the dj knows best...sometimes

​Recently, on one of the Facebook DJ pages I follow, a wedding DJ was complaining about a "know it all" bride that they'd worked with.  This DJ was complaining that the bride was being very particular about many of the elements of the wedding reception, including the music playlist.  The gist of his message was "I'm the professional, I've been doing this for XX years, let me do my job."

I understand that DJ's frustration.  Indeed I've encountered wedding clients who have very specific ideas about their special day that don't particularly jibe with my 27 years and 500+ weddings worth of experience.  However, I'd rather use my experience to shape my clients wishes, not to overrule them.  

The thing that I always keep in mind is that the client has likely been dreaming of this special day since they were young, and planning it for many months.  As a result, some clients know exactly what they want.  If I think what they want will lead to an unsuccessful party, it’s my obligation to share that with them.  It’s my obligation to offer them alternatives that will lead to better outcomes.  But the ultimate decision is up to the client, not me, and it's my job to make it work.