Feel like you're caught between the dog and the fire hydrant?  The bad news--you're putty in the hands of a DJ. You don't know what questions to ask and wouldn't even know a right from wrong answer.  The good news--I'm aware of your deepest concerns and your fondest dreams.  After performing at well over 1000 Mitzvahs, take advantage of my experience.  (And experiences!)

Regarding $, there's too much information that your prospective Bar or Bat Mitzvah DJ knows, but won't offer.  So ask!  Let's get down to the "nitty gritty."

1.  "What's your fee?"

This should NEVER be your opening question.  It immediately alerts the DJ that you don't care about him or what he can offer but only that you're shopping.  If you're far enough along in your interview and pose this question, hopefully, you'll be at ease with the DJ's response.  Whatever it is.  Remember, a DJ represents a fraction of your expenses, but he's responsible for your party's success!  Do you still have fee question?  Is it #2 or #3?

2.  "Isn't your fee unusually high?"

DJs price themselves with their peers.  In Baltimore, anyone with a professional radio background and in the business since the mid-70's will charge at least the same as I do.  It may be that your DJ doesn't have a radio background.  It's likely that he hasn't been at it for as long as I have.  Apples and oranges.  You can feel confident if your DJ feels confident.  My contract reads in part:

(a) Should DJ be forced to cancel his appearance due to dire circumstances other than force majeure, a contingency plan is in effect to provide a sanctioned, professional stand-in to fulfill all obligations at the fee schedule specified below.  (b) In the highly unlikely event that a replacement cannot be provided, DJ agrees to pay to Client the balance due.  (c) While no other monies shall be due and payable to Client by DJ, DJ agrees to absolve Client from paying the balance due if, in truth and good faith, Client determines that DJ's performance was, in any way, unsatisfactory.

If there's a cockroach in your salad, are you going to pay the check?  My clients must feel the fee was justified.  If not, my service is gratis.  I wouldn't accept their money.  Period.  I'll live.  I'd bite the bullet, figure out what I did wrong and never do it again.  (But no one has never paid.  Is it because I do a good job or are they too sheepish to discuss it?)  Not too many DJs make the same offer, but I think they should. 

I hate to haggle.  Who performs a service and bargains?  Dentists, plumbers and barbers don't dicker.  OK, ok...if you don't feel too self-conscious, pick one: (1) There's a better chance of getting extra time than a reduced fee.  Ask him for a half hour more at no additional charge.  (2) Request a "full prepayment discount."  Some free Party Favors or 5% off is a fair trade for dates booked at least 6 months in advance.  (3) Being honest, he'll claim every job to the IRS, yet these 4 words may keep your wallet a bit chubbier: "Any break for cash?"  Although I don't offer that break personally, you may be pleasantly surprised at the result.  Hey, nothing ventured, nothing gained!   

Don't malign a DJ by doubting his value.  He quotes his particular fee because that amount is what he feels he's worth.  And he gets it!  If he wasn't getting it, he couldn't charge it.

And don't look for a deal by saying: "There'll be lots of other parents there and I'm sure you'll get more jobs from this one."  He'll book the date anyway!  Big pond.  Lotsa fish.  One Saturday a week.  

3.    "Isn't your fee unusually low?"

I've been at this since 1974 and I'm still waiting for this question!  Seriously, earlier I mentioned the higher priced firms.  Some agencies offer amazing packages.  I've seen them in action and they do excellent work.  But I know what I'm capable of, and guests at those parties don't have MORE fun.  Their DJs certainly aren't MORE experienced.  Do you need to spend $5000 for a four-hour party in order to have a great time?  If your answer is "yes," book them!  You'll undoubtedly enjoy a fabulous affair.  (Call me with your stockbroker's name when you have a moment!)

Let me mention one other thing about DJ expenditures: a gratuity.  Personally, I'm put off by DJs who expect a tip.  Some actually write it (10% for example) into their contract!  Now that's chutzpah.  I've seen contracts worded with: "If you had a great time at your party, your DJ would sincerely appreciate your consideration with an appropriate gratuity."  What is that, anyway?  Why put you on a guilt trip?  I charge what I consider a fair and reasonable fee for a satisfaction guaranteed job.  I know my clients feel that their entertainment dollar was well spent.  And every time I raise my rates, I continue to book jobs.  I believe that's the way to do it.  I would be way too embarrassed to ever solicit a tip.  And I think my client would be mortified at the request.  However...I have to come clean.  Although I've NEVER asked for one, they're often offered and I've accepted tips ranging from $20 to $150.  You know that old saying..."I may be stupid, but I'm not crazy!"  (Or is it "I may be crazy, but I'm not stupid?"  Either works.)

Anyway, don't feel obligated to tip.  Don't tip if the DJ was good.  He should be!  Don't tip if the DJ was really good.  He should be!  But you may want to slip him a few bucks if he's subcontracted by an agency and/or you feel that he went overboard for you, you receive raves from your guests regarding his work and you feel he was truly sensational.  (Or crazy.) 
 
4.    "OK, so now what?"

Find out about lights, party favors, prizes and subcontractors such as Dancers, Karaoke or a Magician.  Well respected DJs or agencies will get you an elephant if you want one.  Have a contract mailed.  Read every word.  If you're unclear regarding anything, it's a legal contract!  Discuss it with your DJ before you sign.  Don't feel pressured to sign that day, but get "right of first refusal" for a date that he's in business to book!

Joe Pachino has been a Radio & Mobile DJ in Baltimore since 1974 and is the author of "DJ's Secrets Revealed!  How To Select (And Get The Most Out Of) Your Bar or Bat Mitzvah DJ" c 2001, 2007 EMI.

It's overloaded with constructive, organized and valuable tip$ for parents.  Full of useful fact following useful fact preceding useful fact.  (Plus, an occasional opinion!)

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