Answers to your Live Music and DJ questions. Get Information about wedding bands

Hi Jane!

I know you expect a price list, but before I answer the question of cost it is important to understand why people will choose a DJ over a Live Band:

1) High-end DJs perform like a live band, and come with lighting and dancers. there are High end DJs that make $8,000 and even more

2) Saving costs. Based on the ADJA the Rates for the DJ industry vary greatly, ranging from $350.00 to over $5,000.00 with an average of $1,200.00 for a 4 hour booking.

One thing to take into consideration is that surveys conclude that nearly all brides would have spent more money on their entertainment and in hindsight made it their number one priority. The best price is not always the best deal, especially if you are planning a once in a lifetime wedding.

A DJ does not only provide the music, but also acts as a master of ceremonies. You need someone who can keep the dance floor packed a whole night. For this reason, it's important to choose someone who has a personality that suits your wedding style. DJ rates vary based on experience, emcee ability, equipment, music knowledge and personality. I strongly suggests always meeting with prospective DJs in person, so you can determine whether their voice, professional appearance and personality are a match.

A full-service disc jockey company will normally invest 12 to 30 hours to your special event but it may appear that you are only paying for "4 hours". Consultations, music purchasing & editing, preparation, set-up and tear-down, education and other business related endeavors add up to the overall success of your special occasion

You can also save a considerable amount if you do it youself, see: “be your own DJ”

Typical costs:

• In general, the more time you book, the cheaper the price.
• Professional DJ services range from roughly $100 to $300 per hour, depending on the location and amount of time requested and type of equipment requested.
• Most DJs expect a 50% deposit upon reservation.

Typical wedding DJ packages should include:

• insurance and proof of liability - Many responsible business owners carry liability insurance to protect their businesses and the consumer. Many locations are beginning to require proof of liability. Ask for proof of liability insurance. Disc Jockey's receive a Certificate of Liability which can be used as proof.

• planning consultation
• music list customization
• multiple tray CD players
• a minimum of one audio mixer and one microphone
• at least 4 hours of music
• set-up and tear-down time

Suggested extras to watch for:

• details of the specific type of equipment to be used at your wedding
• details on backup equipment
• required set-up and tear-down time
• Slide shows hooked up to the sound system. (may cost extra)
• Dancers and side shows (may cost extra)
• Ability to keep the dance floor packed the entire night

Additional costs:

• Overtime: Some DJs impose a higher per-hour charge (either 1-1/2 times or double their normal rate) for any performances that run overtime, and may require cash-only payments in those situations
• Rehearsal: For DJs that are hired to play recorded music during the wedding ceremony, additional per-hour costs may apply if they are asked to attend the rehearsal.
• Meals: Be nice to your DJ! A happy well fed DJ is a happy wedding! Meals at longer events, meaning 4 hours or more, are often requested but not required. Be sure to check with your DJ ahead of time and include him/her in your caterer's head count if necessary. Some caterers will provide box meals for vendors like DJs.

Discounts:

• Weekdays: Since most DJs are hired for weddings, proms, family celebrations and other events that typically take place on weekends, many offer discounts for weekday events.
• Referrals: A few DJs also offer discounts for referrals and repeat customers, usually between 5-10%.

Shopping for a wedding dj:

• The American Disc Jockey Associationprovide searchable databases of DJs by location.
• The American Disc Jockey Association suggests asking about insurance and proof of liability, the specific type of equipment to be used at your wedding, details on backup equipment, required set-up and tear-down time.
• You can also search the Yellow Pages for "Disc Jockeys" equipment rental companies.
• ComapreLiveMusic.com/DJs can save you a hassle and get DJs to call you, sort of like lending tree just with DJs.
• Yahoo answers discussion describing DJ pricing

Hope this helps, lots of luck and enjoy your wedding!

Danny