How to Hire a Wedding DJ That You Will LOVE

Planning your wedding is exciting, but choosing the right DJ can make or break your reception. Your wedding DJ sets the tone for the entire celebration, keeping guests engaged and the dance floor packed.

Here are the 4 ESSENTIAL points you should consider when hiring a Wedding DJ in Reno that you will LOVE!

1. Reviews & Reputation

The first thing you should do when researching potential DJs is check their reviews across multiple platforms.

While Google reviews might be the most convenient starting point, don't stop there. Check out:

• Google Reviews - Look for consistent 5-star ratings
• Yelp - See what customers say on this popular review platform
• WeddingWire - Wedding-specific reviews from real couples
• Facebook - Check their business page for testimonials

What Makes DJs In Reno Different?

I have hundreds of cumulative reviews between each of these platforms, and each one is 5 Stars!

Here's why:

• I always play something for each generation, demographic, and group present
• I am always grateful for every single gig, big or small
• I bring passion and excitement to each event because I am passionate about Music

Another key point to consider is authenticity. Look beyond the star rating and read the actual reviews. Do they mention specific details about their experience? Are the reviews consistent over time?

I always have a great time with my clients at my events. See for yourself in my photo gallery!

2. Compare Prices of Each DJ

Ah yes. Pricing! Have you ever heard the expression: "You get what you pay for?"

This expression is usually true. You want to pay a fair amount, but you also don't want to get ripped off.

So How Much is Fair?

Let's answer that question in the context of hiring a professional DJ for a wedding.

Keep in mind that the type of event you're looking to hire a DJ for will affect the hourly rate.

For an 8-hour Ceremony and Reception, you can expect to pay around $500/hr. So, for an 8-hour event, that would be around $4,000 of performance time.

Why do I say "around?" Because every gig is different.

Each event involves:

• Unique musical tastes or special requests from every couple
• Purchasing, downloading, organizing, and backing up each song on multiple devices
• Rehearsing each name on the bridal party
• Loading, setting up, tearing down, and unloading each piece of DJ equipment
• Time spent on email correspondence, phone calls, interviews, etc.

That's quite a bit of work!

Important Questions to Ask About Equipment & Services

Equipment Included:

• Does your DJ provide microphones? Are they wireless?
• What about a lapel microphone for the officiant? This is very important because you want your officiant to be able to read their script hands free without a big microphone stand in the middle of your ceremony
• Does your DJ provide lights? What kind? How many?

Services & Experience:

• Will your DJ also be the Master of Ceremonies (MC) for your event? Or do they expect you to pay more for this?
• Does your DJ own their equipment or do they have to rent?
• What about backup equipment? Things always change last minute, and even the most reliable computer will fail. The only way to prepare for this is to have and use backups
• Does your DJ use brand name equipment? I always use the absolute highest quality brand name equipment and gear
• Does your DJ offer Karaoke packages? I do!

Pricing Details:

• Is gratuity baked into the DJ's price, or do they expect you to take care of this after the event?
• How does your DJ charge for driving time? Some DJs bake the cost of travel into their quote, some charge by the mile. Make sure you discuss this in advance

Experience Matters

A DJ with more experience will generally charge more, and this is understandable.

I've been a preferred Reno DJ for 10+ years, and I only use the highest quality brand name equipment.

I have experience working at Twenty Mile House as their in-house DJ. Twenty Mile House is one of the biggest corporate wedding venues on the west coast, where weddings start at $40,000.

The only reason I bring that up is to note the fact that they don't hire just anybody, and they hired me.

I charge a fair rate for that experience. I ask for a rate that is fair for me and for my clients. That experience allows me to guarantee that my guests will have an awesome time at my events.

I also always use backup equipment for each critical system.

Do some research, collect some quotes. Don't get ripped off!

3. Interview Each Potential Wedding DJ (In Person)

So at this point, you have found some potential DJs who could be a good fit.

Now what?

Now, you should try and meet with each DJ and see how the meeting goes.

You've got a few options:

• Traditional phone call
• Zoom meeting
• In person

Which Should You Choose?

In Person. In-person meetings are always best.

Why? Because you will be able to get the most accurate feeling from meeting each potential DJ in person.

Questions You Should Ask Each DJ

• How many weddings have you completed?
• Do you take requests?
• What is your cancellation policy?
• Do you have backup equipment?
• Can you provide references?
• What is your style/approach to DJing weddings?
• How do you keep the dance floor full?
• What happens if you get sick or have an emergency?
• Do you have liability insurance?

Pay Attention to These Details

During the interview, notice:

• Professionalism - Are they on time? Well-prepared?
• Communication - Do they listen to your needs? Answer questions thoroughly?
• Personality - Do you vibe with them? They'll be a big part of your wedding day
• Enthusiasm - Are they genuinely excited about your wedding?
• Organization - Do they have systems in place for planning and preparation?

4. Trust Your Gut

After you've done your research, compared prices, and met with potential DJs, it comes down to this:

Trust your gut feeling.

You'll know when you've found the right DJ.

They'll make you feel confident, excited, and at ease about your wedding reception.

The right DJ will:

• Listen to your vision
• Offer helpful suggestions based on experience
• Make you feel comfortable and confident
• Have stellar reviews from real couples
• Provide transparent pricing
• Be professional and enthusiastic

Ready to find your perfect wedding DJ? Learn more about my wedding packages or view pricing details