Dear Platinum DJ,
I am interested in having you as the DJ for my next event and have heard some extremely awesome things about you, I just have a few questions for you though. If you don't mind answering them that would be fabulous.
Regards,
Fabulous Bride
<Attached questions.docx>
Regards,
Fabulous Bride
<Attached questions.docx>
Hi Fabulous Bride,
Thanks so much for the email. Those are the 30 most common questions and are all equally as important to ask every single DJ whom you choose to interview or consider. They will help to guage the professionalism, reliability, and integrity of any DJ. I'm attaching all of the questions and answers below for you. Good luck in your search.
Best Regards,
Platinum DJ
Best Regards,
Platinum DJ
What types of events are your specialty? At Platinum DJ, we are true wedding specialists, experienced with various types of wedding celebrations and protocols. Weddings are our passion and make up over 95% of the business booked. The only other types of events we do are high-end corporate functions and adult social functions (rehearsal dinners, anniversaries, retirements), which typically require a similarly elegant approach and attention to detail. Platinum DJ does not book bars or nightclubs.
How would you define your “style” or approach to providing DJ entertainment? Our DJ’s presentation is polished and understated, marked by reading the crowd and a professional “cheese-free” approach to announcements and microphone work. Many DJs think that it is their job to put on a show and be the center of attention at the reception. We believe firmly that your wedding is your show, and we have no interest in taking the spotlight from you. We will not tell stories, make jokes, or plug our company on the microphone.
I don’t want the music at my wedding to be traditional wedding music. Can you do that? Of course! We’re not at all attached to tradition – we’re here to incorporate the music you request, and to mix it in a way that will create the kind of wedding you’ve envisioned. Somewhere along the line, the phrase “wedding DJ” became a bad word, synonymous with cheesiness. We couldn’t be any further from that image; this is your wedding and there is no wrong way of doing things.
How do you mix the music? Mixing is a pretty basic skill depending on the type of DJ you're looking for, but how a DJ does it says a lot about his or her style. We don't "mix" music with the purpose of creating seamless transitions between songs but rather we choose songs that we know will go together well so it can maintain the energy and momentum on the dance floor. Mixing for us is something we do on the spot, based on the tempo and “feel” of the songs and the reaction of the crowd. We don’t treat your wedding like it’s our personal nightclub and we don’t use your wedding to test out remixes that no one recognizes. We also don’t use any cheesy, pre-fabricated “DJ Mixes” from other music services. Our DJs always use the original radio versions of each song unless there’s a really good reason not to.
Do you use party props? Our DJs do not dress in any type of costume or distribute funny hats and inflatable instruments. We do not harass your guests into joining us on the dance floor. If the guest participation level is there, we can teach people to line dance on the spot but that is a decision made on a per case basis. If you are seeking a live performer to motivate your guests in this way, you would probably be happier with another DJ company.
How will I know who my DJ will be? Once you’ve submitted the contact form on our website and indicated that you’re ready to be connected with a DJ, we’ll use the information you’ve provided about your music tastes and personality to match you with either our company or a company we work closely with who may have the type of DJ you're looking for. If we feel that we are the right fit for you then we will arrange a time to meet with you face to face to discuss your expectations and what we can bring to the table. The person you meet will be your DJ.
Will you bring an assistant? Short answer? Rarely. DJing a wedding is a one-person job. Sometimes we have a young DJ who is mentoring from us and we will utilize them to carry the equipment, learn about setup/teardown/troubleshooting and of course get out of the hall faster at the end of the night. We don’t believe that’s something you need to pay for so it is a value added service that comes at no extra charge to you.
How much do you charge? Our base rates for weddings range from $1099-1600. We base our pricing on an objective structure that only factors in the month and day of the event, which ensures consistency and fairness to all of our clients. We are not in the practice of subjectively pricing events based on our estimation of your budget — for example, we don’t price events higher if a client is using an expensive reception site or if they were referred by a well-known wedding planner. A complete and accurate price quote will be provided to you in our first email to you and is specifically tailored to what you require from us.
