Category Archives: DJ playlist

disco balls from a wedding dance

Wedding DJ Checklist

There’s one thing that’s remained true in all the years we’ve been wedding DJs in the Chicago area: every couple is incredibly different. Some couples come to us with absolutely no ideas for wedding reception songs and others have definite ideas for their wedding playlist.

If you’re one of the latter, this checklist is the perfect way to get all those wedding music ideas down on paper. Once you’ve chosen the perfect wedding DJ, give them this list and prepare yourself for a night of fun!

Must-Play List

These are the songs you absolutely have to hear. Use these wedding playlist tips to come up with the right combination of tunes!

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Must-Not Play List

Make sure you don’t take your guests’ favorites off the list. These tips for crafting a must-not play list can be incredibly helpful.

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Cocktail Music Ideas

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Wedding Party Entrance Music Ideas

Don’t hesitate to ask your bridal party and DJ for suggestions!

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First Dance Ideas

If you don’t have a clear favorite, use these tips to narrow down your options to the perfect tune that fits you as a couple.

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Father & Daughter Dance

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Mother & Son Dance

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Bouquet & Garter Toss Songs

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Surprise Dance Song

Want to surprise your guests? Use this list of wedding reception surprises for inspiration and don’t forget to include your DJ in on the fun!

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Wedding Dance Games

Use these ideas for wedding dance games that give your guests more than dancing to spice up the fun!

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Tips for Crafting the Perfect Wedding Playlist

wedding reception playlistWe’ve heard very few couples say, “I want my wedding guests to have a boring time at my wedding reception.” In fact, we haven’t heard any couples say that, but we have heard a lot of concerns about crafting the perfect song playlist. Couples want everything to be perfect, and the perfect mix of songs for their special day. A couple can leave the playlist in their DJ’s hands, but many couples want input into the playlist. They just don’t know where to start.

We’ve been DJ’ing since 1998 at more than 4,000 events, received awards, and have sat in the room with hundreds of couples trying to piece together this important piece of their wedding reception. So how do you put together the perfect wedding playlist?

Make a list of must-have wedding songs you have to hear

Do you have songs you love to hear, or a favorite song of your parents or friends that you would all love to dance to? Put them down on paper. If you want to craft a playlist your guests love, ask them for their requests when they send back their RSVP.

If you’ve seen something at another wedding, or have a special request for the playlist or the reception in general, make the request as soon as possible.

Be clear about what you don’t want

We all have a song that sounds like nails on a chalkboard, or a wedding activity that we HATE. Sit down with your fiance and make a list of those “Do not play” songs so you both are saved from those annoying songs on your wedding playlist. Be honest with your DJ now, so you don’t end up irritated when you are supposed to be having fun.

Be realistic about the amount of songs that can be played

There are only so many songs that can be played at your wedding reception, so be realistic about how many songs are to be played that night. A good rule to live y is approximately 15-20 songs per hour.

Choose the best DJ service

If you want a DJ you can trust, hire an experienced DJ service that can take your input and run with it. You, and your guests, are going to be very glad you did as they have an incredible evening complete with the perfect wedding playlist.