A guide for new wedding planners who want to confidently advise their clients
If you’re new to the wedding industry, one of the first questions you’ll hear from couples is, “How much should we budget for a DJ?” It’s a great question—and one that doesn’t have a simple answer. The cost of a wedding DJ varies wildly based on location, skill, experience, gear, and how much the DJ actually brings to the table beyond just music.
If you’re in a rush…
If you’re in a rush, here’s a list of DJ’s I personally know in our area:
@dans.events at $985-2,300
– LED Dance Floor (see it in action)
– Cold Sparklers and Spot Light for the Grand Entrance (read about it here)
– White DJ Stand
– Premium Column Array Speakers (read why this matters)
– Long Range Wireless Mics
– 4+ Atmospheric Lights
– Uplighting
@samaudioproductions $750-$1,500
– Point Source Speakers
– Wireless Mics
– 2 Atmospheric Lights
– Uplighting
@SoundSafari $900-1,800
– All-White DJ Setup and Speakers
– Cold Sparklers
– GigBar Move Lights
As someone who’s been in the thick of it for years, I want to make your job easier. This guide will help you confidently talk numbers with your clients, spot red flags, and understand what separates a budget DJ from a professional who can carry the whole night.
The Short Answer
In the WNC and Upstate SC region, a solid professional wedding DJ will usually cost between $1,200 and $2,500. That’s for someone who:
- Knows how to read a crowd,
- Has quality gear (not just a speaker and a playlist),
- Can emcee with personality and precision,
- And coordinates with you and other vendors to keep things flowing smoothly.
You’ll see prices lower than that, and higher. But here’s how to tell if it’s worth it—or not.
What Drives DJ Pricing?
1. Experience & Reputation
A DJ who’s been trusted at 300+ weddings and has hundreds of five-star reviews is going to cost more than a guy who’s just starting out with a controller and a business card. And for good reason. You’re paying for someone who knows how to handle hiccups without making it the couple’s problem.
2. Gear, Setup, and Visual Impact
Good sound doesn’t happen by accident. If a DJ rolls in with two speakers on sticks and a folding table, that’s one tier.
If they bring a professional-grade sound system, concert-grade wireless mics, intelligent lighting, backup equipment, and a classy setup—that’s another level. I was able to sneak in a picture taken by one of the guests from a recent wedding. Just look at how much light and sparkle radiating from just one picture!
Want to really set a wedding apart? Some DJs (the ones who take this seriously) now offer LED dance floors—a total game-changer. Instead of feeling like a dark nightclub with awkward lighting, the whole dance floor becomes a glowing centerpiece that invites people in. It brightens the space, lifts the mood, and makes the room feel like a joyful celebration, not a dingy club.
Add cold sparkler fountains to the mix, and you’ve got a grand entrance or first dance moment that looks like it came out of a music video. These theatrical touches make people stop, cheer, and remember—and planners who recommend them become instant heroes.
3. Time & Services
Some DJs just show up and play music. Others:
- Coordinate with planners and photographers
- Emcee the event and set the tone
- Offer ceremony audio, cocktail hour coverage, and dance floor lighting
- Spend hours prepping playlists, transitions, and timing
The more services they offer, the higher the price—and the smoother your job becomes.
Red Flags to Watch For
As a planner, protect your couple and your reputation. Be wary of DJs who:
- Don’t have a website or online presence
- Avoid contracts or detailed invoices
- Can’t clearly explain what’s included in their price
- Promise “unlimited everything” for $600
These are usually signs of inexperience—or worse, someone who may not show up when it counts.
Pro Tip: Keep a Curated DJ List
Start building a trusted list of DJs you’ve seen in action—folks who make your job easier, not harder. A reliable DJ will:
- Show up early
- Be flexible with your timeline
- Keep things light, fun, and on track
- Know how to handle weird situations (because there will be at least one)
Don’t just go by pricing—go by professionalism.
Final Word
As a planner, your job is to help couples make smart decisions. Price is part of that—but value is everything. A great DJ brings energy, momentum, and confidence to the event. And when that part runs smoothly, you get the credit for planning an unforgettable day.
If you ever need a hand reviewing DJ options, or want honest feedback on someone in your area, feel free to reach out. I’ve seen the good, the bad, and the “I can’t believe they did that at a wedding.”
You’ve got this. Keep doing good work.
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Written by Dan’s events
Wedding Entertainer | Emcee | Your behind-the-scenes hype man