It seems like almost every month there’s another headline about a couple who received substandard services from a wedding vendor: a photographer, videographer, or DJ. That’s why it pays to do your due diligence when hiring your wedding DJ. As a reputable wedding DJ who’s provided quality service to hundreds of clients, we’ve put together a list of red flags that should deter you from hiring a disreputable DJ.
No business address
As tempting as it may be to hire an amateur, that decision can make your wedding another headline. If the DJ you are screening does not have a business address, proceed with caution. Not every amateur DJ has back-up equipment or another DJ to fill in if there is a breakdown or emergency. Additionally, an amateur DJ may not be able to keep their business going for long—possibly not long enough for your big day.
Reluctance to showcase equipment
If your DJ is reluctant to show you the equipment they are using at your big day, that DJ may not be the right DJ for your night. A reputable DJ should be able to show you the high-quality equipment they are using and give you a back-up plan for what happens if that equipment breaks down.
No calls
A good DJ should contact you several times before your big day. Your DJ should want to know what songs you want played and don’t want played at your wedding (more tips on how to craft a ‘do not play’ list here). If they don’t ask, the DJ may bring a ‘one size fits all’ play list to your wedding that doesn’t fit you or your guests’ taste.
Additional fees
When you’re overwhelmed by wedding planning paperwork, it can be easy to sign on the dotted line without reading the fine print. Make sure you read the fine print of the contract—all of it. If you don’t, you could be subject to additional fees or a cancellation policy that holds you responsible for finding another DJ if they cancel.