Yes. I typically arrive one hour prior to your scheduled start time to set up my sound system and perform a sound check.
2. Do you take breaks?
No. My services are non-stop from your contracted start time until the conclusion of your reception.
3. Do you take requests?
Yes, I encourage them. I play requests as long as they can be implemented into the flow of music and are appropriate for a wedding. I'm not going to play heavy metal music during dinner or clear the dance floor with an obscure Rage Against The Machine song just because it was requested. I will make every effort to play suitable requests.
4. Should I hire a DJ or a band?
Since I offer both bands and DJ services, let me say that the difference is more than just price. A good wedding band will cost more than a DJ (they have more people involved), but it might be worth it to you. Bands are very dynamic, and a great band can be a real plus for your reception, creating an enjoyable and memorable atmosphere. The downside is that some bands are not great, and just aren't able or choose not to capture the original sound and feel of the songs you want. They may play barely recognizable versions of your favorite songs. Bands generally play less current music, need more room and more power (electrical) than a DJ. Some bands don't adjust well to not being the “main attraction” and can unintentionally overpower the wedding party (this happens with some DJ's as well).
The advantage of having a DJ is that YOU have more control over what is played and the sound of what is played (if you get a good DJ). A good wedding DJ carries thousands of songs of all genres, including brand new Top 40 hits in their original versions. They can play anything you want and it will sound the way you've heard it. And yes, it costs less (although a really good DJ may cost more than a not-so-great band!)
5. Can we choose the music to be played at our wedding?
Yes. I suggest you provide me a list of 10 "must play" songs and 10-15 "play if possible" songs. This leaves room for requests and my selections (based on your songs). I “read” the crowd as the evening progresses and gauge what songs will work or not by evaluating crowd response and age differences of your guests. It's not in your best interest to try to select every song and the order they will be played in, that's what you hire the DJ for.
6. Should we have a "Do Not Play" list?
Yes, I recommend you create a Do Not Play list. If you don't want to hear The Macarena or The Chicken Dance, you won't! If a guest requests a song that is on your Do Not Play list, it will not be played.
7. What types of music do you have?
I have every kind music, old and new. Like most DJ's I carry thousands of songs, Top 40, Oldies, Motown, Easy Listening, Disco, Country, Classic Rock, Modern Rock, Alternative, Hip Hop, Tejano, Salsa, Jazz, 60's, 70's, 80's, 90's, R & B, etc. I subscribe to an online music service and have or can obtain almost any song that you want. I don't have or use any illegally downloaded, low quality music.
8. What if we want a song that you don't have?
While my music library covers just about everything, occasionally I get an obscure request for a song I don't have. Given ample notice, I can usually obtain your requested music. If it is unobtainable by me, I would be more than happy to play the song from your CD or iPod or phone, etc.
9. Do you have professional equipment?
Yes. My sound system consists of top audio products from the most trusted names in sound. I currently use Mackie and QSC speakers, Mackie mixers, Shure wireless microphones, M-Audio interfaces and HP computers with Virtual DJ professional software and Seagate hard drives.
10. Do you have back-up equipment?
Yes. I've never had to delay or cancel an event due to a system problem. I carry a backup system with the same components as my primary system.
11. Do you have a wireless microphone for a speech or toast?
Yes. I carry two Shure wireless microphones and one wired mic. These microphones are for pre-approved speeches and toasts only. I won't hand a microphone to a guest who wants to make an impromptu speech. All toasts, speeches, special announcements, school songs, etc., must be approved by you. Overzealous and/or intoxicated guests may ramble, use profanity, make off-color remarks, or start singing and usually it's embarrassing for everyone. My “speech and toast only”policy prevents this from occurring.
12. Do you offer a written contract?
Yes. Your signed contract and deposit officially reserves your date. A binding contract gives you peace of mind that you have a professional who will be there when your wedding day arrives. I've heard stories of hysterical brides whose DJ either disappeared off the face of the earth or booked another job. In every instance, they didn't have a written contract. Do not hire any wedding vendor who does not offer a written contract.
13. How much is the deposit to reserve the date of my wedding and when is the final payment due?
I require ½ of the total fee as a non-refundable deposit and the signed contract returned within 10 days to reserve your date. The remaining balance is due fourteen (14) days before your wedding date.
14. What is your cancellation policy?
1. Cancellation for any reason forfeits the deposit.
2. Cancellation within 14 days of date forfeits full payment.
3. Cancellation due to inclement weather the day of the wedding must be received BEFORE my arrival at the reception to receive a refund of ½ the total fee. Your deposit may be applied to a future wedding booking within one year of your original contracted date.
15. Should I hire a DJ through an individual company or an entertainment agency?
When you book services with an individual DJ company, you receive the one-on-one service and attention to detail a wedding requires. You work with one person (me) from start to finish. I will help you (or your coordinator) create your music playlists and customize your reception events and introductions. You won't meet with someone for a consultation and never see them again. You won't plan your music and events with someone who won't be at your wedding. You will not find yourself on your wedding day with a DJ you have never met, has no idea who you are and was emailed your info that morning.
