With the wedding planning season in full swing, it is time for a tip that relates to my industry niche – the wedding DJ and how to hire one.
I have spoken with over two dozen brides this past weekend, and when I asked them if they have ever hired a wedding DJ before, or a DJ for that matter, none of them answered “Yes.” So, the following is a list of tips and advice to use as a quick educational tool that will hopefully help you find the best entertainment value you can.
- Narrow the list down to a few potentials. Look at the DJ company’s marketing materials – is it professionally done? Next, look at what they are saying – is it about “Us” or is it about “You”? Remember, this is your day, your DJ service should speak about serving you. Next, look at their website – does it look professional, clean, elegant? Or does it look messy and unorganized? How a DJ presents himself will be a direct reflection upon his service – pick the DJs whose presentation stands out and write their information on your list.
- Meet with every DJ on your list, in person. I know, email is convenient and much can be discussed over the phone – but it’s hard to fully disclose what a company’s service entails and the value you receive for your entertainment dollar in a ten minute conversation or via text documents. Consider the DJ’s personality, his appearance, how he conducts himself, how he speaks - this is going to be the spokesperson that represents you! The other need for a consultation is for comparing DJs – consider it a live performance (us professionals do!). Not all DJs are the same, nor do they provide the same service.
- Ask them questions, but make sure the question that uses the “P-word” is last. Here is seven questions every bride should ask:
1. What do brides like best about your style?
2. Have you ever done a reception at our venue?
3. How good is your equipment?
4. What’s your secret to getting my guests on the dance floor?
5. Can you do anything special for my formalities?
6. What are the hottest ideas for wedding receptions these days?
If entertainment is a priority, and more brides are telling me it is, make sure your DJ company delivers on the level of service you are looking for.
4. Ask for demo announcements. Go ahead, ask them how they introduce the wedding party. I can guarantee mine will be much different than what others may come up with. And then I’ll explain the reasoning behind it. Call me right now at 253.988.8095.
5. Understand that a DJ can do much more than just play good music. Ask your DJ what else he provides in his service. Brides have been walking out of my consultation meetings going, “Wow, I didn’t know DJs can do that and I can see the value your services have!” This is why a consultation meeting is a must! I provide personalized packages – and simply asking me for an email quote based off what you desire is not going to convey the value or quality I provide my clients with. Even the quality of the equipment can make a world of difference.
6. Price differences may shock you – but do your homework! This is why I say ask for pricing after the consultation has been completed. I have had some brides ask for some huge packages and quote over the phone and email - seven hours! karaoke! monogram gobo light! uplighting! two sounds systems for the ceremony and reception! a photo montage! love story! – and then been shocked at the price quote I put out – they simply didn’t think it would cost that much. But ask the DJ to show you a copy of the planning process he uses – how much time is really invested into you? The package before would easily include over 45 hours of time invested into that client – plus expense costs to create the magic she was looking for. Add on top professional fees to do this full-time and perfect my craft – and it’s no wonder why $15 an hour wouldn’t make sense. Find out if your DJ is full-time or part-time – and then ask him to breakdown his preparation hours. Simply put, the day-of time for a reception-only service is generally 8 hours – if only 12 is being put into you, are you really getting a great service?
7. Have fun! Remember, the reception is about you and the guests – make sure your DJ will inform you on how he will make your guests become apart of the reception – not just attending it. And your search for a DJ should be fun – after all, this is entertainment and no one wants a boring wedding reception. In an informal survey of my 2008 brides, I asked them, what have your friends commented on about your wedding? Their answer: “The choice of the DJ.” Make hiring a quality DJ a priority – and your friends will be saying, “Your wedding is the best wedding I have ever attended.” That is, after all, what most brides want – the best wedding reception, ever!
I hope this helps – I understand most brides have no idea where to start. Take what you have seen from other wedding DJs and start your basis there – and then see if you can find one that “WOWs” you. If you need help looking for quality wedding DJs, please feel free to contact me at 253.988.8095 or Tony@TSWDJ.com. Sometimes I am perfect for a bride, other times, I am not - but I will direct them to a DJ that is a better fit!
Tony Schwartz Wedding Tips of the Day How to hire a DJ
