Part Three of my “Never Settle for Good” series digs into the qualities that truly separate a merely competent DJ from one who elevates your entire wedding. From approachability and microphone etiquette to vendor cooperation, modern equipment, adaptability, professionalism, and emotional intelligence—this entry reveals why the best DJs aren’t just great with music. They’re great with people. And that difference can make or break your reception.
January 30, 2025
An excellent DJ simply must be affable and welcoming. He or she should be capable of getting along with the crowd. Some hostile DJs refuse to be interrupted. These DJs believe they know better than you and that speaking to you will only ruin their set. Avoid these DJs at all costs because they will blight your event.
Excellent DJs are always responsive and know how to handle your guests' requests. They also establish a rapport with the audience. Make sure the DJ you hire has strong communication and microphone skills. Experienced DJs know when to get on the mic and involve the crowd. Just as important, they know when to turn off the microphone.
As the emcee, an excellent DJ engages the crowd by being upbeat and enthusiastic with his or her announcements, but your guests are NOT there to see him or her. Most everyone can recall a horrible DJ who talked too much and wasn’t funny or warm and welcoming with their guests. You do not hire a DJ to be a comedian. Always professional, excellent DJs do not have a comedy schtick or a routine. They do not insert their own identities; rather they make the event all about you and your guests’ celebration. An excellent DJ never allows him or herself to become the center of attention. Excellent DJs provide smooth-flowing events with proper mic etiquette to formally guide the crowd through the night. They pump up the crowd when appropriate, but their job is to keep your guests informed about what is going on and what is up next. Excellent DJs know not to talk into the microphone all night. You hire a DJ to entertain your guests through a great mix of music, and that is what an excellent DJ does.
It should also be stated that an excellent DJ pumps up the crowd in many different ways without the help of a microphone. A complimentary light show is just as important. When a DJ involves the audience in his or her performance, the event feels more inclusive and special to those who are a part of it. This includes your other vendors.
Note that an excellent DJ doesn’t have to keep just the audience happy. He or she also has to maintain a positive relationship with the venue and its employees or hired contractors.
DJs often perform at wedding receptions. Simple mistakes by an unapproachable DJ might ruin the entire event. When a DJ is unapproachable, he or she won’t know when unique moments occur. An inexperienced DJ will miss moments like the bouquet toss or cake-cutting ceremony because he or she has not communicated with the event staff or the hired photographer.
An excellent DJ is part of the experience from start to finish. He or she isn't just there to make music. He or she is there to make the night unforgettable. Hiring a DJ with a positive and approachable attitude is essential for a memorable experience.
Keeping up with music trends and sites is essential for a successful DJ. They can’t keep the crowd engaged without knowledge. Knowing popular trends helps, but knowing when it is appropriate and inappropriate to play those trending songs is better. The biggest country hit at the moment might not be the right choice when someone requests a country track. But with a solid understanding of music, an excellent DJ would know the perfect moment to play it so that the celebration’s vibe isn’t ruined.
A DJ with outdated technology is never a good choice because he or she is less adaptable to the unique needs of an event. This lack of flexibility leads to an expectation that all events should follow their rigid format that doesn’t serve the best interest of all attendees. Also, a DJ who doesn’t keep up with technology advancements and trends might have outdated equipment. Outdated equipment tends to malfunction. You don’t want a beautiful moment ruined because a song stops playing or the lights go out.
An excellent DJ also has a strong social media presence. Excellent DJs use digital marketing as a means of advertisement. A DJ with a weak social media presence might be someone with a less than ideal set-up. Determine if your DJ has an excellent system by taking time to view his or her site or social media.
Excellent DJs understand liabilities and insurance. Most venues provide insurance coverage, but DJs are responsible for things that can go wrong. If someone trips on a loose cord that the DJ has left exposed on the dance floor, that is the DJ’s responsibility. An excellent DJ knows what dangers there are and how to avoid them. Additionally, an excellent DJ is aware of copyright infringement laws. Be careful of inexperienced and unprofessional DJs. They might be playing their songs illegally. Excellent DJs are aware of copyright laws and protect their clients from risks.
Equipment fails, and sometimes no one is at fault. Faulty electrical wiring might blow a speaker or an entire set of equipment. An excellent DJ has backup equipment ready and available whenever unfortunate accidents occur. No one wants the night to end because of an unexpected event. Excellent DJs keep equipment insurance just for these situations. An inexperienced DJ might not be ready for these situations where faulty equipment ruins the night.
In closing, knowing what makes an excellent DJ means knowing you’ve selected the right person that will make your event memorable. As you search for the perfect DJ for your event, keep these qualities in mind before choosing.
The emotional impact of a DJ’s performance separates the good from the excellent. A good DJ provides a fun and enjoyable experience, keeping the crowd dancing and entertained. However, an excellent DJ creates an unforgettable and emotional journey through music. He or she leaves a lasting impression that resonates with the audience long after the event, turning a night out into a profound musical experience.
An excellent DJ is positive and approachable with a passion for music. He or she has a strong social media presence and a professional attitude. Most importantly, an excellent DJ comes to your event prepared but open with a sense of spontaneity.
Please, never settle for "good." You deserve better.
Previous Post Return to Blog Next Post