Choosing a DJ

Choosing a DJ

Most people don't book DJs that often so here's some tips on what to ask.

1. Are they available for your date?
Begin your phone call by indicating the date, time, and location of your event. If they're unavailable there’s not much point prolonging the call but you could ask them to recommend other DJs.

If they are available are they familiar with the venue? Some venues have low ceilings, narrow spaces for a DJ setup and lots of stairs. Make sure they know or are prepared to visit the venue beforehand. They may bring the best kit in the world, but if they can’t set it up, that’s no good to you.

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2. How long have they been a DJ & how many events have they performed?
A professional, experienced Disc Jockey will be able to plan & smoothly guide your celebration from start to finish allowing you to relax and enjoy the party.

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3. What type of music do they provide and will they play requests?It's your party! You want someone who takes an interest in what YOU want. You want a DJ who is flexible so that any request from your guests can be fulfilled, providing it meets your acceptable music criteria. A professional will concentrate on quality of the sound, not quantity and will spend time on the night ensuring that your seated guests can talk comfortably while others are dancing.

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4. What is their appearance like?Will they wear a formal dinner suit (tuxedo), tidy-casual, or a T-shirt, jeans and trainers? Find out ahead of time and make your preferences known! Different events command different attire.

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5. What kind of equipment do they use & what is their technical expertise?
You are paying money for a professional and they should have brand-new-looking, quality equipment and know how it operates. Make sure it's all professional equipment, not home stereo or consumer grade. There is a difference!

Some larger venues or especially marquees will require a larger sound system to maintain a crisp full bodied sound. Make sure your DJ can accommodate this rather than pushing a small system to the limit and ending in poor quality sound for your event.

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6. Do they have Public Liability Insurance?
Many venues now insist that all entertainers have their own insurance. Accidents are extremely rare but for peace of mind it’s worth checking that the entertainment you book does have the necessary cover - or you could be liable if damage or injury is caused by the DJ you have hired. Many hotels now have a policy of refusing entertainment if they cannot produce evidence of suitable insurance (check the small print of your venue hire documents).

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7. Do they have back-up equipment on hand in case of an emergency?Even professional equipment can fail on occasion. Usually, only the top-notch pros invest the extra money to ensure that everything works and backup systems are in place. Booking a reliable Disc Jockey is a very important decision for the success of your event.

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8. Will they personally be the DJ for your reception?
Some DJ's will book your event and then pass it on to another DJ to play your night. Some (almost always the cheap ones) don't even bother to turn up if a more lucrative booking comes along*! Make sure you get what you are paying for.

Make sure you get along with the DJ you have booked. There are many different styles of DJ, varying ages and backgrounds. So choose one that that will suit your personalities.

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9. How much do they charge?Not surprisingly, most professional, reputable DJ's charge more for their services than a hobby DJ who is just looking to make a few extra pounds on the side. Question a company that is low in cost... there's a good chance you will be putting the success of your event at risk in order to save a few pounds*.

A professional will have better quality equipment, more experience and will have higher running costs due to insurances, tax and advertising. This will reflect in the quoted price.

As a guide a local DJ to the Wye Valley area will charge between £175 to £500,the norm being about £250.

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10. Do they require a deposit and a written agreement?If not, why not? If a DJ is serious about his business, he will want an agreement and a deposit. The agreement should offer a guarantee that he will show up on the day and will perform for the times you have decided on. If there's no deposit and no agreement, there's nothing to bind him to your event. A professional DJ will insist on a deposit to confirm your date and a booking agreement is your protection.