These are the most common questions,
call 817-294-9539 if you have others.
SHORT ON TIME? The short answers are in boldface italics for your convenience.
SEE DJ Scott Shirley's BLOG for great stories and more information!
Do you take requests?
Of course! That is
half the fun of having a good DJ! However, we will limit requests to what is
appropriate for the event, and the customer's guidelines as discussed in our
pre-event planning meeting. And we will not play any songs that are on your Do Not Play list (see "Music" page.) When you book The Party Machine for your event, you and your guests can access our Guest Requests page online.
Who will be the DJ for my event?
Party Machine owner Scott Shirley only contracts events where he will personally perform. You will not be surprised with a substitute, nor will Scott use your event to train a new DJ. Your event deserves the attention of an experienced professional, and Scott will always provide it...in person.
Do you specialize in a specific genre of music?
We specialize in Music for Life's Celebrations, which involves mixed audiences, and as such, play a broad variety of styles. Weddings, reunions, and banquets always have guests of varied ages, backgrounds, and musical tastes. Parties for mixed age crowds require a blend of popular music that includes current hits plus older classics of rock, country, disco, and R & B songs mixed in with some standards and crowd-pleasers. No two events are alike, nor should they be. Music programming is customized to every event.
It's all about the music!
We carry a diverse music selection that includes Current Hits, Rock and Roll, Top 40 hits of the 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, and "00s," Motown, Soul, Gospel, R & B, Disco, Rap, Crunk, Hip-Hop, Heavy Metal, Hard Rock, Soft Rock, Acid Rock, Movie Themes, Anthems, Ballads, Classic Rock, Southern Rock, New Wave, Old Wave, Old Skool, your old School Fight Songs, Your Hit Parade, Punk, Funk, Progressive, Alternative, Blues, Jazz, Pop, Bop, BeBop, Shag, Swing, Big Band, Techno, Trance, Acid, House, Synth, Reggae, Ska, Skiffle, Retro, Contemporary Christian, Classical, Broadway, Beach, Baroque, Circus, Fusion, Latin, Salsa, Shag, Tejano, Italian, Peruvian, Albanian, and Pirate. Really. Did we leave anything out? We will get it for you!
Our only limit is your imagination and the duration of your party.
We can provide special music programming for
all types of theme parties, limited only by your imagination. We have performed Disco Parties, Swing Dance Parties, Hawaiian Luaus, International Talk Like a Pirate Day, 50s sock hops, Irish singalongs for St Patrick's Day, 60s theme parties, country hoedowns, parrothead pool parties, Dive-In Movies, Hip-Hop parties, and all manner of costume parties. How about a Star Wars themed wedding?
Can you do Karaoke?
YES, and like everything we do, we do it right. Party Machine Karaoke Systems allow us to change a song's key to match the singer's voice. Multiple wireless microphones operate on clear noise-free UHF frequencies. Flat-panel HD video monitors on pedestals allow convenient placement for your sing-along enjoyment. We can even project song lyrics onto our Big Screen systems, or project LIVE image magnification on multiple Big Screens, and give each singer a take-home DVD of their performance!
What is your standard attire?
A tuxedo for formal events, suits for less formal parties, and casual wear, costumes, or beach attire as the dress code for the occasion dictates.
Can I provide my own music?
Of course, on CD or MP3, an iPod or a flash drive. Just be sure your name is on it so we can return it to you. We will need to pre-screen your selections before playing them, and will NOT play songs with lyrics that are obscene, racist, or otherwise offensive. Chances are we already have your songs in our database, unless it is a recording of the old garage band you played for in High School. We may even have that.
How far will you travel to do a party?
We have many customers who would not consider having an event without Party Machine entertainment, no matter where it is. Scott has played to happy crowds in five states and two foreign countries. Please call us first if you are planning a destination wedding or a party that involves travel. We will quote a travel rate based on distance and lodging requirements.
Can I afford your services? What are your rates?
You can get a quote for your event by calling 817-294-9539.
We need to know: date, time, place, event type, number of guests, and special requirements.
Rates vary with the date, the event type, audio-visual requirements, and special programming needs.
