FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: What style of DJ are you?
I am an "open format" DJ, meaning, I play everything. I am also available to DJ at any type of event including weddings, corporate events, anniversaries, birthday parties, festivals, dinner parties, store openings, luaus, galas, rockabilly weekenders, pool parties, graduations and more! I'm also very versatile and my DJ gear includes both digital and vinyl options. However large or small your event is I can accommodate you!
Q: How is your approach different than other DJs that I'm considering?
While I can't speak for all other DJs, I can tell you the benefits of going with me. Firstly, I am a professional musician with years of experience performing at various events and concerts all over Wisconsin, and the states, for that matter. I know music inside and out. Having written songs, produced and recorded with various bands over the years I have an extensive knowledge of music that many DJs may not have.
I have also deejayed since I was a teenager and have provided music for countless events and weddings over many years. My confidence and professional demeanor is a direct result of that experience.
In addition, I have performed over 1200 wedding ceremonies as an officiant, so I am very familiar with the logistics and demands of weddings.
Lastly, I'm very professional, organized, well-dressed and a good speaker. You have my guarantee that your event will be hassle free and fun!
Q: How long will you hold our date for us?
As this industry is very competitive and there are a limited number of weekends available I do operate on a first come, first serve basis. Accordingly, I will normally hold a date for three days after our initial contact.
Q: How do you pick the music to play?
Every gig is different. As such, my playlist is based on the demographic and theme of your event. I will always discuss the music options with you beforehand so that we're on the same page and you know what to expect. I also make an effort to cover all age groups so that everyone at your event, whether 8 or 80, will hear music that they enjoy. A list of artists and songs that you would like to be played (or not played) is always appreciated. For weddings I will provide you with a planning guide.
Q: Do you have the very latest hits?
Yes, I usually have the very latest hits across every genre, especially considering the recent addition of streaming. However, be sure to include any "must play" songs in the planner prior to your big day, whenever possible. It's better than relying on Wi-Fi at the last minute, and gives me time to familiarize myself with the song. I really like to prepare all of the requested tracks for mixing beforehand so that I can jump right into the music.
Q: Do you play music with explicit content/lyrics?
My personal collection is clean, without explicit lyrics. A few songs may have very mild profanity... so, just let me know what your tolerance level is. 100% clean is not a problem. If your party is entirely private, and you want the explicit version of some songs, that is not a problem as long as there is reliable Wi-Fi. Sorry, but I cannot play explicit content at public locations/venues.
Q: Will you play all requests from the guests, assuming I've chosen an "open format"?
No... probably not all of them. I will use my best judgement to keep your party going. If a request just isn't the right song or vibe for the moment, or can't be mixed in without creating a musical train-wreck, I won't play it. I normally place a clipboard and pen nearby and ask that guests write their requests down for me. Unless there are special instructions, I prefer that guests not walk directly up to my DJ stand to make a verbal request.
Q: What type of equipment do you use/include?
I use a laptop running Serato Pro DJ software, professional speakers and a subwoofer to match the size of your event, professional mixer, DJ controller, wireless handheld mic, TIDAL streaming (with available Wi-Fi), wash/effects lighting for myself and the dance floor, etc. Uplighting is available as well. My set up also includes a facade (either black or white) in front of my DJ stand. For outdoor events I sometimes utilize a canopy tent or umbrella for shade/rain.
Q: What kind of backup do you utilize in case there's a technical problem?
Technical problems, while extremely rare, are sometimes inevitable. It's just the world we live in (think iPhones with bad reception, operating systems that crash, exploding Samsung tablets, the list goes on... ). To minimize problems, I bring redundant equipment along with me (second mixer, laptop, mics) and also use a laptop with the operating system and music stored on a solid-state drive with no moving parts. Of course, the laptop battery protects things on the software end against power failures. It can't, however, stop the speakers from turning off if power goes out or fails at the venue. I use multiple power strips with surge protection. I have critical music (first dances, etc.) and a good selection of dance music stored on at least one other device, and usually two (my iPad and an additional external drive). I have streaming capability as well, as long as your venue has Wi-Fi. Absent an earthquake or an asteroid impact, I will do absolutely everything in my power to keep the party rollin' to the end.
Q: Do you have a DJ playlist that I can take a look at?
With streaming this becomes less of a concern. If you have reliable Wi-Fi, I can play most anything. Even without Wi-Fi, I have thousands of songs at my disposal. If you Google any top 100 wedding song lists, top 200, top 1000... whatever... I'll have the vast majority of that in my collection. So no worries... I've got it covered!
Q: What will you wear to my wedding or event?
I wear mostly black and dark gray. For weddings dress pants, dress shirt, vest, tie. If you prefer a less formal look, that's no problem. I can ditch the tie, wear dressy sneakers, or do whatever you want. I will also dress the part for themed events. Note that when I do arrive at an event I'm usually wearing jeans and a T-shirt for set up which entails physical activity. Obviously l will change into different clothing for the event.
