Things To Remember When Booking A DJ

Hiring the right DJ for your party or event is critical to its success, as the DJ can make or break the event in a matter of minutes. Here's what you need to consider when looking around for a professional DJ.

The best place to start is with people you trust and by asking them for referrals. Think of someone who throws great parties and ask them what they believe is the ideal party entertainment company. Disc jockeys do advertise in magazines, on the Internet and in newspapers, but it is a good idea to speak to someone who has experienced the DJ's performance firsthand. Many wedding and function venues keep lists of reliable DJs which you may contact. Interview the DJ for hire and ask the disc jockey questions to determine his experience, prices, set-up time and musical selection processes. If you have time, try and attend one of the DJ's events and make sure the DJ has your favourite music selections. Many good DJs will be prepared to find the music you want.

Money is very important when hiring a party DJ, because you have to make sure that you include the rate of your chosen DJ on the overall budget that you are willing to spend for your party. Look for someone whom you can afford, because there are many quality DJ's for hire out there that do not offer sky high prices, especially newer DJ's that are just starting out. By hiring a disc jockey, you may need to stretch your budget a little farther, but after your event has had a great amount of success, you will be appreciative for the services that you have received.

It is important to schedule the DJ several months before your party date and to negotiate DJ fees, as well as sign a contract. Confirm the date and time, schedule of events, venue requirements, lighting and equipment needs. If the DJ does not include this information in his contract, include an addendum to ensure that the party DJ incorporates all of your requirements, such as equipment and emcee duties, in his fee.

Avoid a party DJ who does not return calls quickly or fail to send you the information you requested. Trust your instincts: if you have a feeling that someone is wrong for you, do not use them. The biggest error made by most party hosts looking for good party entertainment is price assessment: One of the biggest mistakes you can make is to go price-hunting, and book the cheapest DJ in town. Be sure to do your homework and find out about each company or DJ, to ensure that you are going with someone reliable who has a track record.