Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 93
Hiring a DJ - What to ask
1/7/2016 at 12:26 PM
WILL MY DJ BE GREAT?? A Collection of Questions to Ask DJ’s in Your Search for the Right Choice in DJ Entertainment
It seems that anyone with an iPod can download music and call themselves a “DJ”, and finding someone to “DJ” your reception can be as easy as asking a relative or co-worker. Does having a hard drive full of music and an ability to push ‘play’ constitute someone as a great DJ? Does simply having a nice oven get you an amazing meal, or does it take a talented chef to create something wonderful?
Take a few moments to envision your wedding and the looks on everyone’s faces. Once you have your vision, ask yourself how you will make this vision a reality. In all of its forms, entertainment will contribute to 80% your wedding’s success. Your DJ will take on a large roll in that success.
Think about DJs that you have seen, or have heard of, and make note of what you liked and disliked about them. When you have decided what will make a DJ great, then you can begin the search your entertainment.
The following questions will help you find the DJ that best suits your wedding.
1. “What is your professional wedding entertainment experience and training?” – This will demonstrate a commitment to their clients…like any job, excellence comes with training.
2. “What can you tell me about the last wedding you worked at?” – Asking this will help you find out what the DJ’s priorities are. Do they talk about the couple, the venue, the dancing, the lighting, etc?
3. "What do you enjoy most about DJing at a wedding?" - beware of generic answers, and really watch body language. Are they excited with the idea of becoming a part of your wedding?
4. "What is your favourite type of event to DJ and why?" or "What would be your ideal event to DJ at & why?" - Asking this may bring out certain strengths or weaknesses that the DJ possesses.
5. "What kind of ideas have you been able to come up with to make other weddings unique?" - Will your DJ be able to give you examples of creativity?
6. "What will you do to work within the vision of my wedding?" - When you say "I want my wedding to be ___", what will the DJ do to make sure you what you want?
7. "How do you handle uneasy situations with family and guests?" - If parents are separated, or maybe there is a death in the family, etc, how will these issues be dealt with?
8. "Why should I hire you?" - Will the answer be heartfelt and personal, or will it be product based?
9. “Do you have un-edited performance footage of something other than lighting demonstrations and a dance floor at a party?” – Request footage that displays the DJ making announcements and introductions. Watch for clarity, presentation and pronunciation. Ask yourself if they are presenting themselves the way you would want to represent.
10. “Why do you charge less (or more) than others in your profession?” – This simple question will give you a view into their confidence of their services.
The DJ you select will be a representative of you and your tastes. They will set the mood for each and every activity throughout your reception. It is up to you to ensure that the DJ you choose to take this responsibility as seriously as you do. Great parties are thought out, planned and are a result of hard work well before the day comes along.
After you have interviewed a number of DJs, base your decision on what feels right to you. Select the one that best suits you, your fiancé and your entertainment needs. You will be happy that you did!! Congratulations on your engagement, and here’s to your great wedding! Cheers!
Edited by Bryan Podworny, 2016-01-07 12:27:27