weddingdj

1. Are you available? You should always start off by indicating the date, time and location of your event to ensure that the DJ isn't already booked. Saturdays tend to fill up especially fast and a year in advance is really not to soon to guarantee the availability of that perfect DJ.

Dj to Go - Please check my availability at: www.djiigo.djintelligence.com/availability

2. How much do you charge? Probably the worst way to choose a DJ is on price alone. With prices starting as low as 500 and go as high as $3,500 for the night, it's tempting to choose the cheapest one available. However, when considering the pricing of one DJ to another, it's important to make sure that you are comparing apples to apples. Are you really getting the same service? How much experience does the DJ have? Will he act as the master of ceremonies or just play music? Will he help coordinate the event? How much does he charge for overtime? How much equipment will he bring? Does he provide his own music? Does he have professional equipment? The list goes on and on. Just remember to use your best judgment and make sure that a lower price is exactly that and not a lower level of experience, quality, planning and commitment. Remember, when it comes to the success of your event, less expensive does not always mean better value!

Dj to Go - My wedding rates start at $850, a very competitive rate for a professional DJ, to include experience, attention to detail, professional system, songs, karaoke, tux, props to get the crowd involved, etc... Want less? Want more to include lights & lasers? No problem, please contact me.

3. Do you use a written contract?

Dj to Go - Yes. We can use an online form or sign in person.

4. What is the DJ's level of professionalism? As you speak with DJs, pay attention to their professionalism over the phone. This may sound like a small detail, but their level of professionalism and commitment tends to spill over into their performance at the event. You want to hire someone who is 100% committed to your function, not just someone who DJs as a hobby.

Dj to Go - I've been a musician all my life and a drummer by trade. Performing before a crowd is nothing new. I have been a disc jockey for the past eight years. When it comes to Weddings, I only book one wedding a week allowing me to dedicate my full attention to my clients. I'm a quality DJ, not a quantity DJ.

5. How will the DJ be dressed for my event? Jeans and a T-shirt may be appropriate for a summer barbecue, but certainly not a wedding reception! Make sure they will dress appropriately.

Dj to Go - Tuxedo is the norm. If you prefer casual, then let me know

6. Do you have experience with the type of function I am having? This may be your first wedding, but it shouldn't be your DJ's! Your DJ should be able to act as the Master of Ceremonies, provide pre-event planning.

Dj to Go - Yes. I was asked to DJ for a friends wedding since I've played so many other venues and events. I did so well, another person in the crowd asked me to play at his wedding. I've played at 30 plus weddings since and average 2~3 weddings every month. I continue to build my cliental list since I have natural calling. I mix the art of playing songs with world-class customer service. That is not a tag line. It's something I care deeply about. A client who trusts me with their special date gets my 100 percent devotion in return. I've put a lot of effort and dedication into making sure I'm ready to be a wedding Disc Jockey. Otherwise I wouldn't do it. Together we can shape your special event into a great event! The bottom line is, you're the boss.

7. Do you offer a written schedule of events? A written timeline will not only prevent important events from being missed, but allows customization also.

Dj to Go - YES! It is a must. I want it in writing so there are not major surprises. I'm very capable of flexing and adapting. At a venue as important as this, I want to make sure your expectations are fully met (if not surpassed).

8. Do you provide a music list and take requests? It's important that the DJ has and plays some or most of the music you want to hear; after all, it's your party!

Dj to Go - Yes. I set-up a special web site for you and you loved one to browse, click & pick and save your requests. I do this upon signing the contract. You may invite your guests to if you wish. To view my database, please go to: http://www.djiigo.djintelligence.com/music/. As a DJ, if I don't listen to and read my audience, then I'm not doing my job.

9. Do you use professional sound equipment and include special effects? Professional sound equipment is a necessity! It will not only sound better, but it's designed to handle the stress of the day to day performances and will be less likely to break down during your function. Also, confirm that the DJ is not using outdated equipment like turntables, cassette decks. Special effects e.g. lighting may or may not be appropriate for your event.

Dj to Go - YES! I constantly update my equipment. You get a system with a 1000 watt Yamaha and 1250 watt QSC professional powered amplifier. These feed hungry 18 and 12 inch woofers and horn tweeters that produce deep bass, mids and clear highs. Both Digital and analog music are played. I'm able to use the latest technology via a computer and professional CD turntables (Pioneer) that feed through a compressor, equalizer and gate...perhaps I'm getting to detailed. With me, you get a great system and a great DJ. I have a back up system if required so you can relax knowing your covered. Actually, with my CD turn tables, computer and two amps, you get three systems! I can even plug your IPOD in!

10. What if something goes wrong? Do you have backup equipment? It's important that the DJ has a plan in the unlikely event there is an accident or equipment failure. The plan should include a DJ that is on-call, as well as, onsite backup equipment.

Dj to Go - Yes, please see previous question and answer.

11. Do you offer a consultation at no charge or obligation? Many professional DJs will typically offer a free consultation where you can get together and learn more about their entertainment company and of course discuss what type of music is to played at the event.

Dj to Go - Yes. I'm there for you.

12. Do you have full liability insurance? This is a must nowadays. Any legitimate business person carries liability insurance to protect themselves along with you and your guests. Some locations may require your DJ to have liability insurance.

DJ to Go - Yes.

Interesting Wedding Statistics and food for thought
AFTER THE VOWS, AFTER THE RECEPTION

*72% of all brides say they would have spent more time choosing their reception entertainment.

*Almost 100% say they would have spent more of their budget on the entertainment.

*During wedding planning, Brides say their highest priority is their attire, followed by the reception site and caterer - reception entertainment is among the least of their priorities.

Within one week after their reception, 78% of Brides say they would have made the entertainment their highest priority.

*When asked 81% of guests say the thing they remember most about a wedding was the
entertainment.

*65% of all couples that chose a band to entertain at their wedding, said, if they had it to do over again, they would have chosen a disc jockey.

As published in St. Louis Bride; Groom Magazine. Sources include: Simmons, 2001; USA Today, 2002; National Bridal Service, 2001; The Knot, 2002; Brides Magazine, 2001

QUESTIONS, ANSWERS & THINGS TO THINK ABOUT WHEN LOOKING FOR A WEDDING DISC JOCKEY