First, decide what kind of music you want before your search begins. This will help you discern who is the best DJ for you. Next, determine how many hours you will need the DJ and what is your budget. I encourage you not to make up fake prices for your professional DJ, be honest about what you can spend and stick to it! Then let your search begin…
Does the best DJ play the music you want? Are they willing to expand their selections for you? If they seem resistant, maybe they are not the best DJ for you.
Do they take requests from guests? Some of the best DJs only play what was decided in advance and what they think is best. If you want your guests to have input on what music is played, make sure you find a professional DJ that will honor this.
Agree on the hours needed plus set-up time. It is also recommended to establish in advance what the rate will be for overtime, if needed. Most professional DJs will charge about 1.5 X their hourly rate for overtime. It can be sticky if you do not agree on this in advance.
Sign a contract! If not, who knows what can happen?
Offer food and beverages to your Event DJ. A professional DJ that has to go an entire wedding or event without food is not going to perform at peak level with the energy and enthusiasm you want. Most venues will offer you a reduced rate for feeding your Event DJ. It is helpful to allow the best DJ to eat in another location so they do not have to eat in front of the whole reception. This means they will need to be prepared to have music ready to play while they are eating, you do not want silence during their break.
Do you need a professional DJ that is also an MC or a DJ with an MC as a two-person team?
Many of the best DJs also have experience as professional MCs and enjoy the opportunity to be more involved in your wedding. They can provide energy and excitement to your reception. The best DJs are comfortable making announcements such as your Introductions, First Dance, Special Dances, Cake Cutting and whatever else you need. This will work in most cases. Some Brides want a separate MC to be able to get out on the dance floor to make Introductions, lead dances and generally add flavor and energy to your wedding. If hiring a two-person team, I recommend this to be identified in the beginning to make sure the professional DJ Team can provide this service for you. A good professional MC will add to your reception and help everyone get more involved.
What happens if there is an equipment failure? It is helpful to know what their back-up plan is if there is an unexpected problem. Many of the best DJs will have a back-up hard-drive ready if they have computer problems, or an iPod to cover quick fix or even an extra set of speakers if needed. When you are speaking with them, do you get the sense they will be able to handle a problem if one should arise? Follow your gut, if you feel they will get shaken easily, do you want to add more stress to your special day?
What kind of experience do they have and how may years or decades have they been doing weddings? Being a Club DJ and a Wedding DJ or Event DJ are as different as men and women. There are some of us that excel at both but that is rare. Most have a specialty and that is what they feel most comfortable doing. Make certain they have plenty of wedding and event experience.
Ask for references. Most Former Brides and Grooms that have had good experiences with their DJs are excited about sharing this with future couples. They know what a big day this is and want to support others going through the same experience. One or two is usually enough for you to get a feel for what they do and how they do it. A resume is not needed or helpful, anybody can write anything on a piece of paperJ
Are they fun? If they are not fun, do you want them at your wedding or party?
Finally, do you sense they really want to be part of your wedding or party, or just looking for work? Again, follow your gut. The best DJ can make or break your event.Trust your instincts and know you will make the right choice! This is one aspect of the wedding or event that needs to feel right for you! Trust me, your friends and family will have a great time if the professional DJ does their job to perfection. Pick the right one and make sure you have at least spoken to them on the phone, if not met with them in-person. Hiring the best DJ via the Internet without “real-life” contact is not a wise decision. It’s your wedding or event, the right professional DJ will make all the difference.
Do they offer a guarantee?
Do they know they excel as a DJ and MC? Some DJs want you to have that same confidence so you can focus your attention and energy into other areas of your wedding. If a good professional DJ knows you and your guests will have fun, they can offer a guarantee since they am certain you will want to pay them for their excellent service. You are investing in DJ by hiring us and sending us a deposit. We can invest in your wedding or event by offering a guarantee that states if you are not happy with our performance, you do not have to pay the remainder of the balance. Period. A good professional DJ will offer you a guarantee so you have peace of mind at your wedding. Make sure your DJ offers a guarantee.