A wedding DJ who can keep the party rocking from start to finish is a must. Use our checklist to help you select the best DJ for your special day.

A DJ is one of the more contemporary forms of reception entertainment, and they are quickly replacing live bands as the standard. However, only some DJs are cut out to spin at a wedding. Not all of them will be appropriate for a wedding celebration. So, let’s dissect how to choose the best wedding DJ in Ontario and dive into the most important inquiries you should make about your prospective Ontario entertainer.

Why You Need a DJ at Your Wedding?

DJs and live bands are the two most common options for wedding entertainment. It’s also possible to combine the two or to forego them all and DJ your wedding (bold!). Consider these arguments in favor of hiring a DJ if you’re still on the fence about doing so.

It is Economical.

DJs often offer more affordable pricing than live bands or other forms of live entertainment. While exceptions exist, a general rule is that DJs typically result in lower cleaning expenses. Due to their equipment needs, bands require an additional workforce and may incur higher travel expenses.

Listen to your favorite music.

Relive your musical memories with a performance of your favorite songs. To be clear, we adore wedding bands. If you and your partner want to dance to “The Way You Look Tonight” by Elton John because it reminds you of a special event in your romantic history, you may be assured that your first dance will sound just as it did when you fell in love. The same holds when revisiting your wedding playlist following the big day.

DJs can read the crowd.

Every artist needs audience reading skills, but DJs need only change a few essential mixing aspects to change the performance’s mood completely. On the other side, bands are often expected to play through a song even if the audience isn’t into it. For more formal occasions, bands will often play with a consistent roster.

Questions to Ask Wedding DJs and Bands

It’s safe to assume you already have your wedding location, catering, and officiant scheduled. Then you’ve done your homework and know how to narrow down a list of possible vendors to just a handful.

After narrowing your DJ choices down to three, you should check their availability for your big day. Then, let’s talk via phone, in person, or FaceTime. During these meetings, you may obtain all the information you need to make an informed decision about your wedding DJ in Ontario. What follows is a list of potential inquiries:

Basic Questions.

Having a firm foundation is crucial before moving on to the finer points. Asking a DJ these crucial questions can give you valuable insight into their schedule, expertise, and availability.

• Asking, “Are you free on my wedding date?” The very first question you need to pose to a wedding service provider is this. Make sure a DJ is available for your wedding before you even talk to them.
• For what length of time have you been a DJ? A quick assessment of the vendor’s level of expertise is essential. Verify that they are an experienced DJ prepared to operate properly.
• To what extent have you worked weddings? There are key distinctions between DJing in a club and a wedding reception. Please find out how many weddings this DJ has played for before hiring them.
• How many weddings do you perform each weekend? If so, how many shows do you play in a single day? Investigate the DJ’s availability on your wedding day to get a feel for how hectic they may be.
• How to engage a reticent audience? Although certain crowds are more willing to dance, just some are instant movers. DJs are hired because they know how to start and keep a party going. Try questioning how they deal with a group that takes too long to get moving.
• If you or a member of your staff are available, will you be the DJ on the big day? To the extent that they can, some DJs even have solo careers. There is a roster of DJs at competing businesses. If the individual you’re talking to won’t attend your wedding, find out how to reach them.
• Can I get references from your past clients? The best wedding service provider recommendations come from previous clients. Inquire if they have a list of references you may contact to get feedback on their work and recommendations.

Questions About Music.

• How often do you buy new music? If you want current music, you must know how often a DJ updates their playlist. If the DJ doesn’t have the month’s most popular radio music, you may be dissatisfied at a party.
• Asking, “How would you characterize your music style?” Many DJs focus on playing only one genre of music, such as a house, Top 40, country, or classics. Check that yours fits in with the theme of the wedding and the music you plan to play.
• Do you have a standard set list that you always perform? When hiring a DJ, it’s a good idea to ask if they have a setlist they may use as is or use as a starting point.
• Could you provide any samples of your work? The company can send you samples by email if you can’t find them on their website.
• Can we make it onto the playlist? In this scenario, you and your visitors have an impeccable musical taste. Inquire if you and your significant other can make a list of songs to play and songs to avoid.
• What is your procedure for fulfilling requests for specific songs? There will likely be a few guests who approach the DJ to make special requests. Find out if they accept them and, if so, what happens to them.
• Would you also be willing to host the event? At your wedding reception, you may need to make several announcements, such as the wedding party’s arrival, the beginning of the father-daughter dance, and the beginning of the toasts. It is the DJ’s responsibility to make these, but you should double-check.

Questions About Logistics.

These aspects of the ceremony may not be as fun to discuss as the music, but they are crucial to your big day.

