What Your Wedding DJ or Musicians Really Need To Know

On this week’s episode of 52 ’Til I Do, we’re diving into one of the most mood-setting parts of your wedding day: the music. Whether you're hiring a DJ, musicians, or are going for a DIY vibe, we’re walking through how to plan your wedding soundtrack with intention, without overcomplicating it.

Music touches every moment of your day, and a little planning goes a long way in making sure it all flows together.

Hitting the Right Notes with Live Musicians

If you’re considering a band or live musicians, there are two major things to think about early: space and weather.

Most venues will have a designated area for musicians, a stage, risers, or a portable platform, but those setups aren’t always universal. A string trio and a full band with a drum kit have very different needs. Ask your musicians exactly how much space they require, then confirm with your venue that their setup will actually work. Clear communication here prevents last-minute reshuffling.

Weather matters too, especially for spring and summer weddings. Heat, humidity, and direct sun can impact both musicians and their instruments. Check contracts for any requirements: Do they need shade? A tent? Are there temperature limits you should plan around? Sorting this out early helps avoid awkward day-of decisions.

What to Cover in Your Final Music Meeting

Your final meeting with your DJ or musicians is about alignment, making sure everyone is on the same page before wedding week arrives. Ideally, you will have already met with your planner or coordinator to draft a timeline for the day. Bonus points if your planner or coordinator attends this conversation with you! 

A few things we always recommend covering:

• Microphones for speeches Who’s providing them? Are they included, or an add-on? Don’t assume, confirm.
• Timing of the final meeting If possible, aim for about two to three weeks out. That buffer gives you time to adjust details without scrambling.
• Processional order Have your ceremony lineup finalized and ready to share so music cues are planned correctly.
• Set-up, décor, and lighting Ask what their setup looks like and whether any lighting or equipment could clash with your overall design.
• Song requests Decide how you want guest requests handled ahead of time. Some DJs welcome them; others prefer sticking to your guidelines. Either approach is fine — clarity is key.
• Add-Ons: If you’re planning any dance floor props (glow sticks, hats, CO₂ cannons), confirm they’re allowed by your venue before purchasing.
• Must play songs and do not play songs: Your must-plays capture what matters to you. Your do-not-plays protect the vibe. This approach gives your DJ direction while still allowing them to work their magic.
• Special Songs: Come prepared to share your processional music, recessional music selections, grand entrance, first dances and any other special traditions.

Planning Music for Each Part of the Day

Every part of your wedding has a different purpose, and your music should support that flow.

Ceremony: Plan for pre-ceremony music while guests arrive, your processional, any ceremony moments that benefit from background music, and your recessional. Know when music should start, stop, and shift.

Cocktail Hour: This is all about atmosphere. Jazz, acoustic covers, or relaxed background music that encourages mingling works best.

Reception: From your grand entrance (or low-key arrival, both are valid) to cake cutting, dinner, first dances, and open dancing, think about energy levels. Pick a hype song that feels right for you, and let your DJ guide the rest. For special moments like cake cutting or first dances, choose songs that feel authentic, not just trendy.

Final Thoughts

Music shapes how your wedding day feels, not just on the dance floor, but in every transition along the way. The goal isn’t to micromanage every song; it’s to make intentional choices, communicate clearly, and trust the professionals you’ve hired.

When your music reflects who you are and supports the rhythm of the day, everything else falls into place. And then? You get to enjoy it.

For more tips and tricks, tune into the full episode of 52 ‘Til I Do on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

Have more music related questions? Send us a message at hello@marryment.com or get in touch on our social media—we love helping couples navigate this part of wedding planning!

Photo Credit to JNA Visuals

‍Marryment proudly serves couples all across Chicago and the surrounding Chicago Suburbs including popular areas such as Schaumburg, Elmhurst, Naperville, Evanston, Joliet, Oak Park, Skokie, Barrington, Downers Grove and Northbrook, to name a few. We also love destination weddings. We'd love to be a part of your wedding day! Schedule your free planning call with us today.