Recent Interview Questions from Marrero Events and Paula Marrero!

Blog post from Paula Marrero at http://www.marreroevents.com/.

I recently had the opportunity to sit and chat with James Esposito, Owner of Move it Music DJ and Lighting Productions, and we had the chance to discuss many items which come up often when considering wedding entertainment options.

How did you get into this business?
I got into this business by playing music and being the emcee for Sweet 16 parties and Graduation parties for my friends at the age of 13. I entered the Wedding entertainment industry in 1998, where I brought a fresh approach at mixing old and new music to keep the dance floor packed.

Why do you love what you do so much?
I truly love helping to make a couple’s wedding day memorable for their family and friends.  It is extremely rewarding to see three generations of family members dancing together.

What Venue would be your dream Venue to host an event?
My dream venue is a piazza in Rome.  A beautiful, open space filled with hundreds of guests, young and old.

How many weddings does Move It Music perform at each year?
Move It Music  hosts approximately 175 flawless weddings per year. During2011, I personally am performing at 81 of those weddings.

Why should Clients choose Move it Music for their Wedding / Special Event?
My clients choose Move it Music for all of their entertainment needs, as well as a flawlessly executed event.  We eliminate the margin for error in the planning process by asking the right questions.  On the day of the wedding, we impeccably assist the bride and groom through all of their formalities while maintaining their timeline with their other vendors.  Our set up is clean, self contained and features state-of-the-art equipment and a repertoire of over 65,000 songs.  Along with all of this, our clients choose Move It Music because we keep the party going!  There is always a packed dance floor till the last song!

What are some challenges associated with outdoor weddings?
The challenges associated with outdoor events include power, acoustics and weather, all of which we are very accustomed to by this point.  This coincides with eliminating the margin for error in the planning process by asking the correct questions.  Site visits, showing up early and having the right equipment to handle any situation ensures a flawless delivery.

When you meet a client, what is your process for customizing your services to them?
Each venue a client chooses has its own unique fun, engaging, exciting and enthusiastic challenges.  Our professionals at Move it Music have performed events in the most challenging of venues/circumstances including boats, private residences, museums and most wedding venues in Boston and throughout the North and South Shores of Boston.   We are highly knowledgeable with regard to our clients’ different cultural music preferences, and we listen to our brides and grooms.  At Move It Music, we play the music that the clients want to hear at their wedding.   Also, our online planning forms make it easy, from our “must play” category to the “do not play” list and everything in between.   We are interested in delivering the final product that the bride and groom want.  We are also able to handle the additional services for their wedding including Uplighting, video and sound reinforcement, and this also helps us customize the perfect event.

What is the most memorable event you have ever worked on?
The most memorable event I have ever worked was a fundraiser for the Make a Wish Foundation.  We had over 1,000 guests on the dance floor together!

What is the most requested songs at Weddings?
We receive such a variety of requests, it is very difficult to choose just one, but with today’s trends, it seems that most requests have the artist Pit Bull in them.

What do you consider to be the biggest misconception of DJ’s?
I believe the biggest misconception of DJ’s is that any DJ can play music for a  wedding.  At Move It Music, we are true professional wedding DJ’s; we work tirelessly to control the flow of the entire event from ensuring the perfect timing for the processional and recessional music to a smooth transition into cocktail hour and finally flawless formalities that set the tone for the evening to come.

What sets you apart from other DJ’s in your field?
What sets us apart from others are the memories we create for our brides and grooms, our clean and state-of-the-art set up, our customized online planning forms, our versatility for any style of music, and our real DJ’s who mix all the music live.  We are also a small company with only three DJ’s, as opposed to a referral house that you will see with most DJ companies.  This enables us to give full attention to every detail of our client’s special event.

What is the most unusual request you have had?
The most unusual request I have had is when Michael Flatley  from Lord of the Dance asked me to the play the Fraggle Rock them song at a charity event.  Everyone got out of their seats and had a blast.

What is the one thing you would like folks to know about the DJ Industry that perhaps we would never know?
What I would like everyone to know is how specialized a talent it is to be a wedding DJ.  It takes years of events to learn all of the small details associated with being a successful wedding DJ.  The family semantics involved with a wedding can be a challenge in order to keep the event running smoothly.  We are the Master of Ceremonies, the Face of the event, and we do in fact control the feel of an event.  We always keep the feel and music consistent with the bride and groom’s theme, carrying through their motif and timing of their cuisine.

