If I’m taken, these are the DJs I’d send my own family to, with my honest notes on each.
The short list
Matt Baer Media
Matt's a great DJ, and used to actually be an employee of ours (back when we owned House DJ). He's a great MC, and quite easy to work with! Matt's been in the game for a few years, and we've supported him in getting started. Since then, he's done a great job at making connections, rocking weddings, and doing his thing. All of that said, as of this writing, Matt doesn't do a TON of musical mixing (club-style mixing), but his song choices are great and his hosting is also top-notch. Also, due to that fact, he's likely to be a bit more affordable than Cole. Either way, stellar choice. Also worth noting that Matt and I use the same mics, ceremony rigs, and (until recently) speakers. DJ equipment can be a bit wonky, and I def approve of Matt's.
Also, weird fun fact: Matt's my second cousin.. That doesn't influence anything on this, but it's kinda fun.
DJ Max James is actually located in Kansas City, Missouri, but travels and is a great personal friend of mine. My service is so unique, it's tough to find a contemporary that mixes, hosts, and also cares about the technicals. Max checks all of those boxes with personality to spare. I will note that–to my knowledge–Max's rate is a bit higher than mine, but it comes with more lighting and flair. Def worth checking though; dude's stellar–and likely to become a close friend.
Additionally, Max owns Intelligence Check Trivia in Kansas City (and with branches nationwide). As a matter of fact, I met Max while hosting for ICT's Saint Louis expansion market.
I met LaRonn and his wife Onnie while I was DJing a gala at The Lake at Knotting Hills. Bro was dressed to the nines and introduced himself, and I was immediately impressed. We set a dinner before we left, and the rest is history. LaRonn came up in the club industry, and did a lot of private parties, corporate events, etc–so he definitely knows how to mix. He hadn't busted onto the wedding scene much before we talked, but I've been mentoring him in the wedding space. Now, if you're comparing directly to my hosting and wedding practices, there may be a few nuances that are amiss, but I really, really think LaRonn is a great choice for a DJ if you want a host, incredible DJ, and a class act to work with.
Alllso, I do believe that Onnie recently started doing clubs and residencies, so you might keep an eye on her to headline the next big club night or festival.
I specialize in curating unforgettable musical experiences that elevate your wedding day into a celebration of love, elegance, and joy. With years of experience in the luxury wedding industry, I am committed to tailoring every aspect of your wedding soundtrack to reflect your unique style and vision. I bring not only expertise in seamless event flow but also a passion for creating unforgettable moments—from the romantic ambiance of your ceremony to the high-energy dance party of your reception. I work closely with you to understand your musical preferences, personal story, and desired atmosphere, ensuring every song is hand-picked to enhance the emotion and energy of your special day. Whether you're envisioning a classic, timeless celebration or a high-energy, modern reception, I provide the expertise and attention to detail that make every moment extraordinary. From the first dance to the last song, I ensure that your wedding day is not just an event, but a personalized, seamless celebration filled with beautiful memories and music that speaks to your love story.
Denny and I have been buds since we owned House DJ. I think we met in 2017ish. Denny is also based in KC, but does travel across the state for weddings. Denny's experience spans decades and multiple mediums. Denny officiates, hosts, and DJs, and has been at the helm of larger teams in his past. That said, Denny is keeping his love for weddings and events sacred and moving away from traditional advertising and moving solely to personal recommendations. Also, Denny's preservation for the love of the game does come with a few additonal points: Denny usually prefers to host, and do the talented musicalities, while he has someone else run the music for key points of the day. He is the one who orchestrates the hiring (so you don't have to shop twice), but it's worth noting in his rate: you're paying person*s*. Also, when Denny sets up a wedding, he SETS UP a wedding. I wouldn't compare his rate or service to a multi-op that will use the same system for 80 people and also 400 people. He's going to do it right.
Being in the game as long as he has though, Denny's hosting is incredible, he's your bridal party's best friend, and also fantastic on the decks.
The only multi-op (services with multiple DJs) on my list for a few reasons: 1.) Chris and Marco are a great friends of mine and allies in the industry, and 2.) they're a different type of multi-op. See, as I understand it, Spin Society flips the multi-op procurement game on it's head. Instead of hiring any interested party and teaching them how to 'operate' a wedding, without teaching any real hosting or mixing, Spin Society takes club DJs, and hones their hosting, professional, and refines their song selections to fit weddings. I really love this practice actually, because it refocuses the intent of a DJ from 'utility' to 'art'. Not only great for you, but also great for the craft.
Now, that all being said:
Nothing but praises for Chris, Marco, and the SS team, they've done a great job. That said, they are a multi-op, which means I can't know all of their DJs and personally vet them. With SS, you can guