Disc Jockeys
Disc Jockeys are an interesting lot. Whereas doctors and lawyers, as well as many other professions, have some type of schooling and certification, it seems that anyone with a music collection and a stereo can be a DJ.
Let’s look, for a minute, at what a “DJ” is.
By definition, a DJ is a person that plays records. (Hence the term Disc from the days of playing black vinyl discs known as "45's" and albums) Now days, many “state of the art” DJs will use some type of computer based music playback system. DJs that still use CDs or even vinyl, should not be discounted as not being able to perform a great party. The equipment they use to perform with is just “tools” and nothing more. Each tool has its plusses and minuses. While we are on the subject of tools, let’s look at equipment for a moment. Just about every client I’ve ever had has never asked me about what I use to perform with. Most would not know the difference between Radio Shack equipment and Rane, Denon or JBL. To the professional, there is a HUGE difference.
To “you” the client, the only thing that matters is that everything continues to function for as long as your event is scheduled. Lower quality equipment is less reliable than professional grade equipment. Will lower quality equipment work for your event? Probably, but, do you really want to take that chance, on what will be one of the most important days of your life?
Also, does your DJ have backup equipment? Even with pro grade gear, there is always the possibility that something could go wrong. A pro will have something to fall back on so your wedding doesn’t grind to a sudden stop.
When looking through websites, do you see “(insert company name here) is #1? “Voted best of”? “(insert state here) premier DJ service"? Only to discover, eight of ten are the best. Be Very Careful when djs use these buzz words. (other buzz words include "unique" "memorable" and "specialize")
Or, do you see “we specialize” in Weddings, Bar/Bat Mitzvah’s, School dances and Company parties, etc...”? Really?
You “specialize” in everything?
Does your general practitioner do brain surgery? Probably not, so how can DJ’s “specialize” in everything?
Now, for a moment, let’s look at prices. The fact is quality costs. Look at your engagement ring for a moment. If your stone were just a piece of glass, chances are you didn’t spend much for it. However, if it is a flawless two karat diamond, you most likely spent a lot. DJ’s are a lot like diamonds. The higher their quality, the more they cost.
For some, a lower price DJ might get the job done but a high end professional will more than likely give you the quality event you deserve, just like a fine polished diamond.
A lower priced DJ may only have the skills to “play music” but not much else. A more experienced entertainer has Master of Ceremony skills, coordination skills, microphone presence, an ability to get a “feel” for your guests “mood” and adapt accordingly and much, much more.
A survey by a national bridal magazine found that 73% of the brides wished they had spent more on their entertainment AFTER the event was over because their event wasn’t as good as it should have been. While most brides spend about 3 percent of their budget on entertainment, they felt that the entertainment was 80% of the overall success of their reception. So before you spend $1200 on a vegetable tray or $4 a chair for chair covers, stop and think….”What will my guests remember about my reception”? Then, spend accordingly.
Not every DJ is right for you. Just like picking out that diamond, you need to look for the entertainer that will be performing for you. Do they fit your personality? Your style? Your music choices? Your vision of how you see your event flowing? That’s why the interview process is so important. Some DJ’s are stand up comics with banter and quips that keep your guests in stitches; some are very refined and elegant. You need to find which one is “your style”.
Finding the right DJ is a two way street. On some occasions, I’ve said straight out…”I don’t think I’m the right DJ for you”. The “fit” has to be both ways. Sure, I could take every event that comes my way, but that wouldn’t be fair for “me” and certainly would not be fair for “you”.
Happy Hunting.