What is included in the cost of my event? Four hours of performance time, setup time, breakdown time, travel up to 60 km (one way from Edmonton, AB.), any applicable taxes, and ALL equipment (including sound systems, wireless microphones and lighting) for weddings up to 250 guests. For weddings over 250 guests, a custom quote may be necessary. Our flat-rate pricing is refreshingly easy to understand — there are no hidden charges, and all fees are clearly stated in your contract.
Why do you offer a $100 discount for paying in full with the signed contract? We offer this discount because it simplifies our operations (it’s less work to process one payment than two, and the time saved in not having to track and collect a balance makes the discount worth it to us) and it simplifies our clients’ budget management. It’s completely optional, and we’re happy to take a deposit with the contract and the balance a month beforehand if that’s your preference.
Do you offer different skill levels or “tiers” of DJs at different price points? Absolutely not. The way we see it, a DJ either meets our company’s high standards or they do not — and if they don’t, they aren’t qualified to represent our company or serve our clients. We would never sell a couple a “Platinum Experience” and then send them less than the very best our company has to offer. For this reason, we don’t offer a cheaper “B-team” or associate level DJs. Offering multiple “tiers” of talent at different prices would mean sacrificing quality for the sake of more bookings, something we’d never be willing to do. Some food for thought: would a company that charges two or three times more for the owner actually acknowledge that your experience with one of their associates will only be half or a third as good?
Do you pay “kickbacks” for referrals? ONLY FOR CURRENT CUSTOMERS. Platinum DJ does not pay kickbacks or referral fees in the forms of money, gifts or any other incentives. We are proud to have earned referrals and endorsements from the area’s best wedding planners, venues, caterers, photographers and other event professionals based solely on the outstanding service we provide. Current clients may take advantage of a $100 discount to their package for recommending Platinum DJ.
Do you offer event lighting? Yes we do provide lighting. We believe that quality lighting is such a specialized, luxury service that it should be furnished by someone who can program the lighting to work with the feeling and energy of the crowd.
Do you offer live ceremony musicians? Unfortunately we do not. We believe in focusing on the service that we can personally provide. Some music agencies will “up-sell” live musicians, serving as a “middle man” and taking a cut of the proceeds, but we’d prefer to refer you directly to the musicians themselves. Please feel free to ask for our recommendations — we’ve worked with just about everyone!
How involved are YOU in helping us to plan our music? Just as you pay a caterer for his or her expertise in food, you are paying Platinum DJ in large part for our expertise in music. We are more than willing to provide you with a multitude of suggestions based on your preferences, and we’re perfectly comfortable selecting most (or all) of the music if you aren’t interested in doing so. Our extensive knowledge of music enables us to work with your requests and create a mood that reflects your tastes while creating a great atmosphere for all of your guests. In addition, we specialize in addressing music “challenges,” whether combining multicultural musical styles or adapting unique or eclectic music tastes to the formality of a wedding. Your DJ is always available to answer questions or assist you in choosing the songs that will reflect your vision of your special day.
How involved can WE be in selecting music for our event? We encourage you to be as involved as you would like to be! Most of our clients place great value on music and probably have very distinct ideas about what they want to hear. If you would like to select every song, we are happy to accommodate you. The majority of our couples, however, prefer to discuss with their DJ, in depth, their preferences and at least a few specific requests. We pride ourselves on listening to our clients and respecting their input and wishes, while providing additional suggestions and guidance when appropriate. Rest assured, you will never hear songs you have asked not to be played, or genres you’ve told us you don’t like. Ultimately you are paying us to play music your guests will enjoy and we are sensitive to your needs at the same time.
What kinds of music are included in your collection? Platinum DJ owns an enormous library of music in all formats spanning over multiple generations. We update our collection constantly, ensuring that we are able to provide the songs that our clients and their guests are currently enjoying. Furthermore, we work closely with our clients in selecting the music for their event. Because of this, we can virtually guarantee that we will be able to accommodate any request. If one of your guests request a song and we don't have it... we can get it (either in advance through the use of our RSVP music request sheets, or by download if the venue has Wi-Fi)
How do you dress for an event? Our DJs typical “uniform” is a black collared shirt with black slacks. If a tuxedo or other attire would be more appropriate for your event, simply let us know your preference.
