I want to keep this article positive, in line with my feelings about the profession of DJing. And that profession is a beautiful thing. It is filled with talented and outgoing people – I have one of the few jobs where my role is to spread happiness throughout a crowd and I play that role at a moment when most people are relaxed and ready to have a good time.

But sometimes I hear words like this, “You were the only DJs we met that weren’t old and fat!” Or this one, “You actually have a fun personality and you aren’t cheesy!” I don’t know the source of these sentiments but I am willing to admit that not all DJs are the same.

Here Are 7 Steps For Hiring A Wedding DJ.

1. Listen to your friends or other vendors when they refer you to a DJ

They have seen the DJ in action, they know your tastes by now, and they should be trusted. Our best clients always come from some type of referral.

2. Interview the DJ, not just the DJ company

Whether you do it on the phone or in person, always speak directly with the DJ you want to hire. Let the DJ walk you through his experience and style. I believe this is the best way to determine if the DJ is the right fit for you.

3. Check references – Not just numbers

Speak with or email the references, particularly Brides and Grooms, that have worked with the DJ you are considering. They will give you insights from actual experience. Also, whether a company has 1000 reviews or 10, it doesn’t mean one is better than the other. Check the BBB to read complaints, then check WeddingWire and Social Media.

4. Make sure to ask these nuts and bolts questions

“Do you have liability insurance?” “How many Weddings have you DJ’d?” “Have you ever worked at my facility?” “What types of music do you play at a wedding?” “May I see photos of your DJ Setup?” “What types of MC responsibilities do you provide and what is your style on the microphone?” These questions provide a lot of information about how much experience the DJ has and give you some insight into the hard to quantify “passion for the job” factor.

5. Make sure you allocate enough of your overall budget to the DJ

Hiring a Wedding DJ in Central Pennsylvania can be a daunting task and you’ll see thousands of DJs with pricing all over the map. You should figure on spending $1000-1500.00 for a really good, seasoned pro.

6. Review the contract

Make sure whoever you hire has a professional contract for you to sign. This should include the total fee agreed upon, the deposit fee, the performance times, the venue information, the Name of the DJ specifically, a short description of the services provided, and any service guarantees or contract riders. All parties should sign and retain a copy.

7. Go with your instincts

If you’ve checked into the company by doing some Google review searches, followed up with references directly from the DJ, and you have a great feeling about this DJ and everything his contract provides, you should move quickly to sign a contract and pay a deposit. The most experienced DJs book early.