Top Tips for Booking Your Perfect Wedding DJ in Northern Ireland - Guest Blog by Darryn McGarry aka Wedding DJ NI

May 04 2025

Darryn McGarry (Wedding DJ NI) is a professional Wedding DJ with over 23 years of experience playing for brides and grooms at top wedding venues across Northern Ireland—including beautiful countryside estates like Larchfield Estate. Planning your wedding can feel like a whirlwind, but when it comes to entertainment one thing is certain: the right DJ can make or break your big day. A great DJ doesn’t just play music—they set the tone, keep the party alive, and ensure your guests have a night to remember. If you're tying the knot in Northern Ireland and searching for the perfect DJ, here are DJ Darryn McGarry’s top tips to keep in mind:

Darry McGarry Wedding DJ NI Larchfield Estate Best Venue Northern Ireland

Tip #1 Decide on the type of Wedding DJ

Wedding DJs come in all shapes and sizes, but most importantly quite a few do more than just press play. Some DJs are natural entertainers, offering plenty of mic work and crowd interaction, some offer party games or Karaoke whilst others may stick strictly to the music. Decide on the vibe you want, and pick your DJ to suit.

Tip #2. Start Your Search Early

Great wedding DJs get booked quickly, especially a small place like Northern Ireland where the top sought after wedding venues are in high demand. As soon as you know your wedding date, and have your venue booked start exploring your options to ensure you secure a DJ that matches your own personality.

Wedding Party in Larchfield Barn Award Winning Wedding DJ NI
The Heritage Larchfield Estate Barn provides a superb area to dance the night away as you celebrate your nuptials in style Photo Credit Francis Meaney Photography

Tip #3. Check Their Experience

Experience matters! Ask potential DJs about their background in wedding entertainment and are they insured.. A seasoned DJ will know how to read the crowd, transition smoothly between songs, and keep the energy flowing all night long.

Tip #4. Know Your Music Preferences

Be clear about the kind of music you want for your wedding. A true professional wedding DJ should be willing to take personal requests. Share your "must-play" list (and "do-not-play" list) with your DJ. If you have a song that’s important to you, make sure your DJ is on board.

Dancing at Larchfield Estate Co Down
All Ages on the Dancefloor in an adjoining room to the main barn and bar area at Larchfield Estate. Photo Credit Gillian Higginson

Tip #5. Consider Equipment and Setup

Ask your DJ about the equipment they’ll use and how much space they’ll need if they are not already familiar with the venue. Ensure all equipment used is in line with the venues terms and conditions such as PAT tested, use of lasers, smoke machines or other effects.

Tip #6. Read Reviews and Recommendations

Reviews from other couples can provide invaluable insights. Look at testimonials on their website, social media, Google or online Northern Ireland wedding forums to get a sense of their professionalism and how they handle wedding day logistics. The internet is a powerful tool, search your DJs name and see what comes up both good and bad.

Bride on the Dancefloor Larchfield Estate Co Down Wedding DJ NI
Bride on the Dancefloor at Larchfield Estate Photo Credit Francis Meaney Photography

Tip #7. Meet Them in Person

If possible, arrange to meet your DJ or have a video call. This is your chance to gauge their personality, communication skills, and enthusiasm for making your day special.

Tip #8. Confirm the Details

Seal the deal with a written agreement outlining the schedule, payment terms, and what happens in case of cancellations. A reliable DJ will provide clear terms to ease your mind. This can be a short email or full signed contract.

The Dancefloor Room at larchfield Estate co Down
If you prefer to use the adjoining Dance Floor Room as opposed to the Main Barn at Larchfield this is not a problem at all! Photo Credit Gillian Higginson

Tip #9. Are they familiar with your venue

Experienced DJs often know the ins and outs of venues they play at regularly. They may have extra tips for logistics, sound setup or even advice for other events happening throughout your day, so always ask if they have been there before and if they have any advice - especially if it's a well-known Northern Ireland location like Larchfield Estate, which has its own distinct layout and flow.

Tip #10. Trust Your Instincts

At the end of the day, trust your instincts. Your DJ will play a significant role in your celebration, so it’s important to choose someone who you feel confident and comfortable with.

Bride and Groom at award winning Larchfield Estate co Down Ireland destination wedding
Bride and Groom with guests dancing to Wedding DJ NI in the main barn at Larchfield Estate Co Down. Photo Credit Gillian Higginson

One final thing to keep in mind is pricing. 

Wedding DJs in Northern Ireland can vary widely in cost, often based on their experience, equipment, and the level of service they provide. It's important to choose someone who fits your style—and your budget.

And when you're thinking about the overall atmosphere of your day, remember that the right venue and the right DJ go hand in hand. A setting like Larchfield Estate, with its unique charm and stunning spaces, can truly elevate the entertainment experience and help create those unforgettable moments.

Wedding DJ NI Darryn McGarry
Wedding DJ NI Darryn McGarry




Contact links:

info@weddingdjni.co.uk 

Tel 07749150216

or visit my website at weddingdjni.co.uk

Award Winning Wedding DJ Larchfield Estate Wedding DJ NI
Multi Award Winning Wedding DJ NI

This guest post is part of a collaboration with local vendors who regularly work with Larchfield Estate, a premier wedding venue in Northern Ireland known for its character, flexibility, and timeless charm.