Planning a party is a lot of hard work. You spend hours planning what decorations to hang, what food and drinks to serve, what to wear, and who to invite. Do you have a DJ host your party or do you simply play your own CDs? If you want to have a party that everyone will be talking about for days and years later, hire a good DJ to run your music and light show. Hiring a DJ can actually be fun. Just follow these simple tips, and you are sure to have a fabulous DJ for your party.

TIP #1: Ask around. Ask your friends and family members to recommend a DJ who they have either worked with in the past or have listened to at another party. The best advertisement is word of mouth, and your friends and family members will definitely be able to tell you if a particular DJ is good. If your friends or family members can't recommend anyone, you can also call local radio stations or a professional entertainment company or check the yellow pages .

TIP #2: Interview your potential DJs. Get to know them and learn about what they have to offer. Explain what type of music you and your guests want at the party. Ask the DJ if he or she has videos or cassette tapes of past performances that you can review. Most professional DJs will have samples.

During the interview, study the DJ's personality. Is he or she someone you would want at your party? Is the DJ interested in your party? How do you feel he or she will interact with your guests? Remember, the DJ's personality is very important. Make sure he or she is really who you want to DJ your party.

TIP #3: Ask the DJ for his or her music specialty. Does the DJ have the style of music that you and your guests want to hear? Will he or she take requests? Can he or she provide a variety of music that you think everyone will like?

TIP #4: Ask for references. Any professional DJ will gladly provide them. You will want to carefully check the references before deciding to hire the DJ. After all, you would not want a lunatic hosting your party!

TIP #5: Make sure the DJ has all of the equipment that you will need at the party such as speakers, lights, microphone, etc.

TIP #6: Get everything in writing. Make sure the DJ knows the exact time, date, and location of the party. Make sure you agree on the fee and have all the DJ's promises in writing. You want to have all of your bases covered in case something does not go well.

TIP #7: Don't wait until the last minute to find a DJ. Start planning early. Many DJs are booked quickly with weddings, graduations, proms, and other parties. Try to book your DJ at least 3 months in advance.

Consider booking a DJ when you are planning your next party. It is important to find the DJ who will best meet your party's needs without blowing your budget. Your guests will certainly remember the music from your party since the music will set the mood; so choose your DJ wisely. With a cool DJ that everyone likes, your party will be a hit, and everyone will be talking about it!