Maine & NH Wedding Photographer // How to Pick Your Wedding DJ (Without Ending Up with a Middle School Dance Vibe)

Here’s the deal: not all DJs are created equal. Some are out here spinning beats like they’re headlining Coachella, while others... well, let’s just say they peaked at their cousin’s backyard BBQ in 2007. Your wedding deserves better than awkward silences and a mic that cuts out mid-“I do.”

Let’s break it down so you don’t end up with DJ Oh-No instead of DJ Oh-Yesss.

Figure Out Your Wedding Vibe First

Do you want a dance floor that stays lit until the last slice of cake is eaten and someone’s tie is on their head? Or do you want something more chill—like a jazzy dinner vibe where your guests can actually hear each other speak without screaming over "Shots"?

Know your vibe. Then, look for DJs who specialize in that vibe. A great club DJ might not be the best fit for a backyard brunch wedding. A chill acoustic-focused DJ probably won’t thrive at your rowdy beer hall bash. It’s not one-size-fits-all, friends.

Budget Like a Grown-Up (aka: Be Real with Yourself)

Yes, DJs vary in price. And yes, you do get what you pay for. That Craigslist DJ who’s charging less than your DoorDash bill might not bring backup gear, prep with you, or even... show up. Yikes.

Experienced, full-time DJs are pros. They’ll:

- Help you plan your timeline.

- Suggest music for special moments (no more Googling “cool cake cutting songs” at 1am).

- Adjust energy throughout the day so everything flows seamlessly.

- Come with legit gear and backups. No janky laptops or mystery playlists from LimeWire.

Don’t Forget the Ceremony Needs

Let me say it louder for the people in the back: if you’re having vows or speeches, your DJ needs to have a proper PA system.

Nothing says “buzzkill” like feedback squeals during the vows... or worse—total silence because the mic died right before your officiant says, “You may kiss the bride.” Tragic. Preventable.

Ask your DJ:

- Can you provide ceremony audio?

- Do you have wireless mics that actually work?

- Do you know how to use them without making everyone’s ears bleed?

Want a Raging Dance Floor? Get an Interactive DJ

Some DJs are super hands-off—hit play, cross arms, vibe in the corner. Cool for a lounge.

But if you want people dancing like it’s 1999, you need a DJ who reads the room and hypes it up. Think song transitions, crowd engagement, and maybe even getting Nana to bust a move to Beyoncé.

If your DJ can’t get your wedding party to move after a couple cocktails... it might not be the party you hoped for.

- Know your wedding vibe, then find a DJ who fits it.

- Don’t cheap out—your DJ sets the mood for the whole dang day.

- Make sure they can handle audio for your ceremony and speeches.

- Interactive DJs = packed dance floors.

- Don’t wait until the day-of to find out your DJ’s mic situation is powered by hopes and dreams.

A great DJ will make your wedding feel like you—whether that’s a relaxed dinner vibe, a sweaty dance party, or something in between. Just don’t settle for the guy who brings an aux cord and a prayer.