What to ask when hiring a DJ…

Most people have never hired a Wedding DJ and have no idea of what questions they may/should ask prior to signing anything.  Based on our experience , here are 10 questions for you to consider (our answers are provided so you can get a feel for our level of professionalism).

  1. Are you insured? Can you supply me with proof of liability insurance?
    Yes! Many responsible business owners carry liability insurance to protect their businesses and the consumer.  Many locations are beginning to require proof of liability insurance, ask for proof to protect yourself. StarMusicDJ can provide a Certificate of Liability Insurance which can be used as proof. StarMusicDJ carry $1 Million commercial general liability with $2 million aggregate coverage.
  2. Will you be willing to play requests and discuss music ahead of time?
    Yes! 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. StarMusicDJ gives you the option of creating your music preference list on our interactive website prior to the event or your guests can make “on the spot” requests as long as it does not conflict with your musical preferences.
  3. Do you use Professional Equipment?
    Yes! 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. StarMusicDJ only use professional grade equipment!
  4. Do you provide backup equipment at my event?  What if something happens to my DJ?
    Yes! StarMusicDJ provides backup equipment in the event of failure. 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.
  5. Does the Disc Jockey know the proper etiquette for your type of party?
    Yes! 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.
  6. How much time do you allow for set-up?
    Punctuality is a necessity. StarMusicDJ will arrive at least two hours prior to the start time you’ve given them and should ideally be setup and in-place before your first guest walks through the door. Set-up depends on the type of function and equipment required. Larger parties usually require more equipment, load-in and set-up time.
  7. Do you provide a written contract?
    Yes! It is extremely important to have your booking confirmed in writing. Ask for a written agreement, especially if you are paying an initial retainer. StarMusicDJ always provides a written agreement for each function. We require a signed agreement and retainer fee to secure your date.
  8. Will you be suitably dressed for our occasion?
    Yes! Specify the type of apparel that your Disc Jockey is expected to wear for your occasion on your event planning form. 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. StarMusicDJ will dress based on the type of function and the requirements of the customer. The DJ will ask you what is appropriate for your function.
  9. Do you own your own music?
    Yes! StarMusicDJ does own their own music. This is important because any legitimate person operating a business should own their own music library that they purchased, not one that was copied or obtained illegally. Many DJs are starting to rely on “live music streaming” which is totally dependent on the Wi-Fi signal strength. If the signal is lost, reduced or degraded, your event may be dramatically impacted. If your DJ is live streaming music, ask him/her what their backup plan is in the event of lost Wi-Fi signal.
  10. Do you play explicit lyric songs?
    No! StarMusicDJ only plays “clean” version copies of music. Foul language will not be audible or played by StarMusicDJ.

Other Items to Note

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.