Introduction: Hello!! - - I have included a "TON" of information below, so please do not feel overwhelmed.. It is better to be "well informed" than "under informed"..
I tried to make it easy to find any and all topics and services you maybe looking for. The ability to highlight topics is not available on this Thumbtack app., So I tried to make it easy to find topics with the use of "Quotes", ***, and CAPITALIZATION'S..
"IMPORTANT INFO BEFORE YOU PROCEED"
#1 - I hope you are aware that there is NO CHARGE for you to post your request for a service provider on Thumbtack, "BUT" the way Thumbtack makes their $$$ to stay in business is by charging a "FIRST CONTACT" or "BROKER" fee to every service provider (in this case - "ME" - ) that "YOU" select/contact... which is "not" a problem, just "please" be sure I match or meet all/nearly all your needs and/or requirements for your event or service you are looking for before clicking the button requesting my availability and/or for a quote... Much appreciated. Please see some examples below you should be aware of.
#2 - Please be aware and MAKE NOTE - that everything provided for the "basic price quote" provided by Thumbtack is based upon what YOU "chose/selected" in the 'filters', and are listed under "Includes" - - "Mileage/Travel Time" - IS NOT included in the basic quoted package. If your event is located within the "local" 15 mile radius of our home base (Wethersfield, CT) there is 'NO' mileage/travel time charges. If your event is located over 15 miles, please be advised that there will/could be some mileage/travel time charges.
#3 - but good news- on the other hand - Please note that Thumbtack posts separate fees & charges for 'Emcee Services' and 'Dance Floor Lighting' - - Sunshine Entertainment includes those services "AT NO ADDITIONAL CHARGE" in every DJ package and are listed in the Basic Base price as "$0".
#4 - Please note if you are requesting a "Bilingual" service provider please select the correct "Filter" - sorry, but unfortunately Sunshine Entertainment has no "bilingual" DJs, KJs, dance instructors, Etc. - We only have the ability to 'speak' "English" and "Texan" - but we do "play" music from all countries around the world.
#5 - The "general" posting, 'prices' and reply info you see from Thumbtack for "MOST" DJ services is for our "Standard" DJ package.. In reality, the "Standard" DJ package maybe 'overkill' or you may wish to choose a less expensive, less detailed package or a more expensive package, with more 'bells & whistles' - that is why our "Up Front" Price and DJ package list is "usually" always included in in our first reply back to you - so "YOU" can have an idea of the different DJ packages, prices, and all the different options that can be added to your package.
OK - back to the introduction of Sunshine Entertainment (SE), Thank You !! ...
NOTE - - - Please, before making a request for a quote or an inquiry about SE's availability for services, "PLEASE" read the information directly below to make sure the services SE provides match your needs and requirements and that SE's "Up Front" prices fit into your budget..... THANKS !!!!
Just as the title of my business implies, my goal with “Sunshine Entertainment” is to provide a large variety of professional entertainment services at very reasonable prices, while bringing "sunshine-like" brightness into all my personal interactions with clients, their guests and other participants.
Below is quite a bit of information for you to review, and as they say - "an informed consumer is a smart consumer" - so to get things started, directly below are:
THE TOP "16" MOST COMMONLY ASKED "Q's" WITH THEIR "A's" ...
THAT I AM MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED..
** 1) "YES" - Sunshine Entertainment is fully insured, and the venue can be 'additionally insured' if the venue requests it.
** 2) "YES" - You will get 'me' and "only me" as your personal seasoned and experienced and 'professional' DJ, KJ, Sound Tech, Event Photographer, Videographer and/or Dance Instructor - no subcontractors or part-timers are utilized. (This is usually the #1 question I am asked).
** 3) "NO" - I am not a "Club DJ" and do not play continuous- non-stop- same/single tempo- Club DJ format music.... "But" all songs are "clip edited" so there is no annoying "dead air" at the beginning or end of all songs. With a music library of over 150,000 "actual" songs of all forms, and a variety of over 6,500+ "actual" Video Karaoke tracks, I can and will play your "playlist" (see #4 below), and can/will take requests at your event. For corporate events and events where awards are given, I can provide fanfare music clips in addition to appropriate transition music to fill in those 'awkward' 'dead air' moments.
** 4) Music Playlists - This is to make sure we are on the same page - 'playlists' or request lists, are the songs you wish to be played at your event. Again having over 150,000 actual songs that I bring to every event/gig I DJ, I do not play off of any internet 'playlist' provider such as - Pandora, Spotify, etc. Which means - if the internet or WiFi goes down, or starts to 'buffer' at the venue, I will not be affected.
