To Playlist or Not to Playlist: Do You Give Your DJ a Song List?

To Playlist or Not to Playlist: Do You Give Your DJ a Song List?

One of the key decisions couples face when planning their wedding reception is whether to provide their DJ with a song list or trust them to curate the music based on their preferences and the vibe of the event. While there are pros and cons to both approaches, ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the level of control you want to exert over the musical atmosphere of your celebration. In this blog post, we’ll explore the factors to consider when deciding whether to give your DJ a song list.

  1. Trusting Your DJ’s Expertise: One of the benefits of hiring a professional DJ is entrusting them with their expertise and knowledge of music. Experienced DJs are skilled at reading the crowd, gauging the energy level, and selecting the right songs to keep guests entertained and on the dance floor. By giving your DJ creative freedom, you allow them to showcase their talent and adapt the playlist in real-time to match the mood and flow of your reception.
  2. Communicating Your Preferences: While trusting your DJ’s judgment is important, it’s also essential to communicate your musical preferences and vision for the reception. Provide your DJ with an overview of your favorite genres, artists, and must-play songs, as well as any songs you’d prefer not to hear. This gives them valuable insight into your tastes and ensures that they incorporate elements of your personality and style into the playlist.
  3. Flexibility and Spontaneity: By giving your DJ a general direction and a few key song requests, you leave room for spontaneity and unexpected musical moments. A skilled DJ can seamlessly blend your favorite songs with requests from guests, current hits, and timeless classics to create a dynamic and engaging playlist that keeps everyone entertained. Embrace the element of surprise and trust that your DJ will keep the party going all night long.
  4. Creating a Do-Not-Play List: In addition to providing a list of must-play songs, consider creating a do-not-play list of songs or genres that you dislike or find inappropriate for your wedding. This gives your DJ clear boundaries and ensures that they avoid playing anything that might detract from the celebratory atmosphere. Be upfront and specific about your preferences to prevent any potential miscommunications on the day of the event.
  5. Collaborating with Your DJ: Ultimately, the decision to give your DJ a song list depends on your comfort level and the level of involvement you want to have in curating the music for your reception. Some couples prefer to hand over the reins entirely and trust their DJ to create an unforgettable playlist, while others prefer to provide more guidance and input. Regardless of your approach, open communication and collaboration with your DJ are key to ensuring that the music reflects your personality and sets the tone for a memorable celebration.

More Trends & Tips

Groom’s Guide to Wedding Attire: Style Tips for Grooms

Groom’s Guide to Wedding Attire: Style Tips for Grooms

Your wedding day is just as much about you as it is about your bride, and looking your best is key to feeling confident and stepping into the spotlight. While much of the focus tends to be on the bride’s dress, grooms deserve to shine as well! Whether you’re opting...

Bridal Hair and Makeup Trends

Bridal Hair and Makeup Trends

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, and you’ll want to look and feel your best from head to toe. Bridal beauty trends are embracing a blend of timeless elegance and modern creativity. Whether you...

Are All Bridal Shows the Same? Spoiler: Not Even Close!

Are All Bridal Shows the Same? Spoiler: Not Even Close!

If you’ve been to one bridal show, you might be wondering: “Are all bridal shows the same?” The short answer? Absolutely NOT! 🎉 Each bridal show is a unique experience, packed with its own set of vibes, vendors, and wedding magic. Whether you’re attending your first...

Wedding Dress Shopping Tips: What Every Bride Should Know

Wedding Dress Shopping Tips: What Every Bride Should Know

Wedding dress shopping is one of the most exciting parts of planning your big day, but it can also feel a bit overwhelming. With so many styles, fabrics, and trends to choose from, it’s easy to get lost in the process. To help you navigate the bridal boutiques with...

Best of NM Weddings

Best of NM Weddings

Check out the entire list of winners on our website NMWeddingExpo.com/best-of-nm-weddings/And thanks to all of you who voted - all 935 of you - in this year's contest. Congratulations to all these amazing wedding pros! Musicians / Live Music – Rachel Kelli |...

Backyard Weddings: How to Make It Beautiful and Budget-Friendly

Backyard Weddings: How to Make It Beautiful and Budget-Friendly

Backyard weddings have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering a more personal, intimate, and cost-effective alternative to traditional venue-based weddings. With the right planning and creativity, you can transform your backyard into a stunning and...

Best Wedding Destinations in the U.S. & Abroad

Best Wedding Destinations in the U.S. & Abroad

Choosing the perfect wedding destination can set the stage for an unforgettable celebration. Whether you dream of a beachfront ceremony, a fairytale castle, or a scenic mountain backdrop, there are breathtaking wedding locations both in the U.S. and around the world....

Outdoor vs. Indoor Weddings: Pros and Cons

Outdoor vs. Indoor Weddings: Pros and Cons

Choosing between an outdoor and indoor wedding is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make during the planning process. Both settings offer unique advantages and challenges, so understanding the pros and cons can help you determine the best fit for your vision,...

Splurge vs. Save in Your Wedding

Splurge vs. Save in Your Wedding

Planning a wedding involves balancing your dream vision with a realistic budget. Some elements are worth the extra investment, while others can be scaled back without sacrificing elegance or experience. Here’s a guide on where to splurge and where to save to make the...

How to Save Money on Your Wedding Without Sacrificing Style

How to Save Money on Your Wedding Without Sacrificing Style

Planning a wedding is exciting, but it can also be expensive. However, a limited budget doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style. With some smart planning and creative solutions, you can have a stunning wedding without breaking the bank. Here are some...

Wedding Expos & Bridal Shows in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque

Sunday, January 18, 2026

Isleta Resort & Casino

12 - 5 p.m.

Albuquerque

Sunday, August 2, 2026

Embassy Suites by Hilton

12 - 5 p.m.