Who is the DJ?
I will be the main DJ. My daughters Jaime & Melissa assist me as alternate DJs, and are my backup in case of illness or other emergency.  I’ve been spinning records, CD's, and now MP3's, since 1975.  I was 15 when I did my first party and I’ve been having a blast doing it ever since.

You’re a DJ / MC.  What does that mean?
DJ stands for "Disc Jockey": I’m the guy playing the songs and talking a little about them — or not talking at all, if you prefer. MC means "Master of Ceremonies":  if you need someone to do all the talking, make announcements, introduce guests of honor, lead games, and really run the party — whether it’s a subdued corporate event or a raucous Halloween bash — I can do it. 

What type of music do you have?
I have about 150,000 songs, with music from the 30's to the present, in all genres.

Do you have a catalog of songs that I can look at?  
Yes; we always have a current list (updated every week) that is available for reference. Take a look:
Search Our Music Library!

Will you assist us with the music selection?
Certainly! Before every gig, we discuss your event, the attendees, the mood you’re trying to set, your musical preferences, and your audience’s likes and dislikes. You can give us an approved song list, specify artists you want to hear, identify songs to be played at special moments, or just leave it to us. If you’re unsure about the best musical direction to take or the best song for a particular moment, we’ll be happy to offer suggestions and advice (based on our years of experience and extensive musical knowledge).

Can I provide CD's you don't have?
Yes! If you or your guests give me a CD with a specific song that you want played — or if you’ve created a custom CD for the event — I’ll be happy to play it (as long as it’s suitable for your audience). I can also play cassettes, if necessary.

Will you take requests?
Of course! That’s all part of the fun... hearing the music that you and your guests want.
On the other hand, if you want firmer control of the event, and don’t want me to take requests, I won’t.

What will your attire be?
I dress for the party: Tux or suit for weddings and appropriate attire for all other parties.

Do you use professional equipment?
Absolutely! We have the latest state-of-the-art equipment, which we constantly update.  Take a look at our
Equipment page for a complete, detailed list of our audio and lighting gear.

Our computer-controlled database means that we can find the right song instantly. Our CD player also plays MP3's. We mix it all through a Digital Sampling Mixer and create optimum, custom equalization for each and every venue.

We use top-end amplifiers to provide audio power from 500 Watts to peaks of 20,000 Watts.  We keep the sounds crisp and clear with a wide variety of speakers for smaller functions, larger venues, and outdoor events, including monstrous sub-woofers for that “big bass”.

During the party — if you’re on the other side of the room — you can text-message a musical request via your cell phone. Our cellular internet connection also means that you can e-mail me or IM me with a request, using AOL, Yahoo or Microsoft Messenger.

Do you have back-up equipment?
Yes! I have 4 amplifiers and an extra mixing board with me at all times.

What are the electric power requirements?
To run all of the equipment, we need a dedicated 20 Amp circuit; and the power outlet should be as close to the DJ station as possible.  I do have 100' of power cable. For remote sites I can provide a generator for all of my equipment. There is an extra fee for this service and arrangements should be made prior to the engagement.

Are you insured?
Yes!

Can we call you with questions?
Absolutely! You can call me at:
 630-421-8752 and/or
e-mail me too.

How many hours are included in a standard party?
Our standard playing time for a party is 4 hours.

Will you play over-time?
YES… if the venue will stay open, we will play on at a contracted rate. There is an extra fee for this service and arrangements should be made prior to the engagement.

Do you have back up DJ’s in case of emergency?
There are always 2 DJ's at each function

Will I meet with my DJ prior to the event?
Yes, I’m always happy to meet with you before the big day. This way we can get to know each other, and we can both be sure that I have a good understanding of your event. It also helps with the little details, such as correct pronunciations of names, etc. The initial meeting can be at your home, Starbucks, or the restaurant of your choice. I always bring my laptop with me, so that we have all the resources necessary (complete artist and song lists) to plan your party’s agenda and music selection.

Do you use a contract?
Yes. This is a protection for both of us and avoids any miscommunication. I also ask for a deposit at the time of the contract signing.

Why do I have to leave a deposit? Is it refundable if I have to cancel?
Like any service business, I am often booked months/years in advance. Once you’ve reserved a date, I turn away all other requests for the same date. Your deposit protects my investment in your event. If you cancel at the last minute, it’s generally difficult, if not impossible, to re-book the date; and I lose business. Deposits are not refundable but can be applied to a future event.

Do you offer discounts?
Yes: repeat customers get a discount. Let’s talk.

Is there a charge for set-up or break-down time?
No, this is included.

Do you charge for travel?
There is no charge for round-trip travel of up to 1 hour. Any charge after that is at an agreed-upon rate.

Do you have lighting equipment? Is there a charge for using lights?
We have a good basic light show that comes free, as part of our standard package. More elaborate performances require more equipment and additional set-up time; so there is a charge for larger systems, at an agreed-upon rate.

Do you do KARAOKE?
Yes!

 


Email
Mark van Deventer

or Call

630-421-8752
(Anytime)

For
More Information