** 5) Music Specialties - For the most part, I am a music "generalist" DJ - with a music library of over 150,000+ songs to date, I can play nearly every format and genre of dance and event music. When you select/filter the types of music you would like to have played at your event. I am "NOT" a music specialist when it comes to 'some' single music selection formats. For example - in your posting, if you request/filter 'only' Hip Hop/Rap music to be played, I recommend that you look for a "Hip Hop/Rap DJ". If you want only "Bollywood/Indian" music to be played, I recommend that you look for a DJ that specializes in "Bollywood/Indian" music, in cases where I am the selected DJ for an event with obscure/rare music requests, I am generally provided with the music or links to the music on the internet.
** 6) I am based out of Wethersfield, CT and the quotes/prices that are posted/listed here in Thumbtack are "Basic" package prices for "local" bookings (within 15 miles of Wethersfield) If your event is further than 15 miles or a 30 minute drive from my home base in Wethersfield, CT - please expect some time/travel charges. But!! - - I do reduce and many times waive the mileage charge for events over $600.00).
** 7) "YES" - I am a Professional "Event" photographer and videographer and not a "Wedding" photographer or videographer. I can provide 'raw' 'unedited' non-typical, high quality, candid, event style photographs for all types of special events, I can and have assisted the event photographer as the "2nd Shooter" at events and have stepped in on occasion as the wedding event photographer when something happens to the scheduled event photographer (see samples of my 'photography' pics on Thumbtack and you'll get the idea).
** 8) "YES" - I have "FM Wireless" and "Bluetooth" music broadcast capabilities... My microphones are wireless, my uplight dance and effect lighting are wireless and programmable, and I can be setup in one location and provide wireless/bluetooth sound up to three (3) other locations/sites at the venue (110' max. line of site for Bluetooth, and up to a 3.0 mile radius for FM wireless transmission). I have also available, a stand alone wireless, battery powered, Bluetooth sound system, with music, and microphone for remote locations with no hard wired power (12.0 hour battery life).
** 9) "YES" - I am also an (Emcee) MC/Host and 'day of event' coordinator (with caterer, photographer, Videographer, & Venue staff) , and can/will make introductions, announcements, and do onsite event/live interviews of participants/vendors at your event, and can help you create, implement and follow your event timeline (free event timeline and wedding ceremony/reception planning worksheets will be provided upon booking).
** 10) "YES" - if you book me as your wedding/event DJ, I will provide you not only with event, wedding ceremony, and wedding reception timeline worksheets, but will also include a variety of reception activity templates (music games, DJ Games, Centerpiece give away ideas, cocktail hour activities, specialty dance ideas, etc.) to help "us" plan and keep your event on track.
** 11) "YES" - I have multi sound system and multi location setup capabilities. With: A) Three (3) 110vt hardwired sound systems, One (1) wireless/inverter powered sound system, and two (2) light weight wireless/bluetooth/FM Radio single speaker sound systems, I can provide multiple location sound system setups at your venue - perfect for weddings requiring music and sound with no "dead air" at three or more separate locations at the venue - such as the ceremony location, cocktail hour location, dinner location, and finally the dance/party location.
** 12) "YES" - I can provide 'special' or 'non-traditional' 'non-mainstream' music for your event - i.e. Movie/TV Themes for movie/TV related events, Video Game themes for video game related events, WWF Wrestling themes, "Disney", and more.
** 13) and.. "YES" - I am not kidding.. I am a single person multifaceted enterprise and when I respond back to your inquiry with a quote, that means that I am "currently" available at the time you submitted your inquiry/post - many times my availability window is short and could get booked (and have been booked) at any time by someone else without notice. Sadly many potential clients who have procrastinated, have lost out on their requested date. And, please do not assume that you have "booked" me for your event when I reply back to you with a quote and confirmation that I am available. You must confirm your booking that you would like my services for your event via the Thumbtack Messaging Service.
** 14) Sorry "NO" ... I do not supply, rent, or provide dance floors, photo-booths, or event tents. I also do not supply or rent most or all of the sound, music, and lighting equipment I own, unless I am present operating the said equipment (The venue usually provides the dance floors and event tents or you can rent floors and tents from your local rental store such as Taylor Rentals), and I can also refer you to several photo-booth providers.
** 15) "YES" - I can provide Backline (small Concert) Sound Reinforcement services and sound equipment - I provide 3 different levels of services/equipment to match your needs for - small, medium, and large events, concerts, and/or performances (dance recitals, choir performances, solo instruments, concert bands, orchestras and of course, your typical Rock, Country, Hip/Hop performers.
