You don’t need to arrive at your first DJ conversation with a spreadsheet of 200 songs. A few thoughtful starting points tell a much better story.

Start with the feeling

Describe the reception in a sentence. A warm dinner that turns into a dance party? A joyful family gathering with music across generations? A room full of friends who know every word to the same songs?

That sentence is a useful filter for everything that follows.

Give the big moments their own space

Write down the moments that need a specific song, if they are part of your plans: the entrance, first dance, family dances, and the final song. Think about whether you’d prefer the whole track or a shorter moment, and discuss timing with your DJ.

Then leave breathing room around them. Not every minute needs to be prescribed.

Share three small lists

  • Must play: the songs that feel like you.
  • Would love: favorites that suit the mood if the moment is right.
  • Please skip: anything that simply isn’t your thing.

Add any cultural traditions, important versions or recordings, and guidance on explicit lyrics. Those details can be more useful than a long playlist.

Think about your people

Your wedding is yours, but your guests bring their own memories to the dance floor. Share a little about the ages, tastes, and people you hope will join in.

Ready to talk through the music? Tell us about your celebration.