Because the time suggested for all the arrangements for a bespoke function can literally be anything from several months to even two years in planning, choosing the right entertainment should equally not be rushed or compromised.

Booking a professional DJ service for a Wedding or private function can be just as much a headache as booking the right caterer or right venue.

Word of mouth is a great way to hear about the DJs reputation and how a particular function panned out, but what if the function was totally different to what you require?  What if the DJ in question is unavailable or not suitable for your function?  Who would you book?

People don't generally book DJs everyday and are not versed on the legal 'requirements' and obligations, let alone the specifics that one should be looking for when booking a DJ.

We will outline some of the essential pointers to look for in booking professional DJ entertainment to help your special occasion run as smoothly and as memorable as possible.

PLI - Public Liability Insurance

Most function hire room venues require an entertainer to hold Public Liability Insurance cover.

This indemnifies the venue in the event of an accident claim on the premises should it involve the disco equipment. 

Effectively, there needs to be a paper-trail in the event of an accident and consequently the venues can insist on the degree of PLI required.

More often, the PLI cover requested for an entertainer to hold can be anything from £1m to £5m+.

PAT - Portable Appliance Test

The venue may ask the entertainer to present a Portable Appliance Test certificate too.  The P.A.T. 'certificate' states that the electronic disco equipment used by the Mobile DJ is electrically safe.

So before the DJ ventures on to the venue premises, it is important that he or she holds these requirements and can present or forward copies of as requested.

All the DJ entertainers registered with the DJ Associates Association have stated that they carry both PLI and PAT cover or are in the process of renewal.

Where possible, it is advisable to meet your DJ entertainer to discuss the requirements of the day.

When testimonials are available to read or references are offered, please take the time to read and verify that the entertainer mentioned is the actual entertainer in discussion!

Check which organisations and bodies the DJ is registered with and always verify membership.

Some DJ services actually offer incentives to those wishing to complete bookings and payments in advance of function dates. 

A reservation fee (booking fee) secures the services of your DJ, usually in sums of either 15-25% of the whole fee or up to 50% retainer of the whole fee.

Your entertainer should also provide a written confirmation of the booking, either in letter or client contract.

Apart from the pricing details, it should state the nature (type) of function, the date, the times required and contact details for the client and the venue.