Unless you specifically ban guest requests, I am always happy to consider guest requests. But that doesn't mean I will definitely play every request. That's one of the reasons why you're hiring a professional DJ, instead of renting a jukebox.
A jukebox will play whatever people want, without any regard for how well one song might flow into another, or whether people are actually dancing to the songs.
A professional DJ will act as an effective "gatekeeper" when it comes to requests. Some songs are great choices that will fit in with the flow and keep people dancing. Other songs might not really fit in... I'm not going to play a request if I suspect it could wind up clearing the dance floor. In some cases, I'll play a request but I might hold onto it for awhile because I know it will get a better response later, rather than immediately.
If you're asking in the context of requests during COVID-19: I have a system which allows guests to make socially-distanced requests via their smartphones. (It's web-based, they will NOT need to download an app.)
Yes! It's included at no extra charge in my Gold Wedding Package. It can be added a la carte to any other DJ package. My uplighting is wireless so there's no worries about messy extension cords that pose a tripping hazard.
No problem! I've done plenty of outdoor events. Just one big thing to consider: overhead protection for my equipment is required for all outdoor performances, rain or shine. If there will be a tent, gazebo, porch or any other shelter provided by you or the venue, that's awesome! If not, I can bring my own canopy tent. There's no extra charge, but I just need to know in advance so I can arrive early enough to set it up.
If you're planning an outdoor wedding, check out my Peter's Pointers blog post, "6 Must-Haves for Outdoor Weddings."
Nearly all of my bookings are private, invitation-only events. Just as I am sure you would not want me inviting complete strangers to your wedding, it would not be appropriate for me to invite you into somebody else's wedding.
However, I'm proud to refer you to the many reviews previous clients have written about my services since 2011.
No signs or banners are displayed on my setup at weddings or other private events. (I think that's tacky - your wedding is about you, it's not about advertising myself.) However, I may place a modest sign or two on or near my setup when doing public or non-profit events, especially if I am performing at a discounted rate or donating my time and services.
Generally, I arrive 1½ to 2½ hours prior to the contracted start time to load-in and setup for an event. It depends on a variety of factors. Let's discuss the specifics of your event, and I can tell you exactly how early I'll need to arrive.
In the rare event your venue does not allow ample time for setup and/or teardown, I may need to hire an assistant so that the same amount of set-up work can be accomplished within your venue's timeframes. Should this be necessary, the additional cost for the assistant would be added to your price quote.
Yes, I own all of my equipment, and it is never loaned or rented out to anyone else. In fact, I bring extras of almost everything -- so in the very unlikely event of an equipment problem, I can swap it out with little or no noticeable impact.
Just one: me. When you book Peter Naughton, you get Peter Naughton. I personally handle every step of the process -- from answering your initial quote request to booking, planning, performing the event and packing-up all the gear at the end of the night.
I bring backups of all my sound equipment -- laptops, hard drives, mixers, amplifiers. If something fails, I can just swap it out and keep the party rolling.
Yes, and a certificate of coverage can be provided upon request. Even if you decide to hire someone else, please make sure they have insurance. Never book an uninsured DJ; it could wind up costing you big time if anything goes wrong. Want to know how? Check out my Peter's Pointers blog post: "Why You Should Never Hire an Uninsured DJ."
