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10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring Your Disc Jockey as recommended by the American Disc Jockey Association.
Additional opinion written by Mark Thomas, Former ADJA President and owner of Awesome Entertainment, similar article was published in WED Magazine in Southern California area.
Choosing entertainment for your wedding reception can be a simple task if you know what to look for in a professional disc jockey. A good "wedding DJ"is not simply a disc jockey but a Master of Ceremonies, music programmer and reception coordinator. Statistics show that couples are often unsatisfied with their entertainer and it is often because the "DJ" was a low priority even though 80% of wedding guests report that what they remember most is the entertainment. The following questions will help you screen for a professional disc jockey:
1) Do you use professional audio equipment?
The ability to mix music properly comes with the use of professional audio gear. Once your guests begin to dance, it is important that your DJ knows how to mix well enough to build momentum and create energy. Some DJs claim their personality will get them through an event without having professional CD Players (or related equipment). Although a good personality is important, it is also important to know how to keep the music flowing naturally, especially since wedding DJ\\\'s often have to play a diverse list of music. Professionals use professional tools. An I-pod is great for personal use but it does not allow a DJ the functionality to edit, cue or beat mix properly. It is a good idea to ask for a "wireless microphone" since this will enhance your photographs. It also allows your entertainer to interact with guests when necessary.
2) Do you Carry Back-up equipment?
Since your event is once-in-a-lifetime, the ADJA feels it is important for your DJ to have a minimum of a back-up amplifier, music player and cables for emergencies. Although rare, don\\\'t let equipment failure bring your party to an end prematurely. You\\\'ve invested too much money and time.
3) Do you carry liability insurance?
Any legitimate business person carries liability insurance so that you are not responsible for their negligence or mistakes. Many locations now require your DJ to have liability insurance.Ask for a copy of their certificate of liability.
4) Do you have client and business references?
It is a good idea to talk with past clients and related business people so that you may alleviate any concerns you may have regarding your prospective DJ. Past clients can give you insight into their experience while related wedding vendors can give you an idea as to how well your DJ works with others.
5) Are you a member of any trade organizations? What type of training do you have?
There are numerous trade organizations for disc jockeys. If your prospective DJ is active in an association, it may mean they attend monthly meetings, visit DJ conferences and network with their peers. Involved DJ\\\'s tend to keep up with musical trends, improve their public speaking skills, learn how to become better entertainers and grow as business professionals. Training could include: voice, acting, improv, sound engineering, comedy, private seminars and working with other DJ\\\'s. If your DJ tells you they have 20 years experience it could mean that they have 20 years of bad habits under their belt.
6) Will you play requests?
A good DJ will take requests from you and your guests. If a DJ starts to limit your ability to ask for music, it may mean they have a limited selection of music or they have a lack of music knowledge. Ask about the policy for accepting song lists and audience requests. If you are not concerned with dancing but want to create a specific atmosphere, make sure your DJ understands what you have in mind.
7) Do you have experience with weddings? How do you handle "unforseen circumstances"?
It is important that you choose a DJ that understands wedding protocol. Your emcee should have the ability to communicate effectively. Your initial phone conversation may already give you clues, pay attention. There is also a belief that radio personalities or famous club jocks are "superior" to mobile disc jockeys but in many cases it is important to understand that some radio disc jockeys are not familiar with organizing a wedding, nor are they comfortable in front of a live audience. The same may hold true for a club DJ. Club DJ\\\'smay also own a limited library of music. It is always a good idea to understand what you are paying for and check references. Weddings include many friends, family members and vendors which means that unforseen circumstances can often arise including delays with photographs, slow food service or technical difficulties. Ask your DJ how they handle "unforseen circumstances"? This will give you insight into their ability to entertain your guests. A saavy emcee will handle most problems without the audience ever knowing it existed!
8) How will you be dressed?
Tuxedo attire is standard at most weddings. Coat & Tie is also very popular. It is a good idea to tell your DJ what type of attire you expect them to wear.
9) How early will you arrive?
The standard set-up time for most DJs is one hour prior to the guests arrival. If you have live music for the first part of the reception, pay your DJ to arrive early. Introductions, toasts and other announcements are usually needed within the first 60 to 90 minutes of the reception. Remember the DJ will be working behind the scenes to keep your event organized while the band is playing. It also looks much nicer to have the DJ set-up before your first guest arrives.
10) Are we guaranteed the DJ of our choice and will you provide us with a written contract?
Always get a written agreement which clearly indicates the specific entertainer you have chosen. Remember to read any agreement carefully before signing it. Understand cancellation policies, payment procedures and company stipulations since they vary greatly. If you have the time, meet with your prospective entertainer to get to know who will be representing you on your big day. A meeting will give you information to help you decide whether you are comfortable with your prospective master of ceremonies. If you want to see your DJ "in action", ask for a video. It is unprofessional for your DJ to ask you if it is OK to allow strangers to "peek in" to your private event. This is your day with friends and family and not the entertainer\\\'s chance to audition for his next job!
The average cost for a full-time professional disc jockey is $1,200.00 which would include a professional sound system, emcee services, coordination services and four hours of music and entertainment. Rates will vary based on popularity, talent, music knowledge, organizational skills, mixing ability and professionalism. Most DJs offer additional options that include: effect lighting, party novelties, enhanced sound systems, two-person shows, dancers and additional P.A.\\\'s or sound systems when necessary. The ADJA hopes these tips will help make your wedding day unforgettable. All the best.
Mark PEACE!! Thomas may be reached at (626) 793-1877.
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