DJ Questions..

Dear Christy,
I will be meeting with you Saturday morning. I sent you a detailed package of information in the mail last night. It covers all the questions you might need to ask as well as policy for DJ's, attire and information on the multiple page questionnaire we use for weddings. I also sent you a tape of the string quartet you inquired about. Listen to the tape before our meeting. The cover letter is several pages and very detailed-which is for your benefit. It will give you a good insight on what to be looking for. See you Saturday.
STAN WIEST
A.STAN WIEST MUSIC
Feautured in BRIDAL GUIDE MAGAZINE January 2003 Stan Wiest Website Stan Wiest Email

Christy... I sent you a forum email. Let me know if you do not receive it.

Regards,

Michael

Christy,

Firstly, anything you've already though about asking , write it down. I have been in countless meetings where we get to the 'Oh , I just can't remember what else I had to ask you' stage, LOL After all the question you already have, be sure to :
1. Inquire about the staff of the company, their professional backgrounds, especially of the persons who will actually be working your event. You want strong background in entertainment, perhaps stage, multi-media, television, voice production, and of course hundreds of private events. These individuals will possess a strong work ethic, and ensure a professional level of talent and ability.
2. Ask about the equipment used, not what there '#1' show consist of , but what they all do , and most importantly what you will be getting. You want to hear key phrases such as bi-amped, Rane, JBL, Mackie, Crest Audio, Crown, Dennon or Pioneer (CD players), Furman (to ensure proper power supply), too name a few. You do not want to hear American DJ, Vestax, Gemeni, Numark, these are still 'professional', but not the best quality or performance by any standards.
3. When it comes to lighting ask what kind of lights they actually use. If you begin hearing American DJ, Chauvet, Elation, Pin Spots or similar stay away. You want companies who have invested heavily in ensuring your lighting isn't CHEESY. What you want to hear is moving mirrors, intelligent (although many times this 'buzz' word is misused), MARTIN MX-1 atleast, MX-4 is the best, also other MARTIN lighting, i.e the WIZARD, RAPTOR etc. (When i say the best I mean for this type of mobile work many professionals would agree this type of lighting is the best for the occasion)
4. Ask, how will you know what I want played at my wedding, as well the layout of the entire night ? You should be shown what many in the industry call 'Info Sheets', that will help you through the planning. Each companies sheets usually look different but contain the same basic info.
5. Ask about their presentation , what do they look like set up. Color of extension cords (only the few and the proud, LOL , will boast black extension cords, because you have to go through the trouble of making them yourself; their not sold black) How many actual speakers, how big is the DJ Booth, What kind of light trussing do they use ?
6. If your planning on having other aspecets of entertainment for ceremony or cocktail hour , inquire if they can also take care of this. It will be alot easier to have one company you feel comfortable with handle all of your entertainment needs.
7. Finally, ASK YOURSELF : DO WE CLICK ? Go with what feels right , a good relationship with your entertainment company is going to be key. So if it feels right , go with it !

Well hope some of these points are of benefit. And remember this will undoubtedly be one of your most important choices ! So be patient, and ask all the questiosn you need to. No question is insignificant ! ! !

Happy Planning to you ! ! ! All the best !

Dennis
Dr. Dance Entertainment
Web Site E-mail