Hiring an Entertainment/Disc Jockey Company:

Questions to ask before hiring a DJ/Entertainment Company

Thank you for considering our company for your up-coming Wedding Ceremony and/or Reception. We receive hundreds of requests to entertain each year. If you are in the planning stages of your wedding, here are a few suggestions when looking for an entertainment company. These are key points our company highly recommend:Once you choose the location for your Ceremony and Reception, start interviewing prospective Entertainers/DJ’s as soon as possible as the best entertainers/companies book up very quickly. When preparing your budget, ensure you have allocated a reasonable fee for the entertainment company/DJ as they are ultimately responsible for the success or failure of your event. If your budget for the DJ is low, expect a performance to equal your budget. The American Disc Jockey Association has set up guidelines for clients in regards to standard fees.Ask the entertainment company you are considering if they are a full time or part time company. Ask them if they have another source of income other than the DJ business. Full time companies have a greater interest in the overall success of your event as this is their only source of income and their reputation is on the line each time they perform. Part time DJ’s sometimes deal with their regular job schedule conflicting on your wedding day. Should a part time DJ get called into his/her regular job on your wedding day, his/her regular job takes priority and you’ll be looking for a new DJ or they will send someone you have never met to provide music. Part time entertainers/DJs have, in most cases already worked a full 40 hours and your event is for added income on their part. Remember, you never get a second chance to make a first impression.Ask the DJ/Company you are considering if they specialize in weddings and how many they did last year. Ask them to provide you with a list of Brides and Grooms and phone numbers of those who have used their services in the past. Ask them if you can contact their clients for references.

Ask the DJ/Company for a list of locations and wedding professional who currently recommend their service. Some of the best companies are typically those who are recommended by numerous venues and wedding professionals.

Ask the DJ/Company how their DJ’s/Entertainers are dressed. Almost all professional companies send their DJ’s in a full tuxedo unless something else is requested by the client. Proper attire reflects a positive image to your guests. Remember, the Master of Ceremonies is the person up in front of your guests and they represent you and your family each time they speak.

Ask the DJ/Company what professional associations they affiliated with. Belonging to professional organizations show that the DJ and/or Company is committed to success by attending professional education seminars, networking, sharing ideas, improving on their skills, and most importantly that the DJ/Company cares about what they do.

Ask the DJ/Company how long they have been in business. Do they carry a business license? Are they insured? This shows you a lot about a company and their experience. Any legitimate business will have a business license and will carry appropriate liability insurance. Most part time DJ/Companies probably won’t carry either as they do this more as a hobby.

Does the DJ/Company provide a written agreement outlining exactly what they will be providing? This is vital so you as a client can cover yourself. It provides you, the client with a clear understanding of exactly what the DJ/Company is responsible for.

Does the DJ/Company use professional equipment? Do they provide back-up equipment in case of an emergency? The use of professional equipment separates the part time weekend DJ from the professional company that has invested thousands of dollars in the right equipment. Having a backup system on-site is a must and protects your investment in your once in a lifetime event.

Ask the DJ/Company about their music selections, suggestions, and creative ideas for entertaining your guests. The DJ/Company should be able to share entertaining ideas with you without a problem. They should be willing to take requests from the guests.

Ask the DJ/Company how and when you will get together to discuss the wedding, timeline, and music. Where will the meeting be held? Will you be able to listen to music to help choose your special songs? Most part time companies will normally want to meet you at a restaurant or at your house. By getting together with your entertainer at his place of business, this shows you what type of person you are dealing with and allows you to listen to your music selections on his equipment.

Is the DJ/Company more focused on the size of their equipment, number of CDs, lighting, and how loud their speakers are? A high quality company understands the professional equipment used is a tool of the trade. The main focus of the DJ/Entertainer should be listening to your ideas, suggestions, and dreams, and then offering advice and experience to accomplish the goals you have set. The direction/coordination of your event should be high on his/her priority list.

Is the DJ/Company focused on how low their fees are or willing to give away the house to get your business? Do you get the feeling they really need the work? If this is the case, you are probably dealing with a company who is new in the DJ business, lacks a client base and/or business is slow, or a DJ/Company who lacks the experience and does not feel his/her show is worth any more than they are charging. Typically companies that tout such low prices do so because they haven’t much more to offer.

Does the DJ/Company have a great reputation in the community? Are they members of the Chamber of Commerce? Do other wedding professionals recommend the company you are considering? Are the vehicles they use newer models that are reliable to transport the equipment to your event on time?

Please remember when planning your wedding that the entertainment company you hire is ultimately responsible for the success or failure of your event. The entertainer must create the memories before the photographer can capture them. Both play an important role in your day. These are just a few key items that should be important for you to ask. Remember also, the facility where you are having your event recommends certain wedding professionals for a reason. They have seen their work and know their quality. Please take care in choosing the company that will represent you on one of the most important days of your life. Best of luck!