When it comes to hiring an event DJ, you need to ask yourself a few important questions before you go ahead and sign any contracts. These are some of the most common ones that you should be asking your potential event DJ, so that you’re able to choose the right person for the job.
The first question you need to ask is whether they specialize in weddings, parties or both. It’s easy enough to tell if someone does just one of these things, but you won’t know until you talk to them. So, once you’ve got the basics covered, you can move on to other questions.
If you want to find out more about what type of music your DJ will play, you should also look into their song selections. You might think you don’t have much choice when picking your own songs, but you do.
Who Is the DJ?
You have to hire a DJ for your party. There are many reasons why you need to hire one. For example, you can’t afford to pay someone to be at your party all day. You could also get sick of playing the same songs over and over.
If you’re looking to hire a DJ, then you should know that there are two different kinds of DJs. First, you will find disc jockeys who specialize in music. This means that they don’t just play any old song. Instead, they choose the best songs from a variety of genres.
Another type of DJ is the house DJ. He or she doesn’t necessarily focus on specific artists. However, he or she does play a wide range of music.
In order to find the right person for your party, you’ll want to make sure that you ask around. Ask your friends and family members if they can recommend anyone. Also, look online.
The internet is full of information about hiring DJs. In fact, you may even be able to find someone through an ad.
Once you’ve found someone, you should interview them. During this meeting, you will learn more about their skills and experience.
What Is the Purpose to Invite DJ?
If you’re planning to throw an unforgettable party, then you should consider hiring a professional DJ. If you don’t have any idea how to choose the right DJ for your needs, then you can always use this article to help you make the best decision.
There are many reasons why you might want to hire a DJ. For example, you may need one to entertain guests while you’re away on vacation. Or, you may simply want to enjoy the music that he plays at your wedding reception. Whatever the case, you’ll find plenty of DJs available to meet all of your entertainment needs.
In addition, you can also ask them to create custom songs for special occasions such as birthdays or anniversaries. You can even request a song from their extensive catalogs of popular tunes.
While you’re making the final decisions, keep in mind that there are some important factors to consider. The first thing is that you should look into the quality and professionalism of the DJ.
You should also check his reputation. Ask other people who they recommend. And, finally, be sure that you like the style of music that he performs. This will ensure that everyone has a good time during your event.
Importance of DJ for Your Event?
If you’re planning on hiring a professional DJ to entertain your guests, then you need to know that you can’t just go into a store, pick up a CD, and call them the next day. There’s more than one way to make sure that you get the best DJ for your wedding.
You should start by finding someone who is experienced with weddings. This will ensure that he or she knows how important music is at a ceremony.
When you find an artist that you like, you’ll want to ask him or her about their previous work. You can also check online to learn more about the person.
Another thing that you should do is look for a DJ who has a lot of experience with weddings. A good DJ will have plenty of references from other clients.
Finally, you should be sure to hire a DJ whose rates are reasonable. If you pay too much, then it could cause problems down the road.
The most important thing that you should remember is to choose a DJ who has a great reputation. It’s easy to find out about an artist’s past work, but it can be harder to figure out whether or not they will provide quality entertainment for your special day.
Things You Should Ask Before Hiring Your Next
1. Does the DJ Have Availability on your Event Date/Time?
Sometimes I ask this question first. Sometimes I save it for last. But in the interest of being pragmatic, I’m putting this question first. After all, if they’ve not got your date/time available then I would imagine that they’re off the list. Make sure that the DJ personally has availability on your date. Some DJS / Companies will book the event and pass it along to a different DJ on the team. Be sure you know who will be coming to your event!
2. Ask the DJ to Describe Their DJ Style
This is especially important if you’ve not had a chance to hear a sample of work or see them perform live before. You’ll want to know if their performance and music style will work with the vibe you’re going for. Not all DJs play Multi Genre/Open Format styles. Some are more specific to certain styles and genres. If you’re looking to customize your event music, and they don’t mention that they can work with the music you request, it might be a musical mismatch!
