DJ Daniel Peterson Advice, DJ Daniel Peterson Tips, California

FAQ

Business Details

Categories:

What additional types of events do you service?

Anniversaries, Baby Showers, Bar / Bat Mitzvahs, Birthdays, Bridal Showers, Christenings, Corporate Events, Debutante Balls, Eco-Friendly / Green Weddings, Engagement Parties, Graduations, Holiday Parties, LGBT Weddings / Ceremonies, Memorials, Proms, Quinceaneras, Sweet 16s

Established:

2002

Accepts:

Cash, Check, Paypal

Frequently Asked Questions for DJ

What music genres are in your collection?

50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, Acoustic, Big Band, Classic Rock, Classical, Country, Dance, Folk, Funk, Gospel, Hip Hop, Jazz, Motown, Oldies, Orchestra, Pop, Punk Rock, R&B, Rock, Soul, Strings, Swing, World

Do you have liability insurance?

Yes

Describe your DJ style:

Having DJed years in clubs and for radio mixshows, I can bring the club mix flow to the wedding dancefloor. Ive also been a wedding DJ for about the same amount of time, and understand the special nature of this type of event, and how to keep all guests engaged in the night through the application of music selection and through the right type of MCing.

What is your usual attire?

A nice dark black suit.

If you do not have one of the songs pre-requested by the client, do you require that they provide it?

I can provide just about anything. I always look forward to learning from my clients as well, whether it is an idea for a cocktail hour or dinner music theme, or a special traditional ethnic style to mix in later on for the dancefloor. Music discussion is a huge part of the planning process, where we find a way to to integrate special requests of the bride and groom and their families into a mix that will keep all guests entertained.

How many other DJs do you work with?

I am an independent DJ, and am the DJ for every one of my events. So the same person you have been planning with is also the same person at the event DJing and MCing it. I do have many close DJ friends in San Diego that I have occasionally worked together with on big events.

What is the minimum amount of time you will DJ for?

There is a four hour minimum.

Is the client able to meet the DJ before booking?

Absolutely, and this is recommended. Typically there is an initial meeting, and if we move forward a final meeting about two weeks before the big day. In the meantime a lot of communication takes place with email. I have been able to do planning over the phone with out-of-town brides and grooms, if we have the option face-to-face meetings are recommended.

Do you specialize in any ethnic or international events?

I used to perform a mix show in Tijuana for the old More FM 98.9 and have a ton of great Mexican tracks, and can make announcements in Spanish. I have also had fun providing ethnic dancefloor sets that have included Philipino, Jewish, Italian, Irish, Croation, Arabic, African, Brazilian, Argentinian, Indian, British, Dutch, Armenian and French music selections. And I love learning new ethnic music as well!

Can the client submit a do-not-play list?

Absolutely, and this is something we cover in the planning meeting that takes place in my home office.

Do you bring your own equipment?

Yes, and I would bet a huge sum it is the best sounding wedding DJ system in the city.

What (if any) special equipment, such as disco balls or lighting, is offered with your service?

Included in my service is a real dancefloor sound system (both subs and tops), wireless speakers for an even sound throughout the reception, wireless mics and dancefloor lighting. Additionally I can provide the options of uplighting, monogram/gobo projection, projector and screen for a photo montage and a separate ceremony sound system.

How much time do you usually need to set up? Do you require that the site or client provide a table for you to set up on?

Two hours, three are prefered. I am a nut about being set up an hour before I need to be. No table is required, as I bring my own stand.

Do you have any extra space requirements?

I have a system that has that club DJ look, as I began on turntables. Yet it does not take up very much space at all.

Do you have a sign or banner that you use at events?

No, that is for the bridal shows.

Do you usually emcee the event or talk between songs?

Absolutely. MCing makes all the difference in creating a successful flow through the various points of a wedding reception, and keeping your guests excited about each stage of the wedding celebration.

How would you motivate the crowd if no one is dancing?

The main thing is knowing what to play, when to play it and how to play it. Early on the right type of MCing sends the right message and welcomes your guests to the dancefloor for a fun party after the meal.

What is your policy on taking breaks? If you require a meal break, do you require that the client provide your meal?

No breaks are needed. No meal is required, but is very nice and is usually provided and I am very thankful when it is. During dinner I might grab 7-10 minutes to sit with other vendors and grab some nutrition. That is it.

What is your backup plan in case you become unavailable on the day of the event?

Hasnt happened yet. It is rare to have this problem with any successful, self-employed vendor as we live off our reputations. If this ever happened I would draw upon my huge network of other DJ friends in the business. Again, this situation has not occured in 20 years of DJing for myself and earlier for other companies.

Do you book yourself for more than one event in a day?

One event per day.

What is your overtime rate?

$150 each additional hour, whether you book it in advance or at the event.

Do you charge for travel expenses? If yes, how much do you charge?

Depends on the distance, and it is a nominal fee to cover time and gas.

What is the required deposit to secure your services?

One-third of the total secures myself as the DJ/MC for your event.

Other Information

What types of cultural events do you specialize in?

Asian, Central American, North American, South American, West Europe