Choosing a DJ for your wedding reception is one of the most important decisions that you can make

BY MARK THOMAS

Choosing a disc jockey for your wedding reception is an important decision. Everything else can be perfect, but if the music is not great, the party will fizzle. Selecting the right disc jockey can be confusing. There are thousands of DJs in America, all promising that they will do a great job for you. So how do you pick the right one?

One of the best ways is to hire someone you have already seen. If you've been to a wedding or party where the entertainment was wonderful, find out who the DJ was and book him or her.

Another way is to ask your friends and co-workers. Perhaps they can give you a good reference. If these suggestions don’t work, you should begin your own search. You might turn to your phone book or Weddingpages. Look for those ads or listings that say they specialize in weddings.

After you find several ads you like, how will you know which DJ is best? Don’t choose for price alone. Though one potential DJ may charge less, that may be because the company is less experienced or less well-equipped to handle your reception. Shop around and look for overall packages.

It’s important to create a rapport with the DJ over the phone. Pay attention to his or her professionalism. The DJ’s personality will spill into his or her style. Don’t worry if the DJ you like has less experience than others. Just be sure to check out several of the company’s references to make sure that the firm is reputable.

In addition to the initial interview, other important elements in selecting a DJ are thoroughness in preparation and the ability to provide a well-balanced and entertaining show.

"Brides and grooms should feel comfortable with the person and the personality they will select as a DJ for their wedding," said Jason Aquino, owner of DJ’s & MC’s in Pacifica, Calif. "Compatibility and attention to customer service leads to satisfying the needs of the wedding party. We try to match the appropriate DJ with the wedding party and its requirements _ it’s important to make sure all the personalities are a good match."

One way to get comfortable with a DJ is to confer early in the planning process. "It is suggested that you meet the DJ in person before making a decision," said Rich Amooi of Hey Mr. D.J. in San Jose. "Meet at least three DJs first, and then make up your mind. And never decide over the phone."

Another thing to consider is a DJ’s policy on requests. The best DJ will take requests from the audience and work them into the routine. But don’t expect the DJ to play every request.

Many requests are simply inappropriate for the mood of the event. An excellent DJ is not a jukebox, but blends requests in with songs that he or she feels will properly motivate the crowd. The DJ’s art is timing, and this takes some experience. Forcing a DJ to ignore those instincts by making him or her play every request will result in an uneven party and less fun.

Amooi said that one unique thing he does is to ask the bride for any old, obscure, hard-to find favorites she might have, and to bring the cassette to the reception. He also asks the bride if there are any sensitive songs the couple does not want to hear at the reception.

"Being versatile and flexible is fine, and some DJs may say they have 30,000 songs, but do they know what to do with them?" he said.

Some companies have more than one DJ working for them. If so, it’s important to get references for the DJ who will be assigned to your event. Even if the company has been around for years, they might have hired your DJ only last week. Make sure you know who you’re getting. Ask if the DJ belongs to any professional organizations such as the American Disc Jockey Association; the National Association of Catering Executives; or your local chamber of commerce. This does not guarantee that a DJ will be good, but it does give you an idea about whether or not he or she is a professional.

Jason Aquino, with 12 DJs on staff said that all his DJs are bonded and have a vested interest in the DJ company.

"This reassures customers that they will not get an indifferent DJ." He said that this approach ensures that each DJ knows that he is ultimately "accountable for the success of the show."

Often, only one of the engaged pair get involved, Amooi said. "Nine out of ten times it’s the bride who makes the initial call for DJ services; then the groom will come to the initial meeting only 70 percent of the time," he said.

Make sure your partner is included in the decision making, and ask these questions when visiting prospective DJs:

• Do you use professional gear?
• Do you provide a back-up system in case of an emergency?
• Are you insured?
• Do you belong to any professional associations or trade groups?
• Are we guaranteed the DJ of our choice on the day of the event?
• How many years of experience do you have?
• May we call three of your references?
• How will you be dressed?
• How early will you be there to set up?
• Will you allow requests?

Versatility, professionalism and planning seem to be the key elements to look for in a DJ service. Aquino said that the single most important factor to becoming a success in the DJ business is "being organized and prepared."

It is important to invest the time and effort in selecting the right DJ for your wedding entertainment. If you do, you may find the years ahead will offer pleasant and lasting memories of your finest celebration.

Mark Thomas is currently the President of the American Disc Jockey Association ñ Los Angles Chapter. Also, Thomas owns and operates Awesome Entertainment Mobile Music Service in Pasadena, Calif.