DJs in South Yorkshire

DJ Kidface is not only a DJ but also a pro trumpet player and brings these two passions together in DJ sets, jamming and improvising trumpet lines over the top of a wide range of music. Some really in-depth and useful advice is shared here for when looking to hire a DJ for your event.

What do you need to know from an organiser in order to provide a comprehensive quote?

The main details needed to provide the most accurate quote possible are the date, location and the nature of the event. When writing a quote, I have to consider travel cost and time, when the venue is available from, and what is the size and sometimes shape of the room. Additionally, I offer a number of extra services. For example, some wedding clients like to have all of the equipment set up before guests arrive for the wedding breakfast, therefore I need to factor in a much earlier arrival in order to accommodate that. Once I know all of this, I can write a quote that will not change for the event. For me, transparency is key. It is paramount that my clients know and understands everything they are booking and when it comes to the day of the event, they are assured that the music will run completely smoothly resulting in a great night!

What advice would you give to a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?

When you are looking into booking a DJ, it is vital that you get what you want! I have been to many a wedding as a guest where the DJ has ignored or not included the songs or styles that the couple has requested and the result is a fairly generic party which does not reflect the couple.

I always ask clients to supply me with a list of at least 10 songs or artists that are special to them. I also ask them to provide me with a list of songs they definitely wouldn't want to hear!!! From this, I can build a strong set list, including those favourite songs and then include other songs from a similar style. I like my DJ sets to flow between genres and not jump about from one song to another so I always ensure that I am totally prepared to fulfil the client's wishes.

Also, when hiring a DJ, you are often hiring their equipment. Getting the best possible sound out of a PA is not an easy job and needs to be balanced to every different room. It may be worth asking your DJ what is their experience of the sound engineering side of their job. Equally, lighting can really make the atmosphere of any event. Have a think if you may want up lighting or to colour wash the room in a certain way. It is also worth making your DJ aware if there are any guests who do not react well to flashing or strobe lighting. Many lights now either flash, project images or shapes that move or with moving headlights, colour can be thrown around a room at a high speed. Obviously, these lights look amazing but I am always aware of not alienating a single guest by including a certain light in my rig on any particular night.

Please tell us a little bit about how and why you started the business.

In 2005, I graduated from University with a music degree but with not too many ideas of what to do with it. Throughout my studies, I had played in bands and done the occasional bit of DJing for parties and weddings so I decided to see if I could make it work full time. I have had the most varied and exciting career entertaining a variety of guests, from birthday parties to weddings to even playing at events for Red Bull Racing which is an experience I will never forget!
I simple love making people happy and by creating a great atmosphere and playing the music that your crowd wants to hear, I am fortunate enough to achieve this on a daily basis.

Please tell us about a booking you've had through Add to Event, how did it go? Would you recommend us to others?

I have been performing and DJing for over 15 years and have worked for a number of agencies but Add to Event has been a revelation for me. The ease in quoting directly to clients, accurately and quickly, has meant I have picked up so many bookings in the short time I have been using the site.
I recently played a surprise 60th birthday party, the man of the moment had no idea of what was about to unfold. I was booked through Add to Event by his daughter who told me about all of the '70s and 80's rock he played them during their childhood and even told me about his love of Glam Rock back in the day. I built the most amazing guitar heavy playlist I have ever done. A real removal from my usual wedding sets! The party guests loved it but most importantly, the birthday boy did too. When he first walked into the darkened room, I kicked into his favourite song and suddenly the lights kicked in, it was quite a moment!