Booking a DJ for your wedding or party

Everyone is different, with different tastes and different ideas of what makes a good party. So why book a DJ instead of a band ? Are you a little bit country, while he's a little bit rock and roll? If you book DJ, you can be sure they play slow & fast songs, as well as old and new tunes to encourage different sets of guests to hit the dance floor. Here are a few things to conside when booking a DJ.

Budget

Of course DJs generally cost less, and prices vary depending on equipment requests and whether it's a weekday or a weekend. A 4-piece band, for example, will generally be more expensive than a DJ, since there are more people to pay. Band prices vary by the number of musicians, the amount of time you want them to play for, day of the week, and what time of year it is. With a DJ generally the price stays the same except maybe for New Year's Eve or for long parties. Usually 4 hours is enough dancing, but of course if you're getting married it could be an all day affair. I don't charge more for a wedding than for a birthday party. Unless I am providing more services like background music while the meal is served etc.

Space

Of course a lot of places there won't be enough room for a full band. Many venues are not designed for large groups and this is where a DJ can be a better option. This is due to being able to fit into a smaller space and adjust the number of lights accordingly, but still give a good display. I have done house parties with just 2 light effects and still provided a good party. Don't get your heart set on an 5-piece band before you check whether the venue has any restrictions on the number of musicians and pieces of equipment you may bring in, as well as if there are any electrical power supply or noise limitations. For example, a venue near houses may not allow you to have the music too loud, or a small room may not have enough power sockets. I only need 2 sockets to set up as I use distribution leads. Ask these questions before you start scouting bands.

Why book a DJ?

Bands can be more expensive than DJs. Also, no matter how great the band, they can't have the repertoire of a DJ, who can keep a huge variety of music on hand. I personally pride myself on having all the hits from the various charts every week, as well as being able to find nearly every song you would like played if you give me enough notice. Don't fear the DJ: The days of Saturday Night fever and flashing traffic lights are gone, at least with a professional DJ. Today's DJ's are artists in their own right, offering balanced and eclectic mixes of musical styles for all ages. Plus, the songs played will sound exactly as you remember them, encouraging sing-alongs and improvisation. Depending on the amount of equipment a DJ brings, he'll take up less dance floor space and can be relocated with relative ease. A DJ with a charismatic stage presence and excellent MC skills can really set the mood and keep the party going.

Before You Sign

A DJ should be open to your likes and dislikes. Give them your personal request list, songs they must, and, perhaps more importantly, a do-not-play list. Worried that you'll hear the "Macarena" at your once-in-a-lifetime event? Specifically prohibit the playing of a song you feel strongly about in your contract. I always ask if there are songs you don't want played and make sure it doesn't happen. This is because if you happen to have a 'special song' from a previous relationship, you don't want it making things awkward on your special day. If a guest asks me for a song that is on your 'banned list' I will give a polite excuse for not playing it. Obviously if they insist then I will maybe consult you for advice.

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