Planning Great Family Events How to select the right Disc Jockey. Whether it's an occasion for your just your family, or for the entire firm, you can count on us to see you through. But here's some simple advice to make sure your friends and relatives will give your event "two-thumbs-up." by  Bob Moffett Begin Today Be sure to start your planning early and get those invitations out as soon as possible. This will minimize schedule conflicts for your guests and ensure that everyone you want to attend will be on hand. Additionally, the longer your guests have to anticipate the event the more enthusiastic they'll be when the date arrives. Make it clear in your invitation what time to arrive, what to wear, and what they need to bring (like a partner for dancing!). Tell them what to look forward too. If there will be entertainment include a description on your invitation. Coordination is Key Have a schedule prepared and a check-in point for large company events. Keep everyone informed and prepared to participate by making everything needed readily available and easily accessible. Delegate the coordination of different activities and schedule them to avoid conflicts or to minimize crowding. Be sure to include something for both kids and adults if the event includes all ages. Timing is Everything Plan to get all the important people there in a timely fashion. If your planning a surprise, have your honorees arrive no more than a ½ hour behind your other guests. Have your DJ announce beforehand what is happening and what to do when your honored guests arrive. Don't Rush Me At an informal family gathering your guests are likely to enjoy the relaxed social interaction just as much as any entertainment you include. Trust the experience of your entertainers to time appropriate entertainment segments. "Reading the crowd" is understanding how one activity is likely to affect participation in the next. If you've just finished an enormous meal you'll probably need an extra 15 minutes before doing flips on the dance floor. To make the transition softer begin any presentations or similar activities during dessert. If you've assembled any special audio/visual presentations this is the best time to display them. Choosing the Right DJ The best way you can choose a disc- jockey is through a referral from a person you trust. If the same name is mentioned by more than one source, so much the better. Check that the years of experience are consistent with the DJ's age and that their experience is relevant. Some DJs specialize in one type of music, or one particular age range. You'll want someone willing to accommodate your personal style and taste. When you call, ask if the date of your event is available, get a general idea of the cost involved, and promptly make an appointment to meet the disc-jockey. Check that there will be an alternate should this person for any reason be unable to perform. Your entertainment choice should be sealed with an appropriate business contract. Review it carefully and ask for clarification of anything that is not clear. Regardless of how elaborate the sound system is, insist that spare equipment be included for backup. Even the highest quality components are not fault proof, so true professionals will be adequately prepared. Compact disc should be the preferred format and offers the greatest sound quality with the lowest risk of technical failure. Computers are now becoming the standard DJ playback device and it does require a closer look on your part to becertain your DJ is truly professionally equipped and not just dabbling in a musci hobby. DJs for hire are also required to comply with Copyright Law. The Right Price Services are available in a wide range of prices. However the mobile DJ trade is filled with hobbyists and part time enthusiasts. Saving money is no reward if the DJ is inexperienced and ill equipped to handle your event. Likewise, you don't want to pay inflated rates for unrealistic promises, excessive advertising, or extras you don't need.   Proformance Media Topsfield, MA 01983 Tel: 1-800-439-3277  Office (978) 887-6008 Tel: (978) 561-9450 Bob Moffett is a professional DJ with 27 years of event experience in both private and corporate special occassions, night cluibs, and audio-visual presentation services in greater Boston, MA. About the Author: Copyright 1990 Proformance  Revised 2009, 2011 All rights reserved Print friendly version  iPod Solutions for the Do-it-yourselfer Call us for your special event or audio-visual and entertainment needs and learn more about our very attractive and affordable solutions for all types of meetings and socials. Karaoke Events Pop Idol contests, team building, social events and private parties or rentals.   Light & Theme Decor   Change ordinary spaces into dramatic themescapes with set designs and light. Audio Renal Support The assurance of genuine CTS techs and quality audio gear for your A/V needs