Afternoon: DJ setup
Your DJ usually arrives while you are eating your wedding breakfast or just after, depending on the room. If the evening party is in the same room, setup normally happens during the room turnaround, which venues often schedule between 6pm and 7.30pm.
Setup takes around 60 to 90 minutes for a standard DJ booth and lighting, and longer for extras like uplighting or a light-up dance floor. Check with your venue that access is possible at that time.
7pm to 8pm: evening guests arrive
Evening guests start arriving, usually around 7pm to 7.30pm. Your DJ plays a relaxed warm-up set at a volume where everyone can catch up and get a drink. This is a good time for a short kids section if children are attending.
8pm to 8.30pm: cake cutting and first dance
Once most evening guests have arrived, your DJ announces the cake cutting, then invites everyone to gather for your first dance. Lighting is set for the moment, and guests can be invited to join you part way through.
Straight afterwards the DJ opens the dance floor with an upbeat, all-ages track.
9pm to 9.30pm: evening food
The evening buffet or food truck usually opens around 9pm. Your DJ announces it and keeps the music upbeat but at a slightly lower level so the floor does not empty completely.
9.30pm to 11.30pm: the main party
This is the peak of the night. Your DJ works through your must-play list, takes requests and builds the energy through the eras your guests love most.
11.30pm to midnight: last song and carriages
Most venues finish music between 11.30pm and midnight, sometimes earlier because of licensing. The DJ plays a final singalong, then your chosen last song. Many couples ask guests to form a circle or a tunnel for the final moment.
After the music ends, the DJ packs down, usually within 45 minutes, while guests head off.
FAQs
When should the first dance happen?
Usually 8pm to 8.30pm, once most evening guests have arrived but before the buffet opens.
How long does a DJ need to set up?
Around 60 to 90 minutes for a standard setup. Larger lighting packages can take longer.
What time does the music usually finish?
Most Kent venues finish between 11pm and midnight. Always check your venue licence.
