Advice To Brides

I have only written a relatively small number of entries in this blog for Prelude Entertainment. In the process of writing, and sharing my thoughts, it has caused me to look at some things I have simply taken for granted before. For example I know without a doubt that I can sing, as I have in many bands over the years, and recording and touring. It never occurred to me that just because I say I can DJ that anybody would doubt it. What I have found as I look closer into the unique world of the wedding business, is that people really want it spelled out for them. Since many of the gigs I get are from people to whom I have been recommended or I already know, it hasn't been something I thought much about before. I have since began to look at things related to my business in a different light (and that's a good thing, right?). Since I am on a budget and must do promotion on a shoestring, it has motivated me to get more creative. I have started to put together a few videos showcasing my vocal and my DJ talents in short snippets (usually under 4-5 minutes), since most people seeking entertainment services for their wedding do so after work, on weekends, and whenever and wherever they can squeeze in the time. I have to do everything "in house", I can't hire someone to do it for me. I must admit I am enjoying doing these little videos and hope it hits home the point that I am focused, organized, motivated, talented, and most of all, experienced in the areas I am promoting. DIY is a good thing, it's for people who believe in themselves enough to show the world, and aren't going to wait around for someone to do it for them. Above all, I am always striving for quality, and doing the best possible job I can in any endeavor I undertake, whether it is helping a bride plan the entertainment for her wedding, performing a club date with my jazz trio, or providing my skills as a DJ at an event.

Here is another thing that has been on my mind of late, price. There are services available from event professionals that run the gamut in the spectrum of price, from the astronomical to the bargain basement, the service provider has hung out his (or her) shingle and has declared they are "open for business". How is a bride supposed to traverse this landscape, especially if it is all new territory? Some brides, the ones that can afford it, hire a wedding planner, the others that are not so financially well heeled go it alone. Here is what I have noticed, just because someone is high priced does not necessarily mean they are the best, or even great. There are people, even wedding planners, that say they are professional but they are not, and only after getting hired does it become evident to the client they are not getting what they signed on for. I say take your time in choosing who you are going to entrust responsibilities to for one of the most important events of your life, your wedding day. I am not on the high tier of high priced wedding professionals for a number of reasons. First of all I believe my experience and talent to be of platinum value to my clients. When I was a boy my grandfather, who was a very successful businessman, sat me down and told me something that has stayed with me into my adult life, he said "David, never sell an empty bag", in other words always give the customer value for the price you charge, make sure the bag you are selling has something in it. I don't have a lot of the high end things some of my competitors offer, like a big laser light show and a huge uplighting experience. If a client wants the more upscale things my competition offers, I will explain to them that I can supply these things, but I will have to rent them for their event along with adding a small surcharge to the contracted price. My basic prices are on the medium-low end at this time because I want to fill up my calendar, and give value. I also realize there are a lot of couples out there that can't afford the most expensive vendor. I want to be mister in-between, but give high end service to my clients. I will not sell an empty bag.

David Floodstrand
Prelude Entertainment

http://www.prelude-entertainme...