Frequently Asked

The honest answers.

Real questions from real couples, answered plainly. If you don't see yours, just ask.

How do song requests work?
After you hire me, I'll send a short questionnaire with space for your "must-play" and "do-not-play" songs. We'll review your answers together so I fully understand your musical preferences. Every guest request the night of will be considered through the lens of what we discussed to make sure the music fits your vision. My priority is to make your wedding sound — and feel — exactly how you want it.
What makes you different from other DJs?
I combine live music and DJ services into one seamless experience, so you get the best of both without coordinating separate vendors. My approach is human-centered: from the first call to the last song I listen closely to your priorities, communicate clearly, and craft a soundtrack that reflects your vision. You'll get personal attention, transparent planning, and dependable professionals who show up prepared and on time — so the transitions between cocktail hour, ceremony, and dance floor feel natural and effortless. It's not just the mix of services; it's the thoughtful, reliable way I deliver them.
What if something goes wrong on the day?
Over the years I've collaborated with numerous industry professionals and built lasting relationships. I trained with one of the largest companies in the field and maintain a broad Chicagoland network of DJs and musicians. Though I've rarely needed to call on those contacts, I'm a "the show must go on" professional — prepared to step in and ensure everything runs smoothly. I've got you covered.
What areas do you serve?
I provide live cocktail music and DJ services throughout the Chicagoland area — anywhere within approximately one hour of Chicago. Travel beyond this range may incur a travel charge.

Chicago neighborhoods

  • The Loop
  • Near North / River North
  • Gold Coast
  • Lincoln Park
  • Old Town
  • Lakeview
  • Wicker Park
  • Bucktown
  • Logan Square
  • West Loop
  • Fulton Market
  • Streeterville
  • South Loop
  • Hyde Park
  • Ukrainian Village
  • Little Italy
  • Lincoln Square

North & Northwest Suburbs

  • Evanston
  • Skokie
  • Wilmette
  • Winnetka
  • Glencoe
  • Kenilworth
  • Northbrook
  • Glenview
  • Highland Park
  • Deerfield
  • Lake Forest
  • Lake Bluff
  • Park Ridge
  • Des Plaines
  • Mount Prospect
  • Arlington Heights
  • Palatine
  • Schaumburg
  • Hoffman Estates
  • Elk Grove Village
  • Rolling Meadows

West Suburbs

  • Oak Park
  • River Forest
  • Elmwood Park
  • Forest Park
  • Cicero
  • Berwyn
  • Maywood
  • Riverside
  • La Grange
  • Hinsdale
  • Western Springs
  • Clarendon Hills
  • Oak Brook
  • Downers Grove
  • Lisle
  • Wheaton
  • Glen Ellyn
  • Lombard
  • Villa Park
  • Carol Stream
  • Bartlett
  • Hanover Park

South & Southwest Suburbs

  • Naperville
  • Aurora
  • Bolingbrook
  • Romeoville
  • Plainfield
  • Joliet
  • New Lenox
  • Tinley Park
  • Orland Park
  • Palos Heights
  • Oak Lawn
  • Willowbrook
  • Westchester

Lake County & Collar Counties

  • Antioch
  • Grayslake
  • Gurnee
  • Waukegan
  • Zion
  • Round Lake
  • McHenry (travel charge possible)

Illinois–Indiana Border

  • Hammond, IN
  • Munster, IN
  • Dyer, IN
  • (travel charge may apply)
Don't see your city? Just ask — I likely serve it, or can provide a quote including any travel fee.
What packages do you offer?
Four core packages, starting at $1,550 for Basic DJ. From there you can add live cocktail-hour music — solo voice with tracks (Vox), voice with pianist (Keys), or the full jazz trio experience (Signature). Photo booth, uplighting, ceremony music, and custom monogram lighting are all available as add-ons. See the full breakdown on the packages page.
What kind of music do you play?
Cocktail-hour repertoire leans jazz standards, Sinatra, Michael Bublé, and modern favorites reimagined for guest arrival. Reception is fully driven by the crowd and your must-play list — pop, Top 40, dance, house, hip-hop, R&B, classic rock, country, wedding standards, and specialty requests. I read the room and pivot instantly to keep the floor full.
Do you handle announcements and timeline cues?
Yes — MC services are included in every package. Grand entrance, toasts, first dance, parent dances, cake cutting, bouquet toss, garter toss, last call — I coordinate directly with your planner, venue, and photographer to make sure every moment lands on cue.
Can you do the ceremony too?
Yes. Ceremony music (live or DJ-led) is an add-on: $300 covers on-site sound system, mic, and attendant for a seamless on-site ceremony. Ceremony cues, first dances, and parent dances are selected and mixed with you in advance, including exact edits.
What equipment do you bring?
Concert-grade speakers, wireless microphones, dance floor lighting, and backup equipment for every event. Upgrade options include up to 12 Apelabs uplights and custom monogram gobo projection. Everything is included in the package price except à la carte upgrades.
Do I need to book a separate band?
No — that's the whole idea. Most Chicagoland couples want the live-music feeling for cocktail hour and greeting guests, plus a DJ's non-stop energy and full song catalog for the dance floor. I provide both under one booking, one contract, one point of contact. Combining live vocal performance and DJ/MC services under a single vendor typically costs less than booking a band and a DJ separately.
How do I book?
Send a quick inquiry via the Check My Date form with your event date, venue (if booked), and package interest. I'll get back to you fast to confirm availability and set up a call.

Still have questions?

Send a quick note through the contact form and I'll answer everything personally.

Check My Date