Do I need a helper for the DJ? Are you getting one?

veary · September 2010

In the grand scheme of things, what's another $400 for an extra tech to help the DJ when we're already spending almost $40K already. Using this reasoning has made us get to the $40K! Anyway, who is getting a helper and what is their purpose besides helping the DJ set up? We think having a person on the dance floor would make it seem a little creepy. Maybe he will be MC'ing, but I think the DJ could do it.

Thoughts?

mysticl · September 2010

I have never seen a DJ with a "helper". What is in your contract? Is this something the DJ is requesting? If it is something they need then it should have been part of the original contract. Like my photographer included the assistant in the initial proposal.

The DJ is your MC unless you have asked a friend or family member to take on that role.

mgietler76 · September 2010

I haven't heard of a helper and certainly would not shell out an additional $400 for one.

veary · September 2010

I think I will talk to our planner about this one since she knows we want to cut costs where we can. She could probably give us better insight on their responsibilities.

@ mysticl , I have never seen a helper either, but I did a poll at work (since all the gals in my dept got married in the last year) and everyone had a dj and helper...

loop0406 · September 2010

I wouldn't pay extra for a helper. If the dj requires one, they should pay with the money you are already paying him !

danieliza1127 · September 2010

You shouldn't have to do this. Your DJ is your vendor, it's their responsibility to set up and do what needs to be done as the DJ. You shouldn't be responsible for any of that or for hiring anyone to help him/her.

mbcdefg · September 2010

Wouldn't the DJ be the one to tell you if a helper is required or not? Why are you asking other people and not him/her?

We had just a DJ and he did a fine job on his own. There were packages available for a larger fee that included an assistant, but we didn't feel it was necessary.

tashala107 · September 2010

Our DJ has an assistant, but like Levenah, it is included in our package. I'm not 100% positive what the assistant will be assisting with... but I wouldn't pay an extra $400 for him

kellym050370 · September 2010

My DJ has a helper as well but it is included in the package.

According to my contract, the assistant not only helps the DJ with set up, lighting, props and such during the event, but also handles the "choreography" of our processional, makes sure everyone is in their places, finds the parents for the parent dances so that they are not at the bar, in the bathroom, etc., when the dance begins. Little things that a wedding coordinator would do if I had one. I would not pay for the extra service at all.

aerinpegadrak · September 2010

I've never heard of it, unless the DJ has their own assistant. That said, my BIL DJed my sister's wedding, and DH was sort of his assistant; he helped him set up the equipment (and had to miss quite a bit of the ceremony to do it), and we used his camera to take pictures throughout the night. That was pretty much the limit of it. I would imagine that if the DJ needs the help, that would be part of the contract up front.

DJTraceyD · September 2010

As a past DJ, an extra hand was always a must have to make sure things went smoothly...HOWEVER, the company I worked for did not charge extra for the extra hand...the DJs themselves were paid different rates based on who what 1st chair (MC, held show etc...) and who was 2nd chair (the one actually handling music, requests, lights). I think $400 for a helper is rediculous!!!

Do I need a helper for the DJ? Are you getting one?

Re: Do I need a helper for the DJ? Are you getting one?

Choose Another Board

Search Boards