Tips

This section's Tips are provided by:

Jonathan Productions,

ADJA (American Disc Jockey Association),

and DiscJockeys.com.

If you're planning an event:  You should consider drafting a well designed and thought out plan from the beginning. The availability of the most popular services usually get booked well in advance, sometimes one to two years or more, so don't delay, start the day you plan to have an event. To assist you in the planning of your event, we have outlined a few areas to help you get started.

Chances are this is your first time hiring a Disc Jockey Service: Many people

ask: “What is your price?” for their first question when interviewing a prospective disc jockey service. This is not the best way to start your interview. Price is important but not the determining factor. You want to get all of the information and the most for your money. One potential DJ may charge less because the company is less experienced or is not as well equipped to handle your function. Some DJ services charge more because their service has a great reputation and may have many bookings. They may also have an exceptional sound and light show and many years of experience. Remember the law of supply and demand. Shop around and look for the best overall package that fits you. We have put together a list of questions to help you interview prospective DJ services. We hope you find the professional that is right for you!

Choose a date/time: Select a time of the year that suites your event properly. It's important you choose a date and/or specific time on that date that will not conflict with other events (Holidays, etc.) that might hinder the attendance of your guests. Weekends are the most popular, of course, since the majority of people have more free time away from work. During the summer, many people are away on vacation.

Fact: Most events take place on a Saturday (late afternoon into the evening) and at a time of the year when the weather is most pleasant. This can be a factor in you getting a good DJ and hall.

Create a guest list: Selecting your guest list is a task within itself. First, choose the maximum number of guests you'd like to invite. Then select the people you want to invite. Many times guest lists get long, so try to limit your list to family, business related people, close friends, and anyone important to you. Most of the time, you end up with more people on your list than the number you chose. If that happens, go through your list and cross out the people you feel you can eliminate. It's tough sometimes when you have to eliminate someone, but it's your party and your money (usually).

Select a location and venue: Be certain the location and venue you select can properly service your event and especially the number of guests you plan to invite. The location should be in an area easy to find and not too far away for most of your guests to travel. The venue itself must be able to handle your event without too many sacrifices. Personally visit the location and make certain it's compatible for what you want to accomplish and is as close to what you had envisioned.

Invitations: Select the style of invitation that is best associated with your event theme. Send out your invitations a minimum of 3 to 4 weeks prior to your event date. Wedding invitations are traditionally sent out a minimum of 6 weeks prior to the event date.

Choose your entertainment: This is critical! The entertainment can make or break the success of your event. Consider the Disc Jockey as your master of ceremonies (or ring leader). He/she is the person with the microphone and the person that provides the musical entertainment throughout the event. So, choose your DJ and your entertainment service very carefully.

Other Services: there are things other than music entertainment, that might be appropriate or necessary at your event: Photographer, videographer, florist, caterer, event planner, table favors, rental company (tables, chairs, etc.), just to name a few.

Food & Beverages: You will need to decide what type of food and beverages will be at your event. The types of food you want will vary in price. A buffet is cheaper than a sit down dinner. A Chicken dinner is cheaper than a filet mignon dinner. As far as your beverages are concerned, beer, wine and soda will be a lot cheaper than hard liquor.

For some venues, not only are named brand liquors an added expense, but a larger variety of liquor is also more money.

Decorations: Depending on the theme of your event and the venue, decorations may or may not be needed. Just remember, whatever the event, decorations are a nice addition to the surroundings.

Budget: Write down all of the services you require to make this event happen. Start by contacting 3 or 4 of each type of service. Get their names, dates you called and prices that were quoted to you. This will not only give you an idea of the range of prices, it will also show that different companies offer different packages. The more people you talk to, more ideas you can get for your party.

Good thorough event planning will ultimately make a successful affair:

Frustrated? Not sure? No time? Hire a professional. Many times it's easier and more time-manageable to hire a professional event or wedding planner for your event. An event planner can cover all aspects of your event as well as make suggestions that you might never think of. This will take most of the stress and responsibilities away so you can enjoy your event before, during and after.

In Summary: Outline your event in detail from start to finish. With most anything, pre-planning is the key. Take time to write down everything about your event, including the type of services needed, staff, venue, guest list, and prices. This will help you and relieve the stress, when you are ready to make your final decisions.