VIDEO DJ'S OF HAWAII blog at BridesClub.com

I recently read a blog posted on one of our professional DJ websites. The question was what makes you so unique? There were several responses and lots of examples of what made them unique. There were comparisons to sports, products, and other services. It was interesting and made me think to myself, what makes me unique?

Over the past few months, I have met with quite a few couples for consultations. As I discussed their event with them, their eyes got wide and they would say... I just saw the same thing at another reception last weekend. Unfortunately, these things will happen. They say that imitation is the sincerest form or flattery. I beg to differ and say that, if it lacks the same quality and level of professionalism, then it is just a watered down and lackluster version of a superior product.

To give you an example, let's look at a few comparisons. Diamonds are beautiful and pretty expensive; Cubic Zirconia looks real, but it's fake and cheap. Louis Vuitton bags are beautiful and pretty expensive, but I can go to the Swap Meet and buy a fake one for 1/10th the price of a real one. When Spinners (rims) were popular, they were pretty expensive, but you can buy the spinner hubcaps for five dollars.

As you can see, the point of my blog is... There really is a difference when it comes to choosing your wedding vendors, whether it's your photographer or your DJ entertainment company. Please interview and choose wisely. Ask lots of questions and make sure that you are confident in your decision.

Till next time, take care and mahalo!

Dale Kikuyama-Hoxie
808 295-8504
dale@videodjsofhawaii.com
www.videodjsfohawaii.com

Continuing Education...

That's right... Continuing Education for DJ's. Alot of people don't realize that there are at least three associations that DJ's can join to hone their performance skills. In addition to the associations, there are several DJ websites that offer online courses to help improve their performances as well as help grow their business.

As in any other profession, DJ's need to hone their skills to remain competitive. The professional DJ will read trade magazines, attend the Mobile Beat DJ Convention at Las Vegas, join the American DJ Association, read websites and blogs, practice, and exchange ideas with their colleagues.

Wedding professionals are just that; professionals. Photographers have their association. Videographers have theirs. Caterers have theirs too.

The purpose of this blog? To share with you the fact that DJ's are wedding professionals too. Remember, on the day of your wedding, we are there from your Grand Entrance to your Last Dance... long after your emcee, photographer, videographer, caterer, florist, baker, and everyone else has left the building.

*Today's Pearl of Wisdom*
Meet with every single one of your wedding professionals. Ask them lots of questions. See how well they are prepared. Make your comparisons; choose wisely!

Mahalo, Dale
dale@videodjsofhawaii.com
www.videodjsofhawaii.com

Who Am I? Who are YOU?

Who invites me to entertain at their reception? Recently, I compiled the data from last years wedding receptions. The results werent very surprising, but I thought they were interesting.

Heres a breakdown of who and why the couples I work with invited me to entertain at their reception.

The majority of the couples had post graduate degrees. Most completed a four year program. Some were doctors and nurses, others were engineers and professors. The remaining were both white and blue collar workers with varying levels of education.

The vast majority of the couples invited my company to entertain at their reception for the simple fact that they felt I was sincere and genuinely cared about them and their special occasion. Other reasons included: I was professional; I met with them for the consultation, the planning materials, my ability to help them create a unique and memorable reception, I was recommended by another vendor, and the custom lighting effect. Never once did music, disco lights, or equipment come into question.

Finally, all of the couples had their own MC or invited Bruddah Bryan to MC. Most produced their own slideshow. Most did custom recordings, custom mixes, or the custom lighting effect.

The best thing of all& they all had unique and memorable receptions. We incorporated their vision and personality into their reception. Thats what its really all about; I want your reception to be about you. Not about the MC or comedian. Not the food, venue, or DJ. Your wedding and reception should always be about YOU.

Please call me to find out more about how we can make this day all about you. Thanks for reading; I hope you find my blogs helpful.

Mahalo, Dale
295-8504
dale@videodjsofhawaii.com
www.videodjsofhawaii.com

Just what is this "GOBO" thing?