** 16) and finally.. 'surprise' ... a couple "freebies" - 1st) - for your wedding, corporate event, party, etc. I can provide "FREE" Video Karaoke services at no extra charge (see tabletop Karaoke example setup in my picture gallery), and 2nd) - as a dance instructor, I can provide/include dance lessons (Swing, Line Dance, Country, Ballroom, Latin) during your event, and/or a private lesson before the day of your event. A great prep for bride & Groom's 'first dance', and lessons before "theme" events - line dances, Country, Disco, Swing, and social/ballroom themed dances.
OK... now the details.... (grab a cup of coffee) ;-)
During a typical year, Sunshine Entertainment provides services for the following events: weddings, birthday parties for all ages, elementary, middle and high school dances/proms/events, anniversary parties, indoor/outdoor movies, backline sound for events, karaoke events, group/private dance lessons, free/donated 501c3 events including, but not limited to, fund-raisers, bike races, church events and fun runs.
Sunshine Entertainment provides more than just music for an event. The following services can also be provided: video karaoke, theatrical sound and lighting (school musicals and dance recitals), indoor and outdoor movie theater services, small concert backline sound and lighting, music editing, and professional dance lessons for groups, couples and singles (line dancing).
I hope you check out my pictures. All of the pics in my profile reflect my light-hearted sense of humor and up-beat personality while showing me in action doing a variety of DJ/KJ, sound, lighting, theatre, and dance events.
It is important for you to know that you will never be blind-sided with extra fees and charges. When I first respond to your posting on Thumbtack, I will immediately send you my “Up Front” Package/Price list with descriptions of all the services and equipment options provided by Sunshine Entertainment and a very detailed FAQ/Q&A sheet that will answer all your remaining questions. As we continue to communicate, I will send additional information to help you with your decision-making process. Including personalized event timeline planning worksheets.
Because all events are unique, you will want to choose the package that best suits your needs. I will always be glad to assist you when determining the type/level of service that will make your event unique unto you. Choices range from the formal presentation of my “Premium” package to the relaxed presentation of my “I’m Broke” package.
With 'your' goal of ensuring that 'your' event goes off without a hitch, it is important that you find a DJ with the best fitting niche. Every DJ has a specialty, or niche, and Sunshine Entertainment’s specialties include the following:
** SOUND SYSTEMS - Sunshine Entertainment has 3 full sound systems, 2 1,200-watt 8 channel Mackie 808S amp/mixers, 2 Rockwell 800 watt wireless, Bluetooth, FM broadcast sound systems, and 1 3,200 watt Mackie amp, and 1 16 channel Mackie 1604 sound board for events needing sound/music for several locations within one venue.
** SPEAKERS - Sunshine Entertainment utilizes between 2 and 15 speakers for various types of events. The speakers range from 300WPC up to 1,000WPC that can accommodate events from small parties up to small concerts. Note that the standard, premium and high-end DJ packages do include 4 speakers in their packages. A wireless Bluetooth speaker setup is also available from remote location events with no power.
** LIGHTING - Sunshine Entertainment utilizes high tech, high lumen, battery powered, inconspicuous, cordless/wireless dance floor up-lights with a controller. A maximum of 15 up-lights are available. Also available are mirror balls with pin spots, theatre follow spot lights, moon-flower effect lighting, 2 PAR 56 light trees for concerts/performances, and 6 5,000 lummen flood light units for safety and security for outdoor night events.
** MICROPHONES - Sunshine Entertainment can provide up to 4 wireless microphones, with mike stands, for announcements, toasts, and impromptu singing, etc. Also available are 6 phantom powered floor mikes, 4 lavaliere or headset mikes, 15 Shure SM58 wired mikes, and 10 table mike stands. Also available are 16 mini wireless transmitter/receiver lavaliere/headset mike units that can attach to amplified and acoustic musical instruments (i.e. electric/acoustic guitars, drum kits, brass, woodwind, and string instruments).
** MUSIC - Sunshine Entertainment has a current music library of over 150,000 songs, with recent releases being added weekly. The genres include Rock/Pop, Alternative Rock, Country, Adult Contemporary, Jazz, Christian, House/Urban, Mainstream Dance, “Clean” Hip Hop and Rap, and Bollywood/Indian music. I also take song requests, and/or will stick strictly to a playlist you may have. Also available for your use is a patch cord that will allow you and/or your guests (with your approval) to patch your iPod or Smart Phone into my sound system to play additional music.
** VIDEO KARAOKE - Sunshine Entertainment currently has a library of over 6,500 Video Karaoke tracks and growing. What is unique about video Karaoke tracks is that the videos can be downloaded on the fly off the internet during an event if internet access is available, which means, if I don't have your karaoke song request in my Karaoke library, there is a good chance I can download and then play it during the event.
