Since the start of Horizon Productions back in 1987, I realized it took more than just a couple of speakers and some great music to be the ultimate entertainment company. It’s not how much music you own, or how great of a dancer you are, or even how many versions of the Electric Slide you can play in the course of an evening. What is it then that separates one entertainment company from the rest? What are the differences between one DJ and the next? How can a bride or groom or just about anyone plan for that special event and be ensured that they are not only getting the best price, but the best quality they can find? If you have found yourself asking these questions then the following may help you.

In New Jersey there are no licensure or credentials needed to be a DJ. All of the other services, such as caterers, limo companies, photograhers, etc., need a business license, but for some strange reason, bands or DJs are not considered a “real” profession! This means that anyone--Anyone!--can buy some equipment and music and call themselves a DJ! Most people would prefer a true professional, and the best way to spot them is first and foremost, their experience. Fly-by-nights are here today and gone tomorrow for a very good reason. If a company has been around for a good amount of time, it’s usually a good indicator of quality and commitment.

On occasion, a DJ company seems to have the experience and might even be a wellknown “big name” outfit! Their offices may impress and their presentation package is slick and equally impressive. Although this is commendable, I would advise caution here. These companies sometimes have many DJs working for them; some of whom might even be beginners! Training program or no training program, I would make sure that the DJ who will actually be at your wedding has the experience you are paying for!

Speaking of price, there are many differences between DJs as there are between, say, cars. Imagine a salesman’s reaction if a customer walked into a showroom and said “Show me your cheapest car!”
Yet many brides and grooms shop for a DJ in this fashion. Although it seems like all DJs basically do the same thing, differences can be astounding!

The DJ himself is first, is he/she full or part time? Will he/she wear the proper attire? Will they handle the announcements? How “interactive” are they? (You should consider just what level of interactivity you want for your event!)

Next is the equipment. Although I won’t name any specific brands here, suffice to say that your local radio stations and nightclubs don’t get their equipment at the local warehouse store -- nor should your DJ! Home stereo is just not built for the kind of punishment a DJ and his audience can dish out. Only top quality commercial grade equipment should be used.

Another important item is music selection. While a DJ might play about 100 songs or so in a night, music is definitely not a one-size -fits-all thing! The typical age range at a wedding is between 10 and 85. If you add ethnic, racial and taste differences, it only enlarges the scope of what a DJ must cover musically! A good DJ will ask for your preferences so all your favorite songs will be heard.

Lighting is another important option to consider. Some DJ’s charge extra for it, some offer none at all, and some might have very elaborate packages to choose from. Here’s a bit of reference. Although you might save a buck by eliminating lighting, you also eliminate a powerful atmosphere enhancement. Lights draw your dancers to the floor and involve them in the excitement. A very basic light show might have a mirror ball and some type of color wash light. The next level involves modern lighting effects such as moonbeams, lasers, fog machine and others. At the pinnacle of lighting are the “intelligent” lights. Watch out when you hear this word! It refers to the computerized, programmable lights commonly found in nightclubs. Like most buzzwords, some apply it to the lesser “modern” effects. This is because the true “intelligent” effects are very expensive and will often cost you more. They are certainly worth it, but make sure you are getting the real “intelligent” lighting you are paying for.

Finally, one more thing to ask about is insurance. A DJ should have at least a basic liability insurance policy just as your other vendors do. Most reception sites require it, and it protects not only the DJ but your guests as well.

George Hoffman
President
Horizon Productions