How to Hire A DJ by Kenny Jay
Treat it just like you are hiring for any job. Ask lots of questions and compare.
Don't hire the cheapest person you can find. The typical wedding sees less than 5% of their budget go to entertainment, but over 80% of what your guests remember is the entertainment. You really do get what you pay for!
Don't pay more with the promise of X-thousands of songs. With a 4 hour event a DJ may play 80 songs. Proper planning will ensure that they have the special songs you want.
Always watch for the bait and switch. If you are going to hire someone, make sure they will be person at the event. There are many times you talk to someone who you think you have hired, only to find they send out the apprentice, sub contracted DJ, or their kid to DJ your event.
Does your DJ have a backup system? Will they have it on site the night of your event?
Hire a professional. Any kid with a computer loaded with MP3's can get the job done, but this isn't a job, this is your event! Don't be shy to ask for references and reviews.
Being a part of a "DJ club" or "DJ Organization" should not be an influence on your decision or cost you more money.
Make sure you find someone that can help plan every step of the way. There should be no up charge or limit on the amount of contact you need with your DJ.
Does your DJ carry property and liability insurance? Some venues require it.
Will your DJ require you to pay gratuity BEFORE the actual event? You don't tip a waitress before you eat! You should only pay gratuity if your DJ met or exceeded your expectations!
Do you need your entertainer to tell jokes and emcee at a Holiday Party? Execute games? Or maybe just play music and not say much? Make sure you find the match to what exactly you envision for your event.
Look for all-in-one packages that include lighting, cocktail and dinner music, kids dances at weddings and wireless mics. Some DJ services up charge for these items.
Some companies tout their digital library as a way for you to pay more. Playing CD's vs. computer is just a preference of what a DJ likes and should not be a reason for you to pay more. Music on a computer or ipod (as opposed to CD's) does not benefit you in any way. It actually could make the event worse if the DJ hired is just babysitting a computer or ipod that is playing songs and not entertaining your guests.
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