With so many great DJ websites these days, how do you find the right DJ for you?
Most couples usually start their research with an email. “Are you available on our date, and what is your pricing?”
That’s an acceptable approach, and most couples choose this method because they’re too busy to call. You can change all that! Take a risk. Try making a phone call and see what happens. I know, you’re not a phone person, but try going out of your regular way of doing things and watch.
When you send that typical email, you’re not always as likely to find out the information you’ll necessary about your potential DJ and how they will fit into one of the most important and special days of your life.
As you start your research, you’ll discover that every DJ on Cape Cod has their own unique style and strength.
Which DJ will best suited and carry the vision you have for your wedding day music?
Here are some suggestions to help guide you along.
Yes, you’re really busy with life, and it may seem too old fashioned for your taste, but if I were you, I’d start off by using your phone. No text, not email, that’s right. The phone. Be different and make that call to your DJ, BEFORE sending the typical email request for info. You’ll be surprised and how you stand out from others. It’s a sad fact, but most couples are too busy with their lives to call, so they email.
Tip: Use the phone. Make the call. If you get the DJs voicemail that’s okay. Ask for a call back, and make note of how long it takes to hear back.
When you do make the connection, be mindful of the way your conversation goes. Your real focus during the call is just to remain aware of the tone. Does it flow? Does the DJ listen? Do you feel rushed? Are your questions all being answered? Is the DJ friendly? Trying to sell you or pushy? Or just the opposite? Wonderful?
There are a bunch of questions you could ask, but only one is really important at first. Start out by asking the DJ if they are available on your date, as you might do in an email. If they say yes, the let them know where (venue) you’re having your ceremony at reception, the the start and end time and how many guests you are expecting. Ask if they have experience with your venue, and how their relationship is with the wedding coordinator.
The vibe of your phone conversation could very well be symbolic of how well the DJ might be likely to harmonize in other ways on your wedding day.
If you are too busy to make the call, and you must email, then at least learn the DJs first name before doing so. That’s gonna help. It’s an email no no to start with “Hello” or “Hi”. Respected DJs friends I hear from, and work with in this wedding marketplace, tell me that when they see “Hello,” from a prospective couple, they view it as a generic inquiry. Some don’t even consider it a serious request. Most of my closer, friendly and respected DJ competitors have shared with me to me that they are likely to be more inspired when they see a request from couples who use their first name, and want THEM. So be ware of avoiding the generic HELLO DJ inquiry.
Tip – Take a moment to learn your prospective DJs first name and use it in your first email. Doing so can work wonders. Any marketing expert will tell you in a 101 class that everyone likes to see and hear their first name.
Cape Cod is home to have several highly skilled and talented DJs. Who to choose? Tom certainly does not want you to think he’s the only experience guy you should consider. He just want to offer you some tips as you look around. We know, you have so many choices with the Internet, which includes off-Cape vendor choices as the world gets smaller. You might simplify your life be narrowing your search to local DJs only. One major benefit of choosing a local experienced DJ is familiarity. Most have worked at all of the venues hundreds of times.
Doing your DJ research will make it clear that most of the web sites are informative, and say all the right things, so how to you distinguish the right DJ for you?
Style is important. Since every DJ is unique, like your wedding, look for the one that clicks with you.
That’s where that phone call mentioned above comes into play again. With so many slick DJ web sites how do you know what to do? When you make your call, listen to which personality and philosophy harmonizes with who you are as a couple and your goal for your wedding day music.
Tip: Usually the top-ranked and most sought after DJ pros often book a year in advance. You’ll keep hearing the names of the popular locals as you begin your DJ research.
FYI: Most of us wedding DJs here on the Cape are friendly and respectful of each other. Many of us will even help out a fellow DJ who might find themselves in a bind.
Value – As with most things in life, you get what you pay for. Some couples opt for a boombox with an iPod for their music. That’s great, whatever works. Other couples want something more elaborate. That’s fine too. Remember – A good DJ is flexible and will do whatever they can to make you happy. (By the way, we still have not heard of an iPod that can read a crowd : – )
What to look for:
Look for a DJ who is skilled at reading your crowd and who knows what kind of music/song to play and when. Timing is everything. That takes experience. You cannot learn this timing reading a book about DJing. An experienced and talented DJ knows precisely when to talk, and when to be silent. They also have heightened awareness, so they know when to play upbeat music, and when to slow it down.
DJ Tommy’s style: My approach as a wedding DJ has always been to let the music do most of my talking. The songs I play make a much better statement that I could ever do using words. When I do make announcements, I’m conscious of keeping them concise and tastefully, without trying to be the center of attention. I speak using a natural tone delivery, without trying to sound like a cool-dude WWF wrestling announcer?
I’m friendly and fun and work hard to accommodate requests. I also make it a practice to honor your “do not play lists.” And yes, most DJs know those songs you don’t want to hear : -). My strength is playing music for a wide range of people, which means not only current hits, but mixing in older tunes when the timing is right.
These suggestions should give you something to build on. The more time you take in your initial DJ research, the better your outcome.
In Summary:
Tom’s goal: That you find a DJ that fits with YOU and your taste and preferences, even if it’s not Tom. Remember, if you have a great wedding experience Tom is happy too.
Tip – There are many great DJs on Cape Cod these days. Take your time and do your research. Educate yourself about who is in our DJ market and find the right fit for YOU. One major key to your success at finding the right DJ for you is to go beyond an email inquiry. I know you’re busy, but take and moment and make that call and “hear” who this person is who will be playing an important role on your wedding day. Best of luck : – ) – TT