How much do you charge?

Without exception the most often asked question is "How Much Do You Charge?" It's impossible to answer this question without first gathering important information from you regarding your event. No two events are exactly the same. Look at this question this way. Would a painter contacted on the phone give you quote to paint your house which he has never seen? It's impossible to give a price until I have the needed information which includes,

· Date of the event

· Day of the week

· Type of event

· Location of event

· Number of hours

· Number of guests expected

· Amount of equipment and talent needed for the event.

· Distance to and from the event location.

Only after receiving this information can an accurate quote be given. There is an old saying "You get what you paid for" and it's so true. It's tempting to choose the cheapest DJ available but the worst way to choose a DJ is on price alone. However, when considering the pricing of one DJ to another, it's important to make sure that you are comparing apples to apples. Are you really getting the same service? Just remember to use your best judgment and make sure that a lower price is exactly that and not a lower level of experience, quality, planning and commitment.

Consider these points:

· How much experience does the DJ have?

· Will he act as your Master of Ceremonies ( MC ) or just play music?

· Will he help co-ordinate the event?

· How much does he charge for overtime?

· How much equipment will he bring?

· Does he use professional grade equipment?

· Does he have a large and complete musical library?

· Will he meet with you and help in planning the events and entertainment?

· Is he licensed and insured?

There is the perception that if you hire a DJ for a specific number of hours that covers everything. Not true! As an example a typical wedding can last 5-6 hours, but that does not include all the time needed to prepare for the event and the time required after the event to remove my equipment and the traveling time to and from the event is another factor. A 5-6 hour wedding will actually require more like 10 hours of the DJ's time to do the event professionally and successfully.

The amount of time I spend on an event begins when I meet with the client in person several weeks or months before the event. Time communicating with the client by phone, email or in person is also factored into the total of amount of time consumed. So, when you think the price for lets say 5 hours seems high, remember that it actually more like 10 hours of the DJ's time.

Another item that factors into the amount charged includes licenses and insurance. More and more venues are demanding professional vendors who meet these requirements. I do!

The bottom line is that you will always be able to find a cheaper DJ, but it's like having a beautiful Japanese garden at your home that is very important to you — you can hire the neighbor kid to take care of it and take your chances or you can hire a professional who knows how to make it thrive. Quality, experience, expertise and commitment. That's the difference.

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