12 Questions to ask before booking your wedding DJ

Booking a DJ -It’s difficult to know what to ask your prospective DJ, especially if you have never booked one before. Here are a few pointers that I hope will help you in your choice and help make booking a Wedding DJ hassle free

Is this your full-time business? Are weddings your main focus? What clubs, lounges, and corporate clients have you performed for in addition to weddings?

Corporate DJ Paul Linney 193x300 12 Questions to ask before booking your wedding DJ This will enable you to discover whether they are a well-rounded, successful entertainer who can bring a level of proficiency and adaptability to your event. “You want to ensure that your DJ isn’t a one-dimensional part-timer, but a true performer whose had varied and extensive experience performing in front of different and diverse audiences, that’s not to say part time DJ’s cant give you the result you are looking for.

How do you tailor the music experience for each couple? Can you help with song lists and provide recommendations?

Find a DJ who will create a soundtrack for your wedding that is based on your style, taste, and visualisation for that day.

A skilled DJ will appreciatively accept your must-play and do-not-play lists, no matter how short or long. Fitting them into the likes of your guests. Ask if they could show you example play lists of couples who have requirements similar to yours.

How do you handle song requests?

There will be occasions where the bride and groom’s directions are diametrically opposed to the guest requests. How a DJ strikes a balance to deliver on the couple’s desires

Some DJs may tell partygoers that they need to stick to their playlist, but they’ll do their best to fit in their song, while others will appoint a bridesmaid or relative to screen particular requests (this is so that the DJ doesn’t need to interrupt the newlyweds). It is best to get it agreed how this will work on the night.

How do you get the crowd jumping?

Ask them how to get the crowd going and what they do if they are having a problem with getting the night going. Have got videos of the crowds really enjoying the night?

Can I hear some examples of mixing and blending different tracks?

Most professional DJ’s will have examples online they will be able to direct you too

Have you got references we can see from previous weddings?

An experienced DJ will have many letters of thanks from happy clients, if not walk away…… Here is an example of good references

What sound equipment do you utilize? Do you have back-up equipment?

Their equipment should be powerful enough not to have to be overdriven as that will sound nasty and make it difficult for your guests to talk. The right quality gear will allow talking and dancing.

Backup equipment is also essential: DJs should always have the equivalent of all the key pieces of equipment on hand, whether it be a microphone, speaker, mixer, etc. Don’t forget to ask how soon before the reception they plan to arrive and how long it will take for them to set up.

Will the person you are talking too be your DJ, or are they an agency?

If so can you meet or talk to the DJ you are booking before the event?

Are you PAT tested and have you Full Public Liability Insurance?

A full time professional will have both of these. The PAT testing is like an MOT but for electronic equipment.

Have you played at our chosen wedding venue before? If not, can you make a site visit beforehand?

Or at the very least contact the venue to establish if there are any issues the DJ needs to be aware off.

What other services do you offer (e.g. lighting, HD video screens)?

Some DJ packages come with extra services such as intelligent lighting and video screens. The video help to personalise the day and can involve the guests as well with cleverly selected images. While the intelligent lighting helps the DJ to change the mood of the room with this as well as the music.