Tips for booking a DJ

When booking a DJ for your wedding, party or event (whether this be through a DJ company or independent DJ), please consider the following questions/points to ensure you are booking the right DJ for you:

1. Expect prompt return of any enquiries, phone calls and emails (usually within 24 hours)
2. When making your enquiry with a DJ company, make sure that they can give you name for the DJ you would be allocated on the day, as well as their experience. If they cannot, be wary, as some companies will accept lots of bookings on a given date, and wait til the very last minute to allocate (or hire!) enough DJs to cover all of the gigs. If making an enquiry through a sole/independent DJ provider, needless to say that this will not be an issue
3. Does the DJ you have been allocated have a demo CD to listen to, or references that you can contact?
4. Be wary of any DJ company who will not allow you direct contact with the DJ you have been allocated. It makes sense to be able to discuss/plan your function/event with the person responsible for providing the entertainment. Not being able to do so, can lead to confusion, errors and ultimately disappointment. Once again, this will not be a problem if booking an independent DJ
5. Expect some form of ‘kit’ which details packages, prices and inclusions. If they go not offer it, ask for it, as it is much better to have all of the information in front of you when comparing different company’s packages/prices whilst having a shop around
6. Although most DJ company’s music lists will be similar, ask to view their list, as this will show you what sort of music they have available. Look particularly at the ‘latest songs’, as this will give you an idea of how regularly they update their collection. Also, ask them if you can request/add any song to the list, and if you can give them a list of ‘must plays’ and ‘do not plays’?
7. Does the DJ use professional equipment? Request to see photos of the equipment and set-ups, so you can see what you will be getting for your money.
8. Is the equipment tested and tagged? Do they have public liability insurance?
9. What if the equipment fails at the function/event, or the DJ is sick/cannot attend on the day? What is their emergency back-up system?
10. How will the DJ be dressed?
11. How early will the DJ arrive to set-up? How long will it take? Will they be required to do sound checks?
12. Will the DJ take breaks during the function/event? If so, will music be played during this time?
13. Are you required to provide a meal for the DJ?

These are just some points to consider and I hope this helps when choosing a DJ!