Aloha and Mahalo for dropping by to read my occasional ramblings&

Today, I want to address the definition of the word gobo. You hear me talk about our custom gobos all the time, so here goes. Gobo is a term that people in the entertainment and fashion industry know and use to describe a thin metal or glass plate that is placed inside a bright projector to display a message, logo, or graphic on a wall, floor, or any other available surface.

For my purpose and how it pertains to you, its all about the personalization of your reception and letting the world (or at least your guests) know that you and your husband have arrived. If you have ever seen the TV show Platinum Weddings, then you have probably seen these lights on display. From simple designs such as your names and / or wedding date to other designs that include graphics, each one is custom made and specific to your wedding reception. See the example included here&

This Custom lighting effect is now included when you invite Video DJs of Hawaii to entertain at your special event. Just imagine how beautiful this lighting effect will look at your ballroom!

Thats it for today, please drop by every now and then or be on the lookout for my email messages. If you have any questions about any of the many things that we offer, please call me at 295-8504 or email me at dale@videodjsofhawaii.com.

And remember, we do our very best to insure that your special celebration is Worry free, Stress free, and Hassle free& call me to see how.

Mahalo, Dale

808-295-8504
dale@videodjsofhawaii.com
www.videodjsofhawaii.com

So you want your reception to be different...

Aloha and thanks you for visiting my blog. Todays blog will deal with a few of the receptions that I recently entertained at. When I sit down for a consultation with couples, I invite them to share their vision of what their dream reception would be like. Most often, they say they want it to be unique, fun, and not boring. Now there are as many different ways to interpret that as there are couples getting married. That being said, I find that most of the couples that I work with are unique in their own special way.

Take for example, Pat and Erin who were recently wed at the beautiful Waimea Falls Botanical Garden. This was an outdoor wedding and the reception was held under the pavilion. It was sprinkling throughout the day and raining hard off and on prior to the ceremony. However, just as the ceremony was scheduled to begin, the showers stopped and the sun broke through the clouds as I began to play the processional music. The family and friends in attendance roared, clapped, and laughed loudly as the sounds of AC/DCs Back in Black played as she walked down the aisle. After the ceremony, the recessional was Tom Pettys Even the Losers (get lucky sometime). It was quite funny and everyone enjoyed it. Right after that, it started to pour& but everyone had enough time to find cover under the pavilion.

Dinner music consisted of classic rock and oldies. The dancing portion consisted of more classic rock and oldies& no Electric Slide, YMCA, or Macarena. Personally, I love classic rock and Big Chill music. Needless to say, I had a lot of fun, and Pat and Erin were extremely pleased to have their reception reflect their unique personality and style.

Moving on, Dawn and Gregs reception was unique regarding the dinner music. The bride and groom requested Bluegrass music to be played throughout cocktail hour and dinner. This was the very first time in all of my years DJing, that I had ever played Bluegrass music. It was interesting at first, and then it was a lot of fun. I did get to play some country music and Hawaiian music in between, but the Bluegrass was a twist. The mainland guests loved it and the locals were introduced to a new genre of music.

I share these experiences with you only because couples always ask me, how can you make my reception different? How can you customize my reception to reflect my personality and style? Well, these are a few examples of how music can help distinguish your reception from the last one you attended.

From our large video screens, custom recordings, custom mixes, the Father/Daughter custom slide show, to our custom lighting gobos, we have several ways to help make your reception unique and fun. Check my website for my availability, peruse my music database to customize your dance music requests, and check out some of the pictures at Bridesclub. Call me to schedule a free no obligation consultation to learn more about how Video DJs of Hawaii can help make your special celebration stress free, worry free, hassle free.

Aloha and Mahalo,

Dale Kikuyama-Hoxie
295-8504
dale@videodjsofhawaii.com
www.videodjsofhawaii.com

What's New at Video DJ's of Hawaii

Aloha and thanks for stopping by. I hope that all is well and that your planning is coming along smoothly. I have been extremely busy over the past few months with the summer weddings and finally have a chance to catch my breath. With each reception, I learn something new... whether it's how to do something better or exposing myself to a new tradition, genre of music, or cultural event. I believe that it's important to learn new techniques and look at things with a different perspective; it keeps celebrations fresh and entertaining.