Obviously New Year's Eve, popular wedding dates, and
Saturdays in December will cost more. Other
variables that affect pricing include secondary systems for the
ceremony, number of satellite speakers, lighting and effects,
interactive video services, studio production services, special
staging, set-up and A-V requirements, large venue sound reinforcement
systems, self-contained outdoor systems, multiple-room audio, special
power requirements, accessibility (is there an elevator?) etc.
We do not charge by the hour. We will consult with you, present our recommendations for your audio/visual and program requirements, and quote an all-inclusive price for your event. We will probably cost more than the quote you get from a "hobby DJ," but will be surprised how affordable quality Party Machine entertainment can be. There is a valid reason why The Party Machine costs more than the "low bidder."
Professional MC vs. Part-Time Hobby DJ
So why do some other DJs advertise hourly rates, and market their service on low price? Because they are amateurs and lack experience. To perform a truly professional job of your entertainment requires far more preparation and behind-the-scenes work than simply showing up to spin discs for a few hours. Talented professionals charge more, and are worth more, because we do our homework.
There is a tremendous difference between professionals and amateurs: The Party Machine Difference!
Please call Scott at 817-294-9539 for a quote before deciding you can't afford Party Machine quality - you may be pleasantly surprised.
The Party Machine costs more than average entertainers, and the reason is obvious to anyone who has attended a Party Machine event. In fact, it becomes obvious with the first telephone call. Like many other things in life, you get what you pay for. However, choosing the lowest bidder to entertain at your wedding, reunion, or bar mitzvah is a lot like choosing your tax accountant based on low price. If he doesn't do a good job, the results could be disastrous. Nothing ruins a wedding faster than a bad cheesy DJ.The Party Machine specializes in the important celebrations in your life. These are the Kodak moments, the special times when memories are made, and you don't get a "do-over." Whether it's your wedding or your silver anniversary, your graduation or your 20-year reunion, your birthday or your retirement party, these are special times, the times when you hire a professional photographer to capture the memory for you.
Make sure you hire a professional DJ entertainer as well!
At these special life celebrations, it is the entertainment that will "make it or break it."
Weddings are a special unique event and require a custom rate quote. Wedding rates include special music programming, pre-event planning meetings with the Bride and Groom, coordination with other wedding vendors, Master of Ceremonies services, use of wireless microphones for toasts and announcements, and managing the timeline for the event. We can also quote indoor/outdoor systems, lighting, and interactive multi-media and video services. If you are choosing your DJ solely on low price, there are many young and hungry newcomers cutting their teeth in this business, and you should probably contact one of them, although this often has disastrous results. We offer a higher level of quality, experience, and professionalism for the Bride and Groom who desire a trouble-free wedding with no worries, and who won't risk their wedding on the lowest bidder.
Amazingly, people routinely spend $3,600 for a wedding cake, $1,200 for an ice sculpture, and $5,000 for a vegetable platter. That is fine, because those items are worth the price. A $5,000 food display created by one of the many talented chefs in Dallas-Fort Worth is a work of art and a thing of beauty. So is the performance of a talented and experienced Master of Ceremonies and DJ. But many people still shop for the lowest bidder for entertainment, and they always regret their mistake. Post-event surveys consistently show that if they could get a "do-over," the majority of brides would have devoted more of their total budget to better entertainment.After the event, the guests will forget about the cake and the ice sculpture, but they always talk about the entertainment. For "better or worse," it is the entertainment that the guests remember.
Every bride I have met begins our meeting the same way: with a DJ horror story. She attended a wedding with a bad cheesy DJ, who didn't know what to play or what to say, who played the Macarena and the Chicken Dance seven times, talked too much, drank too much or made inappropriate comments, dressed wrong for the occasion, and who sounded like Charlie Brown's incomprehensible mother over the microphone (you know, "Bwah, bwah, bwah bwah-bwah!"), and who made terrible musical choices, sometimes even playing offensive songs with racist or obscene lyrics.
That was the lowest bidder. The customers got what they paid for, and it ruined their wedding.
