10 Steps To Hire A DJ

Wedding season is over and many clients have been helped to hire their first DJ. We thought it was high time to share our knowledge about hiring a DJ and what you should be looking for. This guide will show you how to hire a DJ.

1. Types of DJs. It is important to hire dj in sydney who plays the right format. Some DJs are restricted to certain music styles. Electronic dance music DJs, for example, are devoted to a particular type of music. A general-purpose open format DJ, also known as a DJ who can play all genres of music, is more versatile than other DJs and is suitable for many age groups. It is important to ensure that your DJ is experienced in weddings. Weddings are different than playing in bars, nightclubs, or corporate events. 
2. Experience. The second step to hiring your first DJ, is to ensure that they are professionals. Many times, we hear of DJs who are relatives or friends but have no real experience in the industry. Their professionalism and personality are key factors in DJ selection. The DJ’s experience will allow them to determine the best course of action in case of an emergency. It will also help with song selection, crowd control, and overall atmosphere.
3. Review the Services. Even if you were not referred by someone you trust, be sure to review the services. This can be done via sites like Yelp and Event Wire. You can get a fair idea of whether or not you should hire this DJ by reading reviews written by actual customers. Recommendations are key when hiring a DJ. testimonials are available for all our entertainers. You can also read the comments of past clients.
4. Start Contact. Contact the DJ directly or, if they are represented by an agency, contact the agent. You can then give information to the DJ about the event. Be specific in your responses. They will usually have a list of questions that they want answered. A DJ who works on his own is not protected by an agency, so booking with one can help you avoid headaches in the event of an unfortunate situation.
5. Equipment. Next, hire a DJ. The equipment might already be in place if it is a bar or club setting. If you are hosting a private or corporate event, such as a wedding or corporate party, then the equipment may already be there. Although mobile disc jockeys are usually equipped with their own equipment, this can sometimes be restricted by space or guest count. You don’t want to be stuck paying an extra bill for sound rental because the DJ couldn’t provide the right sound for your event.
6. Consultation by Phone/In Person. It is common to request a consultation if you are looking for a Wedding DJ. Once you have chosen a DJ, spoken with the agent or DJ, and gone over the details of the event, it is time to talk about the DJ’s personality. If you were not referred, ask for a consultation by phone or in person if the event is a wedding. Make sure to get to know your DJ during the consultation to ensure they are the right fit. It’s best to meet the DJ in person if it’s a wedding, but because of destination weddings, that might not always be possible, it is possible to communicate via phone.
7. Budget / Price. Once you have decided that you like the DJ, it is time to start pricing. It is important to have a budget in place from the start, especially if there are many options. Agents will only be able to pitch acts within their budget if you tell them where you want to go. Each DJ’s price will vary depending on their experience, reputation, and demand. You can always shop around if it seems too expensive to you.
8. Deposits and Contracts. Next, you need to secure a date and make a deposit. Although a 50% deposit is recommended, you should not pay the DJ full payment upfront, especially if they are not your friends. The DJ must sign the contract and pay the deposit to secure the date. Force Majeure is the only exception. This should be included in any legal performance agreement. Working with an agency is a great idea. The agency can help replace the DJ if something happens that is beyond his control, such as Force Majeure. This is better than losing the deposit and DJ altogether and having to start again.
9. Insurance Certificates. Do you need an insurance certificate for your venue’s location? Professional DJs have event insurance. If you work with an entertainment agency, they should also carry insurance for DJs. Although it is a minor detail that often goes unnoticed, not having a contract in place and a deposit before you determine if insurance is in effect could result in a DJ cancelling the gig. This could cause you to lose money and have to start over. Before you sign anything, make sure that the venue has all the necessary insurance.
10. Itinerary. A professional entertainment agency will send an itinerary to all parties. Events prides itself on having our support staff and agents efficiently organize all information so that DJs have it at their fingertips when it comes time to host the event. A huge part of a successful event is information such as the date, time, setup times, music requests, dress code and equipment specifications. Directions and precise locations are all important. Events agents will work closely with you and your event planner to ensure that all information is correct. They will send confirmations, a weekly calendar and a final reminder to everyone.