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In 2025, the average cost of hiring a professional wedding DJ in the UK typically falls between £400 and £700. There will, of course, be DJs that charge less than £400, and DJs that charge more than £700. But I encourage you to read on to discover tips about choosing the right DJ for your special day.
Factors Influencing DJ Pricing
Several factors determine the cost of a wedding DJ, including:
Experience and reputation: DJs with years of experience, strong client reviews, and a well-established reputation tend to charge more. Their expertise ensures they can read the crowd, mix seamlessly, and handle any unexpected moments during the event.
Location: as expected, DJs in the north of England generally charge less than those in the south. In London, for example, the average cost of a DJ is typically higher than in Newcastle.
Event duration: most DJs charge for a standard evening reception (typically 5 hours). If you require extended hours, such as coverage for the ceremony or background music during the meal, this can increase costs.
Day of the week and seasonality: booking a venue for a Saturday during peak season (May–September) is sometimes more expensive than midweek or off-season bookings. This also sometimes applies to DJs, but not all.
Equipment and production: add-ons, such as uplighting, LED dancefloors, photobooths, karaoke or live musicians accompanying the DJ, will cost you more.
Understanding the DJ Market
Choosing a DJ solely based on price can be risky. A lower-cost DJ may lack professional-grade equipment, have limited wedding experience, or fail to provide the level of service needed for a smooth and memorable event. In some cases, you’ll find DJs who undersell themselves - offering exceptional service at a low cost - and others who charge more than their service warrants. However, the former are rare. In other words, you usually get what you pay for.
What Does the Price Typically Include?
A professional wedding DJ package usually includes:
A high-quality sound system appropriate for the venue size.
Professional DJ decks and software for seamless mixing.
A curated playlist based on your preferences and requests.
Dancefloor lighting to create a lively atmosphere.
A setup and breakdown period before and after the event.
Public liability insurance and Portable Applicance Tested (PAT) equipment (required by many venues).
Pre-event planning meetings to discuss timelines, music preferences, and special requests.
Some DJs offer additional services such as uplighting & mood lighting, LED dance floors, monogram projection, dry ice “dancing on clouds” effect, cold spark machines, confetti cannons, live saxophonist or percussionist, karaoke setup, silent disco, photo booths & selfie pods, live streaming services and extended DJ sets.
How to Choose the Right Wedding DJ
Selecting the right DJ is crucial to ensuring a packed dancefloor and a smooth-flowing evening. Here’s how to make the right choice:
Review mixes and past performances: ask for sample mixes, live recordings, or videos of past weddings to assess the DJ’s style, transitions, and ability to engage a crowd. Have they DJ'd in clubs? This doesn't necessarily make them a better Wedding DJ, but it does show their ability to DJ to bigger crowds, usually are mic confident, and usually can mix (because clubs don't usually have DJ's that can't).
Check their experience with weddings: a DJ who regularly performs at weddings understands the unique flow of the evening, from grand entrances to first dances and ensuring smooth transitions between formalities and dancing.
Read reviews and testimonials (and ask friends!): look at feedback from previous clients on Google, Facebook, or wedding directories like Hitched or Bridebook. A strong track record of positive reviews indicates reliability and professionalism. And more importantly, ask people you know that are married already, or have been to a banging wedding party!
Confirm equipment and backup plans: a professional DJ should have backup equipment in case of technical issues. They should also have a procedure in place if they are unable to perform anymore.
Ask about song requests and do-not-plays: many couples want a say in their wedding playlist. A good DJ should be open to your preferences while also reading the crowd to keep the energy high.
Verify insurance and legal requirements: most venues require DJs to have Public Liability Insurance (PLI) and PAT-tested equipment for safety compliance. Ensure your DJ provides these documents.
Make lots of enquiries, and preferably as early as possible: ask around, ideally as soon as you've booked your venue. Great suppliers get booked up quickly, especially during peak season. Get lots of quotes and ask about anything you're unsure of. Even subtle things like how quickly they respond, how they respond, can help sway your decision.
The "Mobile DJ" market is incredibly competitive. It feels like there’s a DJ on every street corner, all vying for your booking. The quality and services they offer can vary dramatically. Some DJs specialise in certain genres, while others focus on unique services (take Igloo Disco, for example). This is why pricing plays such a crucial role. Some DJs adopt a "race to the bottom" approach, undercutting competitors to secure a booking, particularly if they view it as a weekend side hustle. Keep this in mind as you make enquiries and compare prices. Generally, the more experienced or reputable DJs will stick firmly to their rates. It's not about arrogance - it’s simply that they understand their value and the demand for their services. If they’re receiving numerous bookings, there’s no need to lower their price. It’s a simple fact, but still worth considering.
Hidden Fees & Terms to Watch Out For
Read the contract carefully
When booking a DJ, always review their terms and conditions beforehand. It’s not the most exciting part of wedding planning, but it ensures you understand where you stand if anything goes wrong. Most DJs will require a deposit or non-refundable booking fee, usually ranging from 15-30%. The balance is typically due closer to the wedding date. It's important to note that the deposit is often non-refundable. You can check my terms here.
Ask about setup time
Make sure you know when your DJ plans to arrive. Some DJs may set up earlier in the day if the evening party is in a separate room. A well-prepared DJ will usually allocate at least 60-120 minutes to set up before the event starts. If you’re planning to extend the party beyond the agreed time, ask about their additional hourly rates in advance. Rates generally range from £50-£100 per extra hour. However, keep in mind that extending the party is subject to both the DJ’s and the venue’s discretion, as venues have strict licensing rules to follow.
Clarify what's included in the fee
When booking a DJ, confirm what the quoted price includes. Typically, wedding DJs will provide a single package that covers the full lighting and sound rig, a DJ for up to 5 hours, setup time, breakdown after the event, and travel costs. However, this isn’t always the case, so be sure to clarify exactly what is included in the price.
If you’re ever unsure about anything, don’t hesitate to ask the DJ directly. A trustworthy DJ will have no problem addressing any concerns you have and will be happy to provide clear answers.
Booking High-Profile DJs
If you’re considering a celebrity or high-profile DJ, be prepared for significantly higher fees. On one end of the scale, you could book Calvin Harris for a cool £1 million. On the other end, you may be able to book an up-and-coming DJ/Producer for a few thousand. High-profile DJs typically work through talent agencies, and costs vary based on the event’s location, duration, and specific requirements.
Final Thoughts
A wedding DJ is more than just someone who plays music - they set the mood, keep the night flowing, and ensure your guests have an unforgettable time. While costs vary, investing in a reliable, professional DJ who understands weddings will help create the perfect atmosphere for your special day. By understanding the pricing structure and what to look for, you can choose the best DJ to fit your budget and vision, ensuring a stress-free and incredible night for you and your guests.
If you'd like to know what's included in my Wedding Package, please click here. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions!
Check out my BBC Radio Mixes: https://www.feelthefunkdisco.co.uk/post/listen-to-all-of-my-bbc-radio-mixes
Happy wedding planning!
- DJ James Stephens