Dance to the rhythm of DJ Spencer Crum

What questions should I ask before hiring a wedding DJ?

What is included in your cost? Are there add-ons available? Will you also provide MC services? How extensive is your music library? Can you take requests? What are the ingredients to a good dance party?

Where can you easily find a DJ for a wedding?

Anywhere. Facebook, your local dance club, or your cousin Daryl. I recommend professional sites like Wedding Venture or WeddingWire because they provide extensive reviews from previous clients. There are a lot of DJ's who provide outstanding service, but I've also heard the horror stories. Your wedding entertainment should align with the vision both partners share, previous reviews should articulate if a potential MC/DJ can deliver on your expectations.

How much do wedding DJs cost nowadays?

The cost of any professional varies and DJs are no different.

You want to look at key variables:

• Experience
• Number of events they do a year
• Quality of equipment
• Your expectations of them for the event

A lot of DJ's will have add-ons for additional services or equipment needs. So you're looking at the low end of $200 and a beer for your buddy's friend who likes to play music to $3,000 for someone who is orchestrating multiple set-ups, lighting, photo booth and anything else that is on your wish list.

A great DJ is a sound technician, party starter, voice to your loved ones, and deflects those bad requests from that one cousin.

Is a DJ necessary for a wedding reception?

Sometimes yes and sometimes no. Do you have the equipment? A person to partner with other professionals and create a streamlined event? Pull the right strings and having your loved ones moving on the dance floor for hours on end? Do you want to deal with setting up speakers and microphones at multiple locations, put music together, guide people through the evening's events? Ultimately you want to decide what is important to you. A great DJ is a sound technician, party starter, voice to your loved ones, and deflects those bad requests from that one cousin. Some people have no problem fixing issues with their car, while the rest of us look for a trusted professional.

Why is it that DJs charge so much?

You aren't just paying someone to press play on a controller. You're paying for the quality of equipment they've invested in, practice behind a microphone MC-ing, starting and keeping parties going for hours on end, and the ability to endlessly serve with care a couple and their loved ones. I can't speak of other professionals pricing, but I try to strive to offer a great service at a competitive rate.

Why is it that DJs charge so much?

You aren't just paying someone to press play on a controller. You're paying for the quality of equipment they've invested in, practice behind a microphone MC-ing, starting and keeping parties going for hours on end, and the ability to endlessly serve with care a couple and their loved ones. I can't speak of other professionals pricing, but I try to strive to offer a great service at a competitive rate.

What are the top songs to include on a wedding DJ playlist?

The ones you love but realize it might not get your guests moving too. Think about a handful of oldies you like: soul, funk, rock, rap. Think outside of the box, but remember the classics help weave it all together.

Why are DJs more popular than bands at weddings?

I don't know if DJs are more popular. I would say I offer more versatility than a band. I work with couples to customize a tailored musical experience throughout their event. I don't imagine bands have the ability to MC as seamlessly as a DJ does.

What are the top songs to include on a wedding DJ playlist?

The ones you love but realize it might not get your guests moving too. Think about a handful of oldies you like: soul, funk, rock, rap. Think outside of the box, but remember the classics help weave it all together.

I would say I offer more versatility than a band. I work with couples to customize a tailored musical experience throughout their event.

Why are DJs more popular than bands at weddings?

I don't know if DJs are more popular. I would say I offer more versatility than a band. I work with couples to customize a tailored musical experience throughout their event. I don't imagine bands have the ability to MC as seamlessly as a DJ does.

What makes a great DJ?

A great DJ is someone who is professional, responsive, and has the ability to pick the perfect next song to keep the dance party going.

What are the best speakers for a DJ who does weddings?

Ones that won't go out! I personally invested in JBL's Professional line because they are the most reliable, have the best sound quality, and I can trust they will perform flawlessly all through-out the night.

A bride and groom know best the vibe of their guests, so it helps to work closely with them to get a good base-list of songs.

How to make a good wedding playlist?

A good wedding playlist includes cross-generational songs; some old and new. A bride and groom know best the vibe of their guests, so it helps to work closely with them to get a good base-list of songs. I've had couples provide some genres or extensive lists, but it's about balance and knowing what gets bodies moving.