16. Do you subcontract bookings to other DJs under your company name?
No. When you book services with Brian Day Music, I am your DJ. If I receive an inquiry for a date I have already booked, I respectfully decline the job and offer a referral to another DJ.
17. What backup resources do you have if you suddenly become ill and cannot perform at our wedding?
I have a network of DJ's who are suitable replacements. I have never been late or missed a function, and Lord willing I never will, but in the unlikely scenario that I am unable to attend your event AND unable to find a suitable replacement, you will receive a full refund.
18. Can we see you perform at an upcoming wedding?
Weddings are generally formal events and closed to the public. Especially since the movie “Wedding Crashers” close attention is paid to the guest list, and I'm sure you wouldn't want uninvited guests at your wedding. I do not conduct prospective business at people's weddings aside from business cards.
19. Do you have a video?
No. Video's of DJ's are not interesting or exciting, and it is difficult to make a quality video at a wedding reception or event, not to mention it is disruptive to that event. I'm not there to shoot my promotional video, I'm there to DJ your wedding reception or event.
20. Do you have references?
Yes. I have references, available upon request.
21. Do you offer karaoke?
Not at this time, I may in the future.
22. Do you offer lighting and special effects?
I do offer simple and effective dance floor lighting. I think a huge truss of lights and effects is unattractive and out of place at most mobile DJ events, especially weddings. Too much lighting and effects can be distracting and even annoying to many guests.
23. Are you an interactive DJ? We want a DJ who uses props. Do you offer props and this type of entertainment?
No. I don't get out on the dance floor or perform routines. I don't talk over the music or dress your guests in costumes and parade them around the room. In my opinion this is out of place and unnecessary and takes away from the main focus.
24. Why should I hire you? What separates you from other DJs?
What separates me is my low-key professional approach, my knowledge of music, my ability to read the crowd and my flexible attitude. I'm there for YOU, not the other way around. A DJ who announces every song and mingles among your guests with a wireless mic is the center of attention. This steals the limelight from the bride and groom and often goes beyond the boundaries of good taste. This is YOUR wedding day and I focus on the music and the order of events as you desired it, not hearing my own voice on the microphone.
25. What attire will you wear at my wedding?
I generally wear black long sleeve shirt and slacks, I can add a jacket to that, and I have a tuxedo if it is desired. If it is really informal and/or outdoors I will wear jeans and short sleeves with your approval.
26. What are your requirements that I need to inform my wedding coordinator or function manager prior to my wedding?
I need one sturdy, 6-8 foot, rectangular, banquet-style table located by the dance floor and within 20 feet of a grounded 120 volt, 15 amp power source (wall outlet) in good working order (I have my own table if one cannot be provided). By the way, please think about and discuss where your DJ will be stationed with the event planner. Some venues place the DJ far from the dance floor or with tables in between. This can make for serious issues, like the volume being too much for the tables but not enough for the dance floor. For the best atmosphere make sure the DJ is by the dance floor.
27. Can you provide music and sound for the ceremony AND the reception?
I am available for sound for your ceremony for an additional fee. I have one wireless lavalier microphone, one wireless hand held mic and one wired handheld mic that may be used. After the ceremony has ended, I will break down and set up in the reception room immediately.
28. Do you hang banners or signs telling everyone who you are?
No. I do not display or promote my business name with any signs, banners or promotional materials except business cards. I let my style and performance do my advertising for me. If someone is interested in my services from observing my performance, all they need is a business card.
29. Is tipping expected?
By no means is gratuity expected and you won't see a tip jar on my table. If I surpass your expectations and you offer me a gratuity, I would accept it as the utmost compliment.
30. Should we feed the DJ?
I generally do not eat or drink at events, except for a glass of ice water.
31. How early should I book your services?
You should book me with deposit and signed contract as soon as you book your reception venue. Friday and Saturday during the summer and fall months often book 6 months to a year in advance, but short notice is fine too.
32. Is overtime available?
Overtime is available in 1/2 hour increments and must be requested one hour prior to the conclusion of your event.
33. Are there any other fees applicable to your services?
No. The final contract price is the total cost, there are no additional fees. Any special circumstances requiring additional fees will be stated clearly in the contract.
34. What are your rates? Are your rates negotiable and will you match a price quote of a competitor?
My rates vary with the event, place, distance, length of time, prep time, and any special circumstances. I will “price match” up to a point, but my rate isn't based on competition but on delivering quality and reputation. If you wouldn't scrimp on your dress or food or venue, don't scrimp on your DJ. As with everything in life, sometimes you luck out, but usually you get what you pay for.
I recognize the importance of your special day and I take every wedding seriously. This isn't a hobby for me. My service (sales, administration, preparation and performance) is one of the best and my experience and reliability is what you are paying for. Get peace of mind with Brian Day Music.
DJ Brian Day
Brian Day Music
www.briandaymusic.com