3. Does the DJ Have Their Own Sound System and DJ Equipment?
Unless your venue provides a professional grade sound system (many do not) you’ll want your DJ to provide their own equipment. This includes a sound system and dj hardware. If they do not have their own equipment, you may be responsible to rent one at an additional cost.
4. Ask the DJ to Confirm The Specific Sound and Space Requirements for Your Venue.
Sometimes spaces require more than a power strip or a single extension cord. A true professional will know this. And while it is up to you, the customer, to provide details about the space to your vendors, If your potential DJ doesn’t seem interested in checking out your venue, scratch them off your short-list.
5. Does the DJ Feel Comfortable Acting as a Master of Ceremonies?
Many times someone will need to speak on the mic to introduce speakers, announce a special dance or that dinner is served. It’s important to know in advance if your event DJ feels comfortable doing this or if you’ll need to have someone on hand.
6. Ask How They Motivate a Shy Dance Floor.
Some professional DJS will verbally encourage a crowd to the dance floor, others will visually demonstrate the latest dance move, and others will play popular songs that will naturally get people dancing. Choose a DJ with the style that will complement your event (example: if you want minimal conversation from a DJ, someone who heavily relies on the mic to amp up the crowd will probably not be a good fit.)
7. Ask How The DJ Prefers To Handle Song Requests.
Some DJS will prefer to receive requests in advance, while others may be comfortable taking them on the fly. And Some may prefer to take NO REQUESTS at all. The importance of this answer will vary based on whether or not you want your guests to be able to make song requests and how you want your DJ to interact with those guests. If you’re having an event where people are likely to want to make requests, you won’t want to hire the DJ who gets wildly offended by song requests.
8. Ask Who Will Set Up and How Much Time They Will Need.
Each professional DJ set up will vary depending on the equipment they use. You’ll want to confirm the amount of time they’ll need for set up and who will be doing the setup so you can make arrangements in advance with the venue. *Tip: A true professional will want to have gear loaded in and be ready before guests arrive.*
9. Ask Your Potential DJ What They Usually Wear For This Type Of Event.
A professional events DJ should have several alternatives to offer from a Tuxedo or cocktail dress to coordinated outfits like dress shirts and slacks. They should also be open to themed outfitting if appropriate.
10. Ask About Their Date Reservation Policy and Their Cancellation Policy.
Most DJS will require a non-refundable deposit of up to 50% and signed quote or contract to reserve your date. Cancellation policies often require up to 14 days of advance notice with no refund of the deposit. Check the details as they will vary from DJ to DJ.
11. Ask About Their Back Up Plan For Equipment Malfunction / Failure.
Plain and simple. Your DJ should have a full Equipment Backup Plan. If they don’t, scratch them off your short-list.
12. Does Your Potential DJ Carry Liability Insurance?
You’ll want to be sure that your guests and venue are protected in the event of an accident. While carrying a policy is often not required to operate, a true professional will be able to offer you their insurance certificate.
13. Ask Your Potential DJ if They’ve Played This Type of Event Before.
This question will help you to get a feel for how comfortable they will be handling your specific type of event. There are many different musical avenues for Djs. Someone who has only played for clubs and festivals might not be fully prepared or comfortable playing your specific type of event. For example, if you’re having a wedding, and they’ve only ever been to a wedding once, but never performed, you might use caution as you proceed. There is nothing wrong with hiring a novice professional. But, if your event is delicate, time sensitive, or will require some coordination, a more seasoned professional might be a better way to go.
14. Ask For References.
Interview Questions tell, but references sell. EVERY. SINGLE. TIME. A DJ Friend of mine uses the tag line, don’t ask me, ask my clients. A professional DJ who has provided quality service should be able to easily point you in the direction of reviews from past clients. If your potential DJ cannot produce a few good references, I’d think twice before booking.