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Recommended?
If your prospective DJ/MC was recommended
to you by a banquet hall manager or caterer, you can be 98% certain
of solid service. Caterers and hall managers have found out first-hand
who are the best DJs. They know what works well, and what doesn't. Following a recommendation, it is wise to cross-examine your prospective DJ/MC, but probably you will only need to determine if he/she can handle the special
extras that you envision.
The caterers
and hall managers know that your DJ will arrive early
to set up, before guests arrive, ready to start on time. They know that
your DJ will be appropriately attired, congenial, flexible, easy
to work with, charming, focused on pleasing the guests, and on pleasing
those who hired him/her. They know that your DJ/MC will maintain comfortable
volume levels, by regularly going out and checking the sound. They
know that your DJ/MC has a huge comprehensive music library, and will
play the right tunes for the right moments, keepng the crowd
going if that is their mood, or taking it down for a mellow moment.
They know that the DJ/MC will take requests happily, play them
promptly, and honor any "must play - don't play" lists
prepared beforehand. They will have seen your DJ/MC handle unexpected situations comfortably. They know that your DJ/MC uses the microphone
to call attention to the party guests, and not to him/herself.
They have seen he/she coordinate with bridal party members on correct pronounciation
of names to be announced: he/she cares about your guests! They
know that he/she has pro equipment, and knows how to get great
sound. If your DJ plays at Cornell University, then you can be certain
that he/she is fully insured: Cornell requires it.
Cold-calling?
But, if you are cold-calling
from a web-search, or the yellow pages, what to do? I assume that you
have already booked your hall: you have a date. First, you need to know
that your prospective DJ/MC has that date available. If your caterer/ahll
manager does not know your propsective DJ/MC, you might want then want
to check on issues mentioned in the paragraph above. References
will help you, but your own sense of personality will be a good guide.
Will he/she meet with you, at no charge, to help you decide?
Below
is a reprint of some guidelines from American Disc Jockey Association.
It may help give you a better sense on the hiring issue.
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The ADJA strongly recommends that you
ask the following questions of any Disc Jockey service that you
are considering hiring.
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1. Are you insured? Can
you supply me with proof of liability? Many responsible
business owners carry liability insurance to protect their businesses
and the consumer. Many locations are beginning to require proof
of liability. Ask for proof of liability insurance. Disc Jockey's
receive a "Certificate of Liability" which can be used
as proof.
2. Will you be willing to play requests
and discuss music ahead of time? A versatile Disc Jockey
is willing to listen to your suggestions, give you feedback and
play from your desired song list. A professional Disc Jockey will
also accept the fact you may not want certain songs played. A
professional Disc Jockey cannot know everything about your musical
preferences and entertainment needs without communication.
3. Do you use Professional Equipment?
Ask whether your prospective Disc Jockey works with
professional audio equipment. If you are not sure, ask for their
equipment list and check with a local music dealer or the A.D.J.A.
to verify they are using professional-grade sound gear.
4. Do you provide backup equipment at
my event? Although equipment failure is rare, do you
really want your special occasion ruined because your Disc Jockey
did not come prepared? It is also important to know if your Disc
Jockey has a back-up plan in case of illness or an accident. Members
of the A.D.J.A. have many resources available to them in case
of an emergency. You may also reach our Hotline number to get
a Disc Jockey when you have an emergency. The toll-free number
is 888-723-5776.
Booking a reliable Disc Jockey is a very important decision for
the success of your party. Selecting a Disc Jockey
who is an active member of the American Disc Jockey Association
will provide you with the confidence that you have selected a
trained professional. A.D.J.A. members are more likely to be involved
with other Disc Jockey's who can help them out with an unexpected
situation.
5. Does the Disc Jockey know the proper
etiquette for your type of party? A professional Disc
Jockey will assist you with the planning of your special day.
Most professional entertainers will coordinate, emcee and provide
the music that you desire. Ask if they have experience with your
type of event.
6. How much time do you allow for set-up?
Punctuality is a necessity. Most Disc Jockey's arrive
at least one hour prior to the start time you've given them.
7. Do you provide a written contract?
It is extremely important to have your booking confirmed
in writing. Ask for a written agreement, especially if you are
paying an initial retainer. The standard initial payment for entertainment
services is 50%. If you are expecting a specific entertainer,
make sure you get it in writing
as well.
8. Will you be suitably dressed for
our occasion? Specify the type of apparel that your
Disc Jockey is expected to wear for your occasion. Formal attire
or coat & tie are the most popular forms of attire.
An A.D.J.A. member is responsible to
the Association, as well as to the customer.
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