Thursday, November 20, 2008

Questions to Ask Your Wedding DJ

As the premier Colorado disc jockeys, we know that it's a wedding DJ's job to keep the party moving. That means so much more than lining up a list of tunes and letting the records play. We keep the party going, make sure people are out on the dance floor, and help set the mood. Consequently, when it comes time to choose your wedding DJ, you should be pretty careful!

Here are eleven questions you should ask your wedding DJ before signing a contract:

1. Can I choose my own music? If you love a song, ask for it. If you hate a song, let your DJ know ahead of time so he doesn't play it. Your disc jockey should work with you on a set of reception guidelines, and a professional will abide by those guidelines.

2. Can you suggest songs? You'll probably have some favorite songs you'll want played at your reception, which your wedding DJ should be eager to play. The DJ should also be able to make suggestions for music you're not sure about. If you need help choosing music, just ask!

3. What is the cost of your services, and what do they include? Are there any hidden fees or taxes not included in the base price? Make sure you're getting what you want. Create a list of DJ duties ahead of time so your disc jockey knows what you hope to receive in return for your money.

4. What contingencies do you have if a piece of equipment fails? Good wedding DJs bring backup equipment and may even bring an assistant to help deal with any problems that may arise.

5. What happens when you're on break? How many breaks will the DJ take? Make sure that it states in your contract that the DJ will leave music playing during bathroom breaks.

6. What will you wear? If your wedding is a black tie event, you might not want the wedding DJ showing up in cargo shorts and a Hawaiian shirt. Clarify the dress code in advance.

7. When do you arrive to set up? This will be based on when the venue is available, but the DJ should be there between one and two hours beforehand. There should be time for the DJ to become familiar with the venue, set-up, perform a sound check, and to work out any last minute kinks.

8. Do you provide a contract? Never hire a wedding disc jockey without getting everything in writing!

9. Do you provide references? You should be able to speak with someone who has used the wedding DJ in the past, and if possible see his work on a wedding video.

10. Are you insured? All wedding DJs should have business liability insurance. In fact, your venue may require it. It protects you if your DJ should damage property or if one of your guests is injured due to contact with the DJ or his equipment.

11. What happens if you are unable to perform DJ duties on the day of my event? Your wedding DJ should have a replacement on call if an emergency prohibits him from working your event.

If the wedding DJ you're talking to doesn't answer any of these questions, RUN. Only work with wedding vendors who act like professionals.


A Music Plus
Denver Disc Jockeys
http://www.amusicplus.com/