Advice to Help You Book Your Wedding Entertainment
Most people don't book DJs that often so
if you decide not to choose a member of AMPdj, here's some tips on
what to ask.
1. Are they available for your date?
Begin your phone call by indicating the date, time, and location
of your event. If they're unavailable there’s not much point
prolonging the call but you could ask them to recommend other
DJs.
2. How long have they been a DJ & how many events have they
performed?
A professional, experienced Disc Jockey will be able to plan &
smoothly guide your celebration from start to finish allowing
you to relax and enjoy the party.
3. What type of music do they provide and will they play requests?
It's your party! You want someone who takes an interest in what
YOU want. You want a DJ who is flexible so that any request from
your guests can be fulfilled, providing it meets your acceptable
music criteria. A professional will concentrate on quality of
the sound, not quantity and will spend time on the night
ensuring that your seated guests can talk comfortably while
others are dancing.
4. What is their appearance like?
Will they wear a formal dinner suit (tuxedo), tidy-casual, or a
T-shirt, jeans and trainers? Find out ahead of time and make
your preferences known! Different events command different
attire.
5. What kind of equipment do they use & what is their
technical expertise?
You are paying money for a professional and they should have
brand-new-looking, quality equipment and know how it operates.
Make sure it's all professional equipment, not home stereo or
consumer grade. There is a difference!
6. Do they have Public Liability Insurance?
Many venues now insist that all entertainers have their own insurance. Accidents
are extremely rare but for peace of mind it’s worth checking
that the entertainment you book does have the necessary cover -
or you could be liable if damage or injury is caused by the
DJ you have hired. Many hotels now have a policy of refusing entertainment if they cannot produce
evidence of suitable insurance (check the small print of your venue hire documents).
7. Do they have back-up equipment on hand in case of an
emergency?
Even professional equipment can fail on occasion. Usually, only
the top-notch pros invest the extra money to ensure that
everything works and backup systems are in place. Booking a
reliable Disc Jockey is a very important decision for the
success of your event.
8. Will they personally be the DJ for your reception?
Some DJ's will book your event and then pass it on to another DJ
to play your night. Some (almost always the cheap ones) don't
even bother to turn up if a more lucrative booking comes
along! Make sure you get what you are paying for.
9. How much do they charge?
Not surprisingly, most professional, reputable DJ's charge more
for their services than a hobby DJ who is just looking to make a
few extra pounds on the side. Question a company that is low in
cost... there's a good chance you will be putting the success of
your event at risk in order to save a few pounds*.
Also, keep in mind all the time and money you already have
committed to your event and the impact the DJ has on how
everything turns out. If a family friend offers to do it for
£100 less than a reputable, experienced, professional DJ, think
twice before jumping at the lower price. For most wedding
receptions it is the combined efforts of many professionals
who work together to ensure
your day is successful. Your evening is as
important, so choosing a professional Wedding Disc Jockey is
always a good investment.
DJs are available at all levels and all price points - from £100 to £1000 or
more. Usually you get what you pay for.
10. Do they require a deposit and a written agreement?
If not, why not? If a DJ is serious about his business, he will
want an agreement and a deposit. The agreement should offer a
guarantee that he will show up on the day and will perform for
the times you have decided on. If there's no deposit and no
agreement, there's nothing to bind him to your event. A
professional DJ will insist on a deposit to confirm your date
and a booking agreement is your protection.