Why is there such a vast difference in pricing among DJ Services?
The vast price difference in DJ services is due to experience and owners’ preference.  Let’s face it; there are only so many bookable weekends in the season in New England, which spans from April through October.   Many owners of entertainment companies will book themselves at a higher rate than their employees utilizing a tiered price system insinuating that one DJ is “better” than another.    They are able to do this because of the demand for DJ’s and lack of consumer research.   We here at Move It Music have the same price for all of our DJ’s, as we only provide the “best”  DJ’s for every event.

What is your response to Clients who say they don’t want a “cheesy” DJ or one who sounds like a “game show host”?
I will first ask for their definition of cheesy. One very important thing to remember is that every client is different and so are their expectations.  We do not have a set  DJ “style.” We adapt ourselves to each clients tastes – planning each piece of the event together and delivering exactly what the bride and groom want.

What is your least favorite song to play at Weddings?
I do not have a least favorite song to play at weddings; my only concern is that the guests are enjoying the music, and they always do.

What is the most popular First Dance song these days?
It seems like the breakout artist Adele is topping the list at this time.

Any upcoming new and exciting trends in your industry?
Unfortunately, an upcoming trend is the “IPod” DJ.  With a play list and a small PA system, these “one-box” DJ’s have been flooding the industry.  When choosing the DJ for the biggest day of your life, be sure to choose a professional Wedding DJ.

Do you offer additional services besides DJ services?
We do offer additional services to our DJ and MC services. We are a lighting company providing wireless LED uplights, customized monograms and LED votives.  We also offer plasma video projection and a completely digital “Old-Time” Photo Booth.

Why should people select you for their wedding?
The fact that we are “real” mixing DJ’s combined with being exclusive Wedding DJ’s set us apart from all others in the industry to date.

About Move it Music DJ and Lighting Productions:
Move It Music DJ and Lighting is a Boston based DJ Entertainment and Lighting Company providing unforgettable events throughout the New England Area since 1998.  With over 35 years of combined entertainment experience, Move It Music’s professional DJ’s feature the latest in digital sound and lighting equipment to ensure that your Special Event will be one to remember.  Our Masters of Ceremonies (MC’s) are polished and accomplished professionals that play the perfect music for your wedding ceremony and reception, corporate or social event.  Move It Music DJ and Lighting is an award-winning, full-service entertainment company that knows how to enhance your event with the perfect music, professional lighting and attention to detail.

The Value of Entertainment

(Transcription from a Radio Interview with Peter Merry and 103.3 KLOU in St. Louis)

KLOU: You know, so many times I’m sure that brides are thinking of cost, of money. And that’s what they’re basing their decision on, primarily. Kind of hurts. Doesn’t it?

Peter: It can. Especially if they decide to spend too little money on their entertainment. In my experience, entertainment is the one component of the wedding reception that will make that function a really memorable, fun event, or an event that everyone is ready to leave early from because things are not going too well. I paint the picture this way: If you were to walk into a beautiful tent reception, and you saw the white linens on the chairs with the bows in silver tied around the backs, the place settings all perfect with the silverware polished, the cake decorated with all the flowers on it, and the centerpieces looking just as beautiful as you can imagine. And in the center of this beautiful tent reception, you see a large tent pole, and it’s colored bright orange with surf stickers. That center tent pole is the entertainment at the function. And if the entertainment does not match the environment you spent all this time and money and effort and emotion creating, then what you’re going to have is an orange tent pole with surf stickers on it. I’ve seen that personally. I’ve watched a DJ walk right out onto the middle of the crowd to introduce the bride’s father and step father at a very, very formal wedding reception. He held out the microphone and said, “Who wants it?” That’s how he introduced these two very important men to do a toast at this bride’s wedding. We never knew as guests, which one was her dad or her step father. We never knew what their names were. He did not match their event. So it’s becoming more and more apparent to people, that when it comes to hiring entertainment for their function, it’s a good idea to put aside a good amount of your budget to make sure you’re going to get somebody with the talent. and the skill, and the personality, to deliver the event that matches what you’re looking for. And it’s become my belief that anywhere from 10 to 15 to even 20% of your budget is a good amount to set aside for your entertainment. Because, in surveys that we’ve done, we’ve found that clients are saying 80% or more of the success of their reception was riding on the entertainment that they chose. As a matter of fact, in the St. Louis Bride and Groom Magazine, in the summer/fall of 2003, there’s an article tilted, “Survey Says, After the Vows.” It’s on page 108 if anybody would like to look it up. It says, “During wedding planning, brides say their highest priority is their attire followed by the reception site, with reception entertainment among the least of their priorities. But, within one week after the reception, 78% of brides say they would have made the entertainment their highest priority.” I think that number is really, really high. I think the reason why that number is so high and that so many people are recognizing afterwards that the entertainment was important, is because DJs primarily, but also the magazines and the books, are telling them to just hire music.