** MUSIC EDITING - “Minor” edits to shorten or lengthen 1-2 special songs are included in all DJ packages at no extra charge.
OTHER OFFERINGS AND ANSWERS TO FAQs
** MUSIC/DANCE VIDEOS can be provided when venues can accommodate them. This is achieved by patching the powerful LCD projector into my sound system. Video types include music, dance, interactive Wii Just Dance videos, and Kids Bop. Check out the pics in my profile for examples. I have found that this option has been popular for theme events and dances - 50's, Big Band Swing, Country, Disco, etc., as well as interactive videos of specialty dances - YMCA, Cha Cha Slide, The Twist, Cotton Eyed Joe, Cowboi Boogie, "Cups", Cupid Shuffle, The Wobble, Whip it-Nae Nae, etc.
** “DJ CAM” PHOTOGRAPHY and VIDEOGRAPHY - I am an award-winning outdoor event photographer, and in many cases I can take 'supplemental' photographs and videos from the DJ perspective called "The DJ Cam". I can also continue to take pics and videos when/if your event photographer leaves the venue before the event has concluded. This is at no extra charge (and is not meant to replace or to be in place of a wedding or event photographer).
** VIDEOGRAPHER REMOTE WIRELESS AUDIO PATCH ACCESS - If your event has a videographer who has a wireless remote audio receiver, he/she can patch their receiver into my sound system to record all the audio of your event without utilizing the camera’s external microphone.
** MC/Emcee and HOST SERVICES - I will make announcements, introduce people, and even serve as the event coordinator on the day of your event, when no event coordinator is present. MC/Host services are provided in conjunction with DJ/KJ services.
* BACKLINE SOUND REINFORCEMENT - When events include live music, I can provide both 1/4" and XLR patch cables, Direct Input (DI) boxes, mini and standard mike stands for musician’s personal microphones.
** CONSULTATIONS - I will be glad to meet with you in person, in a mutually-decided location, for planning purposes. In addition, unlimited phone & email consultations are available.
** DANCE INSTRUCTOR - as a professional dance instructor, and upon request, I can lead and/or teach your guests some popular party line dances, along with requested partner and couple social dances. I also offer a complimentary dance lesson to wedding couples preparing for their first dance, and to those desiring to learn a special dance for the event.
** TRAVEL and SET-UP/BREAK-DOWN - My "final" price quote includes all travel time and mileage to and from the venue, easy venue access, and single location set-up and break-down time.
** COMMUNICATION and CONTRACTS - I do not use a cumbersome multi page contract, I use a combination of a simple performance agreement and the communication string/history of all our written communication and exchanges of document attachments on the Thumbtack Messaging App. Like they say, "If it is not written down, it never - happened, occurred, or was agreed upon". This is to protect you (the client) and me (the service provider).
Covid-19 "Social Distancing" problems begat "Creative Sunshine Entertainment (SE) Solutions" - -
Below are several "Brand New" "EXCITING" services and add-ons that Sunshine Entertainment (SE) can provide to help make your event social distance safe, better accommodating for your guests needing assistance, and/or can provide a new fun addition/alternative to your event... And, here they are -
** "THE DJ DRIVE-UP" - - Your DJ will arrive on the site of your event in the 'DJ Music Mobile' playing prearranged music selections (perfect for 'surprise' events). Your DJ can either remain in DJ Music Mobile for the remainder of event, or setup social distanced DJ booth & screening next to DJ Music Mobile.
** THE DJ PARADE" - - A very popular new phenomena nationwide is the surprise birthday car parade. Your DJ can help out with your celebration parade by leading all participating parade cars along your prearranged parade route playing celebration music, past the celebrant's home, then pull off to the side of the street and continue playing music and any specialty songs such as "Happy Birthday", or any retirement, graduation, anniversary songs. Your DJ then can leave or can stay and play additional songs, or be a part of the celebration.
** "SUNSHINE ENTERTAINMENT RADIO" (SER) - this is an extremely versatile option that provides a safe alternative for guests at your event who need "greater" social distancing, or for guests who need a little additional sound amplification. All music, announcements, toasts, introductions, and ceremonies will be simulcast on SER FM 104.5, which will allow your guests to hear everything broadcast by your DJ on their own FM radio headphones/ear pods, portable radio, or car radio up to 3.0 miles away. SER is also a great option for "Silent DJ" events/add-ons (SE's variation to the very popular "Silent Disco" service). SER simulcast can also be used in conjunction with other events - parades, fairs, concerts - any event where sound/music/announcements is needed in a large venue.
** "Coming Soon" to Sunshine Entertainment - Total wireless and social distance 16 channel broadcast and/or recording via - wireless headphones, lavaliere mikes, or wireless inline instrument patch cables.
