Working with your DJ - 3 Top Tips

Want to know how to get the best out of your DJ for your event? Look no further. From my experience these top tips will help you have a great experience.

#1 Communicate, Communicate, Communicate!

Its really important you set clear expectations and share key information with your DJ when booking and preparing for your event. Can they just show up and work the room? Yes, as any experienced professional should be able to, they can simply turn up and do their job (hopefully pretty well too). However, being fully prepared means both you and your DJ can relax safe in the knowledge your party will run smoothly and you can enjoy your evening.

The obvious stuff to communicate would be:

• Venue Details - remember to include information about stairs or narrow access points, if there is a sound limiter on site, parking facilities etc.

• Timings of your event - knowing when they can access a space and what time they need to leave by is helpful, but it is also really important to share things like times you plan to serve food or any specific activities that might be taking place.

• Song Requests or Must Not Plays - Most DJs will take requests on the night, but you may have some songs you really do not want to hear at your party for a variety of reasons. You should make sure this is communicated, as well as any specific songs you want playing. Remember your DJ is not a jukebox, but a few song suggestions will help them get an idea of your tastes.

The less obvious stuff to communicate may include:

• Refreshments - will there be food and drink available on site, if not let them know so they come prepared. 6-10 hours is a long time without food and drink.

• Other Entertainment - If you have a band on or singing waiters, a performer of some kind, please tell your DJ so they know they are sharing the space or will have some down time.

• How you want to be introduced - Most of the time your DJ will also act as a kind of Master of Ceremonies for the evening, communicating information to guests etc. But they will also be responsible for any introduction you may want, such as "welcome to Zoe's Birthday Party here at the Plaza. We hope you have a wonderful time this evening". So if you have any preference on Mr & Mrs, Bride & Groom, First Name, or no introduction at all, let them know!

#2 It's not about the size of the rig, it's how you use it!

#3 Trust your DJ