EDITORS’ CHOICE: Finding, selecting, and booking a reliable DJ in Canberra may be difficult. To ensure that the process of hiring a professional DJ for your ACT event runs smoothly, there are a few things you can do. Along with typical prices and a booking timetable, I have compiled a list of important things you should consider before hiring a DJ. Booking a DJ for a wedding or birthday party, as well as for private gatherings, business functions, and everything in between, will be made easier with the help of this information. 

Here are some common guidelines and queries to help you when hiring an event DJ for your celebration.

How to book a Canberra event DJ - FAQs Answered and Tips

How Do You Find a Good DJ?

For a place to start looking for a local DJ in your region, go to national wedding directory, Easy Weddings online. Here you’ll be able to do a quick search of all the wedding DJs in the local area and view their profiles, finding a DJ that suits your taste. Here you will be able to view client testimonials, see footage of the DJ performing and listen to some live mixes they have done. Easy Weddings is a fantastic tool for you to utilise in your wedding planning journey.

How Early Should You Book a DJ? 

In terms of timeframes, it's a good idea to plan six months in advance to secure a good DJ. In demand DJs book out over 12 months in advance, so as soon as your date is confirmed, it is a great idea to start contacting potential DJ options to see if they are available on your date and able to perform at your event.

How Much Should a DJ Cost?

This can vary depending on the DJs experience and how in demand they are. When contacting your DJ, be sure to let them know your estimated guests numbers, music styles you would like to hear throughout the night. It’s always nice to share with the DJ how you came accross them (referral, seen in person, Google recommendation etc) - This will help the DJ get a feel for you as a couple, and a great conversation starter too.

If you value a premium product, find the perfect DJ who you can connect with, and who understands you as a couple. If you value ‘price’ over product, you will likely need to lower your standards and accept a DJ who may not have the same level of skill or professionalism.

What great questions should I ask a DJ?

It's important that you take the time to ask a few questions to the DJ you are considering hiring for your event. Here are a few questions you can ask to help showcase what each DJ can provide for your big day:

Can I send you song requests? 

Consider the songs you and your partner enjoy and love to dance too and ask your DJ if they are comfortable playing a few of these specific song requests throughout the night.

Can I send you a list of songs to avoid? 

Even more importantly - You need to be comfortable to share a NO GO list of tunes with your DJ prior that you do not want to hear throughout the night. These could include a song or two that remind you of a negative past, or favourite song of a recently deceased friend or family member, or just a super annoying song you hate. It’s important your DJ respects this and can avoid playing any of these songs throughout the night (even if your guests request it). Be sure to submit these to the DJ beforehand, to ensure they are prepared when planning the music for your event.

Are you comfortable to announce the key formalities throughout the night?

Most weddings will have a dedicated MC for the event, who can use the DJs microphone for announcements. If you do not have an MC, ask your DJ if they are comfortable to announce key formalities throughout the night. Generally there is an additional fee attached to adding this service to your booking. Talk to your DJ about potentially adding a basic MC package to your booking and if they are comfortable to look after this.

Reach Out

If you are a Canberra based bride or groom and are looking for a professional DJ to ignite your dance floor, speak with award winning Canberra DJ, Callum Gracie and share your vision and ideas with him. With over 10 full time years in the wedding space, Callum has managed over 1800 events with the successful  launch of the ACT and QLD branch of the biggest entertainment company in Australia, Baker Boys Band. 

For more information, get in touch with DJ Callum via his website or Instagram. We wish you all the best with your planning. I’m sure it’s going to be one incredible celebration! 🧡