With that said, please imagine how you picture your dream reception. With that thought in mind, I want to share a few highlights of Mike and Jens experience (7-21-07).

At the beginning of their reception, they introduced their bridal party with "True" playing underneath the introductions of each member. Then, as the emcee was ready to introduce the bride and groom, the music changed over to "Sirius" better known as the Chicago Bulls theme song. With the energy level high; the bride and groom entered with the guests clapping and cheering. As they made their way to the dance floor, the music faded into their first dance as husband and wife. As they danced together for the first time as husband and wife, the guests were treated to a custom recording done by Mike and Jen. They shared their love for one another so that all in attendance could see and hear. During dinner, the guests enjoyed listening to Hawaiian music and contemporary love songs as Mike and Jen's engagement photos were shown on our large video screen. During the toasts and traditional events, the guests seated in the back of the room were able to view everything on the video screen. Continuing on with the Father / Daughter dance, the guests listened to a custom recording dedicated to Jens late father. There wasnt a dry eye in the ballroom as Jen and her brother honored their dad with "Dance with my father." As emotional as that moment was, the mood was quickly lightened up as they began their traditional Honeymoon Dance. Of course, with Mike and Jen, nothing was traditional with them. They opted to fool their guests with a fake dance. The song started out slowly and then was interrupted by a record scratch and radio static& this gave the groom enough time to come to the DJ booth and put on a wig and fake mustache. (throwback to his younger days) Mike then popped up right on cue as "Now that we found love" started to play. The guests were laughing hysterically as Mike and Jen performed a choreographed dance that lasted about a minute and a half. As everyone cheered, the music changed over as they began their real Honeymoon dance. After the guests showered Mike and Jen with dollar bills, the dance music began with all of their favorite music. It was a truly wonderful night and I was honored to be invited to help them celebrate their one special day.

One of the reasons that brides and grooms invite me to help them celebrate their special day is my attitude and attention to detail. Time and time again, I have been told that the reason they invited me was& my sincerity and sense of caring about them as a couple. Although this is nothing new with me or the way my company does things; I believe that it is appropriate to mention this from time to time.

Finally, I am including the Custom lighting effect as part of the Video DJ entertainment package. This is the same lighting effect that you may have seen on Platinum Weddings or whose wedding is it anyway? This light makes for an amazing backdrop to really set your wedding reception apart from all the others. Your names and wedding date are standard; other designs are available as well.

To find out what else is new with Video DJ's of Hawaii, please call or email me at your convenience. From there we can setup a free consultation where you will receive a three ring binder packed with information regarding planning your reception.

Aloha and Congratulations,
Dale Kikuyama-Hoxie
295-8504
dale@videodjsofhawaii.com

Your Name In Lights!

Aloha,

As the title of my blog states, imagine your name in lights projected on the dancefloor or on your ballroom's far wall. Up to 20 feet or larger. This will definitely set the mood for your reception and let all of your guests know that you have arrived. It's a classy and elegant addition to any ballroom and reception.

I have included an example of what the effect looks like on my photo page. You can find it on the Bridesclub.com homepage or email me for an example. Imagine having this lighting effect as the backdrop of some of your most important pictures. It's beautiful and stunning at the same time.

This is just one of the many features that we offer and another reason why ...we are more than just music.

Call or email me today for more information.

Mahalo, Dale
295 8504
dale@videodjsofhawaii.com
www.videodjsofhawaii.com

Exclusive offer to Bridesclub.com brides* EXPIRED

*Not affiliated with or endorsed by Bridesclub.com*

OFFER HAS EXPIRED

Aloha and thank you for stopping by to read my blog. As the title of this entry states, I am currently offering a 20% discount on the Video DJ entertainment package to all Bridesclub.com (couples) brides.

I invite you to setup a free and no obligation consultation to discuss your wedding reception. During our meeting, I will share with you several ideas regarding your reception, show you examples of what I do and how I do it, and lastly, a 3 ring binder complete with song recommendations and wedding planner. This alone is an extremely valuable tool and it contains a wealth of information regarding setting your wedding reception to music.

