Once you have chosen a DJ or you are in the process of choosing a DJ for your event, it's always good to go do the following:
Meet your DJ. It’s a fairly simple task to e-mail a few DJ’s go with whatever package meets what you’re looking for and go ahead and book them. However it’s a great idea to sit down face to face with your DJ get to know them (actually find out if the person you’re meeting will in fact be your DJ, instead of sales rep. who then sub-contracts your job out to another DJ or DJ service) and make sure there’s at least some form of “mojo” there with your DJ. If not, you may find that on your event date, things pan out exactly as your first meeting together - mojo was a no-go, and there are personality conflicts. If you find that you do in fact have a different personality than your DJ but still want to book them for your event, just be clear on the type of interaction level you want at your event.
What’s the plan for the night? You should at least have a rough idea of how you want things to go for the night and with Get the Party Started, we insist on planning as much as possible on the time line just so the event flows. Make sure you do this with your DJ in advance and review it as your event nears. Sure you can pull off the perfect event without planning, but it sure makes it a lot easier and less stressful when things are planned in advance.
Where is your event and does your DJ know where it is? This should go without saying, but it’s always good to go over it with your DJ. Since timelines are paramount at your event, the last thing you want is your DJ showing up late because he/she was “lost”. It’s always good to go to your venue location with your DJ, discuss setup and have a plan for how things will look just to avoid any possible confusion.
Ask about advertising. Do you really want your DJ ramming propaganda down your guest’s throat to promote their business?!?! Your event is about you! You are the star of the show, not your DJ. Make sure that is understood from Day 1. Would we like to receive extra business as a result of your event? Yes, but there is a time and a place for everything. Trying to pump shameless propaganda during your wedding reception or event is definitely not the appropriate time.
Plan and plan some more. Wow that’s a common theme on this thread…Hmmm almost as if it’s important – ha ha ha. Work with your DJ to carve out a list of songs that you want played and even more importantly songs you don’t want played! I’m not suggesting that the entire play list needs to be set out from Day 1 (otherwise use an iPod) but what I am suggesting is creating a list or at least a feel for what you want. That way your DJ can work your list, incorporate that into the current music being played and read the crowd into how and when to play that certain song next.
Where’s the love? You found your DJ, stress is over, you’ve signed a contract and now your DJ is missing in action. Contact should occur after you book your event. Whether it’s firming up details, changing details at your event, or song selections, there should be contact after you book your event. First of all everyone is in the loop, second you have just formed a relationship with someone who will be a part of your big day; surely a few e-mails after booking will not be too much to ask. Keeping in contact with your DJ is the best way to stay on the same level and ensure you receive what you’re paying for.
Doing the little things in advance is what makes an average event a great one. Primarily because you’ll get what you expect and the DJ knows what you want. Plan, plan, plan and plan some more and you'll find that your event will pan out as expected. Happy Planning!!!