FAQs

Music

How involved can we be in the music selection process?

I encourage my clients to be very involved in the music selection process. During the planning process, I will ask you to provide a list of songs that fit the “vibe” that you are going for, and a playlist of any “must play” songs. Some clients want to select all of the music that is to be played, while other clients ask me to use my best judgement. How much you are involved is entirely up to you.

Do you take requests at the event?

Whether or not I take requests is entirely up to you. I am happy to take requests from guests (I have a library of over 10,000 songs, and with internet access, can download almost anything I don’t have that gets requested). That said, I realize some clients would prefer that I do not and will honor your preferences

Can we provide a do not play list?

Of course! Have a song that reminds you of an old ex or just really gets on your nerves? Let me know and I will make sure it does not get played

When do we need to submit our music preferences by?

I ask that all music preferences are submitted 14 days prior to the event to ensure that I have enough time to prepare and familiarize myself with your selections. If there are any last second changes, please let me know as soon as possible

EQUIPMENT/services

What kind of equipment do you use?

I use professional QSC speakers, Shure professional wireless/lapel microphones, MacBook Pro laptops, and Pioneer turntables. Other equipment can vary based on the size and requirements of the event.

What is included in the cost of the event?

Included in every package is all of the necessary equipment to perform basic DJ services, including sound equipment, microphones, MC/DJ services for the duration of the event, and setup / tear down

How many events do you do per year?

I do between 50-100 events per year

What does the DJ need for setup?

Basic access to electricity and a space to work is all that is needed. If there is no access to electricity, I can provide a mobile generator at an additional cost

Do you provide any additional services?

Yes! I have other add-ons to make your day extra special. Click here to learn more about my other offerings

Booking & Logistics

How early should I book my date?

I recommend booking your date 6-9 months before the event to ensure that the date is available

What areas do you serve?

The service area is within 60 miles of DC, though I am willing to travel farther for a small fee

How far are you able to travel for my event?

I have traveled as far as Boston and Jacksonville for events, and I am happy to travel for an additional fee. If you need me to travel far enough that I can’t drive back that night, an additional lodging fee may need to be discussed

How long will you hold a date?

I will hold your date for up to 7 days once you let me know you would like to book the date. During that time, I must receive a 50% deposit to secure the booking. If you are unable to provide a deposit within that timeframe, that date will be made available to other potential clients until the deposit is received.

What are the payment terms?

A 50% deposit is required at time of booking to secure your date, with the remaining 50% due 30 days before the event. This is industry standard. If you need alternate payment terms to accommodate your event, I can discuss those on a client-by-client basis

What is your cancellation policy?
For inclement weather

If your event has to cancel because of inclement weather, I will provide a credit to your account for up to one year in the amount of your deposit to be applied to a different date

At least 30 days prior to the event

If you must cancel at least 30 days prior to the event, I will provide a credit to your account for up to one year in the amount of your deposit to be applied to a different date

How are emergencies handled?

This has never happened in 10+ years of DJing events. That said, I understand there is a first time for everything, and I am prepared. I have an on-call system and are a member of a local DJ organization that will assist in finding you a replacement in time for your event

How much are your packages?

Pricing starts at $249, and packages vary based on time commitment, equipment needed, travel, and other factors. If you would like to get a custom quote, click here to schedule a consultation

Other questions

What is your MC style?

I try to take a minimalist approach as an MC unless requested otherwise. I believe the focus should be on you and your event. That said, I did stand-up for 10+ years as well, so I am very comfortable being on a microphone

Do you take breaks?

I typically do not need breaks other than using the bathroom

Can we visit you at an event?

For privacy reasons, I do not disclose who my clients are and where their events are unless they request it. If it is a publicly available event, you are welcome to visit

What will you wear to our event?

That’s up to you! My default will always be to dress professionally, but if you have a dress code or attire that you would like for me to wear at the event, I am happy to accommodate

Are we required to tip the DJ?

Tips are not required or expected by any means, but if you wish to tip the DJ for an exceptional job well done, they are always appreciated

What is your DJ philosophy?

I believe a great DJ doesn’t compete for attention – they shape the room so the right moments can happen naturally. My philosophy is simple: build the atmosphere, read the room, and create a seamless experience where the focus stays on you and the event

What kind of events do you do?

I do all sorts of events – weddings, corporate events, dance halls, ballroom dance competitions, and more. If there is music to be played, I can be there!

What kind of music do you play?

I have an extensive library of music that varies based on the event, and I am familiar with a long list of genres. I do my best to tailor each set to my client’s preferences and tastes

What is your approach to getting people on the dance floor?

Getting people on the dance floor isn’t about forcing it, it’s about removing the friction and giving the a reason to say yes. I try to build momentum gradually, starting with familiar, approachable songs that feel safe to step into and build from there. That said, there are some crowds that frankly just don’t want to dance no matter what the music is – my goal is to make it as easy and comfortable to come on the floor as possible, and then once people get out on the floor, ramp up the energy and make sure they don’t want to leave!

When do you arrive to my event?

I will typically arrive at least 2 hours before the event to set up, but will often arrive earlier if needed

Can you come to our rehearsal dinner?

Yes! As long as I am available, I can do that for an additional fee

What does the planning process look like?

After initial booking, I will send you links to playlists so you can add songs and music that help me get a sense of your preferences. About a month before the event, I will schedule a call with you to discuss those preferences, day-of schedule, logistics, etc. I am also on-call and available to discuss any questions you might have leading up to the wedding

Can help us with our first dance, too?

Yes! While I DJ 50-100 events a year, I am also a full-time ballroom dance instructor and have worked with hundreds of couples on their first dance. I have discounted combined packages for dance lessons and DJ services available. To learn more about dance instruction, click here