What time will you show up to my wedding?
I arrive 2-3 hours early for a few reasons. Traffic, weather, set-up, & to coordinate with vendors. Be weary of DJ's who say they will show up less than an hour before your wedding is to begin.
Can you DJ my ceremony & cocktail hour as well?
Yes. I have additional sound systems and also provide customized planning materials to assist you with each of these steps.
If it is outdoors, do I need a tent?
Yes. Electronic equipment is expensive and can easily be damaged by rain, hot rays from the sun, tree dander, and even passing birds (yuck). If a tent is not an option - a gazebo, awning, or any other covered space will do just fine! The venue, caterer, or rental company should be able to supply extra shelter.
Do you back yourself up in case of an emergency?
Absolutely. I network with the area's finest DJ's and trade schedules with them on a regular basis. Also because I am a member of the American Disc Jockey Association, I have access to a 24 hour emergency program that helps DJs in case of any emergency. I have never missed a performance, but you never know.....It's always better to be prepared.
Do you back up your equipment and transportation?
I have extra equipment on site and I back up my music as well. Also, even though I have a newer vehicle, I have a towing policy in case of any road emergency. I will be at your wedding – even if I show up in a tow truck!
Will you MC my wedding as well?
I am your master of ceremonies which means I will announce your introductions, dinner, first dance, and all other important information that will connect me with your guests. My speech is clear and concise, and you will not hear any rambling or corny jokes coming from me.
What is your attire?
I wear a very classy suit, otherwise a tuxedo for black tie affairs. I also will coordinate my suit tie to closely match the colors of your wedding.
If I book Jake Ritchie as my DJ, will he be the one to show up?
Absolutely! DO NOT hire a company who will not let you meet your DJ. DO NOT hire a company that can't guarantee the DJ of your choice. DO NOT hire a company who will not list the DJ's name on the contract. Lastly, it is my personal opinion that you would be better off staying away from out of state booking agencies. There is a lot of blind sub contracting and little screening of the talent that they employ!
Ok, what hidden fees or extra costs will I endure?
I charge a flat rate and not a penny more. I will not nickel and dime you, and that has been my policy long before the economy was in trouble! I do not charge extra for ANYTHING on your wedding day! No extra fees for traveling, set-up, preparations, planning, meetings, venue visits, dance lighting effects, overtime, or my world class sound system. There is an extra cost if you would like me to provide entertainment for your rehearsal dinner though.
So, how much time do you REALLY invest in my wedding?
Even though your wedding may be scheduled from 4-6 hours, I spend anywhere from 10-20 hours on just one couples wedding. Most of this work comes in the planning and preparing stages like acquiring & editing songs, scripting introduction biographies, visiting your venue, and other well planned portions that bring your wedding together.
Can I see you DJ in action?
For professional reasons, I do not let potential clients just show up uninvited to one of my weddings. I can provide reviews & excellent references from brides, grooms, and vendors who rave about my service.
Why is Jake Ritchie better than the majority of DJ's out there?
I am a rare single operation company who does this SUCCESSFULLY on a full time basis in northern Virginia! Because of my dedication & professionalism I have raised the bar and built my reputation to a level that has allowed me to do this as a full time job. I have over 15 years experience, perform about 50 weddings a year, and have performed over 3,000 times. I won an award in 2004 during a head to head mobile DJ competition becoming the only award winning DJ in the area to win a DJ industry recognized award. I also have won Wedding Wire’s prestigious Bride’s Choice Award in 2008 & 2009 and have been praised in various articles throughout the wedding industry. In 2010 I was awarded a Presidential Award from the American Disc Jockey Association's D.C. Chapter for my work as membership director for two years.
Are you low-key, moderate, or high energy DJ?
Actually, you control that. I can be as low key or interactive as you’d like me to be! I will tell you though I do not get out and dance, sing, or play an instrument (not that there’s anything wrong with that – it’s just not my style).
Are you a legitimate company and do you have insurance?
I have a business license and pay taxes within the limits of the law. I also carry liability and equipment insurance coverage which most venues are requiring vendors to have now.
How come you do not expand your business and hire other DJ's?
Because of my outstanding reputation, I prefer to preserve the integrity of my name by flying solo in the DJ business.
What’s the “Client Login” link for and why can’t I access it?
This section is reserved for clients who have decided to book my services. It will grant you access to very organized planning materials, song samples & charts, wedding tips, and other important information that will help you plan the perfect wedding!