• Question: “How much equipment do you need?” Find out what DJ equipment they’ll bring to your wedding.
• Can we expect to supply any equipment? Although it’s not common, there may be situations when you’re responsible for supplying your equipment. Inquire if a microphone, cables, or other technological implements will be required.
• How do you deal with equipment failures? Do you plan to have backup tools available? If you’re lucky, nothing will go wrong on your wedding day. However, unexpected events do arise. Learn the DJ’s plan of action in the event of a technical glitch during the reception.
• Can you provide wireless microphones for the wedding ceremony? Maintaining a single sound system for the day will simplify life for everyone involved. It’s beneficial if you can avoid spending money on a microphone rental.
• Is our lobby and reception area familiar to you? Please inquire whether they have prior experience working in a reception setting similar to yours. If they still need to, they may need to arrive early to figure out the setup process.
• Is there going to be any lighting or special effects? Some DJs even offer extra effects like strobe lights, video displays, fireworks, and projectors as part of their music packages.
• Do you take care of the installation and dismantling? Be certain that the DJ and crew will be responsible for putting up and tearing down their equipment.
• Is there more you can do if you can’t perform on the day? If, for any reason, your wedding provider cannot make it. They should have a backup staff or contact they can contact.
• What are you going to wear? There is a wide range of wedding styles, traditions, and themes. That’s why it’s important to have your DJ dress appropriately for the occasion.

Questions About Pricing.

When it comes to wedding music, budget is often a major consideration. Still, more than simply inquiring about prices is needed. Be bold about bringing up any fees and choices you have.

• Can you tell me your prices? Does your pricing depend on the number of hours spent working or a certain number of packages? Find out how much money clients of this DJ may expect to pay. Their prices may depend on the number of songs in each package or the time of day.
• What sort of packages do you have on hand? In what ways are you aided? DJs advertise their services in packages so clients can compare prices.. Obtain a comprehensive description of the various options.
• Do you offer payment options? Some DJs accept installment payments, while others require a down payment and ultimate settlement.
• Does overtime cost extra? When the wedding celebration nears completion, many couples ask the venue if they may stay open later. It is important to know the overtime rates of your DJ in this case.
• Is there an additional cost? What about travel options, parking, etc.? Find out what you will be charged for and what you will be expected to pay in advance.
• What is your refund policy if I need to cancel my reservation? Be aware of restrictions on your wedding cancellation options. Inquire about their procedures regarding cancellation, rescheduling, and refunds.
• What kind of insurance coverage do you have? Insurance against legal responsibility claims is obligatory. Guarantee that your DJ possesses this and any additional insurance needed by your location.
• When may we expect a formal proposal or agreement in writing? After you’ve gone over everything above and are ready to sign, you should inquire when a complete contract is provided.

HOW TO SELECT YOUR WEDDING DJ?

Begin Your Search Early. 

Choosing a wedding DJ in Ontario is not something that needs to be done first, but it should only be left at the end of the planning process. After you’ve settled on a wedding location, your attention should turn to the reception’s entertainment. Popular DJs tend to fill up quickly, just like popular venues. Be sure to begin your search if the options you have in mind are common in your area.

Think About Your Style.

As we’ve already mentioned, “DJ” is a generic term that can encompass a wide variety of services and occupations. Professional wedding DJ in Ontario know how to conduct a celebration and what music will please the most people. Unless you’re having an unusual reception or hiring a friend, consider DJs with wedding expertise.

A wedding DJ in Ontario can still serve several functions. Therefore, maintain your taste and the wedding you envision at all times. Seek out a DJ who focuses on music from the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s, for instance, if that is the era in which you are most interested in listening. Find a DJ familiar with today’s most popular music, whether you prefer hip-hop, pop, or other contemporary styles wedding DJ in Ontario.

Inquire About The Best Options Available.

Recommendations from friends and family are the best way to limit a vendor list. Inquire among your social circles to see if anyone has used the services of a DJ they were satisfied with. A person may not be engaged or married but may have recently attended a wedding with a fantastic DJ.

You can also rely on the Internet as a starting point for your quest. Finding reliable wedding vendors should be your first step. We’re partial, but Zola makes finding a supplier a breeze. In addition to reading verified reviews from real couples, you can also research the exact services that each DJ provides. It’s a quick method for narrowing your choices to a manageable number.

As you perform your online investigation, pay close attention to recurring themes in consumer ratings and reviews. For instance, keep an eye out for any references to tardiness; you wouldn’t want anything to spoil your reception just as the fun started.

Have Everything Documented.

Before committing to a DJ for the big day, be careful to get all of the specifics down on paper. Specify the exact start and end hours, the DJ’s name on the day of the event, any song requests, and any other pertinent details.

You’ll want to provide the DJ with a list of songs that must be played, a list of songs that must not be played under any circumstances, and a list of songs that would be good to hear but are optional. Your DJ will handle the rest of the night from there.

The hunt for your wedding DJ has begun. You may now hire the vendor who will most effectively assist you in realizing your vision for the perfect wedding since you are equipped with the knowledge necessary to do so and the questions to ask a wedding DJ in Ontario.