Hiring a great DJ is a critical component of planning a great wedding

reception. The American Disc Jockey Association

is a professional association of DJs from across the country and recommends you

ask the following questions when you are interviewing a prospective Disc Jockey.

For more information you can visit their site at:

American Disc Jockey Association

1. Are you insured? Can you supply me with proof of liability?
   

   Many responsible business owners carry liability insurance to protect their

   businesses and the consumer. Many locations are beginning to require proof

   of liability. Ask for proof of liability insurance. Disc Jockey's receive a

   Certificate of Liability which can be used as proof.
   

    

2. Will you be willing to play requests and discuss music ahead of time?
   

   A versatile Disc Jockey is willing to listen to your suggestions, give you

   feedback and play from your desired song list. A professional Disc Jockey

   will also accept the fact you may not want certain songs played. A

   professional Disc Jockey cannot know everything about your musical

   preferences and entertainment needs without communication.
   

    

3. Do you use Professional Equipment?
   

   Ask whether your prospective Disc Jockey works with professional audio

   equipment. If you are not sure, ask for their equipment list and check with

   a local music dealer or the A.D.J.A. to verify they are using

   professional-grade sound gear. Remember that professional gear does not

   guarantee an entertainer's talent or service level, but is simply a tool for

   building an exceptional event. 
   

    

4. Do you provide backup equipment at my event?
   

   Although equipment failure is rare, do you really want your special occasion

   ruined because your Disc Jockey did not come prepared? It is also important

   to know if your Disc Jockey has a back-up plan in case of illness or an

   accident. Members of the A.D.J.A. have many resources available to them in

   case of an emergency. You may also reach our Hotline number to get a Disc

   Jockey when you have an emergency. The toll-free number is 888-723-5776.
   

   Booking a reliable Disc Jockey is a very important decision for the success

   of your party. Selecting a Disc Jockey who is an active member of the

   American Disc Jockey Association will provide you with the confidence that

   you have selected a trained professional. A.D.J.A. members are more likely

   to be involved with other Disc Jockey's who can help them out with an

   unexpected situation.
   

    

5. Does the Disc Jockey know the proper etiquette for your type of party?
   

   A professional Disc Jockey will assist you with the planning of your special

   day. Most professional entertainers will coordinate, emcee and provide the

   music that you desire. Ask if they have experience with your type of event.
   

    

6. How much time do you allow for set-up?
   

   Punctuality is a necessity. Most Disc Jockey's arrive at least one hour

   prior to the start time you've given them. Your entertainer should ideally

   be setup and in-place before your first guest walks through the door.
   

    

7. Do you provide a written contract?
   

   It is extremely important to have your booking confirmed in writing. Ask for

   a written agreement, especially if you are paying an initial retainer. The

   standard initial payment for entertainment services is 50%. If you are

   expecting a specific entertainer, make sure you get it in writing as well. 
   

    

8. Will you be suitably dressed for our occasion?
   

   Specify the type of apparel that your Disc Jockey is expected to wear for

   your occasion. Formal attire or coat & tie are the most popular forms of

   attire. If you are having a "themed" event, make sure your entertainer is

   informed.
   

    

9. Do you belong to a professional organization or trade group? 
   

   Although belonging to an organization or trade group does not guarantee the

   talent or professionalism of a disc jockey, it may indicate the companies

   willingness to network, learn and grow. Disc jockeys can learn through local

   chapter meetings, national DJ conventions and seminars geared toward the

   entertainment professional. 

Disc Jockey rates vary based on talent, experience, emcee ability, service,

coordination, equipment needed, music knowledge, mixing ability and

personality.

Rates for the DJ industry vary greatly, ranging from $350.00 to $3,500.00 with

an average of $1,200.00 for a 4 hour booking. The best price is not always the

best deal, especially if you are planning a wedding. As a matter of fact,

surveys conclude that nearly 100% of brides would have spent more money on their

entertainment and made it their #1 priority in hindsight.

A full-service disc jockey company will normally invest 12 to 30 hours to your

special event but it may appear that you are only paying for "4 hours".

Consultations, music purchasing & editing, preparation, set-up and tear-down,

education and other business related endeavors add up to the overall success of

your special occasion.