Again, the consultation is free and if we meet at Starbucks, I'm buying! So give me a call or fill out an event planner on my website. See and hear how Video DJ's of Hawaii can help make your celebration Extra Special!

Whether it's our Custom Recordings, Wedding Reception Emergency Kit, or having your names projected on the dancefloor with a Customized Lighting Effect, we have what it takes to make your special occasion unique and memorable.

Aloha for now,

Dale
295-8504
www.videodjsofhawaii.com
dale@videodjsofhawaii.com

OFFER HAS EXPIRED

What's New for 2007

Aloha and thank you for stopping by. Just a quick blurb about what's new at VIDEO DJ's OF HAWAII.

I recently teamed up with a local trio that will be releasing their debut CD in the near future. Needless to say, once they release their CD, they will be in greater demand. Until then, we have agreed to team up to give them added exposure and to add value to my entertainment services and offerings.

In addition to that, I have now gone wireless; internet that is. This will allow me to do many things; including streaming video of your reception to family and friends on the mainland, accessing my music database at home, downloading quick fixes, etc... it's just one more added feature to allow you peace of mind.

From our Custom Recordings to the Wedding Reception Emergency Kit and now being wireless at your event. Just another example of how we strive to remain head and shoulders above the rest.

Call or email me for your free, no obligation consultation.

Mahalo,

Dale
808 295-8504
dale@videodjsofhawaii.com
www.videodjsofhawaii.com

What helps make a Great Reception?

Although it's true that several things help create Great Receptions; I want to focus more on how entertainment, specifically DJs, impact the end result.

I started planning a December 9th, 2006 reception back in Febuary of this year. Over those 9 months, we met several times and came up with several ideas. All told, I invested over 40 hours of work in their reception. Was it worth it? The short answer is, yes, of course. The expanded answer is again yes, very much so. To see the emotion play out. The excitement and joyous laughter. To see family and friends sharing this once in a lifetime event and being invited to help celebrate it; this is why I do what I do.

One of the things that I did for this amazing couple was create a first dance montage. They wanted to have some fun and surprise their guests with their "old school" dance moves. It was hilarious as they started out slow dancing to "You and me" and then doing the robot to "Mr. Roboto". The groom then showed off his popping and locking "skills" to "Planet Rock" as the bride got her groove on to "Funkytown". It was classic and something that they'll look at on their wedding video DVD for years to come.

To find out more about how I can help make your special celebration fun, unique, and exciting, call me for a no obligation consultation.

Aloha, Dale
295-8504
www.videodjsofhawaii.com

p.s. One of the bridesmaids split a seam in her dress and thanks to our "Wedding Reception Emergency kit" we were able to handle that and let her continue on with the celebration. Remember, it's our attention to detail that helps separate Video DJ's of Hawaii from the others.

Accentuating the Positive

Aloha friends,

As the title of my blog states, I want to address the concept of "accentuating the positive". What do I mean by this? Well, it begins with the way vendors present their services to you. As you consult with your preferred vendor:

ﾕ Listen carefully on how they explain their product or service. Ask yourself; how will this benefit me?
ﾕ Do they give specific examples of how their company will benefit you? Or, do they talk negatively about the other vendors in an effort to make themselves look better.
ﾕ Finally, was your first impression and your impression after the consultation the same or better? Needless to say, consistent and positive experiences with your vendors will help relieve your concerns and reduce your stress.

If you are new to my blog and unfamiliar with my company, I encourage you to read my other entries. Is it unusual for a DJ company to offer such sage advice? Maybe; then again, maybe itﾒs time that you begin to expect more from your DJ / Entertainment company.

Finally, there are 3 things that I have realized over the years when it comes to people hiring DJﾒs.

1. Most have never hired a DJ.
2. Most do not fully understand what a DJ really does.
3. Most underestimate the value of the DJ as entertainment.

I invite you to call or email me to schedule a ﾓFree and No Obligation Entertainment Consultationﾔ. Let me share with you my positive experiences and the ways my company will benefit you.

