Simple small wedding.. DJ?

Why won't there be dancing? Is it lack or space or a religious reason??

Don't do friendors, hire a professional. And I'm curious as well why there wont be dancing?

Hire a pro; maybe a jazz pianist for a few hours?

^^hire a pro. Even if no one is going to be dancing won't you want dinner music? And someone to announce you? What about toasts? Someone needs to handle that as well. You're much better off hiring someone than doing a playlist. DJ's do a lot more than just press play

I don't think I would have a family friend DJ my wedding because agreements with friends usually don't come with contracts. Things can get messy without contracts.

As for a spotify playlist, that could be tricky as well if you're having dances.

FH and I are having a mid day wedding (short and simple cocktail style reception) and are making a play list to have as background noise. We decided to not do any dances, entrances, etc. because those should be announced by a DJ.

So, I think you have a few options...

Hire a paid DJ with a contract and tell them that you're only having traditional dances and need the rest of the play list to be for ambiance.

I like Celia's recommendation. Pianist, string quartet, etc.

Or go with a play list but have realistic expectations. Arrange for a shorter reception. People won't stay until 10 or 11 pm without dancing. And think about the logistics of not having a DJ to announce entrances, dances, cake cutting, etc.

No friendors.

My aunt's wedding was 30-40 people and she had a DJ the whole time. Not too many people danced, but it was fun.

Besides, the DJ announced everything; entrances, first dance, parent dances, and the cake-cutting. Your iPod or mp3 on a speaker can't really do that. A DJ helps keeps guests informed, too.

Don't hire a friend.

I'd just do a playlist on an iPod but you can't really dictate no dancing from guests. The suggestion of a musician like a pianist is super though.

A wedding without dancing?

@Laura, some religious groups frown on dancing. Also, some prefer a more mingle-y reception that has a garden party or open house feel than a dinner and dancing soirée. I would echo @Celia and say that a jazz pianist or maybe even a string quartet would fit your vibe here.