What happens if our wedding DJ is sick on the day?

My partner and I are wondering what happens if our wedding DJ gets sick and can't make it to our reception? Do they plan for this sort of thing? Do we need to prepare an emergency playlist or something with our venue? Thanks.

Question Asked: 13/02/2023

Wedding Date: 9/08/2018

Most Helpful Response

Platinum DJs

(103) · Adelaide

Posted: 13/07/2025

That's a great question, and it's something I take seriously. In the very unlikely event that I’m too unwell to perform on the day, I have a trusted backup plan in place. I work with a small network of experienced professional DJs who are fully briefed on my events and can step in if needed. Your music, timeline, and vibe will still be handled smoothly, and I’ll make sure you’re looked after just as if I were there myself.

Answered by: 16 Experts

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Hayden Blaby

(0) · Shepparton / Central Victoria

Posted: 22/05/2025

Great question — and totally understandable! When it comes to your wedding day, reliability is everything, and I take that seriously.

If I were ever sick or unable to perform (which is extremely rare), I have a network of trusted professional DJs and musicians I can call on — people I know personally and would trust with my own wedding. The goal is always a smooth handover with zero stress for you.

You don’t need to worry about preparing a backup playlist — I’ve got that covered. I always arrive early, come fully equipped, and have contingency plans in place. You deserve to relax and enjoy your day knowing the music is in safe hands.

Inferno Duet

(2) · Melbourne and surrounds

Posted: 28/03/2023

In this Industry you have to be prepared for everything. There are 2 of us performing, so we will make sure that your special day goes ahead and have other entertainers as back ups. The stress is not yours too worry about, its ours.  

NikNat Entertainment

(56) · Gold Coast / Tweed Heads / Brisbane / Sunshine Coast

Posted: 21/03/2023

That will depend on who you choose.

ALWAYS ... ALWAYS ... ALWAYS get a contract and see what the contract says about the sickness of a DJ.

Breakfast At Tiffanys

(18) · Sydney

Posted: 21/03/2023

Hi there, when you boom with us we guarantee coverage of your event. If any performer or DJ is sick we find a replacement. In almost 20 years of events we have never failed a client!

Glamour Entertainment Group

(1) · Adelaide

Posted: 8/03/2023

We are always a two person show at any Wedding event, if the DJ ends up sick at the last minute, The assistant DJ would take over.

Connor Reid Music

(12) · Cairns | Port Douglas and Surrounds

Posted: 16/02/2023

Hi there

Unfortunately it does happen on the odd occasion

I suggest you have a back up plan with contacts who perform similar entertainment and hope they can step in at the last minute.

Alternatively, a number of us entertainers could offer you a pa, mic set up at a set cost.  That way, if we are booked elsewhere, we could set it up for you to use Spotify.  You can then have your own playlist on your device.

Kind regards

Connor

Divergent Divas Entertainment

(2) · Perth & Surrounding Areas including Swan Valley to Mandurah, South West Region, Mid West Region,

Posted: 15/02/2023

Good Evening Lovelies! 
Cassandra here from Divergent Divas Entertainment 

Most DJ's would give advanced notice if for some reason they were unwell - however if it is the case, they generally should have a back up plan for you or offer a complete refund due to being unable to provide their Entertainment Service.

I can see how this would be stressful and of course worrying - the last thing you want is your Wedding Celebration to be without Entertainment.
Have you asked your DJ?
Did you sign a contract with your DJ about any situations like this?

Sofie Bozzetti Entertainment

(10) · Adelaide and surrounds | Regional SA

Posted: 15/02/2023

Hi! For my clients, there is really no excuse for not turning up to a wedding! If something tragic happens, the sick supplier should source an alternative option for you. This can be discussed with your suppliers prior to paying the booking fee. 

Weddings with Vee

(2) · NSW State Wide

Posted: 14/02/2023

Ben is the DJ for Ben and Vee - if you book one of our packages where he is your DJ and he happens to be sick, we will find another DJ to come in and do that part of the evening. Otherwise, Vee can supply iPod music and DJ lighting for the evening. 

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