Mahalo,

Dale Kikuyama-Hoxie
808 295-8504
dale@videodjsofhawaii.com
www.videodjsofhawaii.com

Stress Free, Worry Free, and Hassle Free

What's new at Video DJ's of Hawaii

Aloha and thanks for reading my ramblings. As the title states, I want to share with you a few new things that we have to offer you.

First off, I want to remind you of a few things that we do that separate us from the others.

1. Custom recordings
2. Extensive pre-planning
3. Wedding reception emergency kit
4. A no obligation informational consultation
5. Free video screen and projector

Okay, now to the good stuff. As I mentioned in my email, there are new things on the horizon for my company. A new company has been started and will address the needs of the couples that have requested a "bare bones" DJ company. In the meantime, we will fine tune our current offerings and adjust them accordingly.

Next up is something that I am really excited about. Imagine having pictures of your father and you from your childhood to the present projected on the main video screen while you dance the "Father / Bride dance". What a wonderful sight and memorable moment for your father and your guests. Take it to another level by adding a Custom Recording.

There are many variations to what we have to offer you. I just can't tell you everything via this blog, email, or telephone. The best way is by way of a consultation.

Please, call me at 295-8504 or email me to setup a "no obligation" consultation.

Aloha for now,

Dale Kikuyama-Hoxie
808 295-8504
dale@videodjsofhawaii.com
www.videodjsofhawaii.com

Little things matter

Aloha,

Over the summer, I have been extremely busy performing and helping brides and grooms plan their special day. In between all of that, I attendend the Bridal Expo and had a vacation to Las Vegas. During the next 4 months, I will be going to Las Vegas again, setting up a new "office", and preparing for another "expo". All of that plus performing and planning!

I want to share with you something near and dear to me. I judge the success of my performance based upon what the bride & groom, family, and guests say to me at the end of the night. I will admit that I am touched by the compliments that I receive but, I was deeply humbled by what a recent groom had to say about something special we did for him.

"Next to Jann saying yes, that was the best gift I received today. Thank you!"

Was it a big production? No. It didn't have to be. Did getting to know who I am working with help? Definitely. The small, often overlooked details sometimes often matter the most. I pride myself on my attention to detail and take as much time as necessary to make what I do mean something extra special for the couples that I work with.

So, when you sit down with your wedding professional, ask them how they are going to help make your special day memorable, fun, and unique.

Aloha,

Dale Kikuyama-Hoxie
808 295-8504
dale@videodjsofhawaii.com
www.videodjsofhawaii.com

What is a Custom Recording

Lately, I have received a few calls and emails regarding my company's "custom recordings". I would like to answer this question via my blog since more people read my blog than my emails.

Imagine if you will, you and your fiance are celebrating your first dance as husband and wife. As you dance, your guests are delighted to hear your wedding vows interlaced throughout your first dance song. What a special way to share your vows with your guests!

Or how about this? Imagine yourself as a guest at a friend's reception. You turn your attention to the dance floor as the bride and groom begin a Unity Dance. As you watch the bride, groom, and child dance, you overhear the child talking to their new mom or dad. I love you or thank you for being my mommy or daddy. The possibilities are limitless and are one of the many things that we do that make us "more than just music..." These are just a few examples of how we can use "custom recordings" to make your event extra special.

To find out more about what we do and how we can make your special celebration stress free, worry free, and hassle free, call me at 295-8504 or email me at dale@videodjsofhawaii.com

Til next time,

Aloha, Dale

Kids say the darndest things...

Aloha,

Recently, I was asked to DJ and MC a reception. I usually don't MC, but I will make an exception here and there and I may go back to it in the future. For the most part however, I am pretty busy with the planning and performance side of what I do.

Anyhow, we did several custom voice recordings and a special dedication from the daughter to her father that we played during their Unity Dance. It was a really nice reception; elegant and traditional with alot of emotion. Anyhow, while the bride and groom were giving their thank yous, the 4 year old daughter pulled me to the side and asked me to "call her up". She wanted to say something... imagine the surprise on her mother's face when I introduced her daughter and helped her stand on her chair facing mommy and daddy. From there, I handed her a microphone and she stood there and told everyone how much she loved her mommy and daddy and congratulations on getting married. It was a really special and unique moment that had everyone in tears and smiles.

