DJ Kev’s

Tips for hiring a Professional DJ 

DJ Kev’s tips for hiring a Professional DJ

What to do if we are not available?

We might not always be available to sign up for your event. However, we have also partnered with a range of Professional Wedding DJs who specialise in making your wedding, the BEST wedding you will ever attend.

Should you not use any of our partnered DJ’s please ensure that you follow the guidelines below to ensure a flawless and memorable event.

Tips for choosing the right DJ for tour event

1. Book early: Professional DJs are often booked months sometimes years in advance. Secure your DJ as early as possible to avoid disappointment.

2. Remember you get what you pay for: Quality entertainment is an investment. Cheaper options often come with hidden risks, limited experience, or unreliable equipment.

3. Ensure your DJ is licensed: Your DJ must hold valid SAMRO and SAMPRA licences to legally play music in public spaces.

4. Check reviews and references: This gives you a clear picture of their professionalism and reliability.

Always review:

  • Client testimonials
  • Social media pages (Facebook, Instagram)
  • Website reviews
  • References from past client.

5. Confirm professional equipment

Your DJ should use reputable, industry‑standard brands and have:

  • Professional audio systems
  • Intelligent lighting
  • Atmospheric effects
  • Backup equipment for emergencies

6. Discuss all requirements in advance: Clear communication ensures a seamless event.

Meet with your DJ to cover:

  • Ceremony, pre‑drinks, and reception music
  • Programme and timelines
  • Venue layout
  • Coordination with vendors (venue, coordinator, officiant, photographer, videographer, MC, band/singers)

7. Insist on a contract:  A written agreement protects both you and the DJ and outlines expectations, responsibilities, and deliverables.

8. Address cultural sensitivities: If your event includes cultural elements, ensure your DJ understands and respects them.

9. Know the venue cut‑off time: Most venues allow music only until 24h00. Confirm this in advance to avoid surprises.

10. Review music preferences

Discuss:

  • Must‑play and do‑not‑play lists
  • Radio‑edited versions (especially for family events)
  • Special songs for key moments

11. Professional appearance and conduct: A DJ who drinks on the job can ruin your event.

Your DJ should:

  • Dress appropriately
  • Maintain sober habits
  • Behave professionally at all times

12. Crowd reading skills: A great DJ knows how to read the room, adapt the music, and keep guests engaged on the dance floor.

13. Leave a review: Your feedback helps future clients make informed decisions and supports the DJ’s business.

14. Song requests and music library: Check whether your DJ accepts requests and has a wide selection of appropriate music.

15. Discuss overtime

If your event may run past midnight:

  • Confirm overtime rates
  • Check venue approval
  • Note that some DJs may require accommodation for late‑night events

16. Confirm backup power: Ensure your venue has a generator for load shedding or power interruptions.

17. Include vendors in catering: Happy vendors = better service.

Remember to cater for:

  • DJ
  • Photographers
  • Videographers
  • Bands/singers
  • Assistants

18. Budget for quality vendors: Your DJ, photographer, and videographer are responsible for the memories you keep.

Professionals cost more because they bring:

  • Experience
  • High‑quality equipment
  • Backup systems
  • Reliability

19. Check for hidden costs

Request a detailed quote to avoid unexpected charges.

20. Choose a competent MC: They handle logistics, announcements, speeches, and coordination with vendors.

Your MC should be:

  • Well‑groomed
  • Confident
  • Organised
  • A clear communicator

21. Ensure the Officiant arrives early

They should arrive at least 30 minutes before the ceremony to:

  • Test the microphone
  • Review the programme
  • Confirm timelines

22. Share your programme with all vendors: Provide your layout, schedule, and timelines to every service provider to ensure smooth coordination.

23. Provide a proper setup area

Your DJ will need:

  • A dedicated setup space
  • Two trestle tables (ceremony + reception)
  • 1–2 chairs
  • Matching décor (if possible)
  • Two separate plug points (lights + PA system)

Also consider the needs of other vendors.

24. Position the PA system correctly: Place speakers across the dance floor to ensure even sound without overwhelming guests.

25. Inform your DJ about sensitivities

Let your DJ know if any guests have:

  • Asthma
  • Light sensitivity
  • Smoke/fog/haze allergies

Also confirm whether your venue allows atmospheric effects.

26. Complete formalities before opening the dance floor

Once guests start dancing, avoid stopping the music for speeches or announcements it kills the vibe.

27. Seating for guests with hearing aids

Avoid placing them near the speakers to prevent discomfort.

28. Photographers and Videographers must coordinate with your DJ

Your photographer and videographer should speak to your DJ before the event to discuss their technical and timing requirements. This prevents them from interrupting key moments during the celebration  something that can reflect poorly on your DJ and disrupt the flow of your event. Clear communication ensures:

  • Smooth transitions
  • Proper lighting for photos and video
  • No last‑minute requests during speeches, entrances, or special dances

29. Singers, Bands and Worship teams must coordinate with your DJ

If your event includes live singers, a band, or worship team, they must discuss their equipment and technical requirements with your DJ before the event. This includes:

  • Microphone needs
  • Instrument inputs
  • Stage layout
  • Sound checks
  • Monitor requirements
  • Backing tracks or click tracks
  • Power needs

Clear communication prevents last‑minute setup changes, delays, or technical issues during the event. When these discussions don’t happen in advance, it often results in interruptions during the programme and this can unfairly reflect poorly on your DJ, even though the issue is caused by lack of planning.

Proper coordination ensures:

  • Smooth transitions between live and DJ segments
  • Balanced sound for both live performances and dance floor music
  • Professional, seamless flow throughout the event