Booking a DJ: 7 tips for your event
Corporate event, birthday or a night at the bar? These seven tips help you find the right DJ and make sure everything works on the night.
Whether it’s a Christmas party, an afterwork or a milestone birthday: music shapes the mood of an event more than almost anything else. To make sure booking goes smoothly, I’ve summed up the most important points, based on my experience as a DJ in Zurich, across Switzerland and abroad.
1. Plan the event and schedule
Start by thinking about how the evening should flow. Is there an apéro, a dinner and then a party? When should the dancing start? A good DJ adapts the music to your schedule: relaxed in the background at first, then building up the energy.
2. Listen to the music style
Every DJ has their own sound, so listen to a few sets before you book. My focus is house, from afro house and deep tech house to organic house. On request, I also play disco house and well-known hits. You’ll find my sets under DJ sets.
3. Ask early
Good dates go fast, especially in December and on New Year’s Eve. I recommend asking at least one to two weeks ahead, and much earlier for Christmas parties.
4. Sort out the equipment
Does the DJ bring their own sound system, or is there equipment at the venue? Bars, restaurants and many event locations don’t have a DJ setup. I can bring my own equipment. In clubs I play on the house setup; the requirements are in the tech rider in my EPK.
5. Describe the venue and guests
How many guests are coming? Is it indoors or outdoors? Are there volume limits or neighbours? The more the DJ knows, the better they can plan.
6. Put everything in writing
Times, location, music requests and costs should be clear before the event. I always work with a written agreement and a deposit. That gives both sides peace of mind.
7. Check references
Where has the DJ played before? References show whether they have experience with events like yours. You’ll find mine under References.
Looking for a DJ for your event?
I play at corporate events, birthdays and private parties as well as in bars and clubs, in Zurich, across Switzerland and worldwide. Send me your request via the booking form. I usually reply within 48 hours.
Jay V Flyy