KLOU: You know, and as I think about it, when you look back to some of the parties you’ve attended, you don’t remember a whole lot of what happened. You know, the menu, or what the decorations looked like. But, you remember if you had a good time or not.

Peter: Well, as a matter of fact in that same article, it says, when asked, 81% of the guests said the thing they remember most about a wedding was the entertainment. If they have a great time, they leave raving about how much fun they had. If the entertainment was very, very inadequate, they leave complaining about how poor the entertainment was. That’s the number one factor that will determine whether the guests will be raving about it for years to come, or whether or not they’re going to be hoping they don’t get stuck at a wedding with that entertainer ever again.

KLOU: You know, it’s kind of funny because, that’s what I was thinking. If they’re going to spend, I don’t know, say in round figures about $20,000 that day, and you hire poor entertainment, and your guests leave an hour and half, two hours early, you start amortizing that money, you just lost a whole bunch of money, because you didn’t invest enough money in your entertainment.

Peter: That’s absolutely correct. And our experience has shown us that the person who’s in charge of guiding and directing the flow of the event, making it fun for all the guests all the way through, not just when it’s time to dance, is the person who’s going to make sure the majority of your guests stay an enjoy your celebration with you. Whether the party ends early with a big send-off, or whether it goes late into the wee hours of the night, making a great party last and making it fun for everybody is the job that’s primarily on the shoulders of the entertainment that you choose. If you’re going with DJ entertainment, and you decide to save some money and get somebody who’s a little cheaper, you could wind up getting somebody who’s going to make your guests start hitting the road a lot sooner than you want. That will cost you more than you spent on that entertainer. That’s something I’d regret seeing anybody making a mistake doing.

KLOU: Should a client look at equipment, or even consider equipment when they’re looking at a potential DJ?

Peter: The person who thinks a DJ’s equipment is the most important aspect is typically the mobile DJ. And that’s kind of funny, but it’s true. The equipment that a DJ brings to the event is one of several tools he or she uses to provide great service. But, if you try to find a DJ based just on equipment, you can find all the best gear, you can find all the best equipment, you can even find the best music list in the world, but if the person doesn’t have the talent and skill to make the party happen, all those tools won’t matter a hill of beans towards making a great party. Just like when you go to look for a contractor to build your house, you want to find somebody with references, who’s done a good, reliable job, and created great products, such as a nice house or a nice addition to a house. You don’t want to find somebody who’s got a great list of tools. The tools are what he uses to provide his service, and the same way, a DJ’s gear, his music, and everything else are tools that he uses to provide his service. What you want to verify is his talent along with quality, and level of the service that he provides. You can bring in the most skilled DJ in the world and give him some of the worst tools, and I guarantee you he’ll still make it a great party. But, you can give all the best tools to someone who has no skill or no talent whatsoever and that party will still tank.

KLOU: I guess you just want the end result. You just want a good party.

Peter: If you want the event to be fun, the number one component that’s going to make it fun, is the entertainment.

KLOU: Well Peter Merry, thanks for spending some time with us.

Content from DJ Larry Green http://www.myrtlebeachdj.com

Wedding Reception Music Basics: Bands vs DJs

Can't decide who should play your wedding tunes? Here's everything you need to know to find the right music maker for your day.

No doubt about it: Music can make or break a wedding celebration. It's the heart and soul of a reception and can send your guests home with happy feet -- or pained grimaces! The fact that you want to hire a talented band or fleet-fingered DJ is a given. Finding one is a matter of polling friends, surfing online, shopping around with fine-tuned ears, and making a move quickly -- top talent can get booked up to a year in advance. What type of entertainment suits your personal taste, budget, space allowances, guest demographics, and killer dance moves best? Keep an open mind, and consider these issues to start your search.

Vibe
The type of music you choose can set the tone of your wedding and solidify a theme. And remember, it's the thing people most often remember. Think about what musical genre best reflects your personalities and inspires the ambience you want to create: Groovy funk or subdued string quartet? Swanky swing or kick-off-your-shoes-and-sweat zydeco? The way the music is delivered -- by live band or DJ -- also affects the ambience. The type of music you choose may dictate the choice too -- big band sounds are generally best live, for example.


Variety
Are you a little bit country, while he's a little bit rock and roll? Regardless of whether you choose a band or DJ, be sure they play slow and fast songs, and old and new tunes to encourage different sets of guests to hit the dance floor.


Budget
In the price war, DJs generally cost less, and prices vary depending on equipment requests and whether it's a weekday or a weekend. A 12-piece band, for example, will generally be more expensive than a DJ, since there are more people to pay. (There are always exceptions; celebrity DJs can be just as expensive as live bands.) Band prices vary by the number of musicians, the amount of time you want them to play for, day of the week, and what time of year it is.


