DJ Hire Frequently Asked Questions

We have had a number of recurring frequently asked questions (FAQ) from our clients over the years and so thought it would be useful to publish them so that your potential questions can be answered immediately.

Why should we book a DJ through Storm DJs?

Storm DJs offers you the following unique benefits:
– A choice of highly-experienced, sought-after and fully vetted DJs from our impressive 70-strong roster.
– Renowned, celebrity and premium options available
– Talented live musicians available to accompany your choice of DJ
– We tailor our service to suit you; every booking is “bespoke“.  Just tell us what you need and when, and we make it happen!
– You are in the driving seat when it comes to genres, playlist and music direction (as much or as little as you want to be). For ultimate flexibility, select one of our outstanding Open-Format DJs
– Receive a custom-recorded mini-mix by your chosen DJ so you know he or she will perform your ideal mix on the night
– Meet or Skype with your chosen DJ (and live musician, if applicable) before the event to be 100%  certain they understand the sound and atmosphere you want to achieve
– Peace of mind knowing that we always have a back-up in place should the unexpected happen and your DJ be unable to perform last minute
– Price matching promise. If you can demonstrate that you have received a lower quote from an equally talented, professional DJ/agency, please let us know and we will endeavour to match that price

How much does it cost to hire one of your DJs?

The cost of every bespoke set varies according to the DJ selected; number of hours of performance; extent of equipment required; the location; and any add-ons.
If you enter all of your details in our easy to use form here, we’ll get back to you with the full quote.

Can all of your DJs play a requested style of music?

A large number of our DJs are open-format and can tailor a set to your exact musical requirements. Just let us know what you need and we make it happen!

Can your DJs create a playlist for my event so that we can check the songs/tracks beforehand?

Of course! The DJ is there to serve you and to represent your event, your music and your style or brand (where applicable). Some clients will want to prescribe almost every artist/track; others will want to leave the set list entirely to the DJ’s discretion. It is entirely up to you.
*Please note this does not generally apply to “big name” or celebrity DJs who will generally only play their specialist style of music.

How far will your DJs travel?

Our DJs will travel anywhere in the country, and globally. We have supplied DJs as far afield as Marrakesh, Mykonos, The Bahamas, Bangladesh, the Italian Riviera and the South of France! Check out our interactive map showing past locations here.
*Travel costs and accommodation will need to be factored in, where applicable.

Can we extend the DJ performance on the night?

Yes, this is usually possible and the DJ will have an extension contract available. However, any extension will be at the given DJ’s discretion.
We love an extension request – we see it as the ultimate compliment!

Do you perform at private events such as birthdays or weddings?

We certainly do! We supply DJs to every conceivable type of event:-
Corporate drinks, summer and Christmas parties, networking events, marketing and promotional events, brand parties, product launches, charity fundraising events, balls, street parties, boat parties, festivals –and every type of private party or celebration you could imagine..!

Can we request a drummer, saxophonist, violinist to play alongside the DJ?

Yes indeed! Adding a live musician (drummer, saxophonist, violinist etc) is a great option for those looking to achieve the wow factor at their event.
For pricing, please fill in our form here.

What equipment do your DJs use to mix with?

For the most part, our DJs use Traktor, Rekordbox, and Serato controllers by renowned brands such as Pioneer.
Some DJs prefer equipment such as Pioneer CDJs or Technics 1210s.

What PA systems do you use?

Our DJs use PA systems of at least a combined 1,000W RMS which fills most small/medium room sizes. We usually use high-def PA systems by Alto, Peavey, and Yamaha which comprise 2 floor-mounted main speakers combined with a sub-woofer. For larger spaces we recommend upgrading your chosen system. Just ask us what works best for your given space and we can let you know the options.

Can you set up the sound / light equipment earlier in the day before my event?

Yes we can! We will always arrange delivery, installation, testing and collection of equipment to fit in with your schedule on the day of the event. If equipment needs to be set up a long time in advance and the DJ has to be on site for much longer than their actual performance, a surcharge will apply.

Who is your best DJ?

That all depends on your event!
Have a browse of our roster, listen to some demo mixes, or simply call us for a chat about your event and we will advise accordingly!

Why shouldn’t I choose the ‘package/venue’ DJ?

Accepting the venue’s own ‘resident’ DJ, rather than choosing your own, may be the easiest option, but that doesn’t mean it’s the best!
If you do go with the DJ thrown in as part of the “package”, all too often what you receive is more “human jukebox”, and less professional DJ talent!
You won’t get any choice, and you certainly won’t get a specialist in your chosen genre who will work with you to craft a bespoke set to your brief, mixed to perfection. In summary, the music might well seem like an afterthought.
A venue may tell you that they prefer you to use their resident/preferred supplier, but very few will oblige you to. This is nearly unheard of: 9 times out of 10 you DO have the choice who you employ as your DJ.

Can I reserve a DJ without putting down a deposit?

We can hold a specific DJ for 24 hours without a deposit. Once your deposit is received, your chosen artist will be “off the market”.
If we do not receive your deposit in that timeframe, your preferred DJ will be made available again for other booking (unless we specifically agree otherwise in communications with you).

How do I secure my booking?

To secure your booking (and a particular DJ, where applicable), we require a deposit. The deposit is 50% of the total booking price (exception is 10% for wedding bookings if booked at least 6 months ahead).
You can pay your deposit by either bank transfer or securely online with a credit/debit card.

Why are Premium DJs more expensive?

Premium artists, along with the bigger names and celebrity DJs, set their own rates and these vary according to numerous factors. The more well-known or sought-after the artist, generally the higher the fee.

Do your acts have Public Liability Insurance?

Yes. If you need a copy to provide to your venue, please let us know and we will send over the documentation.

If I hire equipment from you, is it PAT-tested?

Yes.

Is the Storm DJs Giveaways competition real?

Yes, we do frequent competitions where we give away huge DJ and Tech prizes.

How does your company stand out from a one-man band such as “Barry’s Mobile Disco”?

Storm DJs works with only quality, professional DJs, each of whom has at several years (often global) experience under his or her belt
Our DJs bring energy, flair and focus to every conceivable type of event. We guarantee you will receive a well-constructed, bespoke set, mixed to perfection – rather than a human jukebox set to random! Quite simply, Storm DJs offer a touch of class. Additionally, we always have back-up DJs available in case the unexpected should happen. As such, we offer complete peace of mind.

Where do most of your events take place?

We cover the whole of the UK and further afield. The majority of our bookings are in London: Westminster, Mayfair, Holborn, City of London, Shoreditch & Hoxton, as well as Islington, Kensington and Chelsea.

What does your logo represent?

Great question! The Storm DJs logo is an abstraction of a storm cloud with a lightning bolt emanating from it. It echoes the shape of the hormone and neurotransmitter serotonin, associated with happiness and well-being. It was designed by renowned graphic designer Alexander Sanson

More of your questions with longer answers can be found here.