Weddings: What To Look For In A Dj

* One of the main factors in determining whether or not you can use a certain DJ concerns your budget constraints, so one of the first questions you will want to ask is how much the services will cost or what types of packages he/she has to choose from. Many DJs put together wedding packages based on definitive blocks of time that their services will be used. Before going in for an initial consultation, have an idea of how much of your budget is allotted for DJ services, so you know exactly how much you are willing to spend and negotiate with. Ask the DJ what the total cost is, including any extra fees (for instance, travel or setup fees) he may charge.

* Many DJs perform so many weddings that they often find themselves overbooked, choosing to hire out contract DJs rather than cancel gigs. Speak to your DJ about this type of situation. Is this something that he/she often does in order to keep business rolling? While this may benefit the DJ greatly, it is not ideal to have several meetings about music styles and specific songs with one DJ when another separate and unassociated DJ (whom you have never met) will end up playing at your reception. Be sure to have a written contract drawn up that states you will get a full refund if your DJ cancels or contracts out another DJ to play your wedding.

* One item you will want to keep in mind is whether or not your DJ has backup equipment. Many DJs must travel many miles to get to a reception site and if one piece of their equipment breaks (like a speaker), you don't want the reception music to be shot for the night. A professional and reputable DJ will setup and test his equipment early (before everyone arrives at the reception venue) and have backup equipment in case one piece fails.

* A common complaint of outdoor weddings is that it is often difficult for the guests in the back to hear anything that is being said by the officiant, bride and groom. You may want to speak with your DJ to see if he/she provides microphones for the ceremony.

* Some DJs simply come in, set up, play the music and leave afterwards, while other DJs come in, bring props and interact with the guests the entire night, starting conga lines and performing various music skits using the guests as actors. If your family and friends are more low-key, you might want to steer clear of any DJs who are more interactive than you are comfortable with.

* Take a look at your DJ's selection of music? Does it seem to gear towards only one genre like rap, Tejano or country? Remember, not all DJs are heavy in wedding gigs. Some DJs work mainly high school proms, dance clubs and the like, so their music collection might not be as extensive as you imagined. You will probably want a DJ that has a variety of music and who can easily add to his collection, if there is a special song you want played.