Sadly, we have all seen this. These bargain-basement DJ wanna-bes are giving our industry a bad name, the same way that high-pressure salesmen, dishonest auto mechanics, ambulance-chasing lawyers, accountants who "cook the books," and malpracticing doctors damage the reputation of their respected professions.
But at the higher end of the price range, there exists an exceptional group of talented career professionals, dedicated to providing outstanding customer service and improving their professional DJ skills. Professional DJs and MCs are active in professional organizations, read trade journals, attend workshops, conventions and seminars, and network to constantly improve the quality and value of their service. They maintain high standards of integrity and personal responsibility and are active in the community. By supporting and patronizing career professional DJs of the American Disc Jockey Association, you are helping to "raise the bar" for the industry standard, and improve the performance quality and customer service available to all.
A Party Machine Wedding is not expensive - it's priceless!
Class Reunions are another unique event requiring a custom rate quote. The Party Machine will provide special music programming from your school days! We will also assist with your program, mix and edit your slideshows and videos, MC and make announcements, and videotape the entire event. You can also use our wireless microphones, spotlights, and interactive big-screen video for presentations. Rate varies accordingly.
Please call Scott at 817-294-9539 for a quote before deciding you can't afford Party Machine quality - you may be pleasantly surprised.
That's your choice, of course. Martha Stewart recommends 10% of your total wedding budget.
Source: Modern Bride
It seems that 5% is clearly not enough, to get a quality professional.
Bear in mind that DJ and MC service is not a generic product! There is a broad range of talent and ability in the marketplace, and no barriers to entry. Anyone who can print business cards can claim to be a DJ.
If you search for a DJ on Google, you see many price-based advertisements. Some are newcomers, some are "list-sellers," and many are just dishonest bait-and-switch advertising. Any DJ that will play a prime wedding date for under $1,200 is not one of the area's top professionals, lacks experience, and should be avoided for any "Kodak Moment" celebrations, like weddings, anniversaries, and reunions. If they will work cheap, that means they earn their living doing something else, and really don't have the time (or work ethic) to dedicate to making your event their top priority. Many DJs at lower price points can do an adequate job for a school dance, but don't have the necessary skill set or experience required to play for a mixed-age group with diverse musical taste.
Higher-paid DJ/MCs entertain for their primary income, and live and die by referrals. You expect better service when you pay a little more, and you deserve it. A career professional will work harder to give you your money's worth, and ensure that you will be so pleased with their service that you will refer others.
The top Professional DJ Entertainers in the Dallas - Fort Worth area charge from $1,500 to $2,500 for prime dates, with top talent, large systems, lighting, and multi-media commanding more for popular wedding dates. There are several good and talented professional entertainers in the Dallas - Fort Worth area in this price range, and we stay booked up. They can be identified by their years of experience, references, and professional affiliations. When you speak to a professional on the phone, you will know immediately.
If these rates seem high to you, think about what your guests will remember most. The "Fun Factor" at your wedding is controlled by the entertainment. It is the entertainment that will make or break your event.
If you budget more for vegetable platters than for your entertainment, it could be a mistake.
Do you use a written contract?
Yes, a signed contract and deposit of 50% are required to hold a date. Of course, any changes may be made after your date is "locked in," and will be done with a contract rider. All Party Machine contracts include the option of additional time at a pre-determined rate.
Do you accept Credit and Debit Cards?
Yes, we accept VISA, MasterCard, and American Express. We also accept PayPal online.
Of course, we are happy to accept your personal or business check.
Do you use professional sound equipment?
Absolutely, and only the very best available. We use amplifiers from QSC and Crown. Speakers are the latest from JBL for mains and subwoofers, and featuring Phonic powered speakers for our UHF wireless remotes. Our systems feature digital signal processing that eliminates noise and feedback. We use only Apple computers in our digital systems, with redundant backup. Microphones from Shure, MiPro and Countryman for crystal-clear sound and reliability. But a Party Machine sound system is more than just an impressive state-of-the-art equipment list.
Other DJs are frequently guests at Party Machine events, and they always have the same comment: "Wow, you have my dream DJ system!" They often ask, "How did you get such great sound, in this room with horrible acoustics?" And of course, "How long have you been doing this?"
