How Do I Select a DJ?

HI Ladies,
I liv ein Brooklyn but our reception is on Long Island. We need to start researching bands/DJs (most likely we will have a DJ, that's whats in our budget!) but due to the geography issue, can't easily go to meet or hear them in person. Do I request a CD? How do I know if they are good or not? Please advise!

Thanks!

I got this in an email from a DJ

Most DJ and entertainment companies offer what you seek. There are many successful vendors around which have been keeping brides happy for many years. The differences are sometimes subtle, sometimes not, with wide variations in style, service and personality as the significant factors which should weigh heavy in your considerations. Allow me to offer a couple of suggestions based on my 20+ years of experience performing at weddings…

First, decide on whether or not you want an entertainment company or a sole proprietorship/freelance DJ/MC. There are very important differences between the two. Do you want to be the only bride served on any given day, or perhaps one of six or more? Does that even make a difference to you and why might it? It may or may not, depending upon the structure of the business. There are pros and cons to choosing one over the other, mostly relative to offerings, customer service and degree of personalization/customization and input given to brides in the planning. What about service after the sale?

Choose an experienced, seasoned DJ/MC with many years of wedding performances. Don’t hesitate to ask about qualifications. Not every DJ/MC can successfully perform a wedding yet may be great at a club or other type of event. Music selection, voice, articulation, organization, and planning are unique to the wedding experience. Insist on meeting the actual DJ/MC that will perform at your wedding. Why take a chance on who may show up on your day?

Recommendations from other brides may be very valuable but the only opinion that counts on your day is yours. This is why the best approach is to personally meet a number of DJ’s until you find the right one. Ask these questions… How is your service different from the others? Why should I choose you over ABC company? Listen carefully to the responses. How will you know who the right one will be? The wisdom of my clients has taught me that they know in an instant… call it intuition if you will. Keep looking until you make that connection.

Choosing a venue, photographer or videographer may be easier. In a sense, you can feel, taste and see the final product. Too many variables go into the ultimate outcome of the effect of the MC and music at your wedding, including your choice of music, your guests willingness to party, and the ability of your MC to motivate and create the environment for dancing. Every event takes on a character of it’s own. With whom will you entrust this important responsibility?

Feel free to check out my “Guide to Choosing a DJ/MC for Your Wedding Reception” which may provide additional helpful points of consideration, located in the “Welcome” section of my website at http://www.musicbymichael.com.

thanks chippa!