Space
Don't get your heart set on an 8-piece salsa band before you check whether the reception site has any restrictions on the number of musicians and pieces of equipment you may bring in, and whether there are any electrical power supply or noise limitations. For example, a registered landmark reception site may not allow you to use large speakers. Ask these questions before you start scouting bands.


Band? or...
There's nothing like a live wedding band to get a crowd stoked and create a sense of sophistication. Music groups can synergize with the tone of your wedding and almost any niche theme, offering everything from accordion to klezmer ditties. A good bandleader will play the master of ceremonies at your reception if you want him to interact with folks on the dance floor, pay attention to the "feel" of the room, and select music accordingly.


*Pros: Live music is, well, live. You and your guests will experience the pleasure of a performance. Anything can happen to raise the excitement level, from an infectious horn-section interlude to a moving solo.
*Cons: Bands can be more expensive than DJs. Also, no matter how great the band, they can't have the repertoire of a standard DJ, who can keep a huge variety of music on hand.


...DJ?
Don't fear the DJ: The days of disco fever and flashing lights are gone. Today's disc jockeys are artists in their own right, offering balanced and eclectic mixes of musical styles for all ages. Plus, the songs played will sound exactly as you remember them, encouraging sing-alongs and improvisation. And, depending on the amount of equipment a DJ brings, she'll take up less dance floor real estate and can be relocated with relative ease.


*Pros: If there are a dozen songs you're dying to hear at your wedding, it likely won't be a problem for your DJ to find each track. Also, DJs are generally less expensive than bands. A DJ with a charismatic stage presence and excellent emcee skills can really set the mood and keep the party going.
*Cons: On the opposite end of the spectrum, a DJ with a less-than stellar personality can be a party-killer. Also, improvisation is tough if, say, your dad is dragging behind tempo on the father-daughter dance or your nieces and nephews decide to crash the chicken dance.

You Must Remember This...

Ideally, you will want to see a DJ or band in action before you commit so that you can gauge firsthand the way they dress, deadpan, and work the crowd. (Ask to see a taped public performance or attend a dress rehearsal, but you should never crash another couple's reception.) If that's not a possibility, ask for a playlist, and look for songs you know and love. If a band gives you a CD, cassette, or video, be sure that the musicians you hear or see are the same musicians who will play at your reception. Also, ask for referrals from the last few weddings the band or DJ played. Consider your first-dance song a test. If the band doesn't know it and is unwilling to learn it, or the DJ doesn't own it and is unwilling to get it, move on.

Before You Sign

Know that all professionals should be open to your likes and dislikes. Give them your personal request list, songs they must, and, perhaps more importantly, a do-not-play list. Worried that you'll hear the "Macarena" at your once-in-a-lifetime event? Specifically prohibit the playing of a song you feel strongly about in your contract.


Read more: Reception Music: Bands vs. DJs - Wedding Planning - Wedding Music - TheKnot.com http://wedding.theknot.com/wedding-planning/wedding-music-ideas/articles/wedding-reception-music-bands-vs-djs.aspx#ixzz1PZ5medBt

The Perfect First Dance

Part of a wedding DJ's job is to help their clients infuse every aspect of the wedding with personality and style, and the first wedding dance is no exception. Sure, some people have their reasons for choosing an old standby (Etta James' "At Last," anyone?), but the first dance at a wedding is the perfect time for a couple to make a statement about their unique relationship and their dreams for the future.

Still, many couples draw a blank when it comes to finding that one special song. Here is some advice for planners to share with their clients to help them along the way.

Find the tempo and mood that's right for you. Maybe it's slow and romantic, maybe it's gentle and whimsical, maybe it's upbeat and rockin'.  Choosing the style of song that suits you will make you much more comfortable on the dance floor, and in some cases, can say a lot about your personalities!

Think back to experiences you've shared as a couple. Recall the movies and TV shows you've seen, concerts you've attended, even songs you heard together in a bar or another wedding. (Couples' nostalgia is what's made Dave Matthews a popular choice for wedding first dances!)

Look for innovative covers of old classics. Maybe a cool cover version exists of a song your parents or grandparents danced to at their own wedding. Cover songs are also a great way to work in some of today's artists in a way that appeals to a wide variety of ages.

Consider making your first and last dance a special surprise. One of you gets to choose the first dance, one chooses the last dance. Keep the songs a secret from one another, giving the titles and artists directly to the DJ. The rush of surprise and emotion as each person hears the other's selection for the first time is guaranteed to make the wedding even more special.

