Booking a DJ: The Most Important Things to Know Before You Book
Once you’ve settled the age-old debate of DJ versus band, then it’s time to buckle down and do a bit more research.
Booking a DJ requires a bit of due diligence on your part (that is if you want a professional). These questions will help you not only learn about the experience of the DJ you’re interested in, but they’ll also help you determine if the DJ can provide what you’ve envisioned.
The Questions:
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The Basics
These are questions like “How long have you been a DJ?” or “How long have you been working weddings?” Oh, and you probably want to go ahead and see if they’re available for the date of your wedding (that might save you some time!).
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Their Style
If you’ve made it this far, then you’ve already done enough research to know that you liked the style of the DJ. But this could also be a great time to ask for references from previous clients and look at his video portfolio. Also ask about how he blends songs and works the crowd.
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The Process
We’d imagine you’d like a DJ who works with you and helps with the song selection, or at least acts as a guide when creating your playlists. Couples already have so much to think about and plan, so finding a DJ that can alleviate some of the stress just makes sense. So ask what their process is like. As Bridalguide.com states, “Find a DJ who will create a soundtrack for your wedding that is based on your style, taste, and vision for the day.”
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Their Equipment and Techniques
This set of questions will probably be the most boring of the bunch, but they’re also the most critical. Definitely ask about the equipment being used. If you’re planning a beach wedding followed by an outdoor reception, then you’d want to go with a DJ that has the equipment (and ability) to cater to such locations. (Our DJs use wireless systems, so weddings on Hilton Head Island or around Savannah are a breeze.) Ask about when they plan to arrive and how long it takes to set up, especially if your ceremony is not in the same place (or area) as your reception.
Local DJs can be a great resource because if they’ve been in the business long enough in one particular city, then the chances are great that they’ve played at your chosen location, so they know the acoustics and how to work them to their advantage. If the DJ hasn’t worked a wedding in your venue, then ask if they can do a site visit.
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Extra Services
Find out if the DJ (or their company) also has extra, fun services such as rental photo booths or uplighting packages (like we do!). A follow-up question, if these companies are abundant in your area, would be to ask what sets them apart from the competition. What makes them, as a DJ, worth investing in rather than someone else in the area?
Our professional DJs would be more than happy to answer any and all of your wedding-related questions. All of our DJs have the experience and the expertise to make your wedding one of legends.
