10 questions to ask before hiring a mobile DJ

1. Are we guaranteed our DJ on the day of our event? You want a written agreement (contract) with your specific terms to protect you from unscrupulous operators. Are we guaranteed the DJ of our choice the day of the event? Some DJ companies have many DJ’s working for them. If you see a DJ at a bridal show and you want him, make sure his name is on your contract. While some companies may have been in business for years, your DJ may have been hired last week, so be sure of who and what you are getting.

2. How many years of experience do you have? Experience brings knowledge of common problems and situations. Be sure your DJ has experience with your type of event. Ask for referrals.

3. May we contact your references? References are a major party of the entertainment business. This helps clarify the significance about the service.

4. Do you belong to any professional associations or trade groups? Involved business shows a willingness to learn, network, and share ideas. Belonging to a professional trade group reflects a caring attitude and respect.

5. Will you allow requests? This is your event and your special requests should be welcomed. If a song seems inappropriate, a good DJ service will explain the reason(s) and ask, or suggest, an alternative.

6. What time will you arrive to set up? Arriving an average of 1 to 2 hours prior to the affair should be allowed for set up and sound check. This will depend on what kind of “package” you have ordered, which may include a large light show, and or a large PA system. Most DJ services like to have the opportunity to do a sound and light check before any guests arrive. The last thing you want is a DJ hauling equipment through your receiving line and or guests. There is no additional charge for this, it should be part of the entire service.

7. How will the DJ be dressed? Proper attire reflects a positive image to your guests. The DJ should be dressed as good or better than your guests. If you are having a "themed" event, make sure your entertainer is informed.

8. Are you insured? Insurance is a part of any legitimate business. Liability and casualty policies protect you, your guests, and the DJ company. If the service is professional and reputable, they will be insured. Most DJ services will at least have liability insurance for $1,000,000. Some will also have their equipment insured.

9. Do you use professional gear (equipment)? Using professional sound and lighting equipment helps insure a reliable service and quality presentation. What are some of the brand names you use? If the DJ tells you the name brands that you can buy at the local electronic store, (Best Buy, Circuit City etc.) chances are they are not using pro audio gear. Home Hi-Fi gear (Panasonic, Sanyo, iPod etc.) is not made to hold up to the demands of repeat performances of professional use.

10. Do you have an emergency back-up system at our event? Weddings, Mitzvahs, birthdays, and special events are often a once in a lifetime opportunity. A back-up system protects your investment. Chances are nothing will happen at your event, but if it does, is your DJ prepared to trouble shoot the problem? Do they have back-up equipment on location to get the party back on track? They should have extra cables, fuses, basic tools, CD player, amplifier, mixer, etc.