Why You Should Hire a DJ vs. Renting Equipment and Running Sound Yourself
The truth about DIY sound setups, and why hiring a DJ is one of the best investments for your wedding reception.
You’ve booked the venue, found the dress, and you’re staring down the budget. It’s tempting to think:
“What if we just rent some speakers, hook up a playlist, and handle the music ourselves?”
But here’s the truth: your wedding reception deserves more than a Bluetooth speaker and a Spotify queue.
As a DJ company that’s helped hundreds of laid-back couples in Nebraska throw incredible receptions, we want you to know the real differences and the hidden costs of running your own sound.
1. The Right Music at the Right Time Is Everything
A great DJ doesn’t just hit “play.” We create energy. We read the room. We build a journey that keeps your guests dancing from dinner to last call.
When you DIY your reception music:
You’re stuck with a static playlist
No one’s controlling transitions or building momentum
And let’s be honest, who’s going to jump in and change the vibe when things fall flat?
With a DJ: You get seamless transitions, crowd reading, and high-energy moments when they matter most.
2. Equipment Alone Isn’t Enough
Sure, you can rent speakers. But what about:
Backup mics?
Wind-resistant outdoor setups?
Proper wiring to avoid buzzing?
A mixer that balances music and speeches?
Renting gear doesn’t guarantee quality sound, and unless you’re trained in sound engineering, you may not even know something’s wrong until it’s too late.
With a DJ: You get professional-grade equipment, tested setups, and someone on-site managing everything so you don’t have to lift a finger.
3. Sound Checks, Timing, and Technical Glitches
Who’s pressing play for your first dance?
Who’s adjusting the mic for toasts?
Who’s troubleshooting the speaker that randomly cut out?
DIY setups leave these crucial moments to chance, or to a guest who’d rather be enjoying the party.
With a DJ: We coordinate with your planner and photographer, manage all timing, and ensure the right music hits at the exact right moment.
4. You Don’t Want a Guest or Friend Stuck Managing the Music
Asking your cousin or best friend to “run the playlist” means they miss the fun and might still get blamed if something goes wrong.
Plus, you risk awkward gaps, mistimed songs, or no one knowing how to fix a glitch mid-reception.
With a DJ: Your guests get to be guests, and you get a worry-free night.
5. The Dance Floor Won’t Run Itself
Want people dancing all night instead of leaving after cake? That’s not about your playlist, it’s about flow.
A pro DJ knows how to build energy, throw in surprise crowd-pleasers, and pivot when things slow down.
We’re not just playing music, we’re curating an experience.
The Bottom Line: A DJ Doesn’t Just Bring Gear, They Bring Peace of Mind
Your wedding reception is one of the biggest celebrations of your life. Do you really want to spend it worrying about cables, volume levels, or someone skipping your first dance track?
When you hire a DJ, you’re investing in:
✔ A flawless flow from start to finish
✔ Music that actually keeps people dancing
✔ Clear sound for toasts, speeches, and special moments
✔ A stress-free experience so you can enjoy your own party
Ready to Skip the Stress and Book a Pro?
Ackerman Events specializes in stress-free, dance-filled weddings across Omaha, Lincoln, and all of Nebraska.
Let’s talk about your wedding, we’ll handle the gear, the music, and the vibe. All you have to do is show up and celebrate.
👉 Contact us today to check your date
👉 Ask about our DJ, Photobooth, and Cold Sparks packages!