After having coffee with DJ mFace yesterday, I thought it was the perfect time to re-introduce him on the blog!  I learned a lot of about what all goes into being a wedding DJ — it certainly is WAY more involved than just showing up and playing music!  Matthew (that is his real name, but he’s always DJ mFace to us!) works with the couple from the beginning of their planning to the end to make sure their music and entertainment is completely customized to their tastes.  With years of party experience, he definitely knows how to keep everyone on the dance floor!

Tell us a little about your company!

Well, I’ve been a DJ since 2003. You may see me at a friend’s wedding rocking my bow tie and taking selfies with the wedding party. Last year, I partnered with another DJ and a duo. DJ sKrav also rocks the bow ties, and we both have a very similar style in entertaining receptions. The Fillmore Duo is a nice touch to ceremonies and cocktail hours. That said, I have twice the availability for a date, and I can give couples options prior to the reception.

How did you get started in this business?

I was that kid in  high school that liked having parties and making mix CDs (remember those?). After high school, I worked for an event production company while simultaneously DJing in bars and entertaining college fraternity and sorority parties. Around 2010, I decided to do my own thing and focus more on corporate events and weddings. Up until this year, I was doing around 10 to 15 weddings a year. This year I have 44. It’s been a good year.

What differentiates you from other businesses in your field?

I’m competitively priced with the other leaders in the business, I have a lot of young energy and experience, I have an eclectic range in music, I am a friend through the process, I am entirely customizeable to your ideas, I’ll more than likely join you guys on the dance floor, I pay attention to details, and well, I wear a bow tie!

Why do you like working with weddings?

A year ago, I decided I like weddings a lot more than corporate events because a party is always better with family and friends. Plus, I’m a party DJ, so it makes sense.

Richmond VA Wedding DJ DJ mFace_0002What is the most difficult situation you have faced with a bride and how did you resolve it?

I don’t really have difficult situations. I tell all my clients that once we sign a contract, we immediately become friends. I feel like becoming friends with your clients gives them peace of mind that I am very easy to work with and they can text me late night with ideas or suggestions.

From a vendor’s perspective, what is the one best piece of advice you can offer to engaged couples?

Always plan ahead. The best vendors get booked well in advance. Right now, I’m booking over a year in advance. And always meet with your vendors before you hire them! It’s important to get to know them and make sure they are the right fit for your wedding.

Richmond VA Wedding DJ DJ mFace_0003What or who motivates you?

It would have to be my desire to make everyone happy. They say that’s not possible, but I think it’s really easy at weddings. I also like accomplishing the impossible.

What do you like to do when you are away from work?

Travel. I love to travel. I am also an avid runner, somewhat decent golfer, and just recently got back into tennis. And who hates being around water?

Richmond VA Wedding DJ DJ mFace_0004What would we be surprised to learn about you?

While I entertain love on the weekends, during the week I run a non-profit called the Historic Shockoe Valley Foundation. So when we are setting up our first meeting and I suggest somewhere in Shockoe, you know why.

Thank you, DJ mFace, for chatting with me! To learn more about DJ mFace & Bow Tied Weddings, please visit www.BowTiedWeddings.com.