What music genres are in your collection?
50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, Big Band, Classic Rock, Classical, Country, Dance, Folk, Funk, Gospel, Jazz, Motown, Oldies, Orchestra, Pop, Punk Rock, R&B, Rock, Soul, Strings, Swing, World
Do you have liability insurance?
Yes
Describe your DJ style:
First off...I do not describe myself as a DJ. In most people's minds, a "DJ" is someone who pushes play and makes announcments. My services are best described as a Wedding Entertainment Director?. The 7 services provided by all Wedding Entertainment Directors? are: Comprehensive Personalization, Creative Involvement, Event Direction, Talented Spokesperson, Music Programming, Appropriate Presentation, and Quality Amplification.
To put it as simply as possible...I specialize in helping couples create and enjoy a uniquely personalized celebration that their guests will be saying was "The Best Wedding Reception...Ever!"
What is your usual attire?
Black Tuxedo Jacket, Black Tie, Black Vest, Black Shirt, Black Tux Pants, and Black Tux Shoes...unless something different is requested.
If you do not have one of the songs pre-requested by the client, do you require that they provide it?
No. I buy all of the music I play, even when a client has their own music. If you have a CD or a song that you want played, I will purchase my own legal copy well in advance of your big day.
The only rare exception would be if it was a special version of a song that could not be located through the various legal options currently available.
How many other DJs do you work with?
I am the only entertainer at Merry Wedidngs, Inc. I only cover as many events as I can personally service...which is usually about 30-35 weddings a year.
What is the minimum amount of time you will DJ for?
I have entertained at receptions that only had 2 hours available at their locations and I have entertained at others that have lasted over 8 hours.
Is the client able to meet the DJ before booking?
Absolutley! I couldn't dream of delivering the personalized level of services and performances that I do if it were not for the advance planning meetings that are required. For my occaisional out-of-state couples, I still try to arrange face to face meetings when possible, but we can get most of our planning done on the phone if no other options are available.
Do you specialize in any ethnic or international events?
I have provided reception entertainment for various ethnic groups over the years including: African-American, Jewish, Persian, Chinese, Japanese, Etc.
Do you bring your own equipment?
Yes. However...out-of-state weddings that are too far to drive may require that I arrange for rental equipment.
What (if any) special equipment, such as disco balls or lighting, is offered with your service?
Any special equipment that a client may want can be added on for a reasonable fee. I typically bring top quality sound support and my talent. I have not utilized lasers, bubble machines, disco balls, or lighting more than maybe 5 times in 15 years...at the request of my wedding clients.
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?
At least 1 hour, but for a reception, I prefer to arrive for setup at least 2 hours before the scheduled start time.
My equipment is self-contained and does not require a table.
Do you have any extra space requirements?
I need about 5 feet of space between the back wall and the dance floor for my equipment...and about 7 feet of width.
Do you usually emcee the event or talk between songs?
First off..."emcee and/or talk between songs" is the way most people would think of what a typical DJ does.
I serve as a polished Master of Ceremonies which means: I will help my clients create a smooth-flowing agenda, I will work with the other vendors throughout the celebration to make sure they are ready for each new event on our agenda before it occurs, I will keep the guests informed throughout the celebration in manner that keeps them appropriately entertained and engaged, and finally...I will direct the pacing and the flow of the celebration "backstage" in a manner that give the impression that every event is just naturally flowing into the next one on the agenda.
What is your policy on taking breaks? If you require a meal break, do you require that the client provide your meal?
Once again...no need...I never leave the room during the celebration...and I am too busy ensuring that everyone else is enjoying themselves to be able to sit down and eat.
Will you arrange for recorded music to play during your breaks?
No need...I never leave the room during the celebration.
What is your backup plan in case you become unavailable on the day of the event?
Yes...many of the best wedding entertainers in the United States are my closest friends and if the unthinkable were to occur, I have a reliable list of highly talented entertainers to reach out to for support.
However...I should also point out that in 15 years, I have never missed a single wedding reception.
My Wedding Booking Agreement also offers a money back guarantee for my personal services.
What is your overtime rate?
I do not charge for overtime. My primary role is help my clients create "The Best Wedding Reception...Ever!" If the celebration is going better than expected and the location will allow us to keep going, then by all means...let's keep the party going!
Do you charge for travel expenses? If yes, how much do you charge?
That entirely depends on how far I will need to travel. I have serviced weddings over 2 hours away from my home in SoCal and I have serviced weddings on the other side of the country. This is something that we could discuss in much greater detail during our initial consutation.