Questions to ask when hiring a DJ courtesy of the
American Disc Jockey Association.
Disc Jockey rates vary greatly based on talent,
experience, emcee ability, service, coordination,
equipment needed, music knowledge, mixing ability and
personality.
Rates for the DJ industry vary greatly as well, ranging
from $450.00 to well over $5,000.00 with
an average of $1,250.00
for a 4 hour booking. The best price is not
always the best deal, especially if you are planning a
wedding. As a matter of fact, surveys conclude that
nearly 100% of brides would have spent more money on
their entertainment and made it their #1 priority in
hindsight.
A full-service disc
jockey company will normally invest 12 to 15 hours
to your special event, but it may appear that you are
only paying for "4 hours". Consultations, music
programming & editing, preparation, set-up and
tear-down, education and other business related
endeavors add up to the overall success of your special
occasion.
The ADJA strongly
recommends that you ask the following questions
when booking a DJ:
See Also:
Disc Jockey Rates and
Truth About iPod Weddings
-
Are you insured? Can
you supply me with proof of liability?
[Our DJs carry a $2,000,000 liability policy.]
Many responsible business
owners carry liability insurance to protect their
businesses and the consumer. Many locations are
beginning to require proof of liability. Ask for
proof of liability insurance. Disc Jockey's receive
a Certificate of Liability which
can be used as proof.
-
Will you be willing to
play requests and discuss music ahead of time?
[We offer personal planning meetings, online
planners, and more.]
A versatile Disc Jockey
is willing to listen to your suggestions, give you
feedback and play from your desired song list. A
professional Disc Jockey will also accept the fact
you may not want certain songs played. A
professional Disc Jockey cannot know everything
about your musical preferences and entertainment
needs without communication.
-
Do you use Professional
Equipment? [Our systems are
second to none in the Richmond area, you'll see and hear the
difference.]
Ask whether your
prospective Disc Jockey works with professional
audio equipment. If you are not sure, ask for their
equipment list and check with a local music dealer
or the A.D.J.A. to verify they are using
professional-grade sound gear. Remember that professional gear does not guarantee an
entertainer's talent or service level, but
is simply a tool for building an exceptional event.
-
Do you provide backup
equipment at my event? [We
carry a 16 foot trailer with SEVERAL backups systems to each event.]
Although equipment
failure is rare, do you really want your special
occasion ruined because your Disc Jockey did not
come prepared? It is also important to know if your
Disc Jockey has a back-up plan in case of illness or
an accident.
-
Does the Disc Jockey
know the proper etiquette for your type of party?
[We've played hundreds of
events over the last 18 years.]
A professional Disc
Jockey will assist you with the planning of your
special day. Most professional entertainers will
coordinate, emcee and provide the music that you
desire. Ask if they have experience
with your type of event.
-
How much time do you
allow for set-up? [We allow a
minimum of 1.5 hours for setup, and even longer for larger setups.]
Punctuality is a
necessity. Most Disc Jockey's arrive at
least one hour or more prior to the start time
you've given them. Your entertainer should ideally
be setup and in-place before your first guest walks
through the door.
-
Do you provide a
written contract? [Yes, and
our deposits range from $50 to $500, depending on your system.]
It is extremely important
to have your booking confirmed in writing.
Ask for a written agreement, especially if you are
paying an initial retainer. The standard initial
payment for entertainment services is 50%. If you
are expecting a specific entertainer, make sure you
get it in writing as well.
-
Will you be suitably
dressed for our occasion?
[Our DJs dress appropriately for your event,
and as specified in your contract.]
Specify the type of
apparel that your Disc Jockey is expected to wear
for your occasion. Formal attire or coat & tie are
the most popular forms of attire. If you are having
a "themed" event, make sure your entertainer is
informed.
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