1) Make a list of exactly what you want the DJ to do. Want the DJ to make announcements or maybe play the role of an emcee/master of ceremonies? (that's someone that guides, orchestrates and sometimes interacts with guests at a function). Just play music and nothing else? Do you want someone to be "prim & proper" or less structured?
Helpful Tip >>> Most DJs cannot handle all these different facets so you need to choose one that is capable of honoring your wishes. Some DJ's prefer to be dance instructors, singers or karaoke hosts more than a DJ. Some won't be an Emcee/MC. Some don't talk, others won't shut up. Some are professional and can do everything you require.
2) KNOW THE MUSIC YOU WANT PLAYED. This is obviously very important. Make sure the DJ will have the music you want at your event. Do you want a variety of music or perhaps just Country, Top-40, Club, Oldies, Hip Hop, ...? Try to find a DJ that specializes in the music you want.
Helpful Tip >>> Variety music DJ's are the most expensive because they have to be knowledgeable about many different types of music and deal with the astronomical cost of buying many more CDs and downloads than someone specializing in just one type. Not too many DJ's will have a printed list of the music they own especially if their music collection is huge and constantly updated. However, many do list what they have in their websites and music databases. In any case, you need assurance the music you want will actually be at your event.
3) Do you want a DJ with a set music program or be flexible? Take requests or not? Play your requests on demand or when they feel it can be fit in without altering the dance floor or mood? We can't stress this strongly enough - get the DJ that will do it your way.
Helpful Tip >>> A considerable number of DJ's will ask you what you want, but may not always play what you want them to play. Some DJ's will try to impress your guests by playing their best music in hopes of getting more DJ jobs in the future. Other DJ's have a large enough cliential where they don't even think twice about playing exactly what you want. You can read more about this in the Guidelines section.
4) Make sure the DJ has the right equipment for your event. Be sure to state the approximate amount of people that will be attending (some DJs don't have equipment to handle large events). State whether event is indoors or outdoors or both. Will equipment have to be moved from one place to another during event? If some specific equipment will be required such as tape or CD players, make sure the DJ service has this since not all do. Lights, fog, bubbles, novelties like inflatable instruments or theme? Want them or don't want them - tell the DJ before getting a price.
Helpful Tip >>> It has been our experience that most DJ services in the South Texas area do not have professional equipment. Just because the speaker system looks big, doesn't mean that it is a professional grade system. Again, read our Guidelines section for more information.
5) Ask how much experience they have working events similar to yours. If it doesn't make a difference, that's OK. But if something absolutely has to go right it would be to your advantage to have someone with experience who can deal with unexpected last second changes, twists, curves and turns that always seem to come up. A good DJ can help smooth over potential rough moments.
Helpful Tip >>> Not many events go exactly according to plans. Things change and stuff comes up where alterations must be made. An experienced DJ will be comfortable handling most all situations that may arise. With a good DJ, when stuff doesn't go exactly occording to plans it may actually turn out better than originally planned!
6) Match the DJ to place of event. If a DJ is using turntables (playing records/vinyl) or not using anti-skip cd players, the area used by the DJ must have a rock solid foundation or music will skip or stop. If there is a stage, it too has to be solid.
Helpful Tip >>> Ask the DJ what type of events they normally perform at. Get a feel of what events they are most comfortable performing at and what their equipment is able to accomodate.
7) Due to direct sunlight on equipment (a bad situation) or threat of rain, not all DJs will work outdoors using their own equipment.
Helpful Tip >>> When dealing with an experienced DJ and the word "outside" comes up in a sentence, be prepared for several questions from the DJ. Experienced DJ's have seen it all and done it all and outside events can get a little tricky. Professional DJ services will always want to protect their equipment at all costs, they have to. They can not risk a $50,000 mistake to do one outside event.
8) After signing a contract, how accessible is your DJ going to be? Do you want an additional meetings before your event to go over details? Not all DJ's can or will do this - especially part-time DJs who make their living from a different line of work.
Regarding Formal Events and Weddings: specific questions to ask DJ's
1) Do they know how to work with photographers, videographers and related personnel? Don't take this for granted. It's imperative everybody coordinate their actions so that important moments are handled, photographed and videographed correctly. Ask the DJ how they handle this type of stuff.
2) Will they set-up their equipment before your guests arrive?
3) If you don't have an event coordinator (someone to oversee formalities and other details), is the DJ ready to guide you through this? The good DJs can handle this type of requirement.
4) Do they own or rent formal attire? If they rent, will you get charged extra?
* Special Note to people reading this section: regarding helping with a wedding reception,
Would you like to get our exclusive Power DJ's Wedding Reception Information Worksheet? Click Here
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