DJ Decisions

That's a good start....knowing what you want and don't want.

Reading testimonials is useful because although you may think they have chosen the best ones to go on their site, they must have some very happy clients to have them. I personally don't put the one liner emails on my site as I don't think its very useful or helpful. The ones that detail exactly why they were thrilled with my service are much more useful as they give potential clients an insight into what style of DJ I am, the kind of things I can do and the standards I have.

There are many different styles of DJ. You already know that you don't want a cheesy one that talks too much, so you can ask what type of mic work they do during the evening.

Other questions; Do they accept playlists? Will they guarantee to play your choice of music or genres? Will they play requests from your guests? Dress code? Are they familiar with your venue? Do they have their equipment PAT tested and do they have a pli certificate? Do they carry back up equipment (Very important....I had a brand new mixer fail on me one night and the guests didn't even notice because I just plugged the spare in!)? Do they have something in place if the unfortunate happens and they can't make it?Do they issue a written contract, signed by both ( very very important to get everything in writing, including all the details of the booking.)

The best advise I can give is short list potential DJs and ask to meet up with them prior to booking. You need to feel comfortable and confident with your choice and the only way that can happen is to meet them face to face. You'll soon get a feel as to whether you want them to be part of your wedding. If you're still unsure, ask to speak to a past bride. I've got 4 brides that have offered to speak on my behalf (never had to do it yet though)

You could try submitting an enquiry here https://www.weddingdja.co.uk/find_your_wedding_disco.php or here https://mobiledjdisco.co.uk/ . The guys in the WDJA have all reached a certain criteria to have been accepted. Once have put in an enquiry, the guys reply with their details etc, then you can sit back and choose at your leisure.

Hope that helps. Any other questions.....just fire away!

Hi Kat

As usual, Sandy's advice is spot on. I think the most important part is to meet your DJ before booking. That way you can be comfortable with who you are hiring and they can find out exactly what you are looking for. Make a list of questions in advance and give them a grilling!

Personally, I don't think there's anything worse than a DJ who talks all night and introduces each record like he's on the radio. It breaks the flow of the music and often clears the dancefloor. If that's how you feel, then let your DJ know - the right music will speak for itself.

As for price, you will probably find your quotes will range massively - I have been quoted both £90 and £695 for the same disco! As with anything else, you get what you pay for. A sub £100 quote will probably be from a 'hobby DJ' who may have inferior equipment and lack the Insurance and PAT certificates that most venues require. You may also struggle to get in touch with them if they have a 'day job.' I recently heard from a bride who was told her reception had to start later than she wanted because the DJ was still at work! Very expensive quotes may include a giant sound rig which may be unsuitable or even too big for your venue.

You may have guessed already that I am a DJ myself but I am paranoid about being accused of advertising on here! If you want any more information then feel free to send me a message.

At the end of day, it's worth looking at your budget to see what you can afford. See what you are spending in other areas and work out how important your reception disco is to you and your guests. I'm biased of course, but I think it's pretty vital - the reception is a large chunk of your big day and a major part that people will remember.

Whatever you decide to do, make sure the DJ accepts a playlist in advance and plays your chosen tracks. Do give him some freedom to play songs that he knows will fill the floor and you should have a fantastic and memorable night. Enjoy!

James.

Hi Kat,

Both Sandy and James have given some really great advice. The only thing that I would add is that you might find it useful to go to a couple of wedding fayres and meet some DJs in person. I advertise at 12-15 wedding fayres a year and there are usually 2-3 different DJs at each event and the venues will usually only allow DJs to exhibit if they know that they are reliable and do a good job.

So, you will get to meet a collection of ok-good DJs and build up an idea of the individuals you like and the price that each of these DJs charges.

I would also recommend speaking to the wedding co-ordinator at your venue because they will definitely be able to think of a couple of local DJs who turn up and regularly deliver an awesome nights entertainment.

Good luck with the DJ hunting!

James

Check out the Natiopnal Association Of Disc Jockeys Website - NADJ - this lists many DJs that may be suitable.

With regard to cost - how long is a piece of string? It will depend on many factors including date, location, performance hours etc.

As a guide I would budget £300 - £400 for an evening reception. You might get some change from that or it may cost you more depending on your requirements.

Most DJs will give you a free no obligation quote - ask a few and meet up with the ones who tickle your fancy.

I was at a wedding in Edinburgh last weekend and their DJ was amazing, he had everyone on the floor all night and even catered for the kids! My friend said he was really reasonable and very professional. http://www.djash.co Good Luck xx

Not much help sorry- my venue recommended theirs and after we met with him, thought he was fab. I gave him a playlist this week and he has come back with suggestions on order to play them (they are random as we asked guests to make requests!) and he has offered advice on what songs he thinks work well to get people up dancing.

1st post....digging up an old thread....advertising a club DJ in London.... mmmmmmm

Am i on the ball tonight or what????

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I think I'll stick to a Wedding DJ for our Wedding and a Club DJ for the rare nights out in a NightClub!