| 10 Questions To Ask |
10 Questions to ask when hiring a DJ.
I have been asked each question and have answered yes to every one of them.
See below for answers or contact me for written proof if needed.
1. Are you insured? Can you supply me with proof of liability?
Many responsible business owners carry liability insurance to protect their businesses and the consumer. Many locations are
beginning to require proof of liability. Ask for proof of liability insurance. Disc Jockey's receive a Certificate of Liability which can
be used as proof.
2. Will you be willing to play requests and discuss music ahead of time?
A versatile Disc Jockey is willing to listen to your suggestions, give you feedback and play from your desired song list. A
professional Disc Jockey will also accept the fact you may not want certain songs played. A professional Disc Jockey cannot
know everything about your musical preferences and entertainment needs without communication.
3. Do you use Professional Equipment?
Ask whether your prospective Disc Jockey works with 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. Remember that
professional gear does not guarantee an entertainer's talent or service level, but is simply a tool for building an exceptional
event.
4. Do you provide backup equipment at my event?
Although equipment failure is rare, do you really want your special occasion ruined because your Disc Jockey did not come
prepared? It is also important to know if your Disc Jockey has a back-up plan in case of illness or an accident. Members of the
A.D.J.A. have many resources available to them in case of an emergency. You may also reach our Hot line number to get a
Disc Jockey when you have an emergency. The toll-free number is 888-723-5776.
5. Is your DJ service reliable? Trustworthy? Experienced?
Booking a reliable Disc Jockey is a very important decision for the success of your party. Selecting a Disc Jockey who is an
active member of the American Disc Jockey Association will provide you with the confidence that you have selected a trained
professional. A.D.J.A. members are more likely to be involved with other Disc Jockey's who can help them out with an
unexpected situation.
6. Does the Disc Jockey 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 that you desire. Ask if they have experience with your type of event.
7. How much time do you allow for set-up?
Punctuality is a necessity. Most Disc Jockey's arrive at least one hour prior to the start time you've given them. Your entertainer
should ideally be setup and in-place before your first guest walks through the door.
8. 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. The standard initial payment for entertainment services is 50%. If you are expecting a specific entertainer, make
sure you get it in writing as well.
9. Will you be suitably dressed for our occasion?
Specify the type of apparel that your Disc Jockey is expected to wear for your occasion. Formal attire or coat & tie are the most
popular forms of attire. If you are having a "themed" event, make sure your entertainer is informed.
10. Do you belong to a professional organization or trade group?
Although belonging to an organization or trade group does not guarantee the talent or professionalism of a disc jockey, it may
indicate 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.
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I can successfully answer all of the questions for how to hire a DJ. My mission is provide you the best reception
possible. I work hard to make all of your expectations come true.
1. Yes I am insured. I carry liability insurance for myself and equipment. I am not liable for guests or the hall.
2. I thrive on requests. I do not play off of a MUST play list. I prefer to take requests throughout the evening. I play
a mix of your favorites, along with what I know will work from years of experience. Combine all three and you have
a great event.
3+4. You can view pictures of my equipment on my website at stevensdjservice.com I take great pride in providing
two of the best and newest systems around. You can view lights, speakers and everything else at our first
meeting. I have two complete systems at every event. I have a pro series and a karaoke series. I bring one setup
as backup, just in case. I usually have one of my assistants stay at every event, just in case I have to help with
other things, music can continue uninterrupted.
5. Trust is a hard thing to build and I am one of the most trusted DJ's around. I'm on time, dressed appropriately,
professional and I actually care about making your event a success for you.
6. I belong to the American Disc Jockey Association and receive regular training on how to deal with proper
etiquette for any event. When you book me, you get me. Period. No exceptions. No changes. I've been a DJ for
over 15 years and have never missed or been late to an event. You may call my references on a need to basis. If I
do my job right you won't need to. Let's schedule a meeting and go from there.
7. Recently I have added a few new things to my setup and need to arrive about 2 hours before each performance,
to have enough time to set up and recheck everything.
8. I provide a written contract and give you a copy of it upon conclusion of our first meeting. Everything you see at
the meeting you will get a copy of when you book with my services.
9. I can dress in a tuxedo if requested. I usually dress in a suit that matches the main color of the reception. The
groomsmen are usually in black and I try to blend in with them. Your pictures will look better, if I am in the
background in a black suit and tie.
10. I belong to the ADJA, Downstate Illinois chapter and NAME. Both are professional organizations that are
nationally recognized. We have regular meetings and training.
possible. I work hard to make all of your expectations come true.
1. Yes I am insured. I carry liability insurance for myself and equipment. I am not liable for guests or the hall.
2. I thrive on requests. I do not play off of a MUST play list. I prefer to take requests throughout the evening. I play
a mix of your favorites, along with what I know will work from years of experience. Combine all three and you have
a great event.
3+4. You can view pictures of my equipment on my website at stevensdjservice.com I take great pride in providing
two of the best and newest systems around. You can view lights, speakers and everything else at our first
meeting. I have two complete systems at every event. I have a pro series and a karaoke series. I bring one setup
as backup, just in case. I usually have one of my assistants stay at every event, just in case I have to help with
other things, music can continue uninterrupted.
5. Trust is a hard thing to build and I am one of the most trusted DJ's around. I'm on time, dressed appropriately,
professional and I actually care about making your event a success for you.
6. I belong to the American Disc Jockey Association and receive regular training on how to deal with proper
etiquette for any event. When you book me, you get me. Period. No exceptions. No changes. I've been a DJ for
over 15 years and have never missed or been late to an event. You may call my references on a need to basis. If I
do my job right you won't need to. Let's schedule a meeting and go from there.
7. Recently I have added a few new things to my setup and need to arrive about 2 hours before each performance,
to have enough time to set up and recheck everything.
8. I provide a written contract and give you a copy of it upon conclusion of our first meeting. Everything you see at
the meeting you will get a copy of when you book with my services.
9. I can dress in a tuxedo if requested. I usually dress in a suit that matches the main color of the reception. The
groomsmen are usually in black and I try to blend in with them. Your pictures will look better, if I am in the
background in a black suit and tie.
10. I belong to the ADJA, Downstate Illinois chapter and NAME. Both are professional organizations that are
nationally recognized. We have regular meetings and training.
| The event you've always dreamed of...We make it a reality. Matthew Stevens is a Wedding and Master of Ceremonies Expert. |
| STEVENS DJ SERVICE INC. DJ/MC Matthew Stevens 217-585-4008 Springfield, IL |
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