No matter what kind of party you are planning, the music you choose is vital to create the atmosphere you want and to keep your party guests entertained. Whether it’s a soft High Tea affair and sandwiches or a fury until dawn for you and 200 of your closest friends, a professional DJ can meet your needs. Some DJs specialize in certain areas in which they feel more comfortable, and it is important that you know and choose one that fits what you imagine your party will be. There are also special considerations for each type of party.
Children’s party
Young children require an extroverted, bubbly DJ, patient and in touch with their level of thinking. They need an enthusiastic and, above all, friendly animator! This requires experience in the treatment of various behavioral problems. The DJ should also have done the training on what to do and what not to do. A DJ must have a “Work with children” ID card and have experience dealing with children in other areas. He or she should be able to take control of the group, allowing you to relax and enjoy the party.
Party games and special effects are a must for young children. Does the DJ start and control games like ‘Pass The Parcel’? Is there a light show, a smoke machine or a bubble machine? (Consider any asthmatic child and his sensitivity to “smoke”). Will the DJ’s entertainment package include polo bags and prizes for the games? Some DJs offer a karaoke option, usually only recommended for children over eight years.
Keep the party relatively small in numbers to help ensure a fun time for everyone.
Teen Discotheque
The DJ must have the experience, skills and personality to motivate and entertain children from 11 to 16 years old. This requires training and experience. The mobile disco must come with updated music and professional quality equipment. Is there a lighting show included in the cost? Some DJs may offer synchronized lights, or shapes and colors that will excite and delight your guests. Is the equipment backed up and regularly checked for safety?
Can you and your teenager access an online music selection list to create a personalized list?
Does the DJ send a written confirmation, provide replacement coverage in case he can not attend and has liability insurance?
Choose a closed place, not too large, and keep the number of guests within a manageable number.
Parties for adults
At any age level, a DJ needs to ‘read’ and respond to the crowd, even more so with adults. While children are much more willing to participate, adults may sometimes need encouragement to get up and dance. The DJ needs to be able to talk with his guests and motivate them to have a good time.
Your music repertoire must be extensive, if you must attend a wide range of requests. With a good ear, you can put together songs in a way that keeps everyone dancing and join songs of the same style in similar dance blocks. Choosing someone with a high level of experience helps ensure that you get someone who can handle any type of audience and will be organized and reliable.
Does the DJ cover indoor and outdoor places?
Make sure you get a contract, so that the expectations of both you and the DJ are clearly stated in writing.
A professional DJ service will have a complete website that will allow you to see the costs, the suggested playlists and the equipment that will be used that day, so you can make an informed decision and have confidence that your party will be a success.