Your wedding day deserves the good stuff: big smiles, happy tears, and a dancefloor that doesn’t quit. In the North East — from Crathorne Hall to Matfen Hall — the right DJ doesn’t just play songs; they set the mood, read the room, and turn a lovely day into an unreal night. The person behind the decks really does make the difference.
I’m Alastair from Alastair Reay DJ & Wedding Host. After years orchestrating unforgettable celebrations across Newcastle, Durham, Northumberland and beyond, I’ve learned one thing: not all wedding DJs are the same. To help you find your perfect match (apart from the one you’re marrying), here are seven simple, smart questions — no jargon, no faff — to make choosing easy and enjoyable.
1. How Long Have You Been DJing Weddings and What's Your North East Experience?
Experience isn’t just about years — it’s about weddings. Real couples, real timelines, real curveballs. Ask about their wedding experience specifically, not just clubs or parties.
Local know-how matters. A North East pro gets the Geordie gusto and the elegant Durham touch, knows which tracks ignite a Newcastle crowd, and understands the mix of ages and cultures we see up here.
A great wedding DJ will:
- read the room and manage energy all night
- glide between moments — ceremony, first dance, last song
- handle hiccups without fuss (so you never notice)
- know when to lift it and when to keep it tender
2. Which Areas Do You Cover and Are You Available for My Date?
Short answer: hire local-ish. A DJ who works across Northumberland, Tyne & Wear, County Durham and North Yorkshire will already know the venues, quirks and acoustics — from Le Petit Chateau’s cosy corners to big, echoey ballrooms.
That familiarity usually means:
- smoother load-ins and quicker setup
- better sound in tricky spaces
- fewer last-minute surprises
- happy venue teams (which helps your day run smoothly)
Dates go fast, especially summer Saturdays. If you love a DJ, get your date locked in early. Busy calendars are a good sign.
3. What's Your Performance Style and Musical Specialization?
Every DJ brings their own flavour. Some are mix-masters, some are selection wizards, the best do both. You want someone who matches your vibe and keeps nan, your mates, and the work lot all buzzing.
Ask about range. A proper wedding DJ should comfortably cover:
- classic soul, Motown and disco
- indie anthems and pop bangers
- R&B, house and party throwbacks
- cultural favourites and special requests
Also ask how they build the night:
- cocktail hour: set the tone without stealing the show
- dinner: warm things up and seed future dancefloor hits
- party: keep it packed, blend ages, avoid lulls
4. How Do You Handle Music Requests and Playlist Collaboration?
Your day, your soundtrack. The best DJs collaborate with you, then steer the night so it flows.
Look for:
- simple planning tools and a friendly consultation
- must-plays that feel like you, not a Spotify shuffle
- do-not-plays (we all have them)
- special moment cues for aisle walks, first dance and big entrances
Guest requests? Great when they fit your brief. A confident pro will take the good ones and politely swerve the mood-killers — keeping your dancefloor full and your preferences front and centre.
5. What Equipment Do You Provide and How Do You Ensure Quality?
Great sound and slick lighting make a huge difference. Ask what they bring and how they back it up.
Essentials to expect:
- pro-grade speakers matched to your room size
- tidy setup with all the right cables and connections
- backup gear on-site (because tech gremlins exist)
- regular kit maintenance and updates
Lighting lifts everything:
- warm uplighting to boost your venue’s ambience
- dancefloor effects for a proper party feel
- colour washes that match your palette
Practical must-haves:
- PAT-tested equipment
- public liability insurance
- clear, professional coordination with your venue
6. What Backup Plans and Emergency Procedures Do You Have?
Stuff happens. Good news: pros plan for it so you don’t stress.
Ask about:
- backup DJs they trust if illness strikes
- spare equipment on-site and quick-swap plans
- how they handle power issues or venue quirks
- insurance that actually covers what matters
The goal is simple: keep the music flowing and the party smiling, no drama.
7. What Additional Services Do You Offer and What's the Total Investment?
Today’s wedding DJs do much more than mix tunes. Many can help you stitch the whole day together.
Popular add-ons:
- ceremony music and microphones for vows
- cocktail hour and dinner playlists
- speech mics and friendly hosting
- lighting upgrades and photo booth options
On pricing, ask for a clear, all-in quote. As a guide, professional wedding DJ services with extras often come in around £900, with variations based on hours, kit and experience.
Value boosters to consider:
- bundle ceremony + reception for better rates
- extend the party hours in advance (cheaper than on the night)
- add lighting for maximum atmosphere per pound
Making Your Final Decision
Beyond the checklist, trust the vibe. You want a DJ who’s genuinely excited for your day, listens well, and brings calm, confident energy.
Do a quick credibility check:
- recent wedding references you can actually speak to
- up-to-date reviews that mention communication and reliability
- clear, friendly planning process from first hello to last dance
Your Perfect North East Wedding Awaits
Pick the right DJ and your reception turns from “nice” to “no one wanted to leave.” Ask the smart questions, trust your instincts, and choose someone who’ll tailor everything to you.
The North East has incredible venues and even better people. You deserve entertainment that matches that energy — professional, personal and packed with moments you’ll talk about for years.
Ready to chat DJs without the hard sell? Get in touch and let’s create a soundtrack your guests will still be raving about long after the last tune.