A bad Wedding DJ can be hard to identify beforehand and can ruin an otherwise amazing and memorable wedding reception.
The most critical things to look for are experience, commitment, and professionalism.
Using the internet, telephone, and referrals you can begin to scout potential DJs. In each step, ask yourself the questions listed and use the answers to help in selecting an appropriate wedding DJ.
Commitment is the number one factor to look for. Without it, your DJ could show up late or not at all. Commitment goes further than the day of the event as well. Does the DJ answer the phone during business hours? Is he/she willing to work with you on song requests? Does he a have clear set of driving directions to your event? How much more is he willing to do besides DJ and collect your money?
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Analysis of the DJ’s website is also important. Look for elements such as booking procedures, past event articles, performance contracts, and pictures. Where has this person or company booked events? How recently? These details give you an idea of the DJ’s experience. What if the DJ doesn’t have a website? It’s probably a good idea to look elsewhere. This is a huge indicator that the DJ lacks experience, commitment, and professionalism.
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Professionalism plays a part before, during, and after the event. DJs who do not work under a contract lack the background that would otherwise have convinced them to do so already. Contracts should be designed to protect both the DJ and the couple hiring him or her. Don’t be afraid to have the DJ revise a contract to suit your requirements. Is the contract in plain view and accessible before booking the event? Are they willing to meet with you personally to negotiate your terms and requests as well?
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Experience plays the most important role during the ceremony. This factor is often indicated by the DJ’s past event roster and current bookings. Is this person doing one or two weddings a month or is it a full time job? Working with audio and electronic equipment demands the knowledge and skills to set up, operate, and diagnose problems on the fly. Speak with the likely DJs but let them do most of the talking. Ask them about their experience directly and what their most recent events were like? When was the last wedding they performed?
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Knowing the answers to these questions will arm you with the knowledge to make better DJ booking decisions. Take the time to do things right and also realize that your wedding reception is not the time to realize the "get what you paid for" lesson. Good luck!