When do you arrive to set up for an event? We don't typically guarantee the arrival time of the DJ however we ask our DJs to be setup, sound checked, and ready to play no later than one hour prior to the contracted start time of the event, and earlier as necessitated by the setup requirements of the site.
What kind of equipment do you use? Our DJs use the highest quality professional-grade equipment available: strictly computer-based DJ systems, Denon mixers, EV speakers and Shure microphones. Wireless microphones are always provided and fog is provided upon request. Our lighting system consists of only LED based lighting to reduce our footprint and ensure minimal power consumption.
How are emergencies handled? We’re proud to have originated the most rock-solid emergency backup plan in the DJ industry. Our DJs take the responsibility of performing for a wedding extremely seriously, and is both contractually and ethically obligated to do everything possible to avoid emergencies. However, to ensure your event’s complete success, we have a company we work closely with who pays an “Emergency DJ” to be on call. That DJ is prepared with appropriate attire, equipment, and music. In addition, our DJs bring a full set of backup music to every event in the event of computer issues, and the equipment is immaculately maintained to ensure proper performance.
Are you insured? Platinum DJ carries a full liability insurance policy with a coverage value of $1,000,000. We are happy to provide you or your venue with a copy of our insurance policy upon request.
Will you present a contract at our initial meeting? Yes. Your DJ will come prepared with a contract guaranteeing his/her presence at your event, and an accurate and inclusive price. We feel that providing you with a contract is respectful of your time and presents the opportunity for you to review its terms with the DJ and ask questions if necessary. It also gives you, in writing, the terms of Platinum DJ’s offer, something that may not be guaranteed with other companies’ verbal promises.
However, please know that you would never be asked or expected to sign your contract on the spot; we are happy for you to take it home for consideration. Contracts are valid for ten (10) days following your meeting, and we will hold your date for you on the DJ’s schedule during that time. Out of fairness to others who may be waiting on the DJ’s availability, we do ask you to notify us of your decision within that 10-day window. If you decide you are not ready to move forward with booking your DJ at that time, we would need to release that DJ’s availability for another couple. If you do decide to cancel your contract with us within 24 hours of signing you will be entitled to a complete refund.
What are the terms of payment if I book your services? A $300 non-refundable deposit is due with your signed contract within 10 days of your initial meeting with your DJ. The balance is collected 30 days prior to your event. Clients who elect to take advantage of the full payment discount would remit the full amount, less $100, with their signed contract. Platinum DJ accepts cash, personal cheques, certified checks or money orders, and e-mail money transfers.
What do you require from my event site? We require at least one 6-foot table, and adequate power (two 120-volt, 15-amp circuits on a grounded outlet free from other connected loads) within 15 feet of where the DJ will be set up. We require a location that is dance-floor adjacent and require a minimum of 10-foot by 10-foot area for setup place additional space for speakers and lighting stands.
Can we speak with your previous clients? Your DJ will gladly provide you with references upon request, who are more than happy to discuss the quality of his performance and customer service. You will not be asked to “cold call” people to check our references; we will be sure to let them know to expect your call. We want you to feel completely comfortable in researching our services.
Can we visit you at a performance? Out of respect for the privacy of others on their special day, Platinum DJ does not permit prospective clients to “drop in” on a wedding. However, our references, online reviews, and the information we provide you in our initial meeting will speak volumes of our experience, style, and professionalism.
What does it mean that Platinum DJ is committed to “green” weddings? Platinum DJ is committed to environmentally responsible business practices, including offsetting our electricity usage by maintaining a “paperless” office where possible, utilizing recycled materials for any documents we produce, and recycling our previous equipment in an environmentally safe manner.
