25 Things to Ask when

Choosing a DJ for Your Wedding

1.      How much experience does the DJ have?

Doug Ries has been entertaining and organizing weddings since 1978.

2.      Will you be the DJ at the wedding?

Yes, Flip Disc Productions does only 1 event at a time.

3.      Does the DJ have any other MC experience?

Yes, Doug is also a show producer, professional MC and world class magician.

4.      Does the DJ also act as your event coordinator?

Yes, Doug makes sure all the professionals are coordinated at the event.

5.      Does the DJ have liability insurance?

Yes, this is important to you and insures you the DJ operates safely.

6.      Does the DJ use top of the line professional equipment?

Yes, I use all top line professional equipment including $1200 wireless Sure microphones, Bose speakers, audio processing and lighting.

7.      Does the DJ have backup equipment at the event?

Yes, you never know when electronics will fail.  All back up equipment is professional grade as well. I also carry a backup computer & hard drive.

8.     Does the DJ have a maintenance program for their equipment?

Yes, I maintain equipment on a weekly basis to make sure it is working well and classy in appearance.

9.     Does the DJ offer options such as lighting packages?

Yes, I have several lighting options, video options and many other things to make your day the way you want it.

10.  Does the DJ dress properly?

Yes, appearance is important.  I dress in a modern day styled tux (no outdated cumber bun) unless otherwise requested by you.

11.   Does the DJ take care to conceal wires?

Yes, all wires are hidden and properly taped down where needed with black gaffers tape.  Appearance of equipment is also important.

12.   Does the DJ put up a sign or banner at your wedding?

No, this is your event.  I’m there to provide a service for you & your guests not to advertize.  If a guest wants to talk business they take a card and call me on my time not yours.

13.   Does the DJ offer best price or best value?

Best price will lead to disappointment on your most important day.  My prices are best value.  You won’t find better quality service for less.

14.   Does the DJ take requests from the guests?

Yes, I do as many requests as possible but wont play requests that aren’t proper for your event.                        (over)

15.   Can we give you a song list?

Absolutely, I want to know what your favorites are and include them at the proper times.

16.   Can we give you a “Do not play” list?

Yes, this is important.  I don’t want to play something that may bring back a bad memory.

17.   Does the DJ put together an itemized time line for your event?

Yes, the week of the wedding a detailed time line will be put together, approved by you then distributed to the professionals for proper coordination.

18.  Does the DJ have detailed information sheets to aid you in your planning?

Yes, it’s important for me to know what your wants, needs and expectations are. I want to make YOUR dream a reality.

19.  Does the DJ offer a written contract?

Yes, this is part of being a professional and binds the commitment and guarantees what you are getting for your money.

20.  How long will you hold the date for us?

Once you make a verbal commitment I will hold the date for 10 days.  The signed agreement and deposit locks in the date.

21.   What happens if something unexpected happens and the DJ can’t make it to your event?

I work with the biggest entertainment agencies in the Pittsburgh area which gives me access to 100s of professionals to cover me in case of illness or other unforeseen circumstances. The replacement will honor the original contract price. The replacement will be approved by you if time allows.

22.   Can we visit you at a performance?

NO, I wouldn’t invite a stranger to your wedding.  If a DJ answers yes to this, run.

23.   Will you extend your playing time if needed?

Yes, as long as the venue permits the extension of time.

24.   What does the DJ require from us?

Return your documents on time and contact me with any questions on anything to do with your reception.

25.   Does the DJ drink or smoke at the wedding?

No, I’m a nonsmoker so you don’t have to worry about smoke breaks, bad breath or stinky clothes and I don’t drink.  A diet cola or glass of water is sufficient for me.

Doug Ries

Flip Disc Productions