Hiring a DJ or other Entertainment can be an intimidating task. Is the person I interview going to be the person who DJs my party? What questions should I ask? Does this company have the experience necessary to handle an event like mine?

Here are the five most important questions to consider when hiring an Entertainer:

1) If you work with a large production company, will you get to meet and/or speak to the DJ or MC who will be working your party prior to the event?

This should be done about 2 to 4 weeks before your event. This will give you plenty of time to compile a list of requests and tell your Entertainer the specifics about your event, and if for some reason you are not comfortable with them at the time of the meeting, you may still have time to request a different one.

2) Do they have insurance?

Many venues require vendors to carry substantial liability policies. This is in everyone’s best interest in case something were to go wrong.

3) How will your requests and special instructions handled?

Ideally, you would give the DJ this information at the final interview before your event, but have someone bring an extra copy to the event in case of an emergency substitution or lost paperwork.

4) If you hire an independent DJ, can they provide written references for the same event-type as yours? Can they give you the name of a happy client you can contact for a reference?

You should aim to contact at least one reference yourself. Many DJs will have quotes on their website from past happy clients and you can get an idea of how heartfelt the referrals were from written references as well.

5) Is the equipment that will be used of good quality make and appearance?

The last thing you want is a large eye sore in your event. Reputable companies use major brand equipment and keep it in good condition. Some companies offer white or other color speakers to blend into the decor.

6) Most importantly, trust your instincts!

If something about the booking agency or the DJ leaves you with an uncomfortable gut-feeling, don’t book them. Recommendations are good and can be very helpful. There are plenty of DJs out there of all ages and experiences, you can find a DJ who will work magic and help ensure that your event is a success!