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Questions to ask a Professional DJ

Questions to ask a Professional Disc Jockey

 

Do you have a written contract with your specific DJ?  It is extremely important to have your booking confirmed in writing, especially if you are paying an initial retainer.  This protects you from unscrupulous operators.  If you are expecting a specific entertainer, make sure you get it in writing as well.

 

Are there any hidden charges?  All costs should be clearly defined in your contract.

 

How many years of experience does your entertainer have?  Experience brings knowledge of common problems and situations.

 

Do you belong to any professional associations?  An involved business person shows a willingness to learn, network and share ideas.  The DJAWP is the only local association that meets monthly; providing members with educational seminars, hosting industry guest speakers, and by sharing our collective experience.

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Are you insured? Insurance is a part of any legitimate business.  Liability and casualty policies protect yourself, your guests and the venue.  It is also a way to separate the professionals from the amateurs.  Many locations are beginning to require proof of liability. Ask for proof of liability insurance. Disc Jockeys receive a Certificate of Liability which can be used as proof.

 

Do you use Professional Equipment?  Ask whether your prospective Disc Jockey works with professional audio equipment.  Remember that professional gear does not guarantee an entertainer’s talent or service level, but is simply a tool for building an exceptional event.

 

Do you provide back-up equipment at our event? Weddings are once in a lifetime events. A back-up system protects your investment. It is also important to know if your Disc Jockey has a back-up plan in case of illness or an accident.

 

How do you guarantee my reception will be special?  All professional DJs will have a questionnaire to help you plan your wedding.  It should contain all the names they will need to pronounce, all the events with a timeline included, all the necessary questions from the obvious “will you be dancing with your father?” to things you might not have yet considered, “who (and if) will give the blessing before the meal?”.   Many DJs now use an on-line system that can be updated at your leisure.

 

Will you be willing to play requests and discuss music ahead of time? Most DJs will let you select a large proportion of the music played and all the special event songs, including First song as husband and wife, daddy’s little girl, and many more.  A professional Disc Jockey will also accept the fact that you may not want certain songs played.  Some DJs even incorporate on-line request systems for you and your guests.

 

 

Will you be suitably dressed for our occasion?  Specify the type of apparel that your Disc Jockey is expected to wear for your occasion. Formal attire or coat & tie are the most popular forms of attire. If you are having a “themed” event, make sure your entertainer is informed.

 

 

A full-service professional disc jockey will normally invest 12 to 30 hours  into your special event but it may appear that you are only paying for "4 to 6 hours". Consultations, music purchasing & editing, preparation, set-up and tear-down,  and education and other business related endeavors add up to the overall success of your special event.