When it comes to vendors for your wedding day, there are many things to consider. One of the top things many couples have to think about is the budget. Typically, vendors in any particular service area are fairly competitive on pricing with similar service options. When it comes to DJ services, there can be some undesirable surprises. Every year, we book 3-5 "911 weddings" where the DJ has bailed out of the reception within a week or two of the date. How in the world does this happen? Simple.... 90% of these occurrences were a result of hiring a "cheap" DJ. If a DJ is quoting 6 hours of service for $300...RUN! Here's why: Some DJ's will "low ball" a quote simply to get a date on the books, only to cancel should a higher paying event come along. No professional DJ that we know would accept that, which leave only the untrained, or desperate to choose from. The end result, (even if he/she supplies a replacement) will likely be someone with low end equipment, and sub-par skills. Would you not be suspicious of a discount lawyer, doctor, or perhaps a nearly new Mercedes for $500? We think you should be. This is not to say that one needs to over spend for services, but at the same time, If it appears to be too good to be true, it probably is. Here are a few booking tips: 1. Plan on budgeting $100-$300 per hour as a range for a reputable and dependable DJ with pro grade sound and lighting. 2. Seek out local DJ services with 3-5 DJ's on staff. These operations will have hand picked their people, and tend to be more concerned with the quality of work over the number of bookings. 3. Avoid places like Craigslist or Thumbtack when seeking services. While some good services may list on sites like this, they are also a haven for ones to avoid. |