Top 13 Frequently Asked Questions Before Hiring a DJ

Here are the most commonly asked questions we get from a couple before they book with us and our answers.

1. How long have your DJs been DJing? All of the DJs who work for Abell DJ Company have a minimum of 5 years of professional DJing experience, with most of our DJs having 10 or more years of professional experience.
2. What type of equipment do you use? We only use top-of-the-line professional DJ equipment.
3. Do you have any backup plans if something goes wrong or happens to the DJ? We always retain one DJ per weekend in each location as a backup in the event of an emergency. In addition, all DJs have a backup system with them should something fail.
4. Will the DJ play requests? Our DJs only take requests if you allow it. If allowed, our DJs “filter” requests, meaning they will not play a song that you specifically asked them not to play or music from a genre you asked them not to play. If someone makes a request that fits in well with what the DJ is playing at the time and with the music you want, then the DJ will try and play it.
5. Can we request songs for the DJ to play? You are able to pick which songs you definitely want to hear, and ones you do not want to hear, for your event. We have an online planning system for this.
6. Can we provide our own music for the DJ to play? Sure, but we would like to get the music file(s) in advance of the event. If doing this, please consider the audience attending your event.
7. What are your payment terms? The deposit is required at the time of booking and the remaining balance is due two weeks prior to the event date. Payments can be made through our online planning system using a debit or credit card or Venmo account, or by mailing a check.
8. Do I tip the DJ? We do not include gratuity in the final contract price. 10-20% is generally recommended if your DJ did a great job, but it is entirely up to you.
9. Will the DJ play overtime if needed? Yes, DJs are able to play past the contracted time, but payment is due at that time if at all possible.
10. When should we book a DJ? A good time frame is at least six to twelve months out for a wedding. Less for other events. However, we have DJs available for last-minute events as well.
11. Should we feed the DJ? Typically, yes, as the DJ normally is investing about 8 – 12 hours the day of your event. Typically, the catering director or event coordinator will set aside a meal or boxed dinner for the DJ if requested by the client.
12. What other services do you offer? We offer ceremony audio, lighting (uplighting & dance floor lighting), projected monograms, and photo booths.
13. How many songs should I request? We would like for you to at least give your DJ 15-20 songs of different genres and artists you would like to hear, as well as songs/artists you don’t, so your DJ has an idea of what music you’d like for the different parts of the event.