DJ /vendor references?

[Miya03]

I am considering booking a DJ, but I''m a little nervous because I''ve never heard him mix myself. Should I ask him for references or see if he has an event where I can come listen? He came recommended by my wedding planner, but having not heard him in person I''m a little unsure. How did you all book one?

I''m having the same question with my photographer--I like him and his work, but should I be asking him for references too?

 

[Morgie44]

I went with vendors based on their reviews from other brides. For the photographer, we based our decision mostly on personality ( you will see your photographer more than anyone else on your wedding day, except your DH) you are going to want to like being around them! We also looked at whether we liked their work or not of course. Be sure to look at at least one entire event from a photographer. If you only see their 5 best pictures from each day on their blog, that might not be a good representation of what you will get over 8-12 hours with him or her.

 

[MagsyMay]

I''m in the process of booking a DJ myself. I asked on here for other Chicago brides to give their recommendations and also used Yelp to find others. Several of the DJ websites I have visited said you cannot come watch them DJ a wedding, because, well, that''s someone''s wedding and pretty sure no one wants uninvited guests! Others that work at clubs and bars obviously will allow you to, but that type of music/crowd might be pretty different from what type of music you would play at a wedding.

 

[Miya03]

Thanks ladies! It''s been hard for me to get references from other brides in my area because I''m the first one of my friends to get married...

Also, I totally see the point about not going to other people''s weddings and how a club setting is completely different...I''m just not sure how to judge, you know?