Party Machine systems travel in custom road cases, so they always arrive in working condition, even after a long trip and getting bounced up a flight of stairs. Even the wires get special attention: balanced outputs are utilized, and shielded cables to prevent picking up stray radio signals or cellphones. Spares for everything, and power conditioners and surge suppressors prevent unwanted noises and pops. Ground Fault Interrupters (GFI) for safety in outdoor, poolside or waterfront setups. Sound Pressure Level (Decibel) Meters are used to set safe and enjoyable operating volume, and systems are equalized using a Real Time Analyzer. Party Machine technology can make a room with harsh acoustics sound great, and provide clean, crisp sound at comfortable listening levels, so your guests can talk without being overpowered by overly-loud music.
We have our own materials handling equipment, dollies, ramps, pads and straps for safe transport of our
equipment. This means your event will not be delayed because your DJ had to
wait for a dolly at the loading
dock. The manager of one popular banquet hall said she knew we were professionals, just because we didn't bother her to ask if we could borrow a dolly! Party Machine systems always arrive looking clean and new.
Do you do lighting and special effects?
YES, The Party Machine has consistently been on the cutting edge of the latest lighting technology.
We provide the finest Event Lighting in the industry.
Architectural Lighting and Up-Lighting are quite popular for weddings and big events, and Party Machine "Light Up The Night" systems use the latest LED technology. This eliminates power issues and heat, and allows a wide palette of 16 million possible colors, so we can make your ballroom match your bridal colors or your school colors, or change colors to set different moods throughout the evening, as you wish.
Pattern Wash lighting adds an elegant and distinctive look to a dance floor or to walls.
Monogram Lighting or Gobo Projection is popular for weddings and corporate events.
Pinspot Lighting of table centerpieces, cake table, and gift table make weddings receptions look amazing!
Our latest dance lighting systems include dimmable LED color-change lights to set the mood for your banquet room, intelligent lighting, and lasers, all sound-synchronized and computer-controlled. We even have wireless lighting control. Of course, we also have more traditional effects, such as a mirror ball for a Disco theme party, or bubble machines and confetti launchers. We can provide custom gobo fixtures that will project your name or company logo, on fixtures that can move, spin, or change colors. If you can dream up a visual effect, we can do it for you! Call me for ideas, there are many creative things lighting can do to make your event special and memorable for your guests.
Do you need to see the banquet facility? Can you meet us there to look at the room?
Of course, but chances are good that we are already well acquainted with your banquet room. What is more important is that we meet with you, so that we can discuss your event and get to know your plans, preferences, musical tastes and event agenda. It is important to perform a Site Survey whenever planning large systems, multiple-room or indoor/outdoor events, or when lighting, special effects, or video are to be used.
What are your qualifications to be a DJ and MC?
DJ Scott Shirley holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications, University of Texas at Arlington. 34 years of continuous operation
in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. DJ
instructor and author.
15 Nightclubs, over 1,600 private parties, weddings and events. See Experience below.
Have you been professionally trained or certified?
Radio and TV production and DJ courses in college, as well as courses in public speaking. By the time classes for Mobile DJs came
into existence, I was teaching them. I have taught many DJs, and have written
numerous articles on being a Mobile DJ. The Party Machine has belonged to numerous Record Pools, clubs, and DJ Associations that have come and gone. We have been members of the Dallas, Fort Worth, and Arlington Chambers of
Commerce and the Better Business Bureau. We are currently active in the DFW Chapter of the American
DJ Association. We belong to Crossmix, the fellowship of Christian DJs. We participate in several online DJ forums, including DJ Gold and Free DJ America. We keep up with all the latest music and entertainment trends through several magazines and music subscription services. A Professional DJ's training continues throughout a long career!
What is your experience? How many events have you done?
