Choosing the Right Disc Jockey

Gerald Webb

 

        Disc Jockey entertainers are by far the most popular form of wedding entertainment, and for good reason.  DJs have a high degree of versatility.  This versatility allows them to play music from every era and adjust to you and your guests, in order to create an atmosphere where everyone can get involved and have a good time.  However, not all DJs are good DJs.  Making the correct choice for your reception can spell the difference between an elegant day filled with moments to remember or the wedding day blues.  So here are a few suggestions to help you make the right choice.

      First, deal with a professional DJ company, as opposed to independent DJs.  Professional DJs have the knowledge and expertise necessary to orchestrate flawless reception entertainment.  These companies also have much better track records for reliability.  As an example, if your DJ were to become ill, a professional DJ company normally has the resources to provide an equally qualified substitute.  Professional DJ companies are usually fully licensed and insured in order to protect you and your guests from any unforeseen circumstances or events.  In most cases, individual DJs cannot offer you the same assurance.  Make sure your DJ can offer you the quality, reliability and protection you should expect and deserve.

      Second, shop around!  Your wedding day is the most important day of your life.  So don’t limit your options by not seeing what is available.  You may already know of a good DJ company; if not, ask your friends and family members if they know of any.  If they do, ask them why they think the DJ is good and how you may contact them.  Next, ask other wedding professionals (i.e. caterers, wedding planners, bridal shops, etc.) who they would recommend.  The American Disc Jockey Association is another excellent source for DJ referrals (www.adja.org).  It is a national organization whose objective is to increase the overall level of professionalism in the DJ industry.  I suggest that you contact the company or companies of your choice and request printed information as well as a price quote.  The printed information should include a pamphlet, business card and a list of Frequently Asked Questions and their answers.  Also inquire about any additional services (lighting, props, etc.) the DJ Service offers.  Make sure these companies treat you in a courteous and professional manner and don’t let anyone rush you into an early decision.

      Go see your potential DJ Company in action!  Any established and reputable company should have facilities for you to view a video of their performance.  A video presentation will let you see and judge first hand the DJ’s skill and professionalism.  Take notice of how the DJ interacts with the guests, the bride and groom, the caterer, the photographer and the videographer.  Ask yourself, was there an Emcee and a DJ?  Did the Emcee/DJ get all of the guests involved?  Did they properly announce and coordinate all of the reception events?  Did the music appeal to the different age groups in attendance?  Was the volume adjusted adequately?  Did the performers seem courteous, professional and well prepared?  Were they dressed in formal attire?  Did they seem flexible and willing to accommodate the bride, groom and guests?  And, above all, did you enjoy the performance they put on?  Hopefully you will be able to answer “yes” to all of these questions.

      Follow these steps and you will be on your way to making the informed and right choice for your reception entertainment.  So – congratulations and good luck!

 

Gerald Webb is the Chief Entertainment Officer of Party·Time Entertainment. 
If you have any additional questions, please feel free to contact him at (856) 728-4926 or

info @ www.greatentertainment.com