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I am starting to search for a disc jockey for an event What should I look for? What costs are reasonable?

This is the first time I have hired a DJ for an event and I don't want to make a mistake! I live in Washington D.C. so I have lots of options and the prices range so much, I have no idea what to do? How do I know I'm dealing with a good DJ? How do I evaluate whether he or she is right for my event? And how much is too much to pay, no matter what the services they offer? (Insight on other stuff, such as whether add-ons like a "light show" are worth it or rip-offs, is appreciated.)

Public Comments

1. Try and get recommendations of the people that you know. Good Luck!
2. Get recommendations, get quotes, and try to find out where the DJ will be working, then stop by and have a listen. If they're any good, they'll have gigs at clubs and parties. Ask your potential DJs for references, too. If it's a wedding reception your potential DJ is playing at, when you go to check him or her out, dress appropriately so you blend in, and just poke your head into the room and see what's what. Once the party's going, no one is going to even notice you, and you don't have to hang around too long to get an idea if the person is any good or not. You could also call around to a few clubs in the area, and ask them if they rotate their DJs and if they do private functions. A club owner's recommendation is probably a pretty good one to get--time is money with them, after all. Yet another option is to check Brides.com for their list of advertised DJs. It's a start, at least. Some of those guys might even have video of their set up, and them at work. If it's a wedding you are planning, light shows are silly especially if you have to pay extra for them. The emphasis should be on the bride and groom. Whatever you do, just say NO to the dry ice/smoke machine--that stuff can cause condensation on the dance floor--I was at a wedding and the mother of the groom ended up on her behind because of that nonsense! Good luck in your music search! You'll find a good one...I've been to tons of events in DC and the music was always good (wish I bothered to take their cards for you!).