3 steps to choose your DJ and 8 questions you should ask him before signing a contract
Choosing the right DJ or company isn't an easy task. There is tons of options and you are not sure which way should you go? In this case you should definitely take under consideration the following:
ONE: local venues recommendations and preferred vendor list. They have seen it all and allow only the pure professionals take a place there.
TWO: After narrowing it down to just hand full of picks your personal budget and expectations come as next. Ask what is included in their packages: lighting, special effects, personal consultations etc.
THREE: Last but not least the level of interaction and personality of your entertainer you seek. Somebody who will make your guests lough all the time or would rather have your DJ stay away from the mic - depends on you.
After choice has been determined keep in mind the following questions you should definitely ask:
1. How many years of experience do you have in the industry?
Levels of experience can vary from company to company, DJ/MC to DJ/MC. A good follow up question to ask would be "How do you keep up with latest trends in wedding entertainment?"
2. How many hours do you charge for your services?
Before you ask this question ask yourself how many hours did you plan for. Most DJ/MC's will say 4 hours. On average, most weddings last 5 hours or more. Then ask "Why just 4 hours?" Be prepared to negotiate overtime!
3. Are you licensed and insured?
Insurance is a big part of any legitimate business. Liability and casualty policies protect you, your guests, and the company you choose. If they don't have insurance, ask Why?
4. Will you allow requests?
Remember, it's your day. If you want your guests to feel at home and participate in your special day will the DJ/MC you hire take requests? If you'd rather prefer to stay with your own play list or allow only specific people from your bridal party to request songs - make sure its well communicated in advance.
5. How early will you be there to set up? Will it be any additional charges?
Depending on the amount of equipment and venue regulations an average of 2 hours should allow for set up and sound check. Depending on the type of service you select, that time may increase to almost 3/4 hours.
6. Will you provide an emergency back-up equipment at our event?
Weddings are a "once-in-a-lifetime" event. Electronics (no matter how new or state of the art) are electronics, plain and simple. Want to trust your "once-in-a-lifetime" event to a DJ who doesn't have back-up systems? Your wedding is an investment, so have your DJ/MC protect it.
7. How much time will you spend working and planning our event?
The time spent on preparing and planning your event depends on the type of service you select. This can average anywhere between 20 to 50 hours depending on the services you choose. Want to hear some dead silence on the phone? Ask your prospective DJ how they came up with their pricing structure?
8. How will you be dressed?
This may sound like a simple question, but then you might be surprised by the answer. It's your day, so don't you think you should determine how your DJ/MC is attired for your event?
No matter what kind of event is it and how important do you consider it make sure communication and coordination with people in charge are done properly so you can relax and enjoy flawless experience!