Interviewing the DJ

I mentioned last week that our DJ search was at a minor stand-still. One of the problems I was running into was that each time I did a Google search, the top results were often the most popular results. They were usually the most popular because they were large, had a lot of DJs, and sometimes even had more than one location.

But that's not really the type of DJ we want.

We want a DJ that's a little smaller, younger, fresher. Someone who shares our taste in music and our philosophy on DJing (play good music, keep your mouth shut).

I found a DJ through my photographer's blog, and after extensively scouring their website, I decided to contact them.

Tonight, Ryan and I will hold our initial consultation over the phone (they usually do them in Chicago, but it might be a while before we're back in that area). Here is a list of questions I've compiled that one should ask a prospective DJ...

• Will we be able to meet with our chosen DJ before the wedding?
• How long has your company been in business?
• Have you played at our reception site before?
  
• Does your company focus primarily on weddings?
• How would you describe your M.C. style?
• Do you have flashy lights or disco balls?
  
• What happens if our DJ is sick?
• Does the cocktail hour cost extra?
  
• May we provide our DJ with a "play" and "do not play" list?
• Is set-up and tear-down time included in the cost?
• Do you bring backup equipment with you to the reception?
• Does the DJ require a meal?
• Will the DJ self-promote with banners or business cards?

Some of these are total "givens" and some of these are preferences, but it's a good start to figuring out if the DJ you're interviewing will mesh well with the event you're planning.

Or else you run the risk of ending up with this guy...