5 Easy ways to 'look before you leap' into a DJ for your Wedding

Since people don't really hire a DJ very often in life (once? twice?), they tend to ask the same first question we attach to commodity products we buy at Target- How much do you cost?

That's great for buying paper towels, but not so much for your wedding day. 

You're about to hand a live microphone to a complete stranger in front of all of your closest friends & family. Is that a good idea? 

KNOW YOUR DJ

1. Are they reliable? When weighing cost vs reliability, there is no savings great enough to make up for a DJ who never shows up. Without a DJ, your entire wedding reception is over before it starts. It's heartbreaking to hear about, but it happens. They are usually around half (or less) the rate of a professional. Several companies pay their DJs around $10-$20 an hour. This means that someone making $50-$100, is at the helm of an event that is costing on average over $25,000. Read that twice, and be sure to prioritize your budget proportionately.

2. Where is their loyalty? Are they a full time professional? Do you have to work around their "day job" schedule to plan, meet, or execute your wedding? Other employment obligations might be a reason for concern. Why are they only part time? Who is their loyalty to? Their boss who cuts them a check every week, or their client who does once? Be very careful.

3. How is their Personality? Are they generally likable? We all have people that we just don't 'click' with. Some people really want a DJ who makes announcements in a deep "radio voice", others consider that cheesy, insincere, and used-car salesmany (new word!). You need to talk to the actual DJ who will be at your wedding to know for sure if you 'click'. Be sure you do!

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4. Are they, and their equipment, neat and presentable? Your DJ will be a very visible fixture at your wedding. Guests will interact with your DJ and whether you like it or not, your DJ will be speaking on behalf of YOU, and will represent you. Appearance may not be the number one factor in buying a car, but you will be in it, and it will be sitting in your driveway. Exactly who will be standing for 4-5 hours in plain site at your wedding reception?


5. Does he/she have References? I don't mean the company, I mean the actual DJ who'll be at your wedding. Can you call some past clients/couples and speak with them directly? Surely the DJ must have at least a handful of clients who had such a wonderful experience, they will gladly give a reference. If not, keep looking.

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Great DJs make it look easy, but a great deal of time, talent, love & care goes into a wedding for a DJ who really cares.

As always, don't hesitate to contact me with any questions. Happy planning!

-Kirk Rothrum
Select Receptions, Syracuse Wedding DJ Services