If you have to choose all the music then why hire a DJ? DJs play music at parties for a living. They're supposed to know what works and what doesn't and how to adjust according to the crowd. A good DJ knows what to play and when. Of course, it's necessary to specify some of the music your event will require like first dances and other "must-haves." But if a DJ requires you to submit a list of all the music you want played, work with an online database to make all your choices, or worse, demands total control as to what music gets played based on "expertise," run!

While I require that you be involved in the music selection for your wedding, the level to which you are involved is your choice. No matter your level of involvement, you'll benefit from everything I've learned over the years.

With me at the helm of your party, you are free to specify as much (or as little) music as you like. You'll start by reviewing a list of songs I provide which have a proven track record for success at weddings. My list serves as a glimpse into my DJ style music-wise. You'll be asked to mark your favorites, and scribble out the ones you don't like. Once you've reviewed my list, marked it up, and sent it back, your choices serve as a window into your musical tastes and as a starting point for further discussions about the music for your event.

Six hours of service is enough time to hear about 100 songs in their entirety (but when mixing at most events, songs don't play from start to finish so that number will be a lot higher). At most weddings, cocktails and dinner makes up half of that time. In addition to the list of music I supply, you are encouraged to offer your own ideas. Some of your songs will be used during cocktails, others during dinner, and many of your suggestions will be best suited to your dance party.

The list I provide is just a guide and includes about 100 songs. Of course you'd like to hear music not on the list. Simply add your songs to the list and mark it complete. The odds are good that the additions you make are already part of my  collection. And if they're not, this is my opportunity to show up prepared, by taking the time to add any songs I don't have. But my preparation goes beyond just adding the songs.

In order for a DJ to perform adequately, let alone successfully, they must be familiar with the music they play (or are being asked to play). This is important for reasons that are simple to explain: for example, a carpenter unfamiliar with a new tool is not going to do a very good job knowing how or when to use it. But there are reasons that may be less obvious to you. Successful DJs are not only familiar with every song they play, but must pay special attention to the order songs get played. A crowd's demographics, age, and energy level all dictate when and if a song gets played.

In short, the DJ that's right for you already has the music you want and knows when to use it. If planning your event involves your DJ gathering new music, be sure they are given plenty of time to listen to and become familiar with the new tracks. Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, if your DJ needs to gather a ton of music to work your event, as is sometimes the case, you aren't a good match for one another.

The final plan should reflect a wide variety, to cover everyone and all age groups, thus the variety. So in the end, the journey your party's soundtrack takes is guided by the map we'll draw together. You get to enjoy the trip, while you trust me to drive.