Scott Shirley has worked as a DJ at 15 clubs and well over 2,000 private events since 1976, and has trained dozens of party DJs. The Party Machine has an impressive list of customers, (see Customers list) and has been the market leader in Dallas-Fort Worth with many firsts in the mobile entertainment industry. We have performed on boat docks, balconies, barns, and basements, lobbies, lodges, luaus and living rooms, penthouses, picnics, proms, pools, and patios, trucks and tree-houses, drive-in theaters, jet hangars, train stations, symphony halls, and 40 stories above downtown.
The Party Machine has filled arenas at both the Dallas and Fort Worth Convention Centers with massive multi-speaker sound systems for conventions and festivals. We have also provided music for many fund-raisers and Dance Marathons, including 15 events lasting 30 hours for the American Cancer Society.
Party Machine entertainment packages have been auctioned as fund-raisers for schools, charities, churches, sports clubs, Olympic athletes, and KERA-13 Public Television.
We have performed at High School Proms, and later at the Class Reunion, for the same High School class.
We have many repeat customers, several for
whom we have done weddings for every son and daughter in the family. We have done 40th
and 50th birthday celebrations for the same customer. We have many customer families, for whom we have done a wedding, a parent's birthday, a reunion, and a grandparent's Golden Anniversary. We have done one class's 5, 10, 20, and 30 year Class Reunion. We have even played music and recorded for a funeral. We have done a
wedding in a swimming pool. Not poolside, but actually IN the water!
My experience includes many unique and unusual events. I have played parties at which I rode an elephant and flew in a tactical fighter plane, and have worked with many entertainment and sports celebrities and business and political leaders. I even got the Speaker of the House of Representatives to dance wearing a hula skirt.
Perhaps our best recommendation comes from the growing number of repeat customers, who call the Party Machine to check our booking availability, before selecting a date for their event.
Our wealth of experience is unmatched in the industry!
Will you also serve as Master of Ceremonies (MC)?
Of course! I will make announcements at your wedding reception, introduce your wedding party and special guests, and manage the event timeline according to your wishes. I often MC for reunions, awards banquets, and company parties, and assist with announcements, door prizes, group photos, games, skits, or contests.
Are you insured?
The Party Machine carries liability insurance in the amount of $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate. Our policy covers bodily injury, personal injury, property damage, auto, fire, medical, host liquor liability, and products liability within limits defined by the policy. A Certificate of Insurance will be provided upon request. If your venue requires an Additional Named Insured Certificate, we can provide this to them.
Materials Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) are available for all chemical products used in effects (fog, haze, bubble, cannons, pyrotechnics, and snow).
How much set-up time do you require?
We allow at least an hour, and prefer 2 to 3 hours for larger events. Our record set-up time (small sound-only setup) is 3 minutes, 26 seconds, captured on camera! More time is allowed for large sound systems, lighting, and special events as required. Requests for an unusually early set-up may result in additional fees.
Do you have back-up equipment in case of a breakdown or failure?
Yes, and our duplicate
hardware - and duplicate music - travels to every event. Although our
equipment is rigorously maintained and frequently updated, machines can break.
Because we have spare components pre-wired and ready for quick substitution, your guests would never
notice an amplifier change. Similarly, all systems have three to five music
sources connected and redundant cabling, so that failure of any single
component will not affect your event. Music is backed-up to multiple devices.
Party Machine backup gear is not second rate entry-level equipment, either, but is quality high-end pro audio electronic components that many new DJs aspire to have in their primary system.
The Party Machine also has contingency plans for backup transportation and staffing.
In 30 years of flat tires, transmission failures, and traffic jams, we have never started a party late. In rare cases of equipment malfunction, our backup systems have never let a party be delayed. Because the next event puts this perfect record at risk, we leave nothing to chance. That's the Party Machine Difference.
How is the Party Machine different from other disc jockey companies?
THE PARTY MACHINE DIFFERENCE!
We are better. We have more experience. We get the details right!
It's really very simple. 34 years of positive experience pays big dividends in quality and professionalism.
We start with great quality sound, and take it to the next level.
(no, we don't mean "crank the volume up to 11!")
