Melbourne Wedding DJ vs Spotify: What You Need to Know

If you're planning a wedding in Melbourne, you may have asked yourself: "Do we really need a DJ? Or could we just make a playlist and run it off Spotify?"

It’s a fair question — and with all the other costs involved in a wedding, it's tempting to DIY the music. But before you ditch the decks and queue up your favourite playlist, here’s what you need to know about the real differences between hiring a professional wedding DJ and using Spotify for your big day.

🎧 The Case for a Wedding DJ

1. Professional Vibes & Seamless Flow

A good DJ does more than just hit play. They:

• Read the crowd and adjust the vibe in real time

• Seamlessly mix songs so there are no awkward silences or jarring transitions

• Build energy over the night, knowing exactly when to drop the bangers and when to slow it down

  
  

Spotify can't do that. Even with crossfade settings, you're still relying on a pre-set list with no way to react to the moment.

2. Equipment That Sounds Better (and Works)

Most professional DJs in Melbourne (myself included) bring high-quality speakers, lighting, microphones, and backup gear. You don’t have to worry about:

• Bluetooth dropouts

• Tiny portable speakers that don’t fill the room

• Uncle Rob accidentally disconnecting the AUX

  
  

And if your venue has sound restrictions or quirky acoustics, an experienced DJ will know how to handle it.

3. Someone to Run the Show

A wedding DJ isn’t just playing music — we’re also:

• Coordinating with your MC, venue, or planner

• Timing the entrance songs, first dance, bouquet toss, etc.

• Fixing tech issues on the fly so your night stays on track

  
  

That kind of hands-on support gives you peace of mind. Spotify? It’s not helping if the music cuts out during your first dance.

4. Customised Entertainment Experience

A professional DJ will:

• Communicate with you before hand and organise everything involved.

• Learn your music preferences and “do not play” list

• Blend your taste with what keeps the dance floor full

You still have full control over the music direction — but with expert input to keep the vibe perfect all night.

📱 What About Using Spotify?

Spotify can work in some situations — but it comes with trade-offs:

Pros:

• Budget-friendly (especially for smaller, low-key weddings)

• You have total control of the playlist

• No person in the mix, just the music you love

  
  

Cons:

• No one to control the mood or flow of the night

• You may have to hire and set up equipment yourself.

• Risk of ads, connection issues, or unexpected playback errors (unless you're on Premium and offline mode)

• Someone has to manage the music on the night — which often falls to a guest or family member

• Zero support if something goes wrong

  
  

If you’re planning a backyard wedding or casual elopement with 20 guests, Spotify might be fine. But for most weddings with 50+ guests, a dance floor, speeches, and a running order — it’s a risky shortcut.

💬 Real Talk: What’s Right for You?

Here in Melbourne, wedding DJs range in price depending on experience, gear, and package inclusions — but you’re not just paying for someone to play songs. You’re hiring someone to create energy, connection, and memories through music.

If that’s what matters to you, a Spotify playlist just won’t cut it.

🎤 Want a DJ Who Gets It?

I’m a live acoustic performer & DJ who specialises in Melbourne weddings. Whether you want classic singalongs, tasteful ceremony tunes, or a full-blown dance floor throwdown, I tailor every set to you and your crowd — no cookie-cutter playlists here.

Want to talk about music for your wedding? [Get in touch here] or check my availability.