That depends on a few things such as: when, where and what type of event.
A. The further away you are, the more I charge. Would you really expect a DJ service 75 miles from you to charge the same rate to someone who's 5 miles away? Please don't be fooled by companies that say they don't charge extra for travel. What they will do is integrate an extra charge into your quote.
B. Summer Saturdays are primarily reserved for weddings. New years Eve is the highest price day of the year. October through April is more affordable. The time of year will be a deciding factor. Watch for seasonal discounts offered.
C. Private functions are different than Weddings. School dances are different than fundraisers, etc.
Why do you charge so much? The general publics idea of what an entertainer charges hasn’t changed much in 15 years. Why? Every year multitudes of novice/hobbyist Dj’s start djing to make some side money. They may work for multi unit companies or for themselves. They offset the market because of their mass numbers. These beginners may charge less than half of what a professional charges. Actually we are very affordable for the level of service we offer. Try asking a photographer, caterer or videographer what they charged 10 years ago. Pricing is directly related to the service provided. You get what you pay for.
Do you have a license? Yes. We have a DBA on file.
Are you insured?
Yes. It is now increasingly a requirement by most banquet halls and hotels that any visiting Mobile DJ have Public Liability Insurance. Fingerlakes DJ Service is insured to $2,000,000 through our wedj.com membership. A copy of our coverage is included in all information packets.
When do you arrive?
I generally arrive 90 minutes early to private functions and 2-3 hours early to wedding receptions. Why so early? It only takes one flat tire, one storm cloud, one breakdown, and one fool on the road ahead to make me late. Imagine you're the bride, pulling into the reception and you see the DJ unloading equipment. Panic sets in! Allowing extra time for commuting is common sense. I've been to events that require me to travel up flights of stairs and down long hallways; this can also eat up crucial set up time. This extra cushion of time allows for these and any unforeseen challenges.
Can you help us with planning?
I will be happy to provide you with helpful planning information that will assist your decision making process. Much of what makes a DJ prompt, personable and professional lies in helping you organize and prepare. Whether you need help with a special presentation, setting up the hall, picking the music, timing the order of events or making announcements, it is my pleasure to help you with the planning. I will coordinate with the caterer, photographer and videographer to ensure that your reception or party is a success. I will turn all of your event details into an itinerary for you and other event personnel on hand.
Do you interact with us?
Yes. Professionalism encompasses my entire approach toward interacting with the client Often-times receptions, parties and school dances require activities which are thought of and prepared for well in advance. Interactive ideas can involve people of any age. I have a wide range of ideas that will add spice to your event. I will arrange all required elements needed for games and activities. These activities offer energized fun and excitement to any event.
Do you provide a contract?
Yes. I provide a contract clearly stating price, policies and times of performance based on information received from you. This contract is mandatory for all events, regardless of pricing, because my insurance carrier requires this contract.
Do you belong to any Association's ?
Yes. A person who belongs to a professional organization is more likely to perform as a professional. The opportunities to network with other DJ's through an association are extremely beneficial in keeping up with the latest trends in the development of the industry. You will be given a list of our memberships.
Do you provide commercial equipment?
Yes. Please visit the Equipment page for a visual listing.
Do you bring Backup equipment?
Yes we do. We carry 2 laptops that can substitute as players. We carry additional speakers, and two amplifiers. Wired mics would be used as backup to the wireless system.
What about lighting?
We carry lighting that costs you nothing extra. Lighting has always been a passion of mine. We try to buy new and different lights every couple of years. Lighting is like candy for the eyes and energy to a room. Check out the Equipment page for a full listing.
Do you charge for travel?
No travel fees if you're within a 40-mile radius of Penn Yan. If you're unsure of your distance go to Mapquest.com, click on "driving directions, enter your zip code and mine (14527) to determine the distance. Engagements in excess of 40 miles (each way) will be charged an additional fee. If you're over 75 miles away, you may be required to pay for overnight accommodations.
Are there any hidden fees/upgrades?
No. We state everything up front. Please check your date availability and call us for a no-obligation consultation to determine what you may be charged. We do not have upgrades.
What about overtime?
We charge time and a half just like any other business. If overtime is needed it is generally not a problem.
How will you dress?
We dress in formal or semi-formal attire in most cases. Outdoor events may require a change of clothes to accommodate very hot weather.
What if I need to cancel or postpone?
Cancellations are handled in two ways. If you cancel within 45 days of the event date, you forfeit your deposit. If canceled more than 45 days prior, your deposit will be returned. If circumstances arise that require postponement, I will honor your contract with the new event date and issue a new contract. If the new date is already taken, then I will attempt to help you locate another qualified DJ. If the new date is booked with another DJ within the original 45-day cancellation period, then you forfeit your deposit.
