What are some tips for DJing at a wedding?

Short answer

Plan your playlist in advance, but leave room for requests. Start with background music, build up slowly, and finish with crowd favourites. Keep the volume at a level where people can still chat, and have a friend manage the music so you can enjoy the day.

The best tip for DJing your own wedding is to plan, but stay flexible. Create a playlist that flows from the ceremony to the drinks reception, then dinner, and finally the dancing. For the dancing, start with slower, familiar songs and build up to high-energy tracks.

Ask your guests for requests before the day. You can put a note in your invitations or on your wedding website. That way you have a list of songs people actually want to hear. On the night, let a friend or member of the bridal party take requests and add them to the playlist.

Keep the volume sensible. If the music is too loud, guests cannot talk and the atmosphere suffers. Aim for a level where people can hold a conversation but still feel the energy. You can always turn it up later in the evening.

Have a clear order for the key moments: the first dance, the cake cutting, and the last song. Practise the transitions so they feel smooth. And remember, you are the host. If you are behind the decks all night, you will miss your own party. Delegate the technical side to someone you trust.