What is your most memorable wedding?
A wedding where all the men decided to do a strip show for the women! That's not a pretty sight for a heterosexual DJ from in front or behind! It went down well though and of course I backed them with the Full Monty medly.
Describe your style in 5 adjectives.
Playing classy tunes that fit the mood of the moment and when the time comes, that get the crowd up and getting their "freak on".
What about your business are you most proud of?
Constantly ploughing money back into it to upgrade equipment. I've finally got the most sought after sound system (Electrovoice) on the planet for deejays. It's so clear and punchy. I love it!
What is your No. 1 wedding planning tip for couples?
Don't start the disco too early or go on too late. a 4-hour show from 7-11pm or 8- 12 am is far better than the standard 7:30 - 12:00 am. If you're feeling really brave, go for a 2 or 3-hour show. It really focuses peoples minds on dancing and not talking all night. In reality, the standard show will include hours of background music anyway. Nothing much happens until around 9 - 9:30 pm at most weddings. Going on too late will often see an empty venue, as most people are knackered by 11 pm after a very long day! Of course, if you want a long show I won't turn you away. It's only a suggestion!
My number 2 tip is to try not to send a long list of requests in advance. The more freedom the guests have for live requests on the night, the better the experience for them and yourselves.
What is your favourite personal touch you have seen at a wedding?
Fish and chips instead of a buffet. Who doesn't like fish and chips? Even carba-phobes like me will make an exception! Don't forget the mayonaise!
Describe your typical process with a couple.
I pack as much info as possible onto my website, so by the time couples make contact, often they are ready to book. However, some like to see me first and if they are local enough to me, it's no problem. I answer all the questions and concerns they have until they are ready to go ahead. If you know your business and are confident, there is no need to hard sell. My own ethics wouldn't let me anyway. I have a good product with great reviews and that's all I and my clients need.
What makes a romantic first dance?
Something slow and powerfullly melodic. One of my favourite ballads is: Wendy Moton - Come on in out of the rain or: if you don't know that one: Mariah Carey - Anytime you need a friend. Both real blasters of songs where the singer gives it their all and unlike some, they actually have it to give!
What is your number one floor-filler?
A few years ago it would have been Abba - Dancing queen. These days, There is no panacea track. It depends entirely on the guests and the general age group in the house. Things have changed and older guests often don't come forward, or aren't there anymore (possibly due to costs) . The days of large, large family weddings aren't quite as common as they used to be. And the generations are moving on - eg: I rarely get asked for 60's anymore and not that many requests for 70's either. It's all there if folks want it, they just don't ask as much.
Which band from the past would you most like to have been part of?
Jamiroquai. All round funky-assed grooves with classic legendary funky 70's style keyboards making it sound completely authentic.
What is the soundtrack to your life?
Gino Vannelli - Where am I going to - Live in Canada. Awsome, Awsome performance.