Frequently Asked Questions
Do you specialize in weddings?
Our name says it. We are true wedding specialists, experienced with all types of wedding celebrations. Weddings are our passion and make up over 90% of our business. Other types of events we do are high-end corporate functions and adult social functions, which typically require a similarly elegant approach and attention to detail.
How would you define your “style” or approach to providing DJ entertainment?
Our performers’ presentation is polished, marked by artistic mixing 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.
I don’t want the music at my wedding to be traditional wedding music. Can you do that?
Absolutely! 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.
How do you mix the music?
Mixing is a skill, and how a DJ does it says a lot about his or her style. We mix music with the purpose of creating seamless transitions between songs and maintaining 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 appearance, and we don’t use your wedding to test out remixes that no one recognizes.
Will you bring an assistant?
Yes, usually one assistant to help with set up, break down, etc.
How much do you charge?
Our base rates for weddings range from $1,600-$2,200. We base our pricing on location and size of the venue. 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 specific information on our pricing structure and services can be found on our Price Info page.
What is included in the cost of my event?
Up to five hours of performance time, setup time, breakdown time, any applicable taxes, and ALL equipment (including wireless microphones and subwoofer) for weddings up to 300 guests. For weddings over 300 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 10% discount for adding additional services?
We offer this discount to encourage using us as a one stop shop.
Do you offer up lighting?
Yes. To learn more, click on Pole & Drape tab.
Do you offer sound systems for live musicians?
Yes. We can provide PA systems for live bands and guest performers. Please feel free to ask for our recommendations — we’ve worked with just about everyone! 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.
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 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.
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.
What kind of music genres are included in your collection?
We own an enormous library of music in all formats, including international music. 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, and will gladly acquire any commercially available song that we don’t already own, at no additional cost. Because of this, we can virtually guarantee that we will be able to accommodate any request.
How do you dress for an event?
Our performers’ typical “attire” is semi-formal (Dark dress shirt and dress pants. 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?
Our performers always arrive on-site at least an hour and a half 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 performers use the highest quality professional-grade equipment available: Mac-based DJ systems, Pioneer and RANE mixers, JBL and QSC speakers and Shure microphones. Wireless microphones are always provided.
Are you insured?
Yes, we carry a full liability insurance policy with a coverage value of $1,000,000. Our limits can be increased if required. We are happy to provide you or your venue with a copy of our insurance policy upon request.
What are the terms of payment if I book your services?
A 50% nonrefundable retainer is due with your signed contract. The balance is collected the day of your event when we arrive at the site prior to setitng up. We accept cash, personal checks, certified checks or money orders. We also accept MasterCard, Visa, and Discover via our online payment gateway.
What do you require from my event site?
We require at least one 6-foot banquet table, with linens, and adequate power (120-volt, 15-amp circuit on a grounded outlet) within 35 feet of where the DJ will be set up.
Can we speak with your previous clients?
Yes, we will gladly provide you with references upon request, who are more than happy to discuss the quality of our 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, We do 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.
Most importantly…why should I choose Wedding DJ's Hawaii for my event?
Simply put, we provide exceptional entertainment and the most accommodating and attentive customer care found in this industry.