When You Want The Best!

By Edward L. Griffin

You have already figured out that the entertainment is the most important part of your reception, and that your guests will leave early if the entertainment isn't very good. You've also decided you want the versatility of a disc jockey (DJ). You only get one chance at this special day so you want a good DJ.
You went to some of the Bridal fairs, checked out some web sites, and scheduled a few consultations with perspective DJ companies. What do you ask them?

The minimum requirements of any respectable DJ company, is a business license, and liability insurance. Ask them to show it to you.
Are they members of professional associations? This won't guarantee that they are the best, but these DJs are dedicated to constantly improving their skills and knowledge of their trade. This also shows how important their trade is to them.
How much, and what kind of experience do they have? How much experience they should have is up to you. There are hundreds of DJs with 1-5 years experience. There is a much smaller group of Professionals that love DJing enough to keep DJing over 10 years. Weddings require a wide range of music, simple due to range of ages. What type of events does your DJ specialize in?
The most important skill of a DJ is the ability to "Read the crowd"! This is a skill DJs are born with, and can be honed with experience, but never learned. Public speaking is the number one fear in America, but a good DJ will be the "Master of Ceremonies" and make all your announcements clearly, and elegantly.
Can you meet your DJ in person? You should always be able to meet your DJ before signing. Besides being able to discuss the music and flow of the reception, you will be able to see if you even like the DJ. No other vendor will affect your reception as the entertainment, and you should be convinced that your DJ can perform to your expectations. Trust your instincts, and make sure they guarantee your DJ in writing on the contract. You don't want any surprises on your wedding day.
Does your DJ have a personality and does it match yours? A key ingredient to a successful party is having entertainment that matches you and what you're looking for.
What kind of equipment will be used? All equipment should be professional, good looking, rack or case mounted gear. No home equipment ever! Professional sound equipment will be more reliable, and usually looks better. A good wireless microphone should also be included to make your toasts.
How much music does your DJ have, and where do they get it? With millions of titles to choose from your DJ won't have everything, but they should have a thorough, and varied music library. There are several music services for professional DJs. Downloaded music off the internet is not legal, and does not have the sound quality for professional reproduction.
Price is a concern for most people, but don't ruin your party by hiring sub-standard entertainment. If a good DJ is out of your price range, you might consider re-organizing your priorities. If your DJ has satisfied all these questions, you won't go wrong spending a little less on the food and a little more on the entertainment.

Hopefully this will help you in you search for a great DJ. Please call or e-mail me if you have any questions.

Ed Griffin
The Wedding DJs
425-255-7010 or 877 BEST DJS
E-mail: ed@theweddingdjs.com