“Picking a DJ for Your Event”

How does one pick the right DJ for their event? The answer is very subjective. DJ’s aren’t held accountable by a licensing board. You have no idea of their knowledge and experience. The business with the best looking website, is not always the best match for your event. Does a client put all their faith into a DJ with a paid-for-website or look for other forms of evidence? Do you pick the DJ who has the most followers on Instagram and Facebook?

For me, it’s not necessarily about the best looking website on the market. I like to dig a little deeper. Online reviews are probably the best results. Today’s clientele, have no issues writing reviews on any business they have encountered. Even with my own research of other businesses, I usually go to the review section of Facebook and Google. In some cases, I have even driven to a further destination, to work with a company that had a higher-star rating.

Does a large following on social media mean anything? In some cases it could. The DJ could be well known in the city and play in public venues. In some cases, the followers are paid for. I wouldn’t put all my eggs in a basket, for this topic.

Once you get your top DJ choices picked, now you have to make contact. Personality of the DJ is very important. They are potentially the center of your event. Often set up center stage, with everyone looking at them. Are they polite, professional, and there for you?

Topics to Think About

Which DJ is showing up to your event? Is it the recipient of the good reviews you read?

Some DJ’s want to play their own style of music. Is the DJ open to your playlist choices?

Is the DJ comfortable playing your music genres?

How prompt is the DJ on text / email inquiries?

Does the sound equipment match the amount of people attending? Speakers too small could under perform in a large room.

Does the DJ have a music backup, in case their laptop fails?

How much experience do they have with your party type? Event flow can be drastically different with weddings, corporate functions, school dances, or a 50th birthday in a Lyon’s Hall.

Even though a radio edit exists for a song, is it appropriate to play at the event?

Do they carry liability insurance? Many venues now ask the DJ for this.

There are many things to ask yourself, before hiring a DJ. The Knot has a detailed article you can read. https://www.theknot.com/content/questions-to-ask-dj

DJ Ronnie Roux