Different events require different attire. A formal wedding will require something completely different than a backyard luau will. If you want them in a tuxedo, make sure you tell them that before the day of the event, the same goes for any type of theme dressing (i.e. western, luau, etc.) Make sure you know whether there is an additional charge!

Your DJ service should allow you to schedule a personal, one-on-one consultation to plan your event. At that time, you can also discuss your event's music preferences, the order of events, view a sound system and learn more about their entertainment services.

Whether they call it a contract, a service agreement or an invoice for services, it is very important. Make certain your DJ service has one and that everything you expect of them is in writing. Have them list all the costs for your event, including the agreed upon overtime price and any 'extras' that you wish to have available. Make sure all the correct dates, times, addresses, phone numbers and deposits are listed. Also, if you plan to move before your event, make sure they get your new address and phone numbers.

You will find that prices vary in this entertainment field. The professional disc jockey will charge more than the part-timer who is just looking to make a few extra bucks on the weekend. Avoid looking at how much they charge right off...compare what you will receive. Ask more in depth questions than 'How much do you cost?' Question anyone who is extremely low in cost, you risk hiring a less experienced DJ just to save a few bucks. Ask a higher priced service to justify their cost, they may have extras that are worth the extra money.

Verify the total fee, overtime charges and the due dates for deposits and balances due, and times for arrival. The quality of your entertainment will definitely have an impact on your event. "You get what you pay for!" is a true statement. Is a bargain DJ really a bargain if you are not satisfied with the outcome of your event?

A service that works full time at providing entertainment will usually have a lot more to offer than the part-time weekender. They have put their livelihood on the line to provide you with their best. They are usually more flexible with times and dates than the person who works a 40-hour a week job plus the weekend DJ jobs.

You should find someone that asks you what YOU want, has a huge music selection and a willingness to play requests. Also, ask them what their format for taking requests is. There is the clipboard method, which works, but is not too attractive, not to mention that only one guest at a time can be making a request. A better way is to have small request cards placed on each table with writing utensils so that your guests can make requests right from their tables.

Professional references should include banquet halls, photographers, caterers, and coordinators.  Remember, if you receive references from anyone, they are going to be only the best ones.  Do you really think they would give you a bad reference?

Many people still like the old fashioned charm of having a live band perform at their parties or weddings. Bands are great! And if you can find one who knows their stuff, all the better! But consider the differences carefully before booking a band for your next event.

A DJ can provide the ORIGINAL MUSIC. Some bands are good at imitating the originals, but they just can't compare to the real thing!

A DJ will take REQUESTS more readily than the band can. Having thousands of music selections on hand makes the difference. Even the best band cannot lean that many selections from various eras and styles.

Dependability is an issue with a band. You will have to count on three to four, sometimes even more, people to show up, on time, with their equipment to your event. A DJ is one person, sometimes two people, with the equipment. There is less chance of something going wrong to ruin your event.