DJ Value Tips

10 Tips to Get the Most Value for Your Wedding DJ Dollar

"Price is what you pay. Value is what you get." - Warren Buffett

In this economy, brides and grooms want to get the most value for their money when selecting their wedding DJ. Since DJ rates are determined by a DJ's experience, level of service and quality of equipment, there is little value in hiring the least expensive DJ you can find. Phoenix AZ DJ Billy James offers 10 tips to help you get the best value when hiring your wedding DJ.

1. Travel Time - Most DJ's would rather travel minutes rather than hours to get to your reception. Select a DJ who is located close to your venue and then ask if the reduced travel time could result in a reduced rate.

2. Prime Time - Saturdays are prime time for weddings. If your wedding will not take place on a Saturday, your DJ may consider a reduced rate if it is requested.

3. Number of Hours - Most wedding receptions do not last more than 4 or 5 hours. If your cocktail hour will take place on a patio or foyer, the venue's house system can often provide the background music. Hiring your DJ for an hour of dinner music and 3 hours for dancing may be sufficient. A DJ's 4 hour rate is usually less expensive than a 5 or 6 hour rate.

4. Number of Guests - From a DJ's perspective, a low-key reception for 50 guests has less stress and requires less equipment than a high-powered reception for 200. If you are having a small, simple reception, ask if your DJ will factor that into his pricing.

5. Venue Access - Experienced DJ's love venues with easy access to load their heavy equipment in and out. If your reception venue does not involve parking garages, stairs or elevators, ask your DJ if that advantage can be reflected in his rate.

6. Agencies - Some excellent wedding disc jockeys are represented by agencies. However, when you hire a wedding DJ through an agency, the rate you are quoted will be used to compensate several people. Dealing with a DJ directly, rather than through an agency, may better your chances of getting more entertainment value for your money.

7. Upselling - Some DJ services charge extra for dance floor lighting, wireless microphones, extra speakers, etc. This is called up-selling. You will get more value if you hire a DJ who includes these extras at no additional charge or is willing to give you a lower rate by eliminating these extras.

8. Credit Card Processing - Most professional DJ services accept major credit cards. However, it costs the DJ money to process a credit card. Ask about a discount if you are willing to pay by check or cash.

9. Feeding Your DJ - Catering Directors will often ask if you'd like to provide a meal for your DJ. If you feel that's appropriate, ask for a vendor discount (or box) rather than including the DJ as part of your guest list. A professional DJ will not have time to sit down to a full course dinner and you'll save $$.

10. Don't Be a Bridezilla! - If you are a fun person and easy to work with, then ask for the "I'm not a Bridezilla" discount. You may get one :)

About the author: Phoenix Wedding DJ Billy James is an experienced musician, professional DJ and Master of Ceremonies