Your wedding reception music can either keep your guests on the floor or make them run out the door. We’ve given you tips on crafting the perfect wedding playlists before; now we’re doing the opposite and giving you mistakes to avoid so your wedding reception isn’t a complete flop.
Hiring a DJ who doesn’t customize.
This is your wedding. While there is something to be said for leaving the important decisions to the experts, you should have some input into the songs that are played for your guests. For example, if you have a traditional German family, you may want some polkas included in your wedding playlist. Don’t hire a DJ who doesn’t ask for your input. Those are usually the DJs that use a standard playlist (and can’t even accommodate your guests’ requests!)—and your wedding should be anything but standard. This is your big night; use these questions to vet your DJs and hire the right DJ that creates a custom playlist for your big day.
Not giving your DJ any options.
We all have songs that give us the same sensation as hearing nails on a chalkboard. That being said, you don’t want to add so many songs to the ‘do not play’ list (yes, your DJ should ask you for this list) that your DJ can’t play any of your guests’ favorite songs.
Putting too many songs on the ‘must play’ list.
Be realistic when you put together your wedding reception playlist. Ask your DJ how many songs they can play so you’re not disappointed. Give your DJ a list of “we really, really want” and another list of “these songs may or may not get played.” To ensure that really special songs make it to the top, give your DJ a short explanation of why they are important (and let the DJ know if they can share it at the reception!).
Thinking you can handle it all by yourself.
As much as you think you can handle DIY wedding reception music, think over your decision carefully. While it’s true you can customize your wedding playlist, you also have to find the time to compile the list, invest in good equipment, and deal with any headaches if your equipment breaks down. That list doesn’t even include finding someone who is willing to give up a night of fun to run the equipment.
Being too risqué in your music.
As much as you love that song, you don’t want to hear from your friends and family for days and weeks about the songs that traumatized their kids. For the most part, make sure your music is PG-13 and songs that your guests want to dance too (or hire an excellent wedding DJ that’s done this before). Trust us, your guests will thank you if you do.