hiring a DJ

You are getting married and are hiring a DJ, what do you ask?

When you’re hiring a DJ, it’s important to ask questions so you know exactly what you’re getting and make sure that it is what you want. Honestly, some of these questions can be useful when hiring other vendors as well. I highly recommend talking with two or three vendors in each area of your needs, and getting referrals from other vendors and brides whenever possible. Some of these questions should be obvious, others may not.

Here are the top 5 questions to ask when hiring a DJ:

Is this your full-time business? Do you specialize in weddings?

This may not be an obvious question to ask, so let me explain. When hiring a DJ or any vendor and they are in the business full time, they have built themselves up in the business. They may have started part-time and their expertise and varied experience have provided them to be in their passion full-time. Make sure they also have experience in other events besides weddings. This will mean they are more well-rounded and can handle anything that could happen at the wedding.

Listen to how they talk, do they bad-mouth other DJs or vendors to get hired? Or are they business-minded and give other recommendations? True professionals will be positive in how they speak of others and give suggestions or recommendations if needed.

When hiring a DJ ask: How do you handle the music?

Most professional DJs will customize their playlist to your likes and dislikes. If you need song suggestions, your DJ will be more than willing to help. He will accept your must-play and do-not-play lists. He will work with you to ensure everything goes smoothly during your event. If you allow requests from your guests, he will do his best to work them into your playlist.

Your DJ needs to understands how to read a crowd, build up the energy and then keep it up. He needs to have the ability to blend all sorts of genres to entertain everyone and keep them on the dance floor.

Do you use professional equipment?

You don’t want to hire a DJ that has a boombox with his iPhone, not only will it not fill the room properly, an iPhone does not have a way to balance the sound and will ruin your experience. You also need to make sure your DJ has back-up equipment in case something doesn’t work.  A professional will always have back-ups.

What other services do you offer?

When hiring a DJ, find out what else they offer. Some DJ packages come with extra services such as up-lighting, personalized GOBO, A/V equipment, and/or photo booths. Ways to enhance and personalize your day. We offer those options and our owner is also an officiant.

Remember to get any details clearly outlined in your contract. Also don’t feel pressured into signing up for extra effects or services if you don’t want them.

Do you carry liability or any kind of professional insurance?

Most venues require DJs to have this insurance as well. It really is there to give peace of mind.

Feel free to re-word these questions and get any more details you may wish to have. These were just the Top 5 questions to ask when hiring a DJ. If you need any more guidelines, please feel free to reach out anytime.

Written by Ellen Crivellone of Smokey Mountain Sounds and the Smoky Mountain Wedding Association– We would love to DJ for your celebration! 1-865-712-1854

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