Hiring the right DJ entertainment for your event is probably the most important decision for the successful outcome! So how exactly do you find the right DJ? Most people view DJ's as a commodity and choose the lowest price one they can find, not knowing that there are MANY differences to look for. We've heard numerous horror stories of DJ companies that lure in customers with low prices, only to provide an inexperienced disc jockey with poor communication skills, an inferior music library, shoddy non-commercial equipment, and they either arrive late or don't show at all! Countless times we have booked last minute events because their DJ canceled just a few days prior. Of course, there was no way for the client to take legal action on the DJ, because there was no contract. This page will teach you a few important questions to help you find the right entertainer! It could make the difference between a memorable event and an unforgettable nightmare!
TOP QUESTIONS on HOW TO HIRE A DJ
Do You Provide A Written Agreement, And Do You Require A Deposit?
It is very important to confirm your booking in writing. Terms should be clearly defined to avoid future problems. The date, time, location, and fee are the most important to be defined. Professionals will always require a deposit, or retainer fee to hold your date.
STEEL CITY DJ: We provide an exclusive "no-fine-print" 2-page contract which clearly defines all of our terms along with all of your event details. We also require a 30% retainer fee along with the contract which guarantees our service 100%.
Are You The DJ Who Will Be At My Event?
Be very aware, especially here in Pittsburgh, of "DJ Booking Agencies". We are not saying that you can't find a quality DJ at an agency, but quite often you will not get to speak with your DJ until the night of the event. It is very important for the success and excitement of your event to be working with the same person from the time you book the DJ, until the very end of your event.
STEEL CITY DJ: We are single-operation DJ Entertainment company owned and operated by Eric Cassidy. Eric can personally guarantee the success and excitement of your event because he is YOUR Booking/Planning Representative, YOUR Disc Jockey, YOUR "MC", and YOUR Entertainer. When you do business with Steel City DJ, you're doing business with Eric and only Eric.
Do You Have Backup Equipment and DJ's?
Even professional audio equipment can fail on occasion, don't let this put an early end to your affair. Make sure there is a backup for every piece of equipment and be sure there is a back-up DJ should an emergency or case of illness occur.
STEEL CITY DJ: Along with Eric, there will ALWAYS be a minimum of one assistant DJ with him...some events even 2 or 3 assistants will be there. Eric has never missed or had to cancel an event for ANY reason, and doesn't plan on it anytime soon. Also, every piece of our equipment has a back-up ready to go.
Are You Insured and Do You Belong to Any Professional Organizations?
This is a very important question. This question is the factor between a "weekend hobbiest" DJ and a true professional. If your DJ is a member of an organization (such as the A.D.J.A. or N.A.M.E.), then it displays that they are what they say that they are (Professionals), because these organizations only let actual DJ's join. Also, your DJ should be fully insured. Insurance is there to protect YOU and your guests if something serious happens. You should look elsewhere is your DJ doesn't have at least liability insurance.
STEEL CITY DJ: We are fully insured with a 1 million dollar liability policy and a 100,000 dollar equipment policy. This is plenty of insurance to protect Steel City DJ along with you and your guests if something should occur. Also, Steel City DJ is a member of the professional organization, The National Association of Mobile Entertainers (NAME). Feel free to ask us for proof of our insurance policy and NAME membership.
Is Your Equipment of Professional Quality?
There is a difference between home audio and professional road-worthy "commercial" equipment. The equipment a DJ uses should be built to go on the road each and every day! Home audio equipment just does not have the power or specifications to perform correctly.
STEEL CITY DJ: We utilize only the most professional sound and lighting equipment designed specifically for mobile DJ use. Take a look at our equipment here.
Will You Listen To My Music Suggestions?
Many DJ's are of the opinion that they know what music is best for their audience and won't take requests. The DJ should listen to requests and play them whenever appropriate. A good DJ knows how to read your crowd to keep everyone dancing.
STEEL CITY DJ: Eric is very talented when it comes to reading the crowd. He can always get people dancing at any event. Also, we have a section on our free online planner that allows you to request music priorities and set-up music playlists.
Will You Dress Appropriately at My Affair?
It is important that your entertainer look the part by dressing formal or semi-formal, according to your preference. Themed events and picnics require different attire.
STEEL CITY DJ: We will always dress to match your event: Suit/Tie, Business Casual, Formal, Themed....whatever it may be!
Will You Play The Music At An Appropriate Level?
The biggest concern voiced by prospective clients is the volume level of the music. A professional DJ knows to keep the volume at a level appropriate for the guests, especially during cocktails and the dinner hour.
STEEL CITY DJ: This is a no brainer for us. Eric continually walks the room to make sure the music is at an appropriate volume.
Do You Do More Than Just Play Music at the Affair?
Most affairs involve more than playing music. It is important to have a DJ who is capable of playing the music, handling all of the announcements and helps to coordinate the affair.
STEEL CITY DJ: We are not only the DJ entertainment, but also your event's coordinator and "MC". We handle all announcements and relate with you and your guests to get everyone motivated to have a great time and dance.
Will You Listen to My Concerns and Input?
A professional DJ is aware that they can't possibly know every aspect of music and entertainment. Your input and suggestions should be welcome!
STEEL CITY DJ: When you hire us, we work for YOU! Anything you want for your event is welcomed, and we will execute your plans to the fullest extent.
How Long Have You Been DJ-ing, How Many Events Of My Type Have You Done?
Experience in the DJ entertainment industry is a priority. Be sure your DJ has at least a couple of years under their belts. This assures that they can handle any type of situation that may arise at your event unannounced. Also, make sure your DJ is experienced in your type of event. If you are having a Wedding, why would you choose a DJ that only has experience with school dances?
STEEL CITY DJ: We have over 7 years of experience in ALL types of events. Especially weddings, private parties, school dances, and college events.
Conclusion
It is important to find a DJ company that answers with the recommended answers in the above questions. As you can see, price is NOT a question to ask when choosing entertainment. If you choose your DJ solely on a low price, you may not get what you would like or expect. Experience & quality are the most important factors in hiring your entertainment. You will never be sorry when you invest in quality.
As with all things in life, quality and professionalism has its price.
The bitterness of poor quality remains long after
the sweetness of low price is forgotten.
