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Written by Stu & His Crew Professional Mobile DJ Service
I have been a professional Disc Jockey for over 18 years now, and since
the first time a client called me I have been asked what the differences are between DJ's.
What should I look for? "After all" they say, "I've never needed a DJ
before!" If this is true of you, then the following might be of help!
In Michigan, where I live, there is no licensure or credentials
needed to be a DJ. All of the other services, such as caterers,
limo companies, photographers, etc., need a business license, but
for some strange reason, bands and DJ's aren't considered a "real"
profession! This means that anyone -- ANYONE! -- can buy some
equipment and music and call themselves a DJ! Most people would
prefer a true professional, and the best way to spot
them is, first and foremost, their experience. Fly-by-nights are here today and gone
tomorrow for a very good reason! If a company has been around for a good amount of time,
it's a good indicator of quality and commitment. Personally, I went for a well known 15
year company when I planned my own wedding. I wasn't sorry! Also important: references!
Ask for them and actually check them! Satisfied customers say "quality" best!
On occasion, a DJ company seems to have the experience and might even be a well known
"big name" outfit! Their offices may impress and their presentation package is
slick and equally impressive. Although this is commendable, I would advise caution here.
These companies sometimes have many DJ's working for them. Some of these might even be
beginners! Training program or no training program, I would make sure that the DJ who will
actually be at your wedding have the experience you're paying for!
Speaking of price, there are as many differences between DJ's as there are between, say,
cars. Imagine a salesman's reaction if a customer walked in to a showroom and said
"Show me your cheapest car!" Yet many brides and grooms shop for DJ's just like
that. Although it seems like all DJ's basically do the same thing, differences can be
astounding! The DJ himself is first; is he/she full or part time? Will he/she wear the
proper attire? Will they handle the announcements? How "interactive" are they?
(You should consider just what level of interactivity you want for your event!)
Next is the equipment. Although I won't name any specific brands here, suffice it to say
that your local radio stations and nightclubs don't get their equipment at the local
warehouse store -- nor should your DJ! Home stereo is just not built for the kind of
punishment a DJ and his audience can dish out. Only top quality commercial grade equipment
should be used!
Another important item is music selection. While a DJ might play less than 100 songs in a
night, music is definitely not a "one size fits all" thing! The typical age
range at a wedding is between 10 and 85! If you add ethnic, racial and taste differences,
this only enlarges the scope of what a DJ must be prepared to cover musically! In my
opinion, a good library will typically have about 300 CD's or better, and a good DJ will
ask your preferences so that your favorite songs will be available!
Lighting is another option to consider. Some DJ's charge extra for it, some offer none at
all, and some might have very elaborate packages to choose from. Here's a bit of a
reference! Although you might save a buck by eliminating lighting, you also eliminate a
powerful atmosphere enhancement! Lights draw your dancers to the floor and involve them in
the excitement. A very basic light show might have a mirror ball, some type of color wash
lights and maybe a strobe light or two. The next level involves "modern
lighting" effects, such as moonbeams, lasers, fog machine and others. At the pinnacle
of lighting are the "intelligent" lights. Watch out when you hear this word! It
refers to the computerized, programmable lights commonly found in nightclubs. Like most
buzzwords, some apply it to the lesser "modern" effects. This is because the
true "intelligent" effects are very expensive and will often cost you more. They
are certainly worth it, but make sure that you're getting the real intelligent lighting
you're paying for!
Finally, one more thing to ask about is insurance. A DJ should have at least a basic
liability insurance policy just as your other vendors do. This protects not only the DJ
and your guests, but you as well!
By doing just a little bit of detective work, you can make sure that your wedding will
truly be the night of your dreams! |
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SHOP
FOREVERWED |
1-360-658-4990
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