A DJ or mobile disco can offer quality entertainment for weddings, birthdays and other events. Particularly popular with those on a tight budget or clients hoping to splash out on other aspects of an event (such as a wedding dress or a posh sit down meal) a DJ provides a simple and straight forward solution to entertainment for almost any occasion.
For various reasons, someone may decide to pick a DJ instead of a live band or musician.
Hiring multiple musicians can be more expensive than a single DJ, and some may prefer the flexibility that a DJ offers, being able to play the orignal version of your favourite song at a moments notice.
Due to the physical demands of playing an instrument, they will also be able to offer much longer sets and can usually squeeze into spaces that a full band will struggle with.
What kind of music do they play?
In a word: anything. One of the big advantages of a DJ is that their repertoire can literally consist of thousands, or tens of thousands of songs, whereas even the most experienced wedding band will have, at most, a few hundred.
It could be that you require the professional to play relaxing music whilst guests enjoy champagne and catch up or get to know one another. The DJ can then turn up the energy to get everyone on their feet for the main part of the event in the evening.
Some DJ’s specialise in genres like Funk and Soul, Disco or Modern Chart, but on the whole most will try and offer a big variety of music. Most DJ’s will play straight ahead versions of songs, but some may have their own remixes as well or even offer “all vinyl” nights.
Things to think about before booking
Available space
It’s also worth noting the sheer size a mobile disco can be. Most will include multi-coloured disco lights and a smoke machine, but some will give clients the option to go the extra mile by offering added extras such as a photo booth, a disco ball, a live singer and the option for karaoke.
At the end of the day it’s your event; you can have it exactly how you want it.
- DJ
- Stereo Sound System
- Disco Lighting
- Radio Microphone
- Transportation
- Installation
Read the reviews
Before booking, all clients should endeavour to check testimonials from former clients. The experiences of past clients can speak a lot to the booking process. If possible, watching a live video will give a good impression as to how a DJ performs live and how the audience reacts.
Things to ask about during the booking process
PLI/PAT
Many wedding or events venues will require your DJ to have Public Liability Insurance (PLI), usually up to the value of at least £8m, some more historic venues may require £10m.
Your DJ should also have had all of their equipment PAT tested for electrical safety, and should be able to provide proof of this to the venue.
Requests
Before the event takes place, some DJs will ask to meet with the client to discuss details. These will include the finer points such as parking, contracts, when the DJ will be paid and how long the DJ will play for. However, this may also be done via email if there is a geographical challenge.
At this point, it’s best to ask the whether it’s possible to do requests. A DJ will usually play for 4 hours, without taking a break and within this time it’s important that the DJ plays a selection of songs you enjoy.
Leaving the songs up to the professional is generally a good idea, but it could lead to disappointment if you have anything specific you’d like to hear. Be safe, rather than sorry and don’t just leave it to chance that your favourite songs will be played.
A good DJ should be able to understand the mood of the room and should choose suitable songs to match.
Usually, playlists can be agreed months before the event to ensure that all your favourites are included and, perhaps more importantly, those songs you hate can be vetoed! There’s nothing worse than the DJ accidentally playing that song you hate on your big day!
Have you hired a DJ or mobile disco for an event? Are you a DJ with some advice to offer? Let us know in the comments below!
Sources:
- www.lastminutemusicians.com/search/dj_s_mobile_discos.html
- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_disc_jockey
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