Important Questions

1. Does the DJ Company have YOUR DATE available?
This is undoubtedly the FIRST question to ask……because if your date is not available, then it won’t matter how good the DJ is, or how great a value their price is, RIGHT?  So, it’s probably best to start the conversation by indicating your date, the event location and the expected time of your event.  Some companies will temporarily hold your date, but remember they have a business to run.  And in the business world, this often means “first come, first served”.  So please don’t expect them to put your date on hold indefinitely.  If they are willing to tentatively reserve your date, please be courteous and contact them if you decide not to employ their services, it’s just the right thing to do!

2. Does the DJ Company carry LIABILITY INSURANCE?
This is the SECOND most important question to ask a prospective DJ company, because their answer can be so very important later on.  Let’s face it; accidents can occur at any event, but what happens if a speaker stand falls on Aunt Sally?  What if the DJ breaks a glass door while unloading their equipment?  Who will be held legally responsible?  Well, if the DJ Company carries liability insurance, then they simply make a phone call to their insurance agent and everything is taken care of.  But, if they don’t have insurance, then you can be held financially responsible for all medical expenses and physical damages.  Many local reception sites require that “all vendors” must show proof of insurance prior to providing services in their facility.  If you hire a DJ company without proper insurance, then you’re taking a great risk if something should happen.  Why take a chance with your event – ask for a copy of their insurance binder?

3. How much EXPERIENCE does the DJ Company have, and how many events have they performed at?
A professional wedding disc jockey is not the same as a Karaoke DJ, or someone who plays week nights at a local tavern or dance club.  And a high school prom or radio DJ, may not even know how to showcase the Bride & Groom during the Wedding Party’s Grand Entrance.  So ask about your DJ’s experience, and let them know what you expect at your event.  All events are important, but for a life long dream event like a wedding, it’s essential that your DJ is very familiar and experienced with that type of event format.  Remember, that choosing a DJ with the right personality and experience can ensure that your event runs more smoothly, and ultimately saves you from a stressful situation!

4. Is the DJ Company willing to provide you with REFERENCES from their previous clients?
As you may already know, the best method for any business to advertise is through “word of mouth”.  A good recommendation from a previous client is one of the most reliable ways of selecting a DJ Company for your event.  Ask the prospective company for references of clients whom they have provided services for.  And not for just any services, but ask for clients who had events similar to your special occasion.  Be sure to ask the client if they would recommend the DJ to their family and friends?  If so, you probably found a good DJ!  

5. Will the DJ be willing to meet for an INTERVIEW?
It’s very important to know that your DJ is a full-time professional, and is willing to schedule an interview with you at your convenience.  This generally means that they’re dedicated and will do whatever it takes to make your event a complete success.  Remember that some DJ companies act as only booking agents, and this means that they’ll re-assign your event to another DJ, or completely different company.  To avoid being caught in this situation, ask to meet with the DJ that will be performing at your event.  If they won’t take the time to meet with you prior to hiring their services, then follow your instincts, and RUN AWAY!    

6. Does the DJ Company use PROFESSIONAL EQUIPMENT?
Don’t worry about brand names; you probably won’t recognize them anyway.  But, a true professional shouldn’t be using audio equipment that is found in most households.  Most DJs are proud of the investment that they have made in their equipment, so ask to see a few pictures of the typical set-up for your type of event.  Chances are, they’ll have quite a few photos for you to look at.  Be sure their set-up is appropriate for the amount of space at your venue, and that it appears neat and appealing to you and your guests!

7. Will the DJ Company have BACK-UP EQUIPMENT on-hand at your event?
A variety of circumstances can occur at any special event, and a professional DJ will be a life-saver if they have back-up equipment on-hand at your event.  If a speaker blows, or another piece of equipment breaks down, it would definitely be nice to know that the replacement part is right there, and not back at the warehouse or office.  Also, ask if the back-up or replacement gear is the same as what you contracted for?  This is an area where most DJs try to save a few dollars themselves, so make sure you’re still going to get what you originally paid for, and nothing less!

8. Will the DJ Company provide a WRITTEN CONTRACT?
In mentioning a contract, it is extremely important that your event information be confirmed in writing and signed by both you and the DJ, or their company representative.  We’ve actually talked with clients whose original DJ called 3-4 days before their event, and cancelled simply because someone else offered them more money to play at another event.  There’s no 100% full-proof guarantee this can’t happen to you, but with a written contract, you’ll always have better recourse to get your money back.  Pay special attention for fees and/or deposits that may be charged prior to booking your event, nearly all event professionals ask for something to reserve your date.  Generally, these amounts can range from 25-30% of the total amount price.  Be wary of companies that require 50% or 100% of the amount being paid before the event.  They often have a reason for collecting everything up front.  All pre-paid fees or deposits should be deducted from your total price.  Be sure to read all terms of the agreement, and ask about anything that is unclear.  This will help to avoid any problems or confusion later!