Q: Do you include lighting?
Yes. I use a light bar (some light gets projected onto the dance floor as well) and/or a wash (behind me). I also offer uplighting to make the room look a little nicer around the edges.
Q: What types of events and venues have you deejayed at?
Some of the different types of events and venues I have deejayed at include weddings, birthday parties (all different ages), anniversaries, cocktail parties, luaus, store openings, galas, youth events, concerts, festivals, block parties, senior dances, restaurants, fundraisers, bars, corporate events, election night gatherings and hot rod meets, among others.
Q: Are you insured?
Yes.
Q: How would you describe your style of deejaying?
I come from an old school background spinning vinyl records. In fact, I was a radio DJ on WYRE, a college radio station back in the 80's. There is a certain beauty and art to old school deejaying that many people appreciate and enjoy. I bring that passion to my work even when I'm doing digital.
Q: Do you also spin vinyl records?
Yes! For vinyl I utilize Serato DVS (digital vinyl system) software with my turntables which provides me with unlimited song selection. As such, I can play everything from Elvis through today's chart music and everything in between! Request lines are always open! I also spin vintage vinyl when appropriate.
Q: How does your pricing work?
As every gig is a little different my fee is based on a per job basis. This includes the number of guests, type of event, duration, venue, as well as my travel time. Let me know what you're looking for and I can provide you with a quote.
Q: How much time do you need to set up?
At least a minimum of one hour is required. However, I will usually arrive earlier to give myself enough time to load-in and familiarize myself with the venue. Clear access to a door and/or path where I can back up my vehicle to load-in and out my equipment is appreciated.
Q: How large of an area do you need?
Usually a 10'x10' area is sufficient for my set up. However, I can go smaller depending on the location. I will also need unobstructed access to an electrical outlet. I use my own DJ table.
Q: Do you work with the bride and groom when planning music for a reception and can we meet with you?
Absolutely! You will be provided with a planning guide which will assist in preparing an itinerary for both the ceremony and reception including your selection of songs, dances, speeches and special elements that you can choose from. I will work with you to make sure that the evening runs smoothly. It's your special day, so let's make it magical! If you'd also like to have a face to face meeting I'm available for video conferencing using Zoom.
Q: Do you also officiate wedding ceremonies?
Yes! I have performed over 1200 weddings since 1992. I am also available to officiate your ceremony and can offer you a package for both services. Please contact me for a quote.
Q: Do you talk during the event and is there also a microphone available if we need to make an announcement?
If requested, I do provide commentary and/or make announcements during my set. I also provide a wireless microphone in the event that you or a guest would like to speak. I also provide MC services at weddings.
Q: Do you provide karaoke?
No, that's not my thing. Sorry.
Q: Do you provide a photo booth?
No, but I do have access to a photo booth through a third party, if needed. The fee and service would be handled by that party.
Q: Do you DJ at people's homes?
Unless I know the host, for my own personal safety, I do not DJ at private residences. Sorry.
Q: How do you mix the music?
Mixing is a pretty basic skill for a professional disc jockey, but how a DJ does it says a lot about his or her style. I mix music for the purpose of creating high-quality seamless transitions between songs and maintaining the energy and momentum on the dance floor. Mixing is something I do on the spot, based on the tempo and “feel” of songs and the reaction of the crowd.
Q: Do you use a contract? Do you require a deposit?
Yes. I use a standard DJ contract. Deposits are usually 25% of my quote and are nonrefundable. In the event that I have an emergency or a scheduling conflict I will refund your deposit in full. I accept deposits via PayPal, CashApp, Venmo or check.
Q: Do you take breaks during the event? Do you require a meal?
While I remain at my DJ station for the entire event, sometimes I might have to step out to use the restroom. I'll usually do that at the very beginning of a song so I have time to get back for a transition. In addition, for lengthier events where there is food being served, a complimentary meal with a beverage for both myself and my assistant is always appreciated.
Q: What is your policy in regard to COVID?
I do practice social distancing by wearing a mask and asking that guests not approach my DJ stand. Requests can easily be taken through texting and/or a clipboard. I am also set back behind a facade so there is plenty of separation to allow for social distancing, although, this tends not to be as much of an issue outdoors. Obviously, it's the host's decision as to how they wish to conduct their event. However, I will do my part to help keep your guests safe during this challenging time.
Q: Do you accept tips?
Of course! While not required it tells me that I did a good job. Tips are ALWAYS appreciated.
Q: How did you come up with the name "Tikinaut"?
My former surf rock band was called The Tikinauts. Accordingly, my DJ name is derived from that group. I'm now in the singular!
