8 questions You MUST ask before hiring your Sacramento wedding DJ Every wedding needs music. But how do you find the best DJ? Start by asking these important questions when considering a DJ service. "How long have you been in business?" It's obviously important to know if you are dealing with a fly-by-night operation or an established outfit. In most cases you will be booking anywhere from 6 months to a year and leaving a deposit; make sure your DJ will still be there a year from now. "Can you provide references from clients and professionals?" Any DJ service will tell you how wonderful their services are. Ask former clients as well as other wedding professionals such as photographers, caterers, and facilities managers about the DJ you're considering. Asking both clients and wedding professionals gives you not only a review of performance but also an idea of how well your DJs will work with the other wedding vendors you hire. Wedding professionals see the good, bad, and ugly of the DJ world; use their experience to your advantage. "Do you carry insurance?" This is a question you might not think of, however, it is important. Most facilities require $1,000,000 liability insurance. "What are your prices?" Shopping many DJs for price will give you an idea of what the standard rate is. If a particular DJ is offering his services below or above the standard rate, find out why. "Are there hidden charges?" Another way to ask this question is: "What do I get for my money?" Some DJs offer an hourly rate, others package their services. When you buy a package, you are usually able to add on additional services, but you may not need (or want) all the services offered in the package presented to you. Hiring a DJ on an hourly rate allows you to add additional services you truly want and need, instead of paying for a package that may include services you don't want. "Can we meet at your office?" The Mobile Entertainment Industry has come a long way. In the past, when you wanted to hire a DJ, you were forced to deal with a single operator who worked from his/her home, car, apartment, etc. Of course those DJs are still out there, but now you have the option of booking with a Mobile DJ company. Meeting at the office lets you see what kind of company you will be working with. A company brings stability to your DJ service and provides trained staff, back up equipment, and customer support. You will realize the importance of customer support after the fifth time you get your DJ's voice mail and no return call. "What additional services do you offer?" This will give you an idea of services you might be able to incorporate into your DJ package. These service could include props, lighting, video projection, and ceremony sound systems. "What if something goes wrong?" Although it doesn't happen often, electrical equipment can fail. DJs can get sick or injured. Make sure your DJ service have a backup plan to keep your party going as scheduled. Asking these questions will help you find a DJ service that will make your celebration all you have dreamed of. Although every person you hire for your event plays a crucial role in making your day a success, the entertainment is ultimately everyone's perception of your party. © 2000, Rick Jenkins The Entertainment Team 1 (800) 696-DJAY Is your company listed with SacWeddings.com? Sign up for your FREE listing now! SacWeddings.com -- Sacramento's only complete online wedding professional directory. SacWeddings.com -- Sacramento's only complete online wedding professional directory. SacWeddings.com -- Sacramento's only complete online wedding professional directory.