How long have your DJs been DJing?
Ben Suggs, our owner, has been DJing since 2004 and running Southern Entertainment professionally since 2006. Patrick Dorsett our Operations Manager has been with SE and DJing since 2011, mentored by Ben Suggs. Hayden Burke has been with SE since 2021 and DJing since 2017. JC Harper has been with SE since 2021, Theme Park DJ since 2019, and DJing since 2018. We have also developed a network of DJs we partner with on a regular basis with decades of experience.
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Do you have any backup plans for any emergency situations?
Yes! For weddings and large events, we have more than one trained professional working your event than can step in. We also keep a DJ on standby for weekends in the event one becomes unavailable. We also carry back ups to essential equipment at every event.
Will the DJ play requests?
Absolutely! We always take requests before the event through our online event planner and if you'd like, we can also play requests from you and your guests during the party. We customize the music to fit the needs of you and your guests and allow you as much or little input into the playlist as you desire.
What are your payment terms?
A nonrefundable retainer payment (usually around 30% of the total cost, depending on the situation) is required at the time of booking and the remaining balance is due the day of the event. Payments can be made in cash, check, and a debit or credit card.
Will the DJ play overtime?
Because we understand the spontaneous nature of the events we often do, our DJs are willing and normally able to play past the contracted time. Payment is due at that time if at all possible and is always left to the discretion of the DJ to judge if they will be able to go overtime. Of course, you save a little bit on your hourly rate by booking those hours in advance, but we like to be flexible in the moment!
Do I tip the DJ?
That is entirely up to you! We do not include "gratuity" in the final contract price.10-20% is generally recommended if your DJ did a great job, but it's not mandatory.
When should we book a DJ?
A good time frame is at least six to twelve months out for a wedding. Less for other events. We book "first come, first serve" and certain dates tend to go fast each year. However, we normally have DJs available for last minute events as well. Just ask!
Should we feed the DJ?
This is not required in our contract and also is completely up to you. Typically, the catering
director or event coordinator will set aside a meal or boxed dinner for the DJ if requested by the client. At weddings, we try to eat soon after the meal time starts so we can be ready to host and coordinate with other vendors at the appropriate times.
What other services do you offer?
We regularly offer ceremony audio, lighting (uplighting & dance floor lighting), game nights (music bingo, family feud, trivia) and photo booths. We can also do limited audio and video editing in special circumstances. Just call or email with your ideas!