Booking a DJ is one of those decisions that's easy to rush — you find someone with decent reviews, the price seems right, and you sign. But a few targeted questions before you commit can tell you everything you need to know about whether this vendor is actually right for your event.
Here are the 10 questions I'd want answered if I were the client.
1. Have you done events like mine before?
Wedding DJs, school dance DJs, and corporate DJs are not the same job. Someone who crushes it at nightclub-style events might be completely wrong for a formal wedding reception. Ask specifically — and ask for examples.
2. Will you be the DJ at my event, or will you send someone else?
Some DJ companies book the sale and send a subcontractor. There's nothing inherently wrong with that, but you should know who's actually showing up. Ask to meet or video call with the person who will be at your event.
3. What does your backup plan look like?
Equipment fails. DJs get sick. What happens then? A professional answer sounds like: "I carry full redundant equipment — backup laptop, backup drives, backup speakers — and I have a network of trusted DJs I can call if something happens to me personally." If they look confused by the question, that's your answer.
4. Are you insured?
Most venues require vendors to carry general liability insurance and provide a certificate of insurance. If a DJ can't produce one, they may not be able to work at your venue at all. Ask early.
5. How do you handle music requests?
There are two levels here: before the event (do you get an online planning tool or a spreadsheet?) and during the event (will you take live requests from guests?). A good DJ has a clear answer for both and knows how to honor your priorities while keeping the energy right.
6. What equipment do you use?
You don't need to be a gear expert — but asking this tells you a lot. A DJ who's invested in their craft can tell you what they bring and why. Vague answers ("good speakers") are a yellow flag.
7. Have you worked at my venue before?
This one matters more than most people think. Venues have quirks — weird load-in logistics, noise ordinances, limited power outlets, acoustically challenging rooms. A DJ who's worked there before knows the setup, has vendor relationships, and is less likely to get caught off guard.
8. What do you wear to events?
For weddings and corporate events especially, attire matters. You don't want a DJ showing up in jeans to a black-tie gala. A professional should be able to dress to your event's standard without being asked twice.
9. What happens if you're running late?
Ask this directly. The answer tells you how they think about professionalism and accountability. "I'm never late" is not a real answer. "I always arrive 90 minutes early and have a contingency plan" is.
10. Can I see your contract?
A legitimate DJ has a clear contract that spells out what's included, what happens if you need to cancel or reschedule, and what they're responsible for. If there's no contract, walk away.
At Ohana, We Welcome Every One of These Questions
We carry full liability insurance, bring redundant equipment to every event, show up 90 minutes early, and always send the DJ you met — not a substitute. We've worked at dozens of venues across Middle Tennessee and know how to handle the ones we haven't been to before.
If you want straight answers, we're happy to talk through any of this before you decide.