How do you maintain your great reputation while continuing to grow your company? Simple: we are a values-based company and operate using a very standardized set of protocols, from communication to wedding preparation. Our DJs know our core values, our philosophy and the type of client experience upon which our reputation has been built. Because we’ve placed such an emphasis on carefully recruiting new DJs and ensuring that each of them “lives our brand,” so to speak, we plan to grow without sacrificing any of the quality for which we’re known. The diversity of our reviews and references is a testament to our company’s consistency.
Most importantly…why should I choose Platinum DJ for my event? Simply put, we provide exceptional entertainment and the most accommodating and attentive customer care found in this industry.
How would you define your “style” or approach to providing DJ entertainment? Our DJ’s presentation is polished and understated, marked by reading the crowd and a professional “cheese-free” approach to announcements and microphone work. Many DJs think that it is their job to put on a show and be the center of attention at the reception. We believe firmly that your wedding is your show, and we have no interest in taking the spotlight from you. We will not tell stories, make jokes, or plug our company on the microphone.
I don’t want the music at my wedding to be traditional wedding music. Can you do that? Of course! We’re not at all attached to tradition – we’re here to incorporate the music you request, and to mix it in a way that will create the kind of wedding you’ve envisioned. Somewhere along the line, the phrase “wedding DJ” became a bad word, synonymous with cheesiness. We couldn’t be any further from that image; this is your wedding and there is no wrong way of doing things.
How do you mix the music? Mixing is a pretty basic skill depending on the type of DJ you're looking for, but how a DJ does it says a lot about his or her style. We don't "mix" music with the purpose of creating seamless transitions between songs but rather we choose songs that we know will go together well so it can maintain the energy and momentum on the dance floor. Mixing for us is something we do on the spot, based on the tempo and “feel” of the songs and the reaction of the crowd. We don’t treat your wedding like it’s our personal nightclub and we don’t use your wedding to test out remixes that no one recognizes. We also don’t use any cheesy, pre-fabricated “DJ Mixes” from other music services. Our DJs always use the original radio versions of each song unless there’s a really good reason not to.
Do you use party props? Our DJs do not dress in any type of costume or distribute funny hats and inflatable instruments. We do not harass your guests into joining us on the dance floor. If the guest participation level is there, we can teach people to line dance on the spot but that is a decision made on a per case basis. If you are seeking a live performer to motivate your guests in this way, you would probably be happier with another DJ company.
How will I know who my DJ will be? Once you’ve submitted the contact form on our website and indicated that you’re ready to be connected with a DJ, we’ll use the information you’ve provided about your music tastes and personality to match you with either our company or a company we work closely with who may have the type of DJ you're looking for. If we feel that we are the right fit for you then we will arrange a time to meet with you face to face to discuss your expectations and what we can bring to the table. The person you meet will be your DJ.
Will you bring an assistant? Short answer? Rarely. DJing a wedding is a one-person job. Sometimes we have a young DJ who is mentoring from us and we will utilize them to carry the equipment, learn about setup/teardown/troubleshooting and of course get out of the hall faster at the end of the night. We don’t believe that’s something you need to pay for so it is a value added service that comes at no extra charge to you.
How much do you charge? Our base rates for weddings range from $1099-1600. We base our pricing on an objective structure that only factors in the month and day of the event, which ensures consistency and fairness to all of our clients. We are not in the practice of subjectively pricing events based on our estimation of your budget — for example, we don’t price events higher if a client is using an expensive reception site or if they were referred by a well-known wedding planner. A complete and accurate price quote will be provided to you in our first email to you and is specifically tailored to what you require from us.
What is included in the cost of my event? Four hours of performance time, setup time, breakdown time, travel up to 60 km (one way from Edmonton, AB.), any applicable taxes, and ALL equipment (including sound systems, wireless microphones and lighting) for weddings up to 250 guests. For weddings over 250 guests, a custom quote may be necessary. Our flat-rate pricing is refreshingly easy to understand — there are no hidden charges, and all fees are clearly stated in your contract.
