How to Book the Right DJ for Your Event
Finding the right DJ can be the difference between an empty and full dance floor. A professional can read the room, build the energy and drop the perfect tracks at the perfect times. This mini guide will help you choose and book a DJ for your event.
Choosing the right type of DJ
Bar DJs are adaptable, moving from background music to dancefloor anthems as the night builds. They programme sets to match each venue’s music policy, whether that’s jazz and soul in cocktail bars, indie in craft pubs, or house in late-night rooftops. Most use the in-house system or their own controller rather than bringing full setups.
Club DJs specialise in their genre — house, techno, trance, drum & bass, or hip-hop. They read crowds across long sets, building and releasing energy to keep floors busy all night. Most use the venue’s sound system, bringing their own controllers or USBs. You’ll find them in nightclubs, late bars, and warehouse spaces where music takes centre stage.
Corporate Event DJs mix professionalism with entertainment. They keep music low during networking, then raise energy for evening parties. With huge libraries covering all eras and styles, they handle any request from international guests or CEOs. They bring premium equipment, backup systems, and often work directly with event planners. Ideal for launches, award nights, and company celebrations.
Mobile DJs are the go-to choice for private parties. They supply full packages — sound, lights, and often karaoke — plus vast libraries covering everything from party classics to current hits. They’re skilled at reading mixed-age crowds at birthdays, anniversaries, and community events, dropping the right tracks at the right time. Setup and pack-down is included, keeping things simple for hosts.
Wedding DJs are versatile all-rounders, blending decades and genres to keep all ages happy. From Motown and classics to modern hits — with cheese when needed — they know how to build from background music to packed dancefloors. Most provide full sound systems, wireless mics for speeches, and lighting to match the setting. They’re comfortable in hotels, marquees, or grand ballrooms.
The best time to book a DJ
Knowing when to hire a DJ is key to landing your first choice or settling for plan B (or C). Some DJs can confirm within a week, while others — especially weddings — need hiring many months ahead. Here’s a rough guide:
Weddings: 6–12 months ahead, especially for summer Saturdays
Corporate Events: 4–8 weeks for proper planning
Club Nights & Bars: 1–2 weeks for regular DJs, last-minute bookings possible
Private Parties: 3–6 weeks, though short-notice options are often available
How much does it cost to hire DJs?
Here’s a rough guide to typical DJ fees. Rates for parties and weddings usually include equipment, setup, and insurance. Bars, clubs, and festivals generally expect DJs to use in-house systems.
Club Nights: £100–800
Weddings: £400–900
Corporate Events: £400-1,200 including equipment
Private Parties: £250–600
Bar Residencies: £200–500
Festivals: £500–2,000+
How to find a DJ for your event
Browse by location, date, and style. View profiles showing real prices, experience, and music. Create a shortlist, then contact DJs directly for quotes and availability.
Prefer recommendations? Send us your event details and we'll suggest matched DJs with profile links. No account required, no fees charged, your details stay private until you choose to make contact.
Why use BookDJs.uk?
Skip the agencies and their inflated fees. The Book DJs platform connects you with talented DJs around the UK. No price markups, no booking fees. Find the right DJ for your bar, nightclub, corporate function or party and book direct.