Choosing a song to use for the bride and groom’s first dance is an important task. Your first dance on that special day will be remembered forever. You′ll want to make sure that the song you choose suits both of your interests and style. If you have no clue what to pick for the perfect first dance, here is a top 25 most requested Perfect First Dance list.

1   Paisley, Brad - Then

2   Black Eyed Peas - I Gotta Feeling

3   James, Etta - At Last

4   Mraz, Jason & Colbie Caillat - Lucky

5   Lonestar - Amazed

6   Rascal Flatts - Bless The Broken Road

7   Buble, Michael - Everything

8   Train - Marry Me

9   Lamontagne, Ray - You Are The Best Thing

10   Urban, Keith - Only You Can Love Me This Way

11   Matthews Band, Dave - You And Me

12   Mcgraw, Tim - My Best Friend

13   Strait, George - I Cross My Heart

14   Adele - Make You Feel My Love

15   Johnson, Jack - Better Together

16   Presley, Elvis - Can't Help Falling In Love

17   Mcgraw, Tim With Faith Hill - It's Your Love

18   Chesney, Kenny - Me And You

19   Urban, Keith - Making Memories Of Us

20   Sinatra, Frank - The Way You Look Tonight

21   Aerosmith - I Don't Want To Miss A Thing

22   Green, Al - Let's Stay Together

23   Clapton, Eric - Wonderful Tonight

24   Mraz, Jason - I'm Yours

25   Jones, Norah - Come Away With Me

Talk with your Move It Music DJ; we are here to assist you in every aspect of your special day!

The Importance of a Professional DJ at your Wedding

A wedding is said to be the one event that will stay in a couple's consciousness for their entire lives. It is an event that is symbolized by true love between two people. The success of a wedding reception has lots of variables, but one certainty; did EVERYONE at the wedding enjoy themselves!  Entertainment preparation is thus imperative to execute the perfect wedding.

In addition to all the thousand details that you need to keep up with in planning your wedding, insuring that you have a great professional DJ should be at the top of the list. You may think anyone can play music, but keep in mind this will be the entertainer at your reception contributing to over 80% of the success of the wedding.  He will be interacting with not just you but your guests and the other on-site vendors.

There are two aspects of wedding music that need to be addressed when planning your big day. First you may wish to select certain music for your professional wedding DJ to play during the actual wedding ceremony. Next, the wedding reception; it's pretty much anything goes when it comes to selecting wedding music, provided it's tasteful fun and appealing to everyone.  Don't just hire someone and tell them be here at 6. Be sure he fully understands what is expected of him and that he keeps your vision and expectations front and center!

He should be able to give you advice and suggestions for improving the tone and atmosphere of your wedding.  An experienced professional DJ knows what works and what doesn't at a wedding as many have performed at hundreds.  He should be asking questions like the size of the crowd, the median age of the crowd and how interactive would you like him to be; he should also be getting a feel for the type of atmosphere that you want portrayed at your wedding.

Be sure you and your professional wedding DJ have a plan in place to ensure success.  Sit down with the DJ prior to the ceremony and go over details such as what he should be doing for the all the important events that will be taking place during your wedding and reception.  He should have a detailed planning form for you to fill out and listings of his music for you to build a suggested playlist from.

As with many things in your wedding, prior planning will make a huge difference in the success of your wedding.  We here at Move It Music DJ and Lighting are a professional DJ and Lighting company providing unmatched service for your wedding.  We can help you create and execute the perfect wedding with great music, excellent customer service and beautiful lighting effects.  Give us a call today at 1-866-MOVEIT-1 or visit us online at http://www.moveitmusic.com/.

Tipping your DJ and other Wedding Vendors

Tipping...
Though you may think you've accounted for every imaginable wedding expense, there is one fee that might elude you: the tip. Rewarding vendors with a tip is expected, and it will serve as a thank-you for a job well done. But figuring out whom to tip, how much to pay, and when to offer it can be tricky.

While some vendors include gratuities in their fees, many will leave the amount up to you -- and the level of service they provide can influence what you give them. Tips can add up quickly, costing you a few thousand dollars. Gratuities for caterers alone can be $200 to $600 or more, for example, depending on the number of guests, your catering costs, and where you live. Most tips should be handed out the day of the wedding, so it's wise to assign the job to a friend or family member. A follow-up thank-you note and online review/recommendation is often a valued tip as well!

