When you’re planning a wedding, one of the many decisions you’ll make on the way to the aisle is the type of music and entertainment you’ll have for guests. Do you hire a DJ or a live band? Do you create your own playlist or let them run with it? 

While DJs bring a lot to the table (no pun intended), it’s important to select a wedding DJ you can trust to keep the party alive. And in searching for the best fit, you’ll want to ask the all-important question:

How do you handle song requests as a wedding DJ?

There’s only one right answer: It’s up to you! A great wedding DJ leaves that decision to the couple, as it’s a matter of preference. 

While we leave it up to our couples, we generally support guest requests as it adds an element of interaction to the celebration. If guests pick songs they love, it will surely get them on the dance floor! (Plus, there may even be some jams you forgot about in the shuffle of planning your wedding!)

But accepting guest requests doesn’t mean you lose control of your wedding vibe. Here are a few suggestions for opening the floor while maintaining the right energy:

Collect song requests before the wedding.

A popular way to involve guests in the party process early is by asking for song requests on the RSVP card. This will get your guests thinking about your big day and, when the wedding day arrives, they’ll be excited to hear their song! To jazz it up even more, consider placing RSVP cards conveniently for the wedding DJ to pick them out and shoutout your guests’s requests. Nothing brings the hype like a spotlight!

Create a “do not play” list.

Don’t worry about hearing songs you hate on your wedding day. If there are certain songs you can’t stand, create a “do not play” list to share with your DJ! That way, you aren’t surprised by a song that makes you cringe on the dance floor. That goes for those overplayed wedding songs that might feel a bit cliché for your big day. Don’t be afraid to set boundaries with the songs you don’t like!

Discuss expectations with your DJ.

Of course, most couples’ main concern is that someone will request a song they hate or one that isn’t appropriate for the rest of their guests. (There’s no need to make grandma blush on your wedding day!) That’s why working with an experienced DJ is essential. 

A DJ with wedding experience will know which requests are worth taking and which aren’t a good fit for your big day. It’s their job to keep a pulse on the vibe of the party, so you can trust a seasoned DJ to take all requests with a grain of salt. 

Make sure to set clear parameters around the style of songs you would like played. Just like your well-considered decor, your music needs to fit the vibe too. So share all the details, like your favorite artists, whether explicit music can be played, and which genres you would like to avoid. 

Remember: This is your big day and your wedding DJ is there to make it all the better! Just like your other vendors, it’s vital to find a DJ you love and feel comfortable working with. After all, the DJ runs the party — so pick the best party manager you can!