I am DJ Mike Readings, a professional and award-winning wedding DJ with over a decade of experience entertaining couples and their guests in Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, and Cambridgeshire. My business is all about creating the ultimate soundtrack for a wedding, ensuring that everyones special day is filled with excitement and joy.
My style is centered around planning and personalisation, making a wedding celebration unforgettable. I believe that excellent wedding entertainment is a crucial aspect of a big day and something that will be remembered for a lifetime. That's why I work closely with each couple to craft a custom playlist that reflects their unique style and taste, whether they want chart-topping hits, classic oldies, or something a little unconventional.
With my passion for creating unforgettable moments and my professional experience, every client can trust me to make their wedding celebration a memorable one.
How far in advance do you take on bookings?
I typically take on bookings 24 months in advance, as I tend to get fully booked a year in advance. It's important for couples to book early to ensure that I'm available for their special day. By booking well in advance, couples have the peace of mind knowing that I am committed to making their wedding celebration unforgettable.
Do you have a favorite venue to work at?
I do not have a specific favorite venue to work at as I have had the privilege of performing at many beautiful and unique wedding venues. However, I do love working with the teams at Milling Barn and Barns at Redcoats. Both of these venues offer a picturesque setting and top-notch facilities that make for an unforgettable wedding celebration. Regardless of the venue, my goal is always to create the perfect soundtrack and bring excitement and joy to the couple's special day.
What song will you never get sick of playing, and which do you dread a request for?
As a wedding DJ, I never tire of playing "Rock This Party (Everybody Dance Now)" by Bob Sinclar and Cutee B. It's a TUNE that always gets the dance floor going and fills the room with energy. On the other hand, there is one song that I dread receiving a request for, and that's "Macarena". While it was a popular hit in its time, it has since become too cheesy and can be seen as outdated. My goal is always to play music that fits the couple's style and taste, so if "Macarena" is requested, I will do my best to play it in a way that is fresh and fun for everyone.
What is most helpful to you as a wedding DJ?
The most helpful thing for me is when a couple trusts my guidance and gives me the flexibility to do what I do best. When a couple has faith in my expertise and years of experience, it allows me to create the perfect soundtrack for their special day and make their wedding celebration unforgettable.
Do you prefer free reign or a list of yes and no songs? Having the flexibility to read the crowd and make on-the-spot adjustments to the playlist is crucial in ensuring that the dance floor is always packed and the guests are having a great time. When a couple gives me this level of trust and freedom, it makes my job much easier and allows me to truly shine as a wedding DJ.
Have you always been a DJ?
No, I have not always been a DJ. While pursuing my passion for music and entertaining, I was the manager of Carphone Warehouse, where I sold mobile phones. While I enjoyed my time in the retail world, I felt that something was missing and decided to follow my heart and become a wedding DJ. Since then, I have been dedicated to perfecting my craft and providing exceptional entertainment for couples on their special day. With over a decade of experience in the wedding industry, I have honed my skills and developed a unique style that sets me apart as a wedding DJ. I am grateful for my past experiences and believe that they have helped me become a better DJ, one who is passionate, professional, and dedicated to creating unforgettable moments for each and every couple.
What is your favorite thing about being a wedding DJ?
As a wedding DJ, my favorite thing is the occasion of the special day itself. I love being a part of such an important moment in a couple's life and helping to create a celebration that is unforgettable. Seeing the joy on the couple's faces and the smiles on their guests' faces is truly rewarding. Another aspect of being a wedding DJ that I greatly enjoy is the opportunity to convert clients into friends. Weddings are such intimate and personal events, and I feel privileged to be a part of them. Over the years, I have had the pleasure of forming genuine connections with many of my clients, which only adds to the joy of my job.
What are your top 5 party starting songs?
As a wedding DJ, I always strive to get the party started and keep the dance floor packed. Here are my top 5 party starting songs that never fail to get the crowd moving: "Never Too Much" - Luther Vandross "Bonkers" - Dizzee Rascal & Armand Van Helden "Be Faithful" - Fatman Scoop feat. The Crooklyn Clan "Show Me Love" - Robin S "Nobody To Love" - Sigma
These songs have proven to be crowd-pleasers time and time again and never fail to get the party started. Whether it's a classic like Luther Vandross or a more recent hit like Sigma, these songs are sure to get everyone on the dance floor and keep the party going all night long.
Do you offer any other service?
Yes, in addition to being a wedding DJ, I also offer Master of Ceremonies services for weddings. On most occasions, I serve as the Master of Ceremonies during the wedding day, ensuring that the celebration runs smoothly and that all important announcements and events are handled with professionalism and ease. As the Master of Ceremonies, I act as the main point of contact between the wedding couple and their guests, making announcements, introducing speakers, and keeping the timeline of events on track. This allows the couple to relax and enjoy their special day, knowing that all of the important details are being handled.
Do you let your couples have a go on your decks?
Absolutely! I am always open to having the couple have a go on my decks, even if they don't know what to do. It adds a unique and personal touch to the celebration, and the guests love it when they see the couple trying their hand at scratching or pretending to DJ.
I believe that a wedding should be a reflection of the couple's personalities and preferences, and allowing them to have a go on the decks is just one way to make their special day truly unique and memorable. Of course, I am always there to assist and ensure that the music continues to flow smoothly.
Top tip for a newly engaged couple?
As a wedding DJ, I highly recommend that newly engaged couples always meet their DJ before booking. This will give them the opportunity to get to know their DJ and make sure that their personalities and styles are a good match. Additionally, it's important to make sure that the DJ does not play the same music at every wedding. A good DJ should have a wide range of music and be able to customize their playlist to fit the couple's unique taste and style. Finally, it's important to find out what makes the DJ different from all the other DJs. For example, I personally love remixes and mashups, which sets me apart from other DJs and allows me to bring a unique touch to each wedding I perform at.
To book Mike for your wedding, get in touch below!
