While hiring the right DJ can make or break your big day, keep in mind that it takes two to tango, and it is up to you to communicate your wishes clearly in advance. Don’t just wing it.

Here are five things you should communicate to your wedding DJ to get the party started and keep it going.

How to Pronounce Names?

Determine who will introduce the newlyweds and the wedding party during the grand entrance. If you choose to hire a DJ, be sure to provide your DJ with a phonetic spelling of the wedding party’s names, especially if there are any unusual names (first and/or last) in the mix.

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Apart from introductions, inform your DJ if you anticipate doing a lot of emceeing. Some of them will do this naturally if you don’t ask them. If you decide to share your preferences with your DJ emcee, do so. Are you at ease with being the focus of attention? Are there any subjects or people to avoid? People in your bridal party or family may have a hard time getting along. You can tell your DJ about this so he or she can interact with those people and make announcements at your reception with the utmost care and sensitivity.

When to Play What and for How Long?

After you’ve discussed the key points, it’s time to choose your playlist. You’ll want to inform your DJ about the songs you’ve chosen for key moments (think wedding party introduction, first dance, father-daughter, and mother-son dances, cake cutting, bouquet and garter toss, and final song). Timing is also critical for song selection. Will you and your partner, for example, dance for the entire five minutes, or would you prefer that your DJ fade out the song after three minutes?

The Context for Song Requests

Rather than simply providing a list of songs that you’d like to hear, encourage your wedding DJ to pick the best playlist to entertain your guests. However, you should discuss your favorite songs with them. It will help the best wedding DJ in Melbourne to identify your personal taste to choose what other songs, artists, or genres should be played.

You’ve created a “Do Not Play” List

Oftentimes, a list of prohibited songs is more important than your playlist, especially if the DJ is willing to take requests from guests—something you and your DJ must discuss. Allow space for the DJ to take requests, but don’t be afraid to exclude anything you despise (e.g., no line dances). The DJ should simply inform guests who request those specific songs that they are unavailable. Along with songs that are off-limits, be specific about language (e.g., foul language) and volume preferences.