There are plenty of websites and blogs that go over the same information intended to help brides ask the right questions when hiring a DJ. However, I have a few points that don’t seem to be promoted often.
1. Talk to the venue
Talk to the staff, the management. See who they recommend, but ask them WHY they recommend that DJ. What stands out? Is it just because they have a business card? Or have they seen that DJ on a number of occasions?
Also, don’t be afraid to ask if the venue has any kind of “kick back” for giving out names. It’s possible the DJ pays a cut to the venue for every event. Ask the DJ if they “pay to play”. You can apply the same logic to photographers or celebrants etc that may recommend a particular DJ.
2. Talk to other brides.
This might seem obvious – talking to couples who have already gotten married and used a DJ. But take it a step further and ask why they chose the DJ they ended up with. Also, ask if they met with other DJs, and why they didn’t choose them.
3. Talk to other wedding guests
Know anyone that’s been to a wedding in the last few months or know someone who’s going to one soon? They can be your best source for info and recommendations. While the bride’s opinion is valuable, a bride and groom are generally quite distracted all day. They may not see all of the little things a DJ does – be they good or bad things. Guests often see or experience things going on that the bride is understandably too busy to notice.
I hope this helps!
Regards
Nick Logan
Wedding DJ and Master of Ceremonies
Questions for a wedding DJ