while they're gone.

29. What time will you arrive at the venue?

Some venues might have rules about how early a vendor can be at the property. Ask how early they need to start setting up so you can discuss this with your venue and wedding planner.

30. Do you perform at more than one event a day?

If you're the only event on their calendar, that's great because you can get their full attention. But if you're not the only one, there's no need to panic. A well-seasoned wedding DJ will know how to juggle both without diluting the quality of their work.

31. What is the deposit, and when is it due?

Show initiative and ask this question before leaving the first consultation. Once you get the price and date, you can start planning how and when to check this item off your to-do list.

32. Do you provide wireless mics for the ceremony and reception?

Wired microphones aren't the worst thing in the world, but they can be cumbersome. See if your wedding DJ has a few reliable wired mics you can use for the ceremony and reception activities.

33. What will you wear to our wedding?

This is the kind of question that helps you gauge if the DJ's clothing fits the theme and style of your wedding. Whether you're having a casual or formal affair, it doesn't hurt to bring this topic up.