Choosing a DJ

Keep in mind that the single longest event of a wedding day is the dance. Therefore, take time to ensure your choice of a disc jockey reflects its importance in the celebration of your special day.

So how do you select the best DJ for you? We offer this proven guide on what to look for and the right questions to ask.

The Search

Since you probably do not have a list of DJs, where do you start? Here is a list of suggestions on finding reputable disc jockey services in your area.

References

Talk to recently married couples to find out whom they used. The banquet managers at hotels and convention centres are another good source of information. They see every disc jockey in the market. Remember that when getting a referral, ask yourself if the source's tastes are similar to your own.

Bridal Shows

If you attend one of these, you'll be sure to find a few reputable companies. This is also a good opportunity to talk one-on-one with the companies and get a feel for the level of service they provide. If you don't like a company's presentation, chances are you won't like them at your wedding.

Internet

Checking out a disc jockey service's website is a quick way to see what they offer. Bridal sites can also provide helpful reviews and insights.

The Choice

What makes Maximum Music a top pick goes beyond our ability to spin tunes. The right DJ also provides outstanding service before the big day and works with you to make your reception the ideal event. With our experience and expertise, we can help make this part of the wedding planning process go that much smoother.

Contract
In order to avoid any surprises, we provide a signed contract to make sure your DJ is aware of all the mutually agreed upon details of your reception, such as: function date and location; contact name at the function location; bride's and groom's names; addresses and phone numbers; services (music, lighting, etc.); fee, including for additional time and deposit; hours of service; and music requests. You can ask us for a sample contract before you make your decision.

Set-up
Your DJ arranges to set up equipment and to complete appropriate sound checks prior to your guests arriving. This ensures a smooth transition into the wedding dance.

Disc Jockey
Every wedding deserves a DJ who has the experience and professionalism to handle the many demands of such an occasion. You also want someone who plays for the crowd as well as your pre-determined list. Your DJ should dress for the occasion, use the microphone only when appropriate and control the volume to ensure the music is loud enough for dancing, yet not so loud as to discourage conversation. A Maximum Music DJ has all these qualities.

Music
A wedding dance brings together the widest range of people. The need for your DJ to have a selection of music that appeals to various musical tastes cannot be overstated. Also remember that having all the music in the world doesn't make a good DJ. Equally important is ensuring that your DJ has the ability and experience to know which selections are appropriate. You can find this out by checking references.

Requests
Every DJ in the world takes requests, but that doesn't mean they'll play them. Again, you can only find out if a DJ plays requests by checking references.

Dinner Music
You may decide to have background music during dinner. An ideal DJ concentrates sound in one area (the dance floor) and minimises sound elsewhere, making sure that guests closer to the speakers are not overwhelmed while those farther away cannot hear what is being played.

Live Music
Perhaps you wish to enhance your wedding day with live music. The following is a brief list of musicians we've worked with and trust:
Piano/Jazz solo/duo/trio Graham Howes (416) 251-8853
Harp Sandra Fann (416) 466-4532
Flute and Cello Divertimento (416) 769-8685
Classical Guitar and Flute Heather Sparling (905) 501-1459
Solo Guitar classical/light pop Don MacDonald (416) 964-8854

Equipment
Every industry has tools of the trade. In the disc jockey business, the tools are the sound and lighting equipment (in addition to music). Professional equipment, designed to meet the demands of playing night after night, is an expensive necessity. Maximum Music uses professional level, state-of-the-art systems to ensure reliable, great sounding service.

Lighting
Maximum Music provides a range of lighting options to use on the dance floor, which change colour and pattern with the beat of the music. Give thought as to whether you want to add a lighting package. This is very much a personal decision, given the preferences of family and guests. There are times when lighting enhances a wedding dance, but not appropriate at other times.

Price
Since weddings are expensive, you need to make certain that you get the best possible price without sacrificing professional quality. The old saying "You get what you pay for" definitely applies in the disc jockey business. The cost of a professional disc jockey service ranges from $700 to $1,500. Maximum Music fees are listed further on our rates page.

Guarantee
If you have been clear in regards to your expectations and are still not satisfied, we will offer to refund all or part of your money.

The Decision

Above all else, you must have confidence in your DJ's ability to provide you with the type of service you expect at your wedding.

If you're not sure, keep looking. You don't need to compromise. Invest some time in finding a disc jockey service with which you are comfortable. After using these guidelines and talking with us, we hope you will feel confident in selecting Maximum Music. We want to help make your wedding dance a resounding success.