Key Things to Discuss with Your Birthday DJ Before the Event

tailormadebeatsdj
Apr 28
3 min read

Planning a birthday party is exciting, but the music must be spot-on if you want the celebration to come alive! That's where a professional birthday DJ comes in. However, hiring a DJ isn't just about booking someone and hoping they know what to do. Discuss a few essential things with your birthday DJ before the big day to ensure your party runs smoothly and the dancefloor stays busy. If you're wondering, "What should you talk to your DJ about?" — don't worry! Here's a handy guide to ensure you cover all the essentials.

1. Your Vision for the Party

Start by sharing your overall vision with your birthday DJ. Will the party be a high-energy dance fest, a laid-back cocktail gathering, or a fun family event? Your DJ needs to understand the mood you're aiming for so they can tailor their performance to match.

Discuss:

The vibe you want (e.g., energetic, chilled, family-friendly)
The age range of your guests
Any cultural elements or traditions you'd like included

The more details you provide, the better your birthday DJ can create the perfect soundtrack for the day or night.

2. Music Preferences

Music is at the heart of any party. Make sure you communicate:

Your "must-play" songs
Artists or genres you love
Songs or genres you want to avoid

Many DJs love it when clients send a playlist or sample songs. It gives them a clearer idea of your musical tastes and helps them build a cohesive, personalised set that suits you and your guests.

3. Special Moments and Announcements

Will there be a big entrance? A cake-cutting ceremony? A speech? Maybe a special dance? Talk through the schedule with your DJ so they can prepare the right songs and timing for each critical moment. If you want your DJ to make announcements, let them know in advance so they can bring the right energy and professionalism to the mic.

Key moments might include:

Guest of honour arrival
Cake cutting
Speeches or toasts
Group dances or games

4. The Set-Up and Venue Details

Not all venues are created equal. Some have sound restrictions, outdoor limitations, or tricky layouts. It's essential to discuss:

Venue address and contact details
Set-up time and access requirements
Available power sources
Indoor or outdoor considerations

If your party is outdoors, your birthday DJ may need to bring weatherproof equipment or a canopy. Sorting out the technical side helps avoid last-minute surprises.

5. Equipment Needs

Ask your DJ about the equipment they'll be providing. A professional DJ typically brings:

Speakers
Mixers
Microphones
Lights (if requested)

However, it's still worth double-checking! If you have a large venue or expect a big crowd, you may need extra speakers or enhanced lighting to create the right atmosphere.

6. Timing and Playlist Length

Your birthday DJ will need to know:

Start and end times
Whether you want background music during meals or quieter times
How long do you expect dancing to last

Make sure you agree on how flexible they can be if the party runs longer than planned — some DJs offer extended sets for an additional fee.

7. Dress Code and Presentation

Your DJ will be a visible part of your event, so it's essential that they dress appropriately. Whether it's a black-tie affair, a casual pool party, or a fancy-dress-themed bash, let your birthday DJ know the dress code so they can match the vibe of your celebration.

8. Backup Plans

It's always wise to ask about contingency plans. What happens if the DJ falls ill? Do they have backup equipment in case of technical issues? A professional DJ will have solid answers to these questions and reassure you that the show will continue, no matter what.

Bottomline

Hiring a birthday DJ can turn your party into an unforgettable event, but good communication is key. Discussing these important topics before the event will avoid misunderstandings, create a great atmosphere, and ensure you and your guests have an incredible time. After all, birthdays only come once a year — so make sure yours is celebrated in style with the perfect beats to match! Collaborate with the DJs from Tailor Made Beats DJ and have the best time!!