Officiants
While it isn't necessary to tip priests, ministers, rabbis, or other religious officiants (many of them, in fact, won't accept cash tips), if you want to thank them for their services, consider making a donation to their organization or house of worship. A typical amount is $75 to $100, separate from any fee you may be charged for the officiant's time. If you belong to a church, your own minister or priest may perform the wedding at no charge. In this case, you could make a donation to the church, and as an extra thank-you, consider sending something personal, such as a gift certificate to a nice restaurant. If your wedding is performed by a civil employee such as a judge, clerk, or other nonreligious official, then forgo a gratuity. Such officiants are paid a flat rate and are usually not permitted to accept tips or donations -- local law may actually prohibit it. A thoughtful card, however, is always appreciated.

Catering Staff
Many caterers include a gratuity in their contract to be divided up among the workers, but be sure to ask. If the gratuity isn't included, plan on tipping all staff members, including the catering or banquet manager, waiters, bartenders, chefs, and other essential workers who help serve guests.  "Most catering staff members receive a decent hourly wage, however, so you needn't go overboard on their tips," says Joe Piane, sales manager and executive chef at Piane Caterers in Wilmington, Delaware. You can calculate the tip as a percentage of the cost of your total catering bill. Figure on paying about 15 to 20 percent of the amount for the banquet manager to share with the kitchen and serving staff. Another way to compute the gratuity is to offer a flat amount for each worker, which is often a more economical method, especially if your catering company is expensive. You'll want to give roughly $100 to $200 for the catering or banquet manager, $50 each for chefs (and bakers), and $20 to $30 each for waiters and kitchen staff, divided into separate envelopes. Tips can be paid in advance to the director of the catering company, or you can hand them to the banquet manager toward the end of the evening.

Musicians and Deejays (DJ)
Tipping customs vary, depending on whether you hire an independent band or deejay or book through an agency. For independent bands and DJ’s that book their own gigs, tipping is still customary.  Valerie Romanoff, owner of New York City--based Starlight Orchestras, adds, "We're always pleasantly surprised when clients tip us and recognize the entertainment value of what we provide.”  If you employ your band or deejay through an entertainment agency, the company will usually either include a gratuity in the contract or suggest that you give each band member or deejay a little extra in cash. If your contract includes a "service charge," don't assume that it is the gratuity.  If you feel that the service you received from one of these vendors was extraordinary, an additional 10 percent tip would be a nice gesture.  Musicians should be tipped about $20 to $25 apiece; DJ’s get at least $100.  Many bands offer a vocalist for the ceremony at an additional cost. Tip him or her the same amount as you would one of the other musicians.  Hand out the tips in cash at the end of the night.

Stylists and Makeup Artists
Even though it's a particularly special day, you can still tip stylists and makeup artists as you would for a regular appointment -- 15 to 20 percent. For each assistant who helps with secondary tasks, such as shampooing, plan on giving a gratuity of $3 to $5.  You can hand out tips in envelopes directly to stylists, or leave them at the salon's front desk. If you're short on cash, it's fine to tip by check or include it on a charge. If a stylist comes to your home or the wedding site, tip as you would at a salon, but in general, makeup artists and hair stylists who own their own businesses are not tipped.

Photographers, Videographers, Florists, and Wedding Coordinators
For people who own their own businesses, as many of these vendors do, tipping isn't necessary. "They've already negotiated their fees and expect only that amount of money," says Jeremy Faryar of LIFEstories Film, a New York City videography company that specializes in weddings. For photographers, videographers, and florists who do not own their own businesses, tip $30 to $50; wedding coordinators should be given about $100 to $200.  If you feel that the service you received from one of these vendors was extraordinary (say, if the videographer stayed and took footage of an after-wedding party even though it wasn't in his contract), an additional 10 percent tip would be a nice gesture, says Ruth L. Kern, an etiquette consultant in Barrington, Illinois. Or you might send a thank-you gift such as flowers or a print from your photographer showing the vendor in action at your wedding.

Site Staff
Wherever you have your wedding, there will likely be many behind-the-scenes workers, such as coat checkers, powder-room attendants, or parking valets. Make sure you do not overlook these people -- while you may not have much contact with them throughout the celebration, they help keep guests happy.  Sometime before the wedding, ask the site manager to instruct workers not to accept any tips from guests. Instead, plan on tipping them yourself. At the end of the evening, pay coat checkers a total of $1 to $2 per guest, which they can share. Powder-room attendants should receive 50 cents to $1 per guest, to be divided among them. Set aside $1 to $1.50 per car to give to the parking manager, who can then divide up the cash among the valets.

Seamstresses, Delivery People, and Drivers
Though they won't actually be at the wedding, these workers' preparatory roles are just as important, so be sure to thank them in some way.  The people delivering the flowers and cake should receive at least $5 each at the time they make their deliveries. A gratuity for your limousine driver may already be included in your bill, but if it's not, consider giving a tip of 15 to 20 percent of the cost (pay it in cash when the driver picks you up). For seamstresses, a cash tip is not expected, but sending a small gift such as a photo of you in your dress is a wonderful way to show your gratitude.

