How Much Does A Wedding DJ Cost?

You have been dreaming about this date since you were a little girl.   The man of your dreams has finally proposed, and now you have the fun task of planning the wedding.   As you plan your budget for the ceremony and reception, we are often questioned by brides, here were some of their questions and comments, “How much does a DJ cost?”   We also here this question, “Where can I find a cheap wedding DJ,” or sometimes, “we are lucky because a friend of the family is going to DJ our reception, it’s a wedding gift.”

 

So how much does a wedding DJ really cost?   The entertainment you choose will be responsible for 80% of your reception’s success.    Your guests will not remember the cake, the food, the napkins, but one thing is certain, your guests will remember the atmosphere and how much fun they did or didn’t have.

 

Sure you can find what you think might be a great deal now on a DJ.   For example, a family friend, who is free, or a company you found that will do it for $400.    It may seem like a great deal now, but what happens when we get to your reception?   The $400 DJ that you thought was a great deal, actually turned out to a nightmare, and ruins your wedding reception.    Here are some examples that we hear at consultations about cheap DJ’s that ruined their friend or relative’s wedding:

• The DJ never showed up
• The DJ was late
• He didn’t have any of the songs we requested
• We asked for “no cheese,” he played several cheesy songs
• The DJ got drunk at my wedding
• He mispronounced our names
• He was embarrassing on the microphone
• The DJ didn’t have our first dance
• Nothing was coordinated, no one knew what was suppose to happen next

The cheap DJ that you thought would be a steal, actually turned out to be the most expensive part of the night, your lost memories, that you will never be able to get back.

Your wedding is a once-in-a lifetime event, don’t ruin it with horrible entertainment.   We realize that couples are all on a budget, and certainly there are ways to save at your reception, but make certain that you make entertainment a priority in your planning and find someone professional, so your wedding is one that you will cherish for the rest of your life.

Good professional DJ companies can vary widely in terms of cost depending on where you are located regionally.    A cheap DJ will cost $0 to about $550 on a Saturday evening.    An average DJ company will cost anywhere from $800-$1200 on a Saturday, and $600-$900 on a Friday, depending on the packages and options you choose for your event.    Again, it will vary by region.   Some will cost more or less depending on the level of experience they hold.   You will need to consider things like how many hours you need your DJ for, size of the room, and number of guests.    Do you need ceremony music, do you need extra speakers?

My recommendation is to stay away from someone who is offering to do it for free or a cheap DJ.  Often times they don’t have a contract, and could bail on you at any given moment, and they often lack experience, leaving you with a ruined wedding.

Look at your total wedding budget, and if you are short on funds, look at trimming in other areas, to get a company who is going to offer you a memorable experience and a lot of value, or plan to have your reception on a Friday.   Compare what each of the DJ’s you are evaluating offer, then interview them in an informal setting, and ask plenty of questions.   You should be able to have a wonderful, memorable reception with someone who charges anywhere from $700-$1000 range.

The DJ should be able to meet with you before you sign a contract, coordinate all of the activities, announcements etc, offer suggestions on music and ideas for your event, along with mixing the perfect blend of music, along with your requests, and the requests of your guests.

Choose wisely, and ask tons of questions.   Don’t book your friend or a $400 DJ, just because it looks like a great deal! 

Questions Any couple should ask before Booking a DJ

Tips for Choosing Your Transportation for your wedding

Choosing A Reception Venue in Wisconsin

The Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist