KC at your service

Thanks for the

Memories

20+ Years

(from NJ to FL)

sharing good times,

providing music for

your Weddings,

Commitment Ceremonies,

Birthday, Anniversary and

Re-union parties….

Jersey Pride, Campfest,

Daytona and Ocala Pride, NCOD dance at Stetson,

OWL’S and Funtastic dances and events,

Business networking events,

Tropical Nights &

Casino Nights,

fundraisers for blood drives, scholarships…

Check out some Blasts from the Past:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/babyboomerchris/sets/72157627997826078/show/

 It’s been a long ride. 

But, I’m following Dr’s orders

and hanging up the headphones

This time it’s an opportunity to

“get down”,

have a good time

and help start

our “recovery from Storm” fund. 

Bring your dancing shoes,

donations and favorite beverages.

Light snacks will be served

 Don’t miss this last opportunity

to hope aboard the

KC Sound Express

Saturday,
November 12^th

7:00 to 10:00pm  Lighthouse Pointe East Clubhouse,

155 Spring Drive, Port Orange.

If you have a musical instrument,

and would like to jam, bring it!

For more information

contact Chris or Carol at (386) 265-1431

or
leave a comment on this blog.

or

RSVP to

KC_SoundExpressDJs@yahoo.com

]]> http://kcsoundexpressdjs.wordpress.com/2011/10/28/kcs-last-stand-kc-sound-express-djs/feed/ 0 29.028318 -81.303118 29.028318 -81.303118 kcsoundexpressdjs KC DJ http://kcsoundexpressdjs.wordpress.com/2011/09/08/make-it-a-theme-party/ http://kcsoundexpressdjs.wordpress.com/2011/09/08/make-it-a-theme-party/#comments Thu, 08 Sep 2011 13:01:33 +0000 kcsoundexpressdjs http://kcsoundexpressdjs.wordpress.com/?p=77 ]]> Some ideas for a theme Party:

Halloween/Costume Party

Minute to Win it can be incorporated with any other theme:

I Spy – Put on the James Bond look

For a 70’s party there always the

“Saturday Night Fever” theme.

For your 50’s party, you can pick up all sorts of economical props and decorations

such as old 45’s, clothes and memorabilia at resale and thrift shops. 

Old album covers (yes, remember them)

and magazine covers along with

posters and stand-up props make great photo opportunities.

Jitterbug contests and the “stroll” will get them up

and can throw in the newer line dances.

Check out the movie rental places and flea markets for posters.

KC Sound Express DJs can provide the music you need for any theme party: 

40’s through top 40 as well as Mardi Gras, Latin Night, Hoe-down Throw down,

Halloween, Diva Night and holidays.

Call us – we’re ready!

(386) 265-1431

KC_SoundExpressDJs@yahoo.com

Book your DJ Now

September is one of the most popular months for weddings/commitment ceremonies!

Book KC Sound Express DJs NOW

for your Wedding/ Commitment Ceremony or Holiday party.

Our Calendar is filling up quickly.

Check out the complete blog for info on: Establishing a time line, Choosing a venue, Questions to ask your DJ, Party ideas, Are package deals your best choice? … and more.

Our Calendar is filling up quickly.

www.kc-soundexpressdjs.com

(386) 265-1431

Why establish a time line for your wedding?

You want things to flow so you can have the time of your life with no stress!

The following time line is one I use as a DJ to make that happen.  This time line is not carved in stone – it can be revised and shaped to be a unique as you as a couple are.

If you have a wedding planner/coordinator, this is a great start.  Depending upon what services you purchased, she or he may help plan out the day’s events working with the Caterer, DJ and photographer.   If you don’t use a wedding planner, it’s a good idea to have a main contact (point person) that will do things like letting the DJ know when the Bridal Party has arrived at the reception area, when they are ready for the introductions, etc.

Reception:

Background Music (as guests arrive – optional cocktail hour)  Choose your type of music

Introduction of the Wedding Party:  Choose a song

The wedding party will be introduced.

We Need names of participants in the wedding party.  In the order of their appearance

And Now – for the first time:  How you would like to be introduced?

(Some couples prefer Mr. & Mrs._______  ________ using the Groom’s name; some prefer to use both first names and some couples use a hyphenated name).

 You can choose to play the same song as the introduction of the Wedding Party or choose another.

