With the economy faltering, consumers are paying closer attention to their spending habits within a shrinking budget. When it comes to hiring a dj, potential clients are shopping their possibilities even more so. To make your search easier and to ensure you don't fall prey to bottom feeding djs who will promise you the world for a penny and subsequently provide you a less than stellar performance, I offer the following advice.
1) Seek value for your dollar, not cheapest prices. Professional djs should offer basic items as standard. Specifically, in-home, pre-event consultations for wedding and corporate clients. Bride and grooms are busy planning their weddings and anything that can be offered to make their search easier, is appreciated. Vendors that make the added effort to meet the client on their turf shows a level of commitment that will carry over to the performance.
2) Inquire about the equipment your dj uses. There are manufacturers of dj equipment that are far superior than others. The commitment to one's company will be indicative of the quality of equipment that is purchased and maintained. The dj's website should list the variety of amps, speakers, cd players, mixers, mics, etc he uses for his performances.
3) Ask for references. An experienced disc jockey should be able to provide an ample list of sources to provide feedback and answer questions regarding past events. Don't rely only on wedding references either; look at other former events as well if you want your special day to not be just any old normal wedding reception. How a dj entertains and motivates guests at parties and dances will provide an indication of what he can do for your wedding.
4) Specify versatility by looking for djs that can move from one style of music to another if that is what you require. Most weddings today are attended by peoples from a wide mix of races and cultures, so competent djs need to be able to offer more than just the standard fare of top 40.
5) When searching for personalization of your reception, inquire about multiple packages and options. Competent disc jockeys should be able to offer a variety of add-ons, such as pinspotting, uplighting, and gobo projection. The least amount of vendors you have to hire should result in less headaches and lower pricing. In addition, a variety of plans to meet a variety of budgets should be available, where package deals should provide a better bang for the buck.
6) Attempt to find a dj that is not only capable, but is willing to work with you. First of all, do realize that the professional dj is great at what he does. He knows how to work a crowd and keep them on the dance floor, if that is what you want to acheive for your event. So do remember not to require that your dj conform to a playlist for the entire performance. Most djs will not offer their services if they are instruced to act like a human ipod...it is their reputation at stake when the songs selected by the client don't go over with their guests. However, on the other hand, do not consider a dj who is not open to your requests. Clients should lay the groundwork by indicating the styles of music to be played, which titles if any, not to play, and maybe a couple dozen specific songs to spread throughout cocktails, dinner and dancing.
7) Verify there are guarantees when you book your event. Professional and competent djs use contracts to secure performances. Most include provisions for cancellations, specific appearances, and other circumstances. The disc jockey wants to protect his interests as well as yours...insist on and require a signed contract that specifies the details of your affair.
In summary, the business of mobile entertainment is a competitive one. When looking to hire a dj for your event, you'll be faced with a large assortment of disc jockeys vying for your business. To avoid a dreadful performance because you settled on the lowest price or being overcharged for a lackluster affair, clients must be prepared. By using these tips and maintaining an open mind during your search, there is a great chance that the dj you hire will be the best for you and your special event.
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
or organization.
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