Not all DJ are equal - pick the right one for your event!

DJ’s are a popular option for many wedding receptions, especially when the venue does not offer enouogh space for a live band. A goo DJ will offer a variety of different themes of music and will be flexable enough to adapt depending on what your guests seem to be enjoying!

Mny hotels in the UK offer a house DJ. Whilst this can seem like a good option make sure that the you would have picked this person yourself! Some house DJ's really are not up to much and only stay in 'business' because of the one venue that includes their services. Remember that it is your wedding reception - so you decide who will be playing the music, not the hotel!

This article just gives you a few pointers as to the main things to consider when looked for a DJ for your reception.

Quality

The first consideration when hiring any entertainment is quality. You should ensre that your choice of DJ is reliable (how quickly did he reply to your initial call, was the paperwork dealt with quickly?), well recommended, carry professional equipment and are insured as well as having their equipment fully PAT tested.

Be selective. You wil find that there is a wide range of 'show' offered by different DJ's; from those with a small amount of equipment to a top quality DJ with video projectors, massive sound systems, huge lighting shows and live dancers, we provide shows of all sizes, for all types of party. Make sure that the one you select has a show that is appropriate to the size of the venue and the general feel that you want to create.

Style of music and song lists

When hiring a DJ it’s important that their play list suits your taste and fits the tone of your occasion. You can get an idea of what music your DJ is likely to play by reviewing their ‘sample play list’. If they can not offer you a playlist - typically available from their website - then maybe you need to look at the next option?

Experience

A good quality function DJ will be very experienced with many previous engagements under their belt. Ask for and follow up references to ensure their experience and showmanship is well above average and that they are going to suitable for the reception that you are planning.

References

All our DJ’s must provide good references from previous clients.

Equipment

DJ’s can carry quite an array of equipment to functions, ranging from small mixing decks, CD and mini disk players, to quite large sound systems and disco lighting. It’s important to liaise with your reception venue to plan an appropriate space for the DJ to set up in and a make sure that the there is a sensible plan as to when the DJ will set up. You may need to arrange access times with the venue. A good quality DJ will be flexable and be able to offer suggestions to help with your planning.

As a guide small sound and lighting systems are relatively inexpensive and will provide a compact show, suitable for 50 or so guests. For larger events more volume and light is needed to provide a good quality show and fees will reflect this increase in size.

It is also worth bearing in mind that no matter how good a DJ is, if they use poor quality equipment, your experience and enjoyment of the music will be greatly diminished. A small system doesn’t mean a poor system if the equipment is of a high specification. Ask your prospective DJ how often they change / update their show, what type of effects they use and why. A DJ with a good quality show will be pleased to explain this to you and will be proud of the show they offer.

Cost

When booking a DJ it’s important to understand that you get what you pay for. Experienced DJ’s are in demand and command higher fees than newer inexperienced DJ’s who may have starter range equipment. As with all entertainment, make sure that you get at least three quotes - which is exactly why you should use Wedding Entertainment GB to help you plan your wedding entertainment!