Here are some questions that you need to ask before selecting your entertainment professional
Do you use Professional Equipment?
Ask whether your prospective Disc Jockey works with professional audio equipment. You do not want your DJ showing up with a home stereo system and an iPod.
Do you provide backup equipment at my event?
Although equipment failure is rare, do you really want your special occasion ruined because your Disc Jockey did not come prepared? It is also important to know if your Disc Jockey has a back-up plan in case of illness or an accident.
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 fee. The standard initial payment for entertainment services is 50%.
Are you insured? Can you supply me with proof of liability?
Many responsible business owners carry liability insurance to protect their businesses and the consumer. Many venues are beginning to require proof of liability. Ask for proof of liability insurance. If Uncle Bob has a few too many shots at the bar, stumbles into the DJ area, and a speaker falls on his head, a professional Disc Jockey's liability insurance will go a long way in providing the peace-of-mind that you should have on your special day.
Will you be willing to play requests and discuss music ahead of time?
A versatile Disc Jockey is willing to listen to your suggestions, give you feedback and play from your desired song list. A professional Disc Jockey will also accept the fact you may not want certain songs played. A professional Disc Jockey cannot know everything about your musical preferences and entertainment needs without communication.
Booking a reliable Disc Jockey is a very important decision for the success of your party. Always insist on references!! You may also want to consider checking with your local Better Business Bureau or
Ripoffreport.com
Does the Disc Jockey know the proper etiquette for your type of party?
A professional Disc Jockey will assist you with the planning of your special day. Most professional entertainers will coordinate, emcee and provide the music that you desire. Ask if they have experience with your type of event.
How much time do you allow for set-up?
Punctuality is a necessity. Most Disc Jockey's arrive at least one hour prior to the start time you've given them. Your entertainer should ideally be setup and in-place before your first guest walks through the door.
Will you be suitably dressed for our occasion?
Specify the type of apparel that your Disc Jockey is expected to wear for your occasion. A professional DJ will never arrive for your party in jeans and a t-shirt (unless you have specifically requested it). If you are having a "themed" event, make sure your entertainer is informed.
Do you belong to a professional organization or trade group?
Although belonging to an organization or trade group does not guarantee the talent or professionalism of a disc jockey, it may indicate the companies willingness to network, learn and grow. Disc jockeys can learn through local chapter meetings, national DJ conventions and seminars geared toward the entertainment professional.
Other Items to Note
Disc Jockey rates vary based on talent, experience, emcee ability, service, coordination, equipment needed, music knowledge, and personality, and the number of hours that you require them for.
Rates for the DJ industry vary greatly, ranging from $500 to $1,200.00 (in this market) for a 4-hour booking.
The best price is not always the best deal, especially if you are planning a wedding. You
DO NOT want to hire an unprofessional, inexperienced DJ for the biggest day of your life! Many times, these are the guys that you see oo classified advertising sites, charging $175 to $200 for a four to five hour wedding. When most DJs were booking weddings 20 years ago, or more, the going rate was more than $175 to $200 for a wedding. In this day and age, with more advanced equipment, legal music purchases, insurance, taxes, continuing education, equipment upgrades, payroll, and transportation costs, you REALLY need to ask yourself if the $175 to $200 DJ is professional and legitimate, or are they cutting corners and just trying to make a quick buck? In any event, you do not want them ruining your big day.
A full-service disc jockey company will normally invest 15 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, travel time, education and other business related endeavors add up to the overall success of your special occasion.
; "We arrive to your venue in style. All of our equipment is hauled in a converted ambulance. This provides internal lighting for ease of loading and unloading, and it provides a level of caution for guests that are entering or leaving the venue during setup or tear-down.")
; "I am David, and I am your DJ. Over 20 years of DJ/Emcee experience. My assistant and I will be dressed appropriately for your event, and due to our low-key approach you, the bride and groom, are the center of attention.")
; "This is my assistant, Cameron. Our team effort enables us to entertain audiences both younger and older.")
; "This is only one example of how \"clean\" our setup is. You won't see clutter, speakers stacked to the ceiling, or unsightly orange extension cords and wires all over.")
; "This is part of our basic, customized, state-of-the-art lighting tree. This represents only 1/4 of the lighting that we have to offer. We also offer monogram lighting, elegant up-lighting, and advanced club-like dance lighting.")
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