Plenty of DJs have speakers or amplifiers that are just as good as Party Machine equipment. But we go the extra mile for superior sound quality and performance reliability. Harsh room acoustics are improved using a Real Time Analyzer for equalization. Digital Signal Processing equipment eliminates feedback, hissing noise (called sibilance in the audio biz), radio interference, subsonic rumble, and even microphone handling noise. Power conditioning ensures clean sound without 60-cycle hum. Even the shielded audio cables that connect Party Machine components are of the highest quality, and Party Machine gear travels in custom road cases and is transported with handling equipment made to our own specifications. Safe listening volume is set using a Sound Pressure Level meter. Party Machine systems offer Better sound, and better reliability!
The Party Machine can handle the Big Events.
We have the equipment, expertise and experience for big-venue sound! We have provided Party Machine audio systems for arenas, convention centers, trade shows, car shows, and large fund-raising events. Our exclusive Wireless Powered Speakers have expanded our sound reinforcement capability, and allows for impressive indoor/outdoor sound systems. A banquet for 1,200 of your closest friends is not a problem!
We do our homework before your event.
We care about the details and are committed to doing whatever it takes to make your event a success. We are on-time, well-equipped, well-dressed and well-prepared. We "out-prepare" other entertainment companies. We have the best experience, and our customers prove it - just ask them. When party time comes, we make sure everything goes smoothly, according to your wishes and plans, your event is trouble-free, you have no worries, and everyone has a great time!
Expanded video and multi-media capability!
The Party Machine can turn your Reunion, Fund-Raiser or Awards Banquet into an energy-filled multi-media extravaganza! In addition to Image Magnification, PowerPoint slideshows, and video projection, Party Machine video professionals can provide a live multi-camera show, and project party guests onto the Big Screen for dancing party pics and video. Your party guests will love seeing themselves on the Big Screen! Wedding guests can see the ceremony onscreen the minute they arrive at the reception. A Bar Mitzvah can turn into an exciting American Idol episode, or your school's Alma Mater can be read karaoke-style at your Class Reunion.
We specialize in the most important events in your life!
Milestone Birthdays and Anniversaries, Weddings, Bar Mitzvahs, and Reunions are our strength.We understand the importance of the milestone events in your life, so we take the time, trouble and expense to get it right the first time, and do it your way! We treat every booking as an important event in your life.
No Wedding Crashers Guarantee.
The Party Machine is different with our No Wedding Crashers policy. We do not allow prospective customers to attend wedding receptions to "check out" the DJ. This way we guarantee that there won't be wedding crashers at your wedding, checking out your DJ. This allows your Party Machine DJ to fully concentrate on your event, without the distraction of salesman duty. Our outstanding references and face-to-face meetings will make you confident that the Party Machine is your best entertainment choice.
Limited Booking for Weddings
The Party Machine is different because of limited booking. Scott Shirley only does 25 to 30 weddings each year in order to be able to dedicate the time to make each one special, memorable, and unique. This guarantees that you will have the same DJ you chose, not some rookie substitute. We will never double-book your date!
Your Music Choices!
For weddings and reunions, we will review in person the most popular choices for your special music, plus you can select your music through our online lists. Our Party Machine music archives include resources from PhonoLog, Music Master, Billboard and other sources, all of which will be at your disposal for musical research.
Do you require a deposit? What is your cancellation policy?
The Party Machine requires a 50% retainer and contract signature to "lock-in" and reserve a date. Balance is due at
set-up prior to the event. Deposit is refundable until 90 days from event.
Cancellations made after 90 days prior to the event are not refundable, but may
be applied to a future booking. This policy is because we have turned away
customers for that date, and it is too late to re-book. In 34 years, we have never retained a deposit, and were able to re-schedule two events to ensure happy clients.
Can you work outdoors?
Of course, we do it all the time! Weddings, pool parties, company picnics, churches, ranches, country clubs and yacht clubs have us working outdoors all the time. We even have remote outdoor systems with silent, non-polluting inverter power, for lakeside, park, ranch, and backwoods events. We can set up a DJ tent for outdoor events. In case of inclement weather, our modular sound systems can be re-located indoors quickly, and we have procedures in place for contingencies.
These are the answers to the most common questions we receive. Please call us at
817-294-9539 if you have any additional questions.