| 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 Jockeys 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 that
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 N.A.D.J.
to verify that they are using professional-grade sound
gear. Remember that professional gear does not guarantee
an entertainer's talent or service level, but is simply
a tool for building an exceptional event. |
| 4 |
Do you
provide back-up 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 N.A.D.J. have many resources
available to them in case of an emergency. You may also
reach the N.A.D.J. Hotline number to get a Disc Jockey
when you have an emergency. The Low Call number is 0845
430 3044
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 National Association of
Disc Jockeys will provide you with the confidence that
you have selected a trained professional. N.A.D.J. members
are more likely to be involved with other Disc Jockeys
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
co-ordinate, MC 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 Jockeys arrive at
least one hour prior to the start time you've given them.
Your entertainer should ideally be set up and in place before
your first guest walks through the door. |
| 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 33%. 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 jacket &
tie are the most popular forms of attire. If you are having
a "themed" event, make sure your entertainer
is informed. |
| 9 |
Do you
belong to a professional organisation or trade group?
Although belonging to an organization or trade group does
not guarantee the talent or professionalism of a Disc
Jockey, it may indicate the company’s willingness
to network, learn and grow. Disc Jockeys can learn through
local branch meetings, national DJ conventions and seminars
geared towards the entertainment professional.
|
| |
OTHER
ITEMS TO NOTE
Disc Jockey rates vary
based on talent, experience, MC ability, service, co-ordination,
equipment needed, music knowledge, mixing ability and
personality. |
| |
Rates
for the DJ industry vary greatly, ranging from
£100 to £1000.00 with a national average of
£400 for a 4-hour booking. The best price is not
always the best deal, especially if you are planning a
wedding. As a matter of fact, surveys conclude that, in
hindsight, nearly 100% of brides would have spent more
money on their entertainment and made it their number
one priority. |
| |
A
full-service Disc Jockey company will normally invest
12 to 30 hours in your special event, although
it may appear that you are only paying for "4 hours".
Consultations, music purchasing & editing, preparation,
set-up and tear-down, education and other business-related
endeavours add up to the overall success of your special
occasion. |
