There are several ways to get a DJ recommendation for your own party. Sometimes it comes from the venue, sometimes from the caterer, from friends and acquaintances, sometimes from the photographer, or even from other DJs. Generally, this is a great thing and always appreciated by clients, but there are a few things you, as the client, should consider.
DJ recommendations from caterers or photographers are usually unbiased, meaning that the caterer, photographer, and DJ are all just one component of an event. All three are typically separate entities and usually work together in the same location, often on a rotating basis. There's no commission-based system where only one person is recommended; usually, two or three are recommended. These recommendations typically stem from a good working relationship, often spanning several years. Furthermore, most of these recommended professionals have their own independent websites where clients can learn more about them and even contact them directly.
DJ recommendations from friends and acquaintances are usually a matter of taste, just like with food – not everyone likes the same things, and it's the same with music. Therefore, my advice is to choose music that suits your own taste, and a professional DJ can then combine that with the guests' requests to create an unforgettable evening that perfectly matches your preferences.
DJ venue recommendations – top or flop?
This question is really not easy to answer; there are essentially only three reasons why a venue might recommend a DJ. The first reason is quite simple: the DJ does an excellent job and all the venue's guests and clients were thrilled; the venue enjoys working with this DJ because he is reliable, knows the venue and its layout, and everything is just right.
The second reason is more complicated: the venue recommends the DJ because they already have a sound system and volume restrictions. These restrictions are either clearly communicated, included in the contract (usually in the fine print), or only revealed on the night of the event once the party volume reaches a certain level. The latter is particularly frustrating, as everyone wants to enjoy themselves without problems or restrictions. Unfortunately, I've often seen the venue owner approach the DJ and order them to keep the volume down after midnight if the DJ isn't a venue-recommended one. However, if the volume issue is clearly communicated and a DJ is recommended, you can at least assume that the DJ will, given the good vibes, push the sound system to its limits and crank the volume right up to the legal limit. Another common trick used by venues is to send out the contract only 14 days before the event, and then suddenly find volume restrictions in it that were never discussed beforehand. So be careful! Simply have the contract sent to you as early as possible, ideally 6-8 weeks before the event (or even earlier), review it carefully, and then meet with the recommended DJ.
The third and usually final reason why a venue recommends a DJ is quite simple, and also the most despicable. Some venues make recommendations not because the DJ is particularly good, or because they have an internal sound system and volume regulations. No, they recommend the DJ who pays the highest commission to the venue owner. Unfortunately, there are such venues that profit from two sides and don't care whether the DJ is a good fit for the guests or delivers a decent performance. It's very difficult to tell if this is the case, but it's usually a sign that the venue only recommends one DJ and that they are somewhat disgruntled or even unfriendly if a customer wants to bring their own. For the so-called external DJ, it's usually an unpleasant evening, not because of the guests, but because of the venue. Obstacles are often put in the way during setup, the first question is usually "So, how long are you playing tonight?", and you're often ignored or even forgotten when it comes to providing drinks (non-alcoholic) and food. It's also always great when the DJ is really getting the party going and the atmosphere is great, and then the staff just switches on the regular room lights to clear the empty tables and reset them while the party is still going on. To me, that's not hospitality at all and feels like being kicked out…
Whether the recommended DJ for the venue turns out to be a hit or a miss is hard to say. The best thing for you to do is simply arrange a personal meeting with the DJ. If the DJ refuses such a meeting, I would advise against it, because a self-employed, full-time DJ will always meet with you, as this is a service that benefits both parties.
I hope my three-part series has given you a little insight into the DJ business, making booking a DJ easier for you in the future. You now know a few things to consider to ensure your big day – your birthday, wedding, Christmas party, or summer festival – is a resounding success that leaves you and your guests happy and wanting more…
If you're looking for venues throughout Germany, I recommend the website EVENTINC. Here you'll find the perfect location for every occasion, including truly unique and unusual venues such as a cargo ship or similar structures. It's my first port of call when I'm searching for a venue for a client…
