Tips on Hiring a Disc Jockey
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.
| Spotlight Events, LLC carries $1,000,000 of Liability Insurance. Proof of insurance is available upon request. |
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 effective communication.
| Playing requests is what it is all about! It is your event! Additionally, if we do not have a song available in our 25,000+ song database, we can usually download any song at the event, providing we have access to a wireless internet connection. |
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 to verify 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.
| Yes, we use some of the newest professional equipment available, including MacBook Pro, Pioneer CDJ 1000Mk2 CD turntables, Technics vinyl turntables, Crown amplifiers, Yamaha speakers, Sony, Dennon and Ortofon accessories. |
Do you provide backup equipment at my event?
| Yes, backup hard drives of all music and backup equipment are kept at the event. We also use different forms of music such as digital, CD and even vinyl. |
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.
| Spotlight Events, LLC performs at many types of events, however we specialize in Weddings, Corporate Events, and Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, proms and club/bar events. |
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. Your entertainer should ideally be setup and in-place before your first guest walks through the door.
| We arrive at least two hours prior to the start time for set-up and sound-check, although this may vary based upon the venue. |
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 DJ/Entertainer, make sure you get it in writing as well.
| Spotlight Events, LLC provides a written contract which also specifies the DJ/Entertainer. A retainer fee of 30 - 50% is required with a signed contract to guarantee a date, depending on the event package and date. |
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. If you are having a "themed" event, make sure your entertainer is informed.
| We will dress according to your request, generally a tuxedo or suit with jacket and tie is worn for most events. |
Other items to note:
Disc Jockey rates vary based on talent, experience, emcee ability, service, coordination, equipment needed, music knowledge, mixing ability and personality.
Rates for the DJ industry vary greatly, ranging from $450.00 to $3,500.00 with an average of $1,200.00 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 nearly 100% of brides would have spent more money on their entertainment and made it their #1 priority in hindsight.
A full-service disc jockey company will normally invest 12 to 30 hours to your special event but 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 endeavors add up to the overall success of your special occasion.