Edmonton Event Planner: Questions to ask when booking a DJ

The DJ you hire for either your event or wedding will play a big part in your guests’ experience. DJ’s have the ability to set and change the energy of your event in a way that no other vendor can. They also have to pick up on the vibe of the event to either encourage folks to keep partying or slow things down.

If you are in the position to hire a DJ there are a number of questions you should ask the first time you meet to be sure expectations are clearly laid out in advance of signing a contract. Below is a list of questions to ask your potential DJ.

1.     How do you choose what you play at events/weddings? Like any other vendor, DJ’s should be taking the lead from their client in regards to what type of music they are playing. You don’t necessarily have to hand over a list, but you should be able to tell the DJ a style or genre you’re looking for. Additionally, with weddings they should absolutely accept a list of “must play” and “do not play” songs.

2.     Do you take requests? Some of the best DJ’s don’t. The reason for this is that they put a lot of advance work into creating a playlist that flows really well. If requests are important to you and your guests, you have to find a DJ that will take requests. Requests are a must for weddings, but not required for events.

3.     Do you provide your own gear? This is important to ask, as you may have to fulfill a technical rider for the DJ, which can greatly increase the costs. Additionally if you are doing anything outdoors, you will need to have a conversation with your DJ about what is possible.

4.     What does your set-up look like? Some DJ’s have tablecloths, signs and lights that you should know about. If you are having a formal, well-designed event or wedding, the last thing you want is the DJ to have a tablecloth with their name and social media handles all over it in bright colours. Personally, I never want them to have this. Your event isn’t a trade show for them to sell their services. A DJ who does a fantastic job is the best advertising they’ll ever need.

5.     Will it be the owner at your event or will you be sending someone else? Many companies have a number of DJ’s that they send out to events. These companies are okay to work with however; I suggest you get information about the specific DJ you’ll be working with and how information is distributed to them. My personal preference is to work with DJ’s I can work with directly; this generally comes from DJs that represent themselves.

6.     Are you willing to Emcee? Often the DJ needs to play the role of Emcee, rarely with the formal moments of an event but once the party really starts, the DJ often makes announcements. It’s good to know they willingness in advance. You may also want to ask how they’d like to receive the information about what they are announcing.

7.     What do you wear to events? I honestly like to just ask this to every vendor. This opens up a conversation where you can tell them if the event is formal, casual or something else.

Concerned about your DJ or any other vendor on your wedding team? Feel free to suggest another entry about questions to ask a type of vendor – or book a consultation to get some answers about specific Edmonton vendors.

DJ and Photography Credits:

First Image - Newley Sound Service by Jessica Fern Facette

Second Image - Girls Club DJs by Mat Simpson

Third Image - Kris Harvey by Leroy Schulz