Read more at Marthastewartweddings.com

Questions you should ask your prospective Wedding DJ Company...

I have put together a few questions every bride and groom should ask a DJ company they are considering for their wedding. Of course, I took the liberty of answering them as well...

Can we meet with your company ahead of time to go over wedding details?
Yes. We recommend it. Many people mistakenly believe we’re only about the music. That is not the case. The DJ helps coordinate time-lines, announcements, speeches, and vendors. Cake cuttings, name pronunciations, speeches, and of course music selections are discussed in an advance consultation. We try to never perform at a wedding without at least one face-to-face consultation. Not meeting with you personally and discussing your wishes will generally result in a poor performance. If a DJ company tells you it's not necessary to meet, they are not interested in what YOU want for your wedding.

Do you provide references for your DJ’s?
We are extremely proud of our past performances and Love it when clients brag about our services. We have an informative WeddingWire Website available for prospective wedding clients to read what past brides and grooms have to say about or DJ’s. If you would like, we can provide additional references for you to contact directly, just ask.

Do you have a social media site where we can follow your Wedding events?

We have an excellent presence on Facebook, please check out our page and become a fan.

Is your company insured?
Yes. Move It Music DJ and Lighting is fully insured under a $250,000 policy to perform in all facilities or outdoor events. Many banquet facilities require certificates of insurance before letting mobile sound systems work at events in their facility. This is important protection for you, your guests and the facility in the unlikely event of a mishap.

Do you take music requests? Will you avoid playing certain songs?
Yes. When you contract us to do your event, you will have access to our immense online library of music to choose your Priority Requests and Do Not Play requests.

How far should I book in advance?
Most clients book Move It Music DJ and Lighting nine to eighteen months in advance of their wedding. Some dates may sell out early due to popularity and surrounding holidays (especially in the summertime). Here's a good rule to consider. If your wedding is in the months of May through December, 12-18 months is when you want to book your Wedding DJ. If it falls between January and April, 6 to 9 months will usually be safe. When booking novelty dates like 10/10/10, the sooner the better. The weeks before and after Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day, go very fast.

How Many DJ's work for Move It Music?
DJ Jimmie Espo-
An 18 year DJ veteran and Owner of Move It Music DJ and Lighting; DJ Jimmie Espo is an Exclusive Wedding DJ. Jimmie performs at over 60 weddings per year.
DJ Chuck Uglietta-
An interactive genius, Chuck's weddings are always the event of the year!
DJ Julio Sanabia-
One of Boston's premier Latin/American DJ’s, Julio is a true Professional.
DJ Jeffrey G-
Jeff is a newcomer to the industry adding a youthful energy to the team

Is your music library extensive and diverse?
Yes. We have of over 65,000 songs to complement any event. Because of our close ties to the music industry nationally, we have the latest music available before it reaches the charts and in a variety of genres. We also have a library of tunes that stretches from the 40's to today’s hottest hits.
If you just cant wait, you can search our online music database here.

Do I need to serve you a meal at my wedding? 
Some disc jockeys do require a meal. However, we do not. In most cases this will save you money. Our DJ's do not smoke, sit, and never take breaks. We are actually "real DJ's!" 

What do you require from the Venue or Caterer?
Our requirements are very simple; for the main ballroom / reception area, we require an 8 foot banquet table.  We provide all of our own linens for a clean and uniform look.  If cocktail hour music or ceremony setups are purchased, we may have additional table requirements. 

Do you have backup equipment in the event of failure?
Yes. All of our equipment is backed up, but more importantly, it is thoroughly checked out when arriving at the event. Whenever possible, depending on the facility, the equipment for your event will be set up much earlier in the day.

Does your company accept credit cards?
Yes. We accept VISA, MasterCard and American Express credit cards for your convenience and you can pay online securely in the comfort of your own home. A small fee may be required to cover the merchant cost.

Does your company provide an interactive website?
Yes. Our clients have the ability to layout the specifics of their event and select their favorite songs online at their leisure up to one week before their event. As far as we know, very few companies offer this amazing service and our clients love it. You can access the client are from our website.

Am I getting real value for my dollar?
Yes. We believe we have a very low price for the quality and services we provide. We think it's a real value when you look at all you get for your dollar. Face to face consultations, interactive website, a mature and highly skilled Wedding DJ, extraordinary customer service, insurance, backup equipment and the list goes on and on. All for one great price! That means no setup fees, no tuxedo fees and a lot of other add-ons our competitors use to pump up their selling price.