First Dances:

Bridal couple –   Choose a song

Father/Daughter – Choose a song

Groom and Mother – Choose a song

Depending upon the size of your party and time you will be serving dinner, you may want to do just the Bridal couple dance so that your guests can start dinner.  Or you may choose to add in the Father/Daughter & Groom/Mother special dances.  In some cases, there is no Mother or Father available.  I’ve had occasions where Brides have danced with their Mothers, Grooms with their sisters, etc.  It’s flexible

Bridal Party  (sometimes we hold this for after the dinner to get everyone out on the floor) – Choose a song

Food is Served:

Blessing (optional)  Toasts may take place either before or during the meal.

DJ to announce Bridal Party and Wedding Party first – then each table if there is a buffet

Background music – choose music you and your guests would like to have dinner by.

Dance Music:  Choices from our “in person” meeting  – It’s advisable to go over your “DO NOT PLAY” list when you choose your songs.

The following are some of the traditional events/dances that you may want to incorporate into your reception.

• Dollar Dance (optional) Need a song

• Anniversary Dance (optional) Need a song

• Cake Cutting –  Need a song  

• Bouquet Toss:   Need a song

• Remove Garter & Toss Garter:  Need a song

• Place Garter:    (optional)  Need a song

• Last Dance:   Need a song

When you book a wedding with KC Sound Express DJs, we personally meet with you to go over your prospective time line and song lists.  We can provide a list of songs most commonly used for special dances and have a full range of songs for the reception, and if you desire, the ceremony.

If you have any questions or wish to book a wedding, you can contact us at:

KC_SoundExpressDJs@Yahoo.com

http://www.kc-soundexpressdjs.com

(386) 265-1431

For your 50’s party, you can pick up all sorts of economical props and decorations such as old 45’s, clothes and memorabilia at resale and thrift shops.  Old album covers (yes, remember them) and magazine covers along with posters and stand-up props make great photo opportunities.

Jitterbug contests and the “stroll” will get them up and then you

can throw in the newer line dances.

For a 70’s party there always the “Saturday Night Fever” theme.

Check out the movie rental places and flea markets for posters.

KC Sound Express DJs can provide the music you need for any theme party:  40’s through top 40 as well as Mardi Gras, Latin Night, Hoe-down Throw down, Halloween and holidays.

Call us – we’re ready!

(386) 736-6221

Here are a few things you might want to consider:

• Are there specific time limits on your use of the hall or grounds.  Make sure that your guests, and vendors are aware and that it is specifically stated on your contract.  (Read the fine print).

• Outdoor events:  Is there a plan B for bad weather?  Consider the season.

• If you choose a Friday or weekday night, are the rates less expensive?

• And last, but certainly not least, will a “package deal” limit you to use specific vendors such as the photographer, DJ or caterer?  You may save a little money, but once the photos are shot, the music is played and the food consumed, you can’t take any of that back.  Make sure you are getting what you really want for this special day.

• One last suggestion for weddings, if you can hire a wedding planner, do so.  It helps makes the process go smoother and gives you some relief to enjoy.

April Smith and the Great Picture Show

What I Love about being a mobile DJ

The best thing I love about being a mobile DJ, instead of being in a club and playing the same music all the time, is that I’m exposed to all sorts of diverse music, from Acoustic to Jazz, Latin/Salsa, Country, Rock, Soft Rock, Classic Rock, Oldies, Disco, Club, Big Band, Ballroom, HipHop/Rap, R&B, Alternative and Indie.

I just received and listened to a CD of “April Smith and the Great Picture Show”.  April is the daughter of a lead guitarist I used to be in a band with – many, many moons ago.  I had seen April live a few years ago, but was pleasantly surprised at the unique quality of her voice and style in this album.  I tried to put it in a genre, but I wasn’t sure which one it fit.  It’s in a class all it’s own.  Her voice reminded me at times of Norah Jones and/or Christina Aguilera (I know totally different) and the instrumentals behind her reminded me at time of the Beatles.

You don’t simply say, “it’s got a good beat”.  You listen to the words and the music.  Some albums seem to sound like the same song over and over, just change a few words.  Not so with this.  Check it out, listen to it, buy it.  It’s great:  http://www.aprilsmithmusic.com/

KC at your service

Will I meet my actual DJ?