Why do you offer a $100 discount for paying in full with the signed contract? We offer this discount because it simplifies our operations (it’s less work to process one payment than two, and the time saved in not having to track and collect a balance makes the discount worth it to us) and it simplifies our clients’ budget management. It’s completely optional, and we’re happy to take a deposit with the contract and the balance a month beforehand if that’s your preference.
Do you offer different skill levels or “tiers” of DJs at different price points? Absolutely not. The way we see it, a DJ either meets our company’s high standards or they do not — and if they don’t, they aren’t qualified to represent our company or serve our clients. We would never sell a couple a “Platinum Experience” and then send them less than the very best our company has to offer. For this reason, we don’t offer a cheaper “B-team” or associate level DJs. Offering multiple “tiers” of talent at different prices would mean sacrificing quality for the sake of more bookings, something we’d never be willing to do. Some food for thought: would a company that charges two or three times more for the owner actually acknowledge that your experience with one of their associates will only be half or a third as good?
Do you pay “kickbacks” for referrals? ONLY FOR CURRENT CUSTOMERS. Platinum DJ does not pay kickbacks or referral fees in the forms of money, gifts or any other incentives. We are proud to have earned referrals and endorsements from the area’s best wedding planners, venues, caterers, photographers and other event professionals based solely on the outstanding service we provide. Current clients may take advantage of a $100 discount to their package for recommending Platinum DJ.
Do you offer event lighting? Yes we do provide lighting. We believe that quality lighting is such a specialized, luxury service that it should be furnished by someone who can program the lighting to work with the feeling and energy of the crowd.
Do you offer live ceremony musicians? Unfortunately we do not. We believe in focusing on the service that we can personally provide. Some music agencies will “up-sell” live musicians, serving as a “middle man” and taking a cut of the proceeds, but we’d prefer to refer you directly to the musicians themselves. Please feel free to ask for our recommendations — we’ve worked with just about everyone!
How involved are YOU in helping us to plan our music? Just as you pay a caterer for his or her expertise in food, you are paying Platinum DJ in large part for our expertise in music. We are more than willing to provide you with a multitude of suggestions based on your preferences, and we’re perfectly comfortable selecting most (or all) of the music if you aren’t interested in doing so. Our extensive knowledge of music enables us to work with your requests and create a mood that reflects your tastes while creating a great atmosphere for all of your guests. In addition, we specialize in addressing music “challenges,” whether combining multicultural musical styles or adapting unique or eclectic music tastes to the formality of a wedding. Your DJ is always available to answer questions or assist you in choosing the songs that will reflect your vision of your special day.
How involved can WE be in selecting music for our event? We encourage you to be as involved as you would like to be! Most of our clients place great value on music and probably have very distinct ideas about what they want to hear. If you would like to select every song, we are happy to accommodate you. The majority of our couples, however, prefer to discuss with their DJ, in depth, their preferences and at least a few specific requests. We pride ourselves on listening to our clients and respecting their input and wishes, while providing additional suggestions and guidance when appropriate. Rest assured, you will never hear songs you have asked not to be played, or genres you’ve told us you don’t like. Ultimately you are paying us to play music your guests will enjoy and we are sensitive to your needs at the same time.
What kinds of music are included in your collection? Platinum DJ owns an enormous library of music in all formats spanning over multiple generations. We update our collection constantly, ensuring that we are able to provide the songs that our clients and their guests are currently enjoying. Furthermore, we work closely with our clients in selecting the music for their event. Because of this, we can virtually guarantee that we will be able to accommodate any request. If one of your guests request a song and we don't have it... we can get it (either in advance through the use of our RSVP music request sheets, or by download if the venue has Wi-Fi)
How do you dress for an event? Our DJs typical “uniform” is a black collared shirt with black slacks. If a tuxedo or other attire would be more appropriate for your event, simply let us know your preference.
When do you arrive to set up for an event? We don't typically guarantee the arrival time of the DJ however we ask our DJs to be setup, sound checked, and ready to play no later than one hour prior to the contracted start time of the event, and earlier as necessitated by the setup requirements of the site.
