Photo (above, from left to right) : DJ: Fiesta Crew - Photographer: LUX Visual Storytellers - DJ: DJ Tom - Photographer: Alexandra Kukushina Photography - DJ: JESSEVENT - Photographer: FLITS Media
1. Can we hear you play live beforehand?
It is understandable that you would like to know how the DJ sounds live before you want to book. Although for private events such as weddings it is usually not possible to hear the DJ play live, some DJs offer recordings of their previous DJ sets. Ask your potential DJ if recordings can be shared so you can get an idea of his style and skills.
2. From what time on the wedding day will you be present?
It is important to know from when the DJ will be present on your wedding day. This can vary and depends entirely on your own needs. Some DJs attend from the ceremony and also provide music during the reception and dinner. Others come only for the evening party. Discuss your specific preferences with the DJ and make sure he or she has enough time to set everything up.
3. Can we pass on songs we would like to hear (or absolutely not)?
Ask your DJ if you can pass on some specific songs you'd like to hear at your party, as well as any songs you absolutely don't want to hear. ‘Les Lacs du Connemara’, for example, does it belong on your must-play list or just on your don't-play list? Some DJs even have special apps where you can upload your musical preferences, making the process easier. In any case, state your general preferences and music style clearly in advance, so that the DJ can compile a playlist that perfectly suits your taste and the desired atmosphere.
4. As a DJ, what information do you need beforehand to create the perfect DJ set?
To make sure the DJ knows all the details and can put together a perfect set, you should share certain information with him or her. Think about the atmosphere you want to create, your vision, special decoration elements and your style preferences. Some DJs have extensive questionnaires to gather this information. It is also useful for the DJ to know if you want to make announcements during the party and if you like to be in the spotlight yourself. The more information you can provide, the better the DJ can cater to your needs.
5. Can you combine your DJ set with live music?
Abroad, ‘Fusion’ is very popular, where a DJ collaborates with a live musician playing an instrument - often a saxophone or a violin. Adding live music to the DJ set gives your party an extra dimension and huge atmosphere. Interested? Ask your DJ whether it is possible to combine live music with his DJ performance, whether he has experience with this and which musicians, if any, he would suggest.
6. Do you bring your own sound system or should we provide it?
Whether or not the DJ brings his/her own sound system varies greatly between different DJs. Professional all-in DJ s usually have their own quality equipment. Other DJs may choose to use the venue's existing installation - depending on what facilities are available there. So be sure to discuss when booking whether your DJ will bring his own equipment or whether you will need to provide certain facilities. Also check whether your DJ has his/her own lighting system to provide that extra bit of atmosphere, or what kind of lighting your party room has.
If your DJ does not bring his or her own sound or lighting equipment, be sure to agree on what facilities he or she needs, so that the venue or your sound and lighting supplier can provide everything perfectly.
Article in collaboration with Maarten Provo, DJ Tom &FEEST.
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