Disc Jockey Cost

Exactly why does a disc jockey cost so much?   Let’s break down the basic costs associated with being a disc jockey. 

Equipment Initial cost = $15,000 ($3,000/year in depreciation costs)
Music Subscription cost = $2,000/year
Liability Insurance = $1,000/year
Advertising Costs = $3,000/year (bridal shows, yellow pages, etc.)
Internet Advertising Costs = $1,000/year (website, links, etc.)
New Equipment Purchases = $3,000/year
Health Insurance = $3,500/year
Car Insurance = $1,500/year
Gas = 2,500/year (transportation to meetings, events, etc.)
Other Car Expenses = $3,500/year (depreciation, oil changes, repairs)

Total Basic Expenses per year = $24,000

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If on average a full-time disc jockey performs at around 60 events per year, the cost to be in business per event is $400.  That means a disc jockey must charge significantly more than $400 per event to make a living (food, home, retirement, etc.) 

If you are looking at a disc jockey who charges only $500-$800 to DJ your wedding –exactly what are they skimping on to keep their costs so low?  Do they have liability insurance?  Do they have quality sound equipment and backup equipment?  Do they have the latest music and a large music library?  Make sure you know what you are getting when it comes to hiring the right entertainment for your wedding reception. 

Spending a little more on your entertainment is money well spent.  Do you really need a $400 ice sculpture or $30/table centerpieces?  What about the $3/guest chocolate favors?  Or the $10/table disposable cameras?  What good is any of these things if your guests leave right after dinner because the entertainment is poor?  A wedding reception is an entertainment function by nature.  It’s the music they’ll remember.   Keep that in mind.

Copyright 2005 Wedding Insider - Staff Writer