What kind of equipment do you use? Our DJs use the highest quality professional-grade equipment available: strictly computer-based DJ systems, Denon mixers, EV speakers and Shure microphones. Wireless microphones are always provided and fog is provided upon request. Our lighting system consists of only LED based lighting to reduce our footprint and ensure minimal power consumption.
How are emergencies handled? We’re proud to have originated the most rock-solid emergency backup plan in the DJ industry. Our DJs take the responsibility of performing for a wedding extremely seriously, and is both contractually and ethically obligated to do everything possible to avoid emergencies. However, to ensure your event’s complete success, we have a company we work closely with who pays an “Emergency DJ” to be on call. That DJ is prepared with appropriate attire, equipment, and music. In addition, our DJs bring a full set of backup music to every event in the event of computer issues, and the equipment is immaculately maintained to ensure proper performance.
Are you insured? Platinum DJ carries a full liability insurance policy with a coverage value of $1,000,000. We are happy to provide you or your venue with a copy of our insurance policy upon request.
Will you present a contract at our initial meeting? Yes. Your DJ will come prepared with a contract guaranteeing his/her presence at your event, and an accurate and inclusive price. We feel that providing you with a contract is respectful of your time and presents the opportunity for you to review its terms with the DJ and ask questions if necessary. It also gives you, in writing, the terms of Platinum DJ’s offer, something that may not be guaranteed with other companies’ verbal promises.
However, please know that you would never be asked or expected to sign your contract on the spot; we are happy for you to take it home for consideration. Contracts are valid for ten (10) days following your meeting, and we will hold your date for you on the DJ’s schedule during that time. Out of fairness to others who may be waiting on the DJ’s availability, we do ask you to notify us of your decision within that 10-day window. If you decide you are not ready to move forward with booking your DJ at that time, we would need to release that DJ’s availability for another couple. If you do decide to cancel your contract with us within 24 hours of signing you will be entitled to a complete refund.
What are the terms of payment if I book your services? A $300 non-refundable deposit is due with your signed contract within 10 days of your initial meeting with your DJ. The balance is collected 30 days prior to your event. Clients who elect to take advantage of the full payment discount would remit the full amount, less $100, with their signed contract. Platinum DJ accepts cash, personal cheques, certified checks or money orders, and e-mail money transfers.
What do you require from my event site? We require at least one 6-foot table, and adequate power (two 120-volt, 15-amp circuits on a grounded outlet free from other connected loads) within 15 feet of where the DJ will be set up. We require a location that is dance-floor adjacent and require a minimum of 10-foot by 10-foot area for setup place additional space for speakers and lighting stands.
Can we speak with your previous clients? Your DJ will gladly provide you with references upon request, who are more than happy to discuss the quality of his performance and customer service. You will not be asked to “cold call” people to check our references; we will be sure to let them know to expect your call. We want you to feel completely comfortable in researching our services.
Can we visit you at a performance? Out of respect for the privacy of others on their special day, Platinum DJ does not permit prospective clients to “drop in” on a wedding. However, our references, online reviews, and the information we provide you in our initial meeting will speak volumes of our experience, style, and professionalism.
What does it mean that Platinum DJ is committed to “green” weddings? Platinum DJ is committed to environmentally responsible business practices, including offsetting our electricity usage by maintaining a “paperless” office where possible, utilizing recycled materials for any documents we produce, and recycling our previous equipment in an environmentally safe manner.
How do you maintain your great reputation while continuing to grow your company? Simple: we are a values-based company and operate using a very standardized set of protocols, from communication to wedding preparation. Our DJs know our core values, our philosophy and the type of client experience upon which our reputation has been built. Because we’ve placed such an emphasis on carefully recruiting new DJs and ensuring that each of them “lives our brand,” so to speak, we plan to grow without sacrificing any of the quality for which we’re known. The diversity of our reviews and references is a testament to our company’s consistency.
Most importantly…why should I choose Platinum DJ for my event? Simply put, we provide exceptional entertainment and the most accommodating and attentive customer care found in this industry.
"There are many things I would change if I re-lived my wedding day but hiring Platinum DJ is something I would DEFINITELY do again!"