How to choose a wedding DJ.

Lets be honest. The one time you need to be absolutely sure you have picked the right DJ is your wedding. There are certainly some fantastic DJs out there...Unfortunately there is also some real rubbish too. Social media has made it easier than ever for people to declare themselves a business and, with a few reviews from friends, make themselves seem reputable. I once even heard of a DJ who downloaded pictures and videos from all over facebook. He used them to promote himself! Anyway, at a recent wedding fair a couple attempted to book me, I was already booked. They asked me for some advice on booking a DJ for their wedding. So here is what I told them

1. ​Go with an individual you have knowledge of be it experience or recomendations. With some of the big companies you never know what you are going to get. A venue has been in touch with me recently to ask me to provide their venue with frequent wedding entertainment. The company they were using were taking upwards of £300 a bookjng and sending DJs who were receiving £100 a booking. When you are booking, ask who will actually be the DJ on the night and research, research, research. This brings me on to my next point.
2. Go by reputation! There is a reason different DJs charge different prices and it isn't greed. Simply, Good DJs aint cheap and cheap DJs aint good. There is a huge range in quality of equipment, dj, entertainment factor and music knowledge.
3. Use a professional. Your uncles, mates, dogs, dads, brothers cousin may seem like the perfect choice. However a reputable company with professional links, awards, insurances etc really are the way to go. Ask to see PAT and PLI certificates at a minimum....your venue will! I have heard horror stories of venues sending DJs away for not having the above. Even the least accomplished wedding DJ should show the above two certificates without hesitation when asked.
4. Pay a deposit. It counts as a legal contract. If the DJ doesn't behave professionally ask for it back!
5. Meet with your DJ beforehand! I offer this service with all my wedding clients. All the decent DJs I know do aswell. You will be too busy on your big day to brief the DJ. Iron out the creases by meeting up a month or so before. Do you really want the first time you meet your DJ two minutes before he plays the wrong song for your first dance?
6. Maybe even...... Visit the DJ at another party (not necessarily a wedding) I have done this in the past and couples have booked in there and then and left super excited!

​Do you agree? Have I missed anything? Use the comments below, get in touch and share on facebook.