Here are some questions that the ADJA strongly recommends you ask...
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Have you commited yourself to follow the ADJA Code of Professional Conduct?
Any responsible business owner will be committed to living by the
This is just one of the commitments that legitimate entertainment companies will make to you.
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Are you insured? Can you supply me with proof of liability?
Many responsible business owners carry
liability insurance to protect their businesses and the consumer. Many
locations are beginning to require proof of liability. Ask for proof of
liability insurance. Disc Jockey's receive a Certificate of Liability which can be used as proof.
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Will you be willing to play requests and discuss music ahead of time?
A versatile Disc Jockey is willing to
listen to your suggestions, give you feedback and play from your desired
song list. A professional Disc Jockey will also accept the fact you may
not want certain songs played. A professional Disc Jockey cannot know
everything about your musical preferences and entertainment needs
without communication.
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Do you use Professional Equipment?
Ask whether your prospective Disc
Jockey works with professional audio equipment. If you are not sure, ask
for their equipment list and check with a local music dealer or the
A.D.J.A. to verify they are using professional-grade sound gear.
Remember that professional gear does not guarantee an entertainer's talent or service level, but is simply a tool for building an exceptional event.
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Do you provide backup equipment at my event?
Although equipment failure is rare, do
you really want your special occasion ruined because your Disc Jockey
did not come prepared? It is also important to know if your Disc Jockey
has a back-up plan in case of illness or an accident. Members of the
A.D.J.A. have many resources available to them in case of an emergency.
You may also reach our Hotline number to get a Disc Jockey when you have
an emergency. The toll-free number is
888-723-5776
.
Booking a reliable Disc Jockey is a very important decision for the
success of your party. Selecting a Disc Jockey who is an active member
of the American Disc Jockey Association will provide you with the
confidence that you have selected a trained professional. A.D.J.A.
members are more likely to be involved with other Disc Jockey's who can
help them out with an unexpected situation.
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Does the Disc Jockey know the proper etiquette for your type of party?
A professional Disc Jockey will assist
you with the planning of your special day. Most professional
entertainers will coordinate, emcee and provide the music that you
desire. Ask if they have experience with your type of event.
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How much time do you allow for set-up?
Punctuality is a necessity.
Most Disc Jockey's arrive at least one hour prior to the start time
you've given them. Your entertainer should ideally be setup and in-place
before your first guest walks through the door.
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Do you provide a written contract?
It is extremely important to have your booking confirmed in writing.
Ask for a written agreement, especially if you are paying an initial
retainer. The standard initial payment for entertainment services is
50%. If you are expecting a specific entertainer, make sure you get it
in writing as well.
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Will you be suitably dressed for our occasion?
Specify the type of apparel that your
Disc Jockey is expected to wear for your occasion. Formal attire or coat
& tie are the most popular forms of attire. If you are having a
"themed" event, make sure your entertainer is informed.
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Do you belong to a professional organization or trade group?
Although belonging to an organization
or trade group does not guarantee the talent or professionalism of a
disc jockey, it may indicate the companies willingness to network, learn
and grow. Disc jockeys can learn through local chapter meetings,
national DJ conventions and seminars geared toward the entertainment
professional.
Other Items to Note
Disc Jockey rates
vary based on
talent, experience, emcee ability, service, coordination, equipment
needed, music knowledge, mixing ability and personality.
Rates for the DJ industry vary greatly, ranging from $350.00 to over $5,000.00 with
an average of $1,200.00 for a 4 hour booking
.
The best price is not always the best deal, especially if you are
planning a wedding. As a matter of fact, surveys conclude that nearly
100% of brides would have spent more money on their entertainment and
made it their #1 priority in hindsight.
A full-service disc jockey company will normally invest 12 to 30 hours
to your special event but it may appear that you are only paying for "4
hours". Consultations, music purchasing & editing, preparation,
set-up and tear-down, education and other business related endeavors add
up to the overall success of your special occasion.
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