Helpful Tips on Hiring a DJ:

What is the DJ's experience?

How long the company has been in business and what kind of experience the   assigned DJ for your event has is a very important question to ask.  If you are hiring for a wedding reception, you might want to ask how much of their experience or business is wedding related and are they knowledgeable about wedding etiquette.  This also applies to various others types of parties such as Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, Birthdays, Corporate, Holiday, Anniversaries, Car Shows, Etc.  The DJ being  accommodating, flexible, and experienced to the client's special requests, will show a high level experience the DJ has and the training that company has provided to their DJ's.

How do I choose a DJ?

The best way that you can choose a DJ is through referral from a person you trust or has no financial gain in making a recommendation. Remember that you are looking for a reception or wedding DJ, not just any DJ. When you call, ask if the date for your event is open, get a general idea of the cost, and promptly make an appointment to meet with the DJ. You should be able to meet with the DJ you hire. Most DJ companies work with subcontractor DJ’s and the company you are hiring, most likely doesn’t know who will be at your event until two to three weeks before your event. You should ask if the company you are considering for your event if they use subcontractors. If you do not mind this type of service, you should insist on meeting or having a DJ assigned, otherwise, stay away from these companies. Ask yourself, how many times you gave a business, store, or an individual, money for their services and not cared for what you are receiving in exchange for that money!  They should be willing to meet with you and discuss your likes and dislikes, both musically and otherwise. Easy access to your DJ is another important factor in selecting the company.  Being able to easily reach the company you are hiring for last minute additions, changes and/or suggestions is a big personal touch by a customer service oriented company.

What should you look for when you meet the DJ?

Go with your first impression. You must feel comfortable with the person who you will be paying to be in charge of the reception’s entertainment. Ask the DJ you interviewing, what do they wear during an event you are hiring them for. Some companies will give you a choice of suits or tuxedo’s. Some companies, tuxedos are their standard uniform except for outdoor picnic events. Regardless of what you agree the DJ to wear at your event, you should not have to pay any extra for your DJ to dress in formal attire. Find out, by asking, if the DJ is willing to work with you both on accommodating your personal style and taste. If you get the impression that the DJ is not cooperative then say, "Thanks but no thanks."

What kinds of music styles should the DJ’s library contain?

A DJ should have all types of music available with him/her at the reception in order to please a diverse audience. The DJ should be able to play music from the big band era to oldies and music from the 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, 80’s, and 90’ s, right up through today’s hot hits. Ask the DJ, how do they stay with the most current music? A good DJ company will have a membership to some sort of record pool to keep current with the constant changing music world. In addition, how does the DJ keep in touch with what is hot for the event you are hiring them for.

Do you provide a written contract?

It is extremely important to have your booking confirmed in writing. Ask for a written agreement, especially if you are paying an initial retainer. The standard initial payment for entertainment services is 50%.  If you are expecting a specific entertainer, make sure you get it in writing as well.  It is very important that the company provide you with a written contract that spells out the details of your agreement.  This protects you, the client, as well as the company you are hiring.

How much will I be paying for a DJ?

You will note that PRICE is not at the top of the list but is one of the first questions a client may ask. Please keep in mind that the highest or lowest price does not always guarantee quality.  A full-service disc jockey company will normally invest 12 to 30 hours to your special event but it may appear that you are only paying for "4 hours". Consultations, music purchasing & editing, preparation, set-up and tear-down, education and other business related endeavors add up to the overall success of your special occasion.  DJ rates vary based on talent, experience, emcee ability, service, coordination, equipment needed, music knowledge, mixing ability and personality.  Rates for the DJ industry vary greatly, ranging from $350.00 to $3,500.00 with an average of $1,200.00 for a 4 hour booking.  The best price is not always the best deal, especially if you are planning a wedding. As a matter of fact, surveys conclude that nearly 100% of brides would have spent more money on their entertainment and made it their #1 priority in hindsight.