Will I have a signed agreement?
Yes. If you decide to book with Move It Music DJ and Lighting for your Wedding, you will receive a service agreement to sign that effectively protects you against any defaults. This contract will be mailed to you once your booking forms are complete. Move It Music guarantees to hold your date for 7 business days from the date of the contract, pending your signed return of the contract as well as the agreed deposit amount mentioned in this agreement.

Saturday Wedding at the Commander's Mansion

This Saturday April 30th, 2011 Move It Music DJ and Lighting will be the DJ for Brian and Katherine's wedding ceremony and reception at the beautiful Commander's Mansion in Watertown. 

I met with the couple just last week and I must say, I am very excited for this event!  Both the bride and groom seem very fun and are looking forward to a great time.  We are taking care of the music for the ceremony first.  We have an excellent compact ceremony setup that will be perfect for this occasion.  The entire bridal party will be walking into "Mothersbaugh Canon" by Mark Mothersbaugh, from the Royal Tenenbaums Soundtrack. Its a very nice track but a little short - I may have to loop a section of it and then just fade out the ending.  Katherine will be walking down the aisle to the "Humming Chorus" from Giacomo Puccini's opera "Madame Butterfly" very unique!  After the ceremony is over we really get to see this couple "fun" side as then walk back down the aisle as husband and wife to "ABC" by the Jackson Five - so fun!

With the reception ready to begin - bridal party intros are in order!  The newlyweds have chosen some great movie themed tracks to introduce their friends and family such as "Star Wars Theme," "Rocky Theme," "Oingo Boingo" from Weird Science, and "You're The Best Around" from the Karate Kid. I am really looking forward to these - the crowd will be going crazy!  Once into the ballroom, the Bride and Groom will have their first dance to Queen's "My Best Friend," which they have a surprise choreographed number that they will perform! AWESOME

Overall they have left the dancing music up to me. I am excited to see what the crowd will look like and I plan on using dinner to feel out what the guests will ultimately vibe to.

I am really looking forward to working at The Commander's Mansion in Watertown this Saturday and I will update this blog with some fun and interesting moments from the wedding. - DJ Jimmie Espo - Move It Music DJ and Lighting

April 23rd 2011 - Wedding at The Hampshire House Boston

  Just getting ready to head out to DJ tonight's Wedding.  It's dreary outside - but I will be sure to keep all of tonight's guests happy with awesome music.  Should be an interesting group; with an American/Colombian request list, the night is sure to be a blast.  They have requested artists such as Luis Miguel, Juanes, Fonseca and Bacilos; as well as all of the American classics like Madonna, Neil Diamond and U2. 
  The Hampshire House is a beautiful mansion style Venue, in the heart of Boston Commons.  It will be an intimate wedding of only 50 guests, just the right size for this coupe's perfect Wedding!  I plan to keep the night flowing with a good mix of Latin and American music.  The Bride and Groom would like a simple introduction, then right into their first dance (very nice).  I will do some fun interaction after dinner just to open the dance floor and then let the records spin! 
  I hope to update more as I am very excited for this event.  Hopefully I will be able to get a good pic or 2 to add to this posting.
  So the event was awesome! All 50 guests were rocking The Hampshire House till midnight! One of the best events of 2011 already.  I have to say, this family really knows how to celebrate.  The biggest artists of the night were Juanes and Shakira - big surprise! That's all for now - Happy Easter everyone from Move It Music DJ and Lighting. - DJ Jimmie Espo

Wireless LED Uplighting at The Commons 1854

April 16, 2011 - Move It Music DJ and Lighting - The Commons 1854 in Topsfield, MA - 12 Wireless LED Uplighting with a Pink Theme.

The decor here at The Commons 1854 is simple and traditional; sort-of a blank canvas for us to work with.  It's kind of weird being at a Wedding and not providing the entertainment, I will have to restrain myself from critiquing this DJ.  He looks like he has his game face on and is ready for a good time! (we will see) 

The bride's vision for tonight is "Cotton Candy Pink."  This should be as easy one as our Uplighting performs beautifully in Pink!  We are keeping the room blank until the bride and groom's introductions then we will "Light it Up Cotton Candy style!" I'll update this post later tonight with some pictures and more details!

Welcome to move it music DJ and Lighting's Blog

Welcome everyone - thank you so much for viewing Move It Music DJ and Lighting's Blog!  I hope to post at least 1 wedding per week to this Blog.  I will include details about each wedding including decor, lighting, attire, food and Of Course the MUSIC!!!  Thanks again for viewing- DJ Jimmie Espo