Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the answers to some of the questions I am asked most frequently...
Tell me about yourself! What do I / my venue need to know about you?
I'm an experienced professional mobile DJ suitable for all occasions, based in the northwest of England. I usually bring all my own sound and lighting equipment and stands, so all I'll need at the venue is power; alternatively, I'm happy to use any equipment installed in your chosen venue if it's suitable. The venue will usually want to know that I have full public liability insurance and all my equipment has regular electrical safety (PAT) tests; you can find my certificates here.
What sort of music do you play?
I'm happy playing a wide variety of music, and I will always want to ask about your music preferences - I'm very honest about my strengths, and I'll have no problem recommending another DJ to you if I think that they would do a better job.
How far in advance should I contact you?
I would recommend getting in touch as early as you can, as I'm booked up well in advance of many dates. There's always a high demand for high-quality DJs, just as there is for high-quality venues, catering, etc.
Can I see you working before I book you?
Much of my work is for private functions such as weddings and birthday parties, and for obvious reasons I can't invite you along to these. But I do play in public venues occasionally; to find out when my next publicly-accessible gig is, please contact me.
Will you work alongside other entertainment / other suppliers?
Definitely - and if you'd like to hire a band / musicians, a dance floor, a photo booth, a magician (etc etc) and need a recommendation, please let me know what you're looking for; I'll almost certainly be able to suggest somebody.
How do I book you?
Firstly I need to check my diary and make sure I'm available for you, answer any questions you may have and give you a price. You can contact me any way you like for me to do that. After that, I'll always ask you to send me an email or other message to confirm your booking, and I'll reply to confirm the date is in my diary. This minimises the possibility of any misunderstandings, but if something needs to change unexpectedly, I will do my best to help.
How long do you need to set up / take down your equipment?
I usually need 60-75 minutes to load everything in and get set up, and about 40 minutes to pack up and get out - but this can vary depending on the venue layout (e.g. distance between the car parking and the function room). I'll ask you about the wider plans for the day / evening so I can fit in as best I can.
My chosen venue has a sound limiter...
Some venues have a sound limiter fitted which cuts off the stage electrical supply if the maximum volume permitted by the venue's entertainment licence is exceeded. Many entertainers refuse to work in venues with these devices, as they can be unpredictable and can damage equipment. They're no problem to me, but please ensure that you're happy with the volume restriction at the venue before booking me, as this is completely out of my control.
How and when do I pay you?
Payment is made in cash or by bank transfer, on the day or at any point beforehand that suits you, but before I begin. I prefer not to have to disturb customers at the end of an occasion, when they may still be talking to their guests. If you wish to propose alternative arrangements, they must be discussed and agreed between us at the time of booking and I will confirm them in writing.
Can you stay later if we're having fun?
Please feel free to ask me! I am definitely not a "clock-watcher" who starts to pack up immediately a set time is reached. However, please bear in mind that it is usually the management at the venue who decide what time the music has to stop, and they are usually strict, as they may have licence conditions and/or need to get their staff home on time. Because of this, I usually announce "the last song" a few minutes early, so that I have the time to play "one more song" before the end, and keep everybody happy!