DJ Help

I need help. I am going to interview John Catone for my DJ, tonight. He has been recommended to me from several sources and I heard he is really great (even sings some songs-good voice).
Here is the problem.... I have never interviewed a dj and am not sure what a 'good and reasonable' price for a DJ is? Could you guys toss some numbers at me so that I have some idea of an average cost when I see him???

Well, it all depends on what u want. I know my aunt was quoted 3200.00 for bravaua. That was for cocktail hour a mc and a dj. with giveaways.

I have also seen people that quote that for half the price it all depends on who u go to

Completely depends upon what you are looking for. My FH and I wanted low-key. Perosnally we hate the lights, mc's, etc... maybe because we are a bit older and are clubbing days are loooong gone.

1. What day and time is your wedding? I can see the lights, etc. for a nighttime wedding but they aren't necessary if your reception is in the afternoon in a room with a lot of windows.

2. What do you like? Some people like the mc's, dancers, giveaways, etc.

3. What is the average age of the people you are inviting? We are in our mid 30's and the youngest in our generation... many aunts and uncles in late 60's and 70's... more Frank Sinatra than Macarena. If kids will be present group dances are great. At my cousins's wedding 15 years ago they had the MOG up doing 'Hands Up' and my poor aunt looked so silly in the video.

4. What number of guests are you having? Most say you need a dj and mc or at least an assistant if your wedding is over 100 or 150.

The cheapest price I was quoted was Vinny from High Voltage for a basic package and that's who we booked. Many of the other bigger companies are ok if you want all of the extras because that's all they know how to do. But if you want the basics... Vinny quoted me $700 for reception and the cheapest competitor, for a basic package was $1000.

ASk them:

1. Who will be my dj? I'm not putting any money down with any vendor who I don't meet with personally, photographer, etc.

2. How are you dressed?

3. Do you carry insurance? The catering halls require at least a million dollar policy.

4. What happens if a guest of mine requests a song that is on my do not play list? This was a biggie with me. Several dj's told me 'I'll ask you if it's ok'. That told me everything... they weren't listening, first, I told them not to play it and, second, it's my wedding day do not bother the bride with such an inane question. We told Vinny... no group dances, no matter what, oh, and no, 'What a Wonderful World' (it was my FH's song at his first wedding and well, that world turned out to be not so wonderful...)

5. Back up equipment?

6. How familiar are they with the catering hall?

7. Are they performing at any showcases?

I think those are the most important questions.

Everyone should give you a song suggestions list for entrance, first dance, etc., a please play list and a do not play no matter who asks for it list.

Good luck.

wow thanks guys that was really helpful! The question list is great. Am I the only one who feels so dumb when they go talk to vendors!! I know nothing about planning a wedding. I feel like I have big blinking sign that says 'take advantage of me' on my head!

I didn't realize the Dj could be so expensive! this budjet is getting out of control!!!