Frequently Asked Questions – When Hiring a DJ

When looking to choose an entertainment company for your next event – it’s important to think about the following:

  • Entertainment is one of the most important aspects to a successful event.
  • Rates for the DJ industry vary greatly.
  • The best price is not always the best deal, especially if you are planning a wedding.
  • As a matter of fact, surveys conclude that nearly 100% of brides would have spent more money on their entertainment and made it their # 1 priority in hindsight.
  • A full-service disc jockey company will normally invest 12-30 hours to your special event but it may appear that you are only paying for “4 Hours”.
  • Consultations, planning, music purchasing, preparation, setup and tear-down, education and other related endeavors add up to the overall success of your special occasion.

The following questions are highly recommended by The American Disc Jockey Association to help ensure the success of your event.

  • Are You Insured?

    Can you supply me with proof of liability?

    Most responsible business owners carry liability insurance to protect their businesses and their clients. Many banquet facilities now require proof of liability in order to allow that company perform at their establishment. Ask your entertainment for a Certificate of Liability.

  • Do You Use Professional Equipment?

    Ask if you prospective Disc Jockey uses 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.

  • Do You Provide Back Up Equipment?

    Although equipment failure is rare, do you really want your special occasion ruined because your Disc Jockey did not come prepared?

    Booking a reliable DJ is a very important decision for the success of your event. Selecting a DJ who is an active member of the American Disc Jockey Association will provide you with the confidence that you have selected a trained professional.

  • Do You Provide A Written Contract?

    It is extremely important to have your booking CONFIRMED IN WRITING.

    Ask for a written agreement, especially if you are paying an initial retainer.

  • Does The DJ Know The Proper Etiquette For Your Type Of Party?

    A professional disc jockey will assist you with the planning of your special day.

    Most professional entertainers will coordinate, emcee and provide the music you desire. Ask if they have experience with your type of event.

  • Will You Be Willing To Play Requests And Discuss Music Ahead Of Time?

    A versatile DJ is willing to listen to your suggestions, give you feedback and play from your desired song list.

    A professional DJ will also accept the fact that you may not want certain songs played. A professional DJ cannot know everything about your musical preferences and entertainment needs without COMMUNICATION.

  • How Much Time Do You Allow For Set Up?

    Punctuality is a necessity.

    Your entertainment should be setup and in place before your first guest walks through the door.

  • Will You Be Suitably Dressed For Our Occassion?

    Specify the type of apparel that your DJ is expected to wear for your occasion.

    If you are having a “Themed” event, make sure your entertainer is informed.

  • Do You Belong To A Professional Organization Or Trade Group?

    Belonging to to an organization or trade group indicates the companies willingness to network, learn and grow.

    Disc Jockeys can learn through local chapter meetings, national DJ conventions and seminars geared toward the entertainment professional.

 

  • I wanted to personally stop by and say what an AMAZING job by Jay and the rest of Occasional Sounds team! Dyana and I couldn’t have been more happy with the outcome and good times had by all at our wedding. Your assistants were classy, helpful, and invisible when they needed to be. Your music selection and flow was perfect and kept everyone on the dance floor all night. The photo booth was flowing nicely and was fun for all; we cannot wait to see all of the pictures! Jay I really cannot say enough about the night, and just how wonderful everything was done and presented. You and your team provided A+ service and we appreciate EVERYTHING you did for us.–Paul Scofield

  • Hey Jay! Many Many thanks to you for all of your hard work. The music was wonderful; the dancefloor was constantly occupied! And the photobooth, my goodness, what a HIT!! We can’t wait to see our scrapbook and of course all of the funny pictures that everyone took. Chris was wonderful too, people were raving about him! Thank you for a job well done. We will be sure to hit up the knot, wedding wire, yelp, whatever and whichever ones we can find!–Dyana Healey Scofield

  • I just wanted to thank you for doing such a GREAT job for my party! Everyone was saying what a great dj you were! It made my party alot of fun! Thanks again Jay!–Sandy Hagberg – Hazlet, NJ

  • I’m writing to thank you again for a wonderful prom. You made last year’s prom great – and this year was equally fun and successful! We brought you back for the senior prom because junior prom was such a great night. And you made this prom the perfect senior prom. We couldn’t be more pleased. And all student feedback on the evening has been glowing.” Thank you!–Renee Schneider, Earth & Marine Science Teacher, Raritan High School

  • Thank you again for everything! You were so awesome! i will make sure anyone I know that gets married hires you! Thanks again for everything!!–Katherine & Chris Fayzio – Toms River, NJ

  • I wanted to take a minute to thank you for the stellar job you did in helping my wife celebrate her 40th Birthday. It is a day she and our guests will remember for a long time. I have had repeated compliments on the party, specifically the DJ. So your professionalism did not go unnoticed. Not only was the music great, but your Emcee skills were entertaining as well. We look forward to booking you for our next event. I already have, and will continue, to recommend Occasional Sounds Entertainment.–Thanks again.”
- Ted Bianchi

  • Jay was hired as the DJ with the daunting task of providing appropriate music for a 1960′s themed surprise party during August 2010. In addition, Jay also needed to have up to date dance music for the variety of ages in attendance in order to keep the party flowing. Jay exceeded our expectations as he clearly kept within the frame, vibe and decor of the party and let loose at the proper times to keep everyone happy. With DJ Jay selections he made the music the least worrisome part of the party. He did audience participation stints, took requests, and did everything possible to make sure all the guests as well as the host’s left with their hips hurting from dancing the night away! Good Times, thanks Jay – John Ridge, Toms River, NJ