7 Important Questions to Ask Before You Hire Your Wedding DJ

Your wedding DJ does more than just play music, they set the tone for your celebration, keep the energy flowing, and help create the atmosphere you’ve always dreamed of on your wedding day . That’s why choosing the right DJ is so important. Before signing any contracts, take the time to ask a few intentional questions. These not only will help you gauge their professionalism and experience, but will also give you a feel for their passion and personality. As professional wedding planners, we’ve learned over the years which questions truly matter when it comes to finding the perfect wedding DJ. Below are the essential questions we recommend asking.

Photographer: Alexis May | DJ: Golden Gate Entertainment

What are the different packages you offer and what do they include?

Every wedding has a different vibe and therefore has different entertainment needs. Some include ceremony sound support, microphones for speeches, or additional lighting and effects. Others may be more minimal and focused solely on reception music. Ask your DJ to walk you through their packages in detail, and make sure you understand what’s included, what’s customizable, and what costs extra.

What does your setup look like?

You’ve spent a ton of time and energy designing a beautiful wedding, make sure your DJ setup complements your overall design. Ask if they bring a professional booth, clean and crisp table linens that align with your color palette, uplighting, and so on. A cohesive, polished setup can make a big difference in the overall aesthetic of your event.

Photographer: Coastal Roads | DJ: Vampiro

How much space do you require?

Whether your venue is a spacious ballroom or a cozy outdoor patio, knowing how much space your DJ needs can help when planning your layout. They should be able to provide dimensions for their setup and let you know if they need access to power outlets, covered areas (for outdoor weddings), or extra time for setup and breakdown.

How do you compile song choices?

Some DJs use online planning portals, others prefer Google Forms, playlists, or even in-person/online meetings. Understanding how your DJ collects must-play songs, do-not-play lists, and special requests (like first dance songs or cultural traditions) will give you peace of mind and ensure your music feels personal and meaningful.

Photographer: Madison Frazier | DJ: MillionDollaMan

What does your process look like to ensure you understand the couple and the vibe of the wedding?

The best DJs go beyond just taking requests, they want to get to know you as a couple. Ask about their client onboarding process. Do they host planning meetings? Request a vibe check playlist? Chat with you about your story as a couple? Their process should make you feel confident that they truly understand your vision.

What do you love about weddings?

This question might not seem logistical, but it’s key to understanding whether your DJ is just doing a job or is genuinely invested in your experience as the client. A passionate DJ will light up when talking about weddings, and their enthusiasm will translate directly into how they serve you and your guests on your day.

Photographer: M Visuals | DJ: One Night ATL

What’s your favorite part about being a wedding DJ?

From watching the couple’s first dance to packing the dance floor late into the night, every DJ has their favorite moment. Their answer will give you a glimpse into what fuels their passion and how they’ll contribute to the overall vibe of your wedding day.

Your wedding DJ should be more than just technically capable, they should be someone who’s genuinely excited to celebrate with you. Asking the right questions ensures you’re hiring a pro who not only knows how to create an unforgettable atmosphere, but also truly cares about your wedding experience.

Need help finding the right DJ for your big day? At Before the Vows, we provide all of our couples with customized, hand-picked vendor recommendations based on their unique style and preferences. Reach out to us today to get started!