WHAT TO ASK YOUR DJ?

Asking the following questions before hiring your DJ will help you get the best DJ for your special event.

How long have you been in business?
Experience is important but it doesn't tell the whole story. Ask your DJs the questions below regardless of the number of years they have been in business:
How did your DJ career start? In a nightclub? Do you work for yourself or for another DJ company?
How many events have you performed? What type of events (Bar Mitzvahs, weddings, etc.)?
Make sure you have the right DJ for your event. For example, a wedding DJ with seven years experience is useless for class reunions.

Do you have liability insurance?
Insurance is mutually beneficial for you and your DJ. For example, a guest accidentally trips, breaking the sound system or the DJ accidentally breaks something, both parties are covered and no one has to sue for damages.

What type of equipment do you use?
Home stereo systems are great but they are not intended for professional use. If DJs don't possess photos of their equipment ask to see their gear in person. DJs should have the ability to make a distinction between professional and consumer equipment.

May I preview a DJ in advance?
Watching a DJ's performance can be valuable experience. You can watch how a DJ actually performs in an event, live or on videotape, as long as it shows the DJ's gear and him/her mingling with the crowd.

May I see a selection of your music? Do you take requests?
Some DJ's use music lists while others don't. You need to make sure that the DJ has a diverse collection which can appeal to large guests at various events especially weddings. The DJ's collection should also be large enough to handle requests.

What are your hourly overtime rates? What is your cancellation policy?
Questions about overtime rates and cancellation policies should be covered in a written contract. A written contract is essential to hiring a DJ because it protects you and the DJ. Even if your DJ is a friend or a family member you still need a written contract. Anything can happen and if something goes wrong without a written contract it could be huge disaster. Read your contract carefully. Watch out for fine prints (especially "we reserve the right to us a replacement DJ if needed) and hidden costs. If anything sounds confusing ask the DJ to clarify it. Always make sure the DJ signs the contract or at least make sure their name is on the contract.