Talking To Bali Wedding Vendors: Episode 5 - DJ Wayne Wonder
We recently caught up with DJ Wayne Wonder, a seasoned wedding DJ with over 15 years of experience turning celebrations into unforgettable parties. From how he got his start to his tips for keeping the dance floor packed, Wayne shares his insights, challenges, and a few fun stories from his time behind the decks.
What inspired you to become a DJ, and how did you get your start in the wedding industry?
Hi, and thanks for having me!
Originally I was record collector with no plans of becoming a DJ. It was just something we all did at the time. Around a decade later, I thought to myself, "I have a decent collection here. Why not put it to good use?" So I bought a pair of cheap turntables and started practicing.
How I got into the wedding industry was by chance. A fellow DJ at KU DE TA was booked to play a wedding and was offered another event on the same day, so he asked if I would do it. That was around 15 years ago.
How do you prepare for a wedding event, and what’s your process for creating the perfect playlist?
For me communion is key. I connect with each couple to discuss their preferences and ask if there’s any specify songs they want included. Usually they provide me with a list, which I use as the basis to create a playlist that fits their style.
Can you share a time when you faced a challenge during a wedding and how you overcame it?
There was one time when an outstanding payment due from a lovely couple. They assured me they’d settle the bill in a couple of weeks, but when I followed up, I found out the groom had travelled to another country to visit relatives. I waited another month before reaching out again, only to encounter yet another delay. This pattern continued for a few months. I felt I was being taken advantage of, but I stayed patient and polite. Eventually, they cleared the payment—though it took over six months in the end.
What are some of the most requested songs or genres you’ve encountered at weddings recently?
Love it or hate it, "Dancing Queen" is often requested by the parents. For Australian couples, it’s usually "Nutbush" and "The Horses at the end. For anyone under 30, it’s always "Fisher."
How do you handle song requests from guests while ensuring the couple’s preferences are prioritized?
One of the questions I ask each couple is, "Are you okay with me taking requests?" Sometimes, they prefer no requests, and in those cases, if someone asks, I simply explain the couple’s wishes. If they insist, I let them know that I can only take requests from the bride or groom. If they get the couple’s approval, I’ll be happy to play it.
What’s your approach to keeping the energy high and the dance floor packed throughout the night?
To keep it fun and interesting. I try to be creative while respecting the couple's wishes and playing within their requested genres.
Do you have any tips for couples on how to choose the right DJ for their wedding?
I recommend choosing an experienced DJ and reviewing any testimonials they may have. If the DJ comes highly recommended by friends, that’s definitely a good sign and worth considering.
What’s the most rewarding part of being a wedding DJ for you?
There’s a real sense of satisfaction when you see everyone having a great time. Having the couple and guests tell you afterwards that they had an amazing night is always nice to hear.
How do you stay updated with the latest music trends and incorporate them into your sets?
My passion for new music is as strong now as it was when I first started collecting. Most days, I'm sifting through the week's new releases. The fact that there's always something new to discover makes it so addictive. However I don’t really incorporate new trends into my sets until couples specifically request me to. I find tried and tested winners work best. If you try and be too upfront, it doesn’t generally go down too well.
Can you share a memorable or funny story from a wedding you’ve DJed?
At one wedding, the groom asked me to be careful not to play any song with inappropriate lyrics, as his family—especially his father—was very religious. This was always going to be a bit of a challenge, as the groom’s playlist was mostly hip hop and R&B. After the father had stood up to say a prayer before dinner, I played my first track from the groom’s list. What I didn’t realise was that the song had explicit language in the intro. To make matters worse, after hitting play, I left the DJ booth to check the sound around the dinner area, and that’s when I heard it. Since I was away from the booth, I couldn’t change the song or adjust the volume. There were a few suppressed laughs from the guests, but I don’t think the groom’s father was amused!
Big thanks to Wayne for sharing his journey and tips with us! If you're planning your wedding and need expert advice or top-notch vendors, Silver Lace Weddings is here to help. Let’s make your big day one to remember.
Wayne can be found at his following residencies:
KU DE TA
W Bali
Karma Beach
Uluwatu Cliffhouse