KC Sound Express DJ’s is solely owned and operated by myself, Chris Kaplan.  I will be the person you have your initial consultation with and the person who DJs your event.   I will also be available by phone or e-mail to answer any questions you might have.

Do you help with the planning of the order of events for Weddings?

Prior to our meeting, I will send you an “order of events” form, which will outline the itinerary for the day.  It’s helpful if you go over this prior to our first meeting.

What type of Music do you play?

I’ve found that the most important thing to discuss is the do not play list.  I have an extensive, diverse collection of music including but not limited to:  pop, rock, big band, club, disco, hip-hop, country, and jazz.  I can send you a spreadsheet via e-mail or on a CD with songs that can be sorted by genre, year, artist or title.  I also will send you a list of suggested songs for the ceremony, and various parts of the reception such as the bouquet toss, etc.  I feel that each wedding should be tailored to your specific musical tastes and I will do my best to ensure that it is.  If I do not have particular songs, I will be happy to include them in my repertoire.

Is professional equipment used?

My equipment is professional and compact.  I store a Denon DNX-f00 mixer, a Stanton dual CD player and a control board in a DJ rack.  I also have 2 JBL self powered speakers with speaker stands.

Is Lighting available?

Yes, at an extra cost I have the following equipment: The Chauvet Block Party which includes a mini moon, Mini Line Dancer and Hurricane Fogger with a remote, a light control system and a black aluminum tripod stand that extends from 6 to 9 feet high.

What is your usual attire?

I usually wear a tuxedo shirt and tie with black pants.  However, if the wedding is a beach wedding or outdoor event, I will check with the bride and groom and dress accordingly.

What is your DJ style?

I discuss this with the bride and groom at our first meeting.  Some couples want a laid back DJ and others, someone who is more interactive and motivating.  I’ve gone to many weddings myself and abhor DJ’s who feel like they are the event.  This is your day and you should be the shining star.  I will also serve as your M.C. and work hand and hand with the other wedding professionals, making announcements according to the itinerary.

Do you use an assistant?

Yes, this helps facilitate the set-up and breakdown.  In some occasions, they also help get the crowd motivated to dance and possibly make announcements.  A bi-lingual assistant is available.

Do you take breaks?

No, the music goes on continuously.

Do you require a meal break?

In most cases, the wedding party provides meals for the DJ and assistant and a seat close to the equipment.  Pre-mixed music can be played at this time, but I like to be close by to monitor the music.

How much time do you need to set up?

It usually takes about ½ hour to 45 minutes to set up and do a sound and mike check.  If lighting is being used, it will take about 15 to 20 minutes longer.

How much experience do you have?

I started to DJ in 1986 in NJ.  I moved to Florida nine years ago and began again shortly after.  I’ve done weddings, birthday parties ranging from sweet sixteen to 80 years old, fundraisers, awards dinners, corporate parties, street happenings and dances.

Will I receive a contract stating the full extent and cost of your services, including possible overtime?

Yes, I will send out a contract once we agree upon a date.  It will outline all the specifics of the event including costs.

What requirements do you have?

Most halls provide a skirted table, but if they don’t, I have two 4-foot tables that I use.  I also need to be near an electrical outlet.

What service area do you cover? I cover all of central Florida – here are a few of the venues:  Orlando:  Leu Gardens, Maitland Art Center; Deland – Deltona Area:  Grant Bly House, Harmony Gardens, Mulligan’s Tavern & Grill, Deltona Community Center, Daytona Beach Area:  Plaza Resorts and Spa, Palmetta Club, Holly Hills Club House, The Oaks Club House, Wilbur-by-the Sea Boathouse; Mt Dora: Mt Dora Golf Association; Palm Coast: African American Cultural Center, Pine Course at the Grand Club; Port Orange:  VFW Post 3282 to mention a few as well as private homes, halls and parties.

If you’re planning an outside venue, it’s always wise to have a plan B.  Even here in Florida – we’re being hit with cold freezes and during hurricane season – you can never tell what you’re going to get!

Even in Florida - everything is freezing!

I did an outside gig in January and it’s the first time I had to DJ with gloves!  Even with plastic walls and outside heaters, nothing could fight the frigid cold.

So here’s wishing all of you a great, warm Valentine’s Weekend!

http://www.kc-soundexpressdjs.com

Brittany & Brad's Wedding