I’ve met some interesting characters during my 36 years in the DJ business. Some exceptionally talented, some wonderfully eccentric and a few who probably shouldn’t have been allowed anywhere near a microphone.
One particular gentleman springs to mind.
He was a regular DJ at a venue I knew well and, according to a story reliably related to me, once arrived for a function, set up his equipment behind the stage curtains and started playing background music while the guests enjoyed their meal.
Everything was going swimmingly.
Dinner finished, the curtains opened and the evening’s entertainment was about to begin.
Except there was no DJ.
After twenty minutes of searching, somebody eventually discovered him fast asleep in the back of his van.
Apparently, he’d decided to have a little lie-down.
I also witnessed this same gentleman helping himself rather generously to the buffet before announcing to the guests that it was open. On more than one occasion, if memory serves me correctly.
And his approach to formal attire was equally memorable. A three-piece suit accompanied by a pair of flip-flops.
Now, I’m not suggesting every DJ should dress like James Bond, but I do think remaining conscious throughout the booking is a reasonable minimum requirement.
Everybody Has to Start Somewhere
I’ve nothing against newcomers to the DJ business. Quite the opposite. I’ve mentored young DJs myself over the years, and I know there are some enormously talented people coming into the industry with fresh ideas, excellent musical knowledge and a genuine desire to learn their craft.
We all had to start somewhere. I certainly did.
What concerns me is the number of people who seem to think that buying a DJ controller, a couple of speakers and some flashing lights on Friday automatically qualifies them to entertain a wedding reception on Saturday.
There’s a world of difference between owning the equipment and knowing what to do with it.
And an even bigger difference between playing music and taking responsibility for somebody’s special evening.
It’s Not Just About the Music
A professional DJ needs to do considerably more than string together a few decent records.
They need to read the room, understand their audience, work alongside venue staff, handle announcements, adapt when plans change and occasionally deal with situations that weren’t mentioned when the booking was made.
And when something goes wrong, as things occasionally do, they need to know how to put it right.
Experience doesn’t guarantee perfection, but it does teach you how to anticipate problems before they become disasters.
After more than 1,000 wedding receptions, I can assure you that no two evenings are quite the same.
The Cheapest Quote Isn’t Always the Best Deal
Let’s talk about money.
I fully understand that people have budgets. Weddings, parties and corporate events can be expensive affairs, and nobody wants to spend more than necessary.
But choosing a DJ purely because they’ve offered the lowest price can be a false economy.
Equally, paying a fortune doesn’t automatically guarantee a brilliant evening.
What matters is what you’re actually getting for your money.
Does your DJ have the experience to handle your particular event? Are they reliable? Properly prepared? Insured? Do they carry backup equipment? Can they communicate confidently with your guests?
And perhaps most importantly, do you feel comfortable trusting them with your celebration?
You Only Get One Chance
A birthday, wedding reception or special anniversary isn’t a rehearsal.
Once the evening has finished, you can’t simply gather everybody together the following Saturday and have another go because the entertainment wasn’t quite right.
That’s why I believe choosing a DJ should be about much more than comparing prices or counting the number of flashing lights in their photographs.
It’s about finding somebody who understands the responsibility, takes genuine pride in their work and knows how to give your guests a thoroughly enjoyable evening.
If you’re planning a celebration and would like to discuss the entertainment, please get in touch. I’m always happy to have a chat about what you’re looking for, without the hard sell.
And I promise to stay awake.
