Ask the Right Questions:
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Booking a DJ, solo artist, or photographer is a big step toward creating a memorable event. Asking the right questions up front helps ensure everything runs smoothly and aligns with your vision.
Clear, open communication is key. I believe a great experience starts with an honest conversation. The list of suggested questions below is designed to help guide that process—it’s not a complete checklist, just a helpful starting point.
Every event is different, and your ideas matter. I’m always happy to:
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Discuss the details
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Answer any additional questions
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Offer guidance and clarity
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Collaborate to bring your vision to life
Let’s talk—your event deserves nothing less.
1. How long have you been DJing?
Deftone Music emphasizes years of professional experience in weddings and large events, showing reliability. I have been a DJ for ten years.
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2. Can we watch you perform before booking you?
You can check out videos, mixes, or social media clips to preview my style. If I have an event that is open to the public, you are obviously more than welcome to attend the event.
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3. Have you ever worked at our venue before?
With experience across many venues in Florida, it is likely I've performed at a variety of event spaces. Considering however how many venues there are in Florida, there is a good chance that I have not worked at the venue you're considering.
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4. Can you send us a list of reviews from your other clients?
My site and google business page feature testimonials and client feedback.
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5. Will you be the DJ at our function?
Yes, you hire the professional DJ listed, (myself), not a subcontractor.
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6. What makes you different from other DJs?
Deftone highlights tailored playlists, professional equipment, and the ability to blend MC services with DJing. I also stand behind my three core principles: Honest, Dependable, and Creative.
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7. What's your performance style?
The style is professional, adaptive to the audience, and focused on keeping the dance floor full. I enjoy engaging with the audience, especially when playing acoustic guitar.
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8. What type of music do you specialize in?
Wide range: From wedding classics and Top 40 to Latin, hip-hop, elecronic, and custom playlists. I love to take requests while performing as a DJ and as a solo acoustic musician.
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9. What are your favorite songs to play?
It varies by event, but typically crowd-energizing tracks and custom requests.
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10. Can we give you a list of must-hear and do-not-play songs?
Yes, customization is a big part of my service. This is your event, that you are paying for. You deserve the opportunity to provide these types of requests.
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11. Will you take song requests from guests during the event?
Yes, while balancing with your playlist preferences. This is a very fine line that requires the ability to read the audience, consider what they are dancing to, and how many requests I have honored.
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12. What filler music will you play while not at the DJ booth?
Curated background playlists, matching the mood (cocktail hour, dinner, etc)
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13. How do you encourage a shy crowd to dance?
Through careful music selection, reading the room and professional MC engagement. I am not a shy individual, and am very comfortable engaging with the audience.
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14. Can you help us create a wedding playlist?
Absolutely!! I work with my clients to build personalized playlists when they so desire.
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15. What's included in your pricing package?
Packages typicaly include DJ performance, solo acoustic performance, or both. I provide all of the necessary equipment. There are additional add-ons like smoke and lighting for an additional charge.
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16. Will you also act as an emcee?
Absolutely, MC services are mentioned, and I am very capable of doing so.
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17. Does your contract include an overtime clause?
Most professional DJs including myself are willing to work overtime, and is available at an hourly rate.
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18. Does your rate include setup and breakdown services?
Yes, setup and breakdown are part of the package. This should also be considered and understood by the client. What many people don't see is what goes into a job, both before and after.
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19. Does your package include lighting?
Yes, for an additional fee, lighting can be provided.
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20. Are you available on our preferred date?
Availabiliy is determined and confirmed during booking.
21. Do you bring backup equipment?
Yes, professional DJs carry backup systems. I try to practice redundancy in all aspects of my equipment to avoid event disasters.
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22. How much space do you need for yourself and your gear?
Usually, a small stage or booth area with electrical outlets.
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23. Do you have any special requirements for your vendor meal?
Many DJ's request a simple vendor meal, especially for long events. I personally appreciate this, but understand that it is not always an option.
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24. What's your plan B for inclement weather for outside events?
Equipment is covered with tents or relocated indoors if needed.
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25. Will you have a soundcheck on the day of?
Yes, soundchecks are done before guests arrive.
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26. Do you require liability insurance?
Yes, most venues require DJs to carry insurance. I am fully insured.
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27. What's your cancellation policy?
Likely requires notice and may retain a deposit, as standard in contracts .
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28. How many breaks do you need throughout the evening?
Minimal breaks, music continues with playlists if necessary. The frequency of breaks depends on event intricacies and length.
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29. What time will you arrive at the venue?
Typically 1 to 2 hours before the event for setup and sound check.
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30. Do you perform at more than one event a day?
Usually only one, to stay fully dedicated to your specific event.
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31. What is the deposit, and when is it due?
A deposit secures the date, with the balance due before the event. The deposit depends on the event.
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32. Do you provide wireless mics for the ceremony and reception?
Yes, wireless microphones are part of my services.
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33. What will you wear?
Professional attire matching the event (formal for weddings, causual elegant for parties)