9. Will the DJ Company assist in the PLANNING of your event?
Today’s professional DJ should be more that just someone who plays music.  They should also be able to help you plan your event.  They need to be able to coordinate with all of the other vendors, such as the caterer, photographer, videographer, etc.  And if necessary, they should serve as the event host by providing Master of Ceremony services, and gently guiding all of your event’s activities in an orderly and logical sequence.  By being involved with the planning of your event, the DJ will better be able to advise and recommend appropriate music selections to make the event more unique and personalized.  By combining their professional experience with your ideas, they should then be able to create a detailed itinerary for the event.  If properly prepared, this will allow you to focus on other aspects of the event, such as actually enjoying yourself too!

10. Will the DJ be APPROPRIATELY DRESSED for your event?
A professional DJ should always be in formal or semi-formal attire for most types of occasions.  If you have a personal preference as to what type of attire you’d like for your DJ, by all means, let him/her know your wishes.  It is important that your DJ looks the part for the event.  So be sure to specify the type of apparel that your DJ should wear, and there should never be any additional fees for formal attire!

11. Is the DJ willing to play my SONG REQUESTS and/or my CDs?
An experienced DJ typically carries a broad array of music in their library.  If you want to hear some of your favorite tunes, please make sure that your DJ is aware of those requests.  If he/she does not have a specific selection, then ask if they’ll play it if you provide the CD?  Remember that the age of your guests may vary.  To impress everyone such as family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, supervisors, and prospective clients, make sure that the DJ is able to play something for everyone, and not just one type of music.  Yes, it’s your event, but you still want everyone to have a great time, right?  The DJ should listen to your ideas and song suggestions, and be willing to play what you request.  And don’t take it personally when they explain that a specific song may not be suitable for the event.  Remember, they have on-the-job experience from hundreds of events, and your song may simply not be appropriate.  Instead, ask for advice on how to present the song in a more positive manner, so that you still get to hear it, and everyone else enjoys it also!

12. How EARLY will the DJ arrive to set-up equipment for your event?
Based on the size of the DJ’s equipment, and additional services that you may require, most set-up times will vary.  But, most DJs should arrive at least 1-2 hours prior to your guests.  He/She should be dressed and ready to meet your guests when they walk through the front door.  The DJ should have soft background music playing as they enter the event area.  Those providing more personalized services should introduce themselves to your guests, and assist them with locating assigned seating, and other important areas such as the coat check closet, restrooms, etc.

13. Where does the DJ Company get their MUSIC LIBRARY?
Be sure to ask the DJ Company where they obtain their music.  If they download from the Internet, ask them if they’re paying for downloads from a music sharing service.  Chances are if they’re not paying for their music LEGALLY, then they’ll cut other corners too.  Without paying for the rights to use the songs, they’re putting your event at jeopardy.  Not all shared files are complete, and many have viruses attached, not to mention that the file may not transfer to a CD properly.  Guess what happens if they use one of those incomplete songs for your First Dance, or the Father & Daughter dance at your wedding reception?  What if your company’s President is being introduced and the background music is full of unedited and inappropriate language?  Wouldn’t that put a damper on those special moments?  Some DJs are using computers to play MP3 files, and that in itself is perfectly acceptable.  But imagine if their laptop suddenly locks up while the dance floor is packed with you and your classmates at your Homecoming or Prom?  Remember, legally purchased music is always going to be the best and safest way to go!!!

14. How does the DJ Company PRICE their services?  Are there any ADDITIONAL FEES?
This question should be asked last for a particular reason.  If you have found the DJ’s answers to each of the other questions to your satisfaction, then pricing will be best determined by the “VALUE” that you place on the entertainment.  For example, if you believe that the DJ has a greater impact on how much fun your guests have than purchasing an extra vegetable platter, then hire the DJ who reflects that value.  Yes, he may charge more for his services, but that’s money well spent when you get an experienced professional.  But, if you want your guests to best remember that veggie plate when they think of your wedding reception, then save a few dollars and pick the DJ with the cheapest price.  It’s plain and simple, and it’s like everything else in life, you always get what you pay for!

These are some of the most important questions that should be asked when considering any DJ Company for your next event.  If you have additional questions about your special occasion, please call C & C Music Services at 513-328-3544, we’d be happy to put your concerns to rest......

Remember, Quality Entertainment Doesn’t Cost --- It Pays !!!