Because I had taken the time to get to know their daughter, she was comfortable with approaching me and allowing me to hold her hand as she was introduced. She hugged me at the end of the night and thanked me for helping her mommy and daddy.

DJ's do more than just play music. When you sit down with your DJ, ask them how they're going to make your special day memorable and unique for you.

Until next time, Aloha!

Dale
www.videodjsofhawaii.com
dale@videodjsofhawaii.com
808 295-8504

Read BEFORE you sign your contracts!

Aloha,

As you know, I am a Video DJ or VJ for short. This means that I play MTV style Music Videos and project them on large video screens. So not only do I play the music throughout the entire event, I play the Music Video as well.

At most events, there is usually a slide show. Sometimes this is professionally done, sometimes a friend or family member will produce it. Because of the software advancements and use of digital cameras, it has become increasingly more common for people to produce these slide shows on their own.

Recently, I had the misfortune of dealing with a videography company hired for a friendﾒs wedding ceremony and reception. This videography company was hired prior to me and charged my friend for setup and use of a screen and projector. Now since I have screens and projectors that I use for the entire event, itﾒs really unnecessary for the videographer to setup for a 10 minute presentation. I can play the CD, DVD, or even VHS tape through my system.

The sad reality is this: The videographer did not want to reimburse my friend for the screen and projector charge, afterall it's in the contract. This was an additional $450.00 charge. Even though he didnﾒt set up anything, he still charged her. I spoke with the videographer and he refused to offer her any money back. To me that is unethical and immoral. Needless to say, I will not be referring this videographer to any of my clients.

So my message today is: if you are going to hire a videographer to produce your slide show, get 2 quotes. One that includes production with the screen and projector and one that is for production only. And finally, READ THE FINE PRINT IN YOUR CONTRACT!

Thank you and I hope that you find my blogging helpful.

Aloha, Dale
808 295-8504
dale@videodjsofhawaii.com
www.videodjsofhawaii.com

Frequently Asked Questions

I've recently been answering a lot of email inquiries regarding our Music Video DJ service. So what I want to do is answer some of these questions.

Q. What is a music video?
A. It's the video or picture that compliments the song being played. All of our music videos are MTV style and edited for playback to mature audiences.

Q. What if there is no video to accompany the song?
A. There are certain songs that were produced prior to the boom of MTV. If there is no video, we will usually show video of your guests in attendance or guests dancing on the dance floor. This is also true if we deem the edited version of the video too explicit to show to family members.

Q. Will you play music that I provide you?
A. Certainly. I only ask that we be able to preview your selections prior to the performance. There are several reasons for this; suffice to say that a professional will always review material given to him/her.

Q. I don't want the music too loud / lights too dark / etc.
A. We will always accommodate you and your wants. During the pre-event consultation, we will go over these details and I will consult with the banquet captain, caterer, photographer, videographer, etc. to insure these details are taken care of.

Thanks again for reading my ramblings and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Aloha, Dale
dale@videodjsofhawaii.com
www.videodjsofhawaii.com
808 295-8504

Take time out for yourself...

Another alternative to the Toss

We are Video DJ's or VJ for short

Aloha,

I recently sent you an email regarding my companyﾒs mission statement. I want to share with you the 3 sided foundation that I built my company on.

1. Provide my clients with the best performance possible. Utilize professional grade sound, video, and lighting equipment and never sacrifice quality for price.

2. Provide my clients with superior customer service. My goal is to inform, educate, and assist. By knowing my client, I can customize my performance to my clientﾒs wishes.

3. Integrate music, video, and video stills to create an atmosphere that stimulates as many senses as possible. Combine all 3 with a professional grade sound, video, and lighting system to create mind blowing parties.

Thatﾒs it in a nutshell. Be more than just music; be more than just a DJ. While others will offer you the biggest speaker, brightest light, or lowest price, I will always offer you the best customer service that I can provide.

Aloha, Dale

dale@videodjsofhawaii.com
www.videodjsofhawaii.com
808 295-8504

Shhhh........don't tell anybody!!!

One size doesnt fit all...

Recently, I had the honor of being both a guest and the Reception entertainment/MC. It was Classy and Elegant. Champagne & caviar; perfection as defined by the bride and groom. No cheesy gimmicks, no games, and no Electric Slide. It was an event that the guests will remember as traditional yet still very entertaining.

At another reception, we played the Macarena, Electric Slide, and the Cha Cha slide. The guests were a bit rowdy and fun loving. Teriyaki chicken and Mahi-mahi were on the menu. There were twists and turns that the Bride and Groom had planned throughout the reception to keep their guests involved. It will be remembered as a fun event where the guests were really involved in the party.

Both receptions will be remembered as fun and entertaining by the guests. Both receptions will be remembered by the bride and groom as fun and exciting. Both receptions will be forever committed to memory by pictures, videos, and friends & family. Finally, both will be remembered and cherished by the bride and groom as their very own Special Celebration.

You have dreamt of this day for years. You have visions of how you want your special day to be. Let us help you realize those dreams. Call us today at 295-8504 and allow us to help you plan for that one special day. Stress free, worry free, and hassle free reception planning and entertainment; thatﾒs our mission.

Until next timeﾅ Aloha,

Dale Kikuyama-Hoxie
dale@videodjsofhawaii.com
www.videodjsofhawaii.com
808-295-8504

What's in a name?

Aloha,

Today, I would like to talk about Video DJﾒs of Hawaiiﾒs entertainment side of the company. My previous emails and blogs have focused more on our Wedding Reception and Event Planning. That is the primary focus of our company; successful and memorable celebrations accomplished by thorough and proper prior planning. As our company name implies, we are Video DJﾒs or VJ for short. If youﾒre familiar with MTV, BET, VH1, CMT, or you grew up in the 80ﾒs, then youﾒre familiar with Music Video. If not, then you can visit www.mtv.com, www.vh1.com, or www.cmt.com and I think youﾒll get the idea.

Our video music library consists of MTV style music videos. Our CD compilations are only available to professional DJﾒs and radio stations. Hawaiian and specialty music is purchased locally. We support the RIAA and will never use illegal or illegitimate downloading software to augment our music database. By obeying the law and simply doing the right thing, we incur an average cost of $250.00 a month just to stay current with DVD music videos and CD music.

Finally, our Entertainment package includes a Sony (3000 ANSI lumens) projector and a 6ﾒx8ﾒ Da-Lite fast fold Video Screen. There is no extra charge for this and itﾒs available for you to use for your slide show presentation. This alone can save you up to $450.00. In addition to the projector and screen, we include over 7,000 music videos, laser lighting, sound system, karaoke system, wireless microphones, and VJ. There are no hidden fees or charges. You get everything you need to meet your wedding reception entertainment needs. So sing, dance, and enjoy your special day.

Call us for more information on how we can help entertain you and your honored guests. Be sure to visit Bridesclub.com and read my blog.

Aloha and Mahalo,

Dale Kikuyama-Hoxie
dale@videodjsofhawaii.com
www.videodjsofhawaii.com
808 295-8504

What's the difference anyway?

Aloha,

Thanks again for dropping by to read my ramblings. To those of you that haven't chosen your entertainment company for your reception, I urge you to do so sooner than later. Dates fill up quickly as the most popular dates are taken up to a year in advance. I have brides calling me for November and December 2007 dates already. Please invest early to make sure your company is available for your special occasion.

Ok, enough about that. As the topic of my blog today states: What's the difference anyway? I will share with you a few things that differentiate my company from others. When I ask brides and grooms why they chose Video DJ's of Hawaii as their entertainment company, their responses are usually pretty similar. They mention my professionalism, reputation, sincerity, and candidness. That being said, I will give you a few more reasons.

ﾕ You will not see me drink alcohol at your event. (There is no excuse for an intoxicated DJ at your event.)

ﾕ You will not see a big or small banner advertising my company at an elegant and classy wedding reception. (Imagine if your photographer, cake baker, caterer, etc all had banners advertising their services.)

ﾕ You will not see me in jeans and a T-shirt at your event. (Itﾒs formal or semi-formal attire per your request. Elegant and classy; not ghetto fabulous.)

ﾕ I would have to be on my deathbed to not perform at your event. (Although I would never rule it out, I have yet to miss an event due to illness or any other reason.)

These are answers to questions I receive on a regular basis. I felt the need to address them ASAP. If you have questions, any questions regarding my company or other companies, please call or email me.

Aloha,

Dale Kikuyama-Hoxie
dale@videodjsofhawaii.com
www.videodjsofhawaii.com
808 295-8504

Dale? Who are you?

Aloha and thank you for reading my ramblings. Happy Valentine's Day to you and yours. Today's blog will address the emails I receive prior to meeting brides and grooms for the first time.

So here we go... My name is Dale (Takashi) Kikuyama-Hoxie and I am the owner of Video DJ's of Hawaii. I started my company for this simple reason: I've attended several events where I believed the entertainment portion of the reception or party was substandard. I believe in my heart of hearts that each reception deserves the "vendors" undivided attention and 100% effort to ensure a successful event.

My qualifications include 100's of successful events, both with my company and a few other companies that I have worked with. Iﾒve worked at several nightclubs and radio stations over the past 14 years, and prior to starting and running my company full-time, I served as a Refractometrist within the field of ophthalmology. Here is where I learned what "attention to detail" really meant. In medicine, like your reception, there are no "do-overs". My public speaking skills were taught to me by the Department of Defense. I am a Certified Instructor and Train the Trainer qualified. I know itﾒs rather eclectic, but thatﾒs what makes me the well rounded person that I am. = )

Finally, my business philosophy is pretty simple. Be an expert in my field, listen to my client, say what I mean and mean what I say, and be passionate and excited about what I do.

Aloha,

Dale Kikuyama-Hoxie
dale@videodjsofhawaii.com
www.videodjsofhawaii.com
808 295-8504

The Wedding DJ vs. The Full Service Wedding Reception Professional

As a wedding professional, you can rest assured that I can (calmly) handle many of the bridal emergencies most wedding DJ's have seen. For many DJ's, wedding receptions are a once a week event, but you hope to plan only one in your lifetime. You may get nervous, scared, and sometimes forgetful on your special day. Our feedback has shown that, brides and grooms appreciate wedding vendors who can perform their jobs AND help with the little glitches that usually happen.

Below is a partial list of our "Wedding Reception Emergency Kit"

aspirin, or Naproxen or ibuprofen or Tylenol
Band-Aids or other adhesive bandage strips
anti-diarrhea

bobby pins
brush and comb
clear nail polish
lint brush
safety pins

corsage pins
duct tape
garter (throw)
matches or lighter
sewing kit & small scissors

Again, this is just a partial list of close to 100 items that we bring with us to every event. Call or email us for the complete list if you would like. Your event should be perfect and it can be when all of the small details are taken care of.

Video DJ's of Hawaii prides itself on being, "More than just music..." This is just one more example of how we accomplish that.

Call or email us to find out how we can make your special day Sress-free, Worry-free, and Hassle-free.

Aloha until next time,

Dale Kikuyama-Hoxie
dale@videodjsofhawaii.com
www.videodjsofhawaii.com
808-295-8504

Wedding Reception Entertainment and Planning

Aloha and thank you for taking some time to read my blog. Over the course of time, I will share with you information to help you plan your wedding reception.

When we say "we are more than just music", what we are referring to is our attention to detail. As you compare the various entertainment companies, you'll see that we're essentially the same. We play music, have awesome light shows, and in most cases, interact with your guests. That's the nature of our profession.

Our company's philosophy has always been "to provide you with superior customer service, period." While others may offer the biggest speakers, brightest lights, and lowest price, we will always offer you the best in customer service.

We specialize in making sure your reception is not only the most special and memorable day of your new life together, we strive to make sure your special celebration is stress free, worry free, and hassle free.

Call Video DJ's of Hawaii at 295-8504 for more information. Or visit us online at www.videodjsofhawaii.com.

Mahalo and Aloha,

Dale Kikuyama-Hoxie
dale@videodjsofhawaii.com

There really is a difference.