Here are answers to some frequently asked questions. In addition, check out the helpful Hints for your wedding reception.

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What is included in the cost?

Set-up, break-down and travel of less than 150 miles round trip is included in the cost. You pay only for music time. One organizational meeting (within 150 miles round trip) is also included; additional meetings are $25 per hour.

What announcements are typically made at a wedding reception?

Many receptions start with the Grand Entrance. This can be as simple as the bride and groom, or can include the bridal party, parents, flower girls and ring bearer. Later, the Best Man is introduced for the Toast, and, after that, the First Dance is announced. The Garter and Bouquet Toss is coordinated after some dancing, and the Cake is Cut. Other things tend to come up, and it's not unusual to have a few song dedications.

How do I hire DJ Fogg?

Although arrangements can be made by phone, e-mail, and ground mail, I like to have a face-to-face meeting to sign the event agreement. Two copies of the event agreement will be prepared by hand. We sign both copies; you return one to me, with your deposit, and you keep the other one. We'll meet again for an organizational meeting a few weeks before the event to discuss the details.

What is the event agreement and what is it for?

The event agreement is a document that formalizes the details of your event. Location, date, time, and duration are the most important. We also specify any surcharges and come up with a total cost.

Contact me for a copy of the event agreement.

Explain the surcharge for stairways?

DJ Fogg is a one-person operation, and a significant amount of time is spent moving equipment. Most equipment is moved by hand truck on elevators or ramps. Physically carrying equipment on stairways increases the time and effort required for set-up and break-down. Therefore, a surcharge of $100 per flight per event is required for stairways.

What exactly is a "flight" of stairs?

I consider a "flight" to be 7 or 8 stairs. When determining the need for a stairway surcharge, a couple of stairs can be usually be accomodated without charge. More than 3 usually requires a surchange for at least half a flight.

Why is shelter required for outdoor events?

The short answer is: to protect the equipment. During the day, sunlight can cause overheating and warp CDs. In the evening, condensing moisture can also cause problems. I require either a tent or some form of permanent overhead shelter for all outdoor events. Trees don't count as overhead shelter! Shelter is not required for a second set of equipment used during an outdoor wedding ceremonies but may be requested, depending on the circumstances.

How much experience do you have?

I've been a mobile disc jockey since 1987. That was preceded by five years of on-air radio experience and 12 years of technical theatre experience. Trained as an engineer, I'm also a musician and an avid record collector.

Do you bring any backup equipment?

An extra stereo amplifier and two spare CD players are brought to every event. The Bose speakers are fused and easily fixed. Also, three MiniDisc players are always available.

What should I do when I'm going over the music list?"

I ask my clients to go over the partial music list, highlighting the songs they like and crossing out songs they don't like. I've found it best to concentrate on the extremes; mark the songs you like best and the songs you like least. Your guests may have requests, and they will enjoy themselves much more if their song can be played. Also, it's important to have enough songs for the event! (Figure 20 songs per hour.) Typically, a few crossouts and a discussion about any musical genres to be avoided is sufficient.

How is equipment placement arranged?

It may be important to know early on where the DJ equipment will be placed at the venue. It depends on both the size and complexity of the space. The basic equipment requires about 6 square feet of floor space, with the speakers on stands close by. It will be helpful to have some basic information about the venue at both the initial and organizational meeting, including a floorplan.

Is there additional equipment available for ceremony music?

Yes, a complete, low-profile stereo system is available for ceremonies. The system includes speakers, CD players, amplifier, microphones and mixer. Equipment from the primary system is also available.

What wedding ceremony music is available?

I've done many wedding ceremonies, and none have used the same music. Classical is always a good choice, as well as traditional organ music. I think it's important to use music that's meaningful to you, no matter what it is. I can make some suggestions in these and other genres.

What special songs do I need to choose?

The most important special wedding song is the First Dance. It's also common to pick out songs for a parents' dance and a dance for the bridal party. However, it may be fun to have special songs for bridesmaids, groomsmen, parents, grandparents, children, and other guests. Use your imagination!

What if I need a song you don't have?

I'll find it for you! If you have an unusual request, let me know immediately. The C. E. Fogg music library is extensive, and the partial music list contains only a fraction of the music available. Also, I scour record stores in southern California for new music on a regular basis. If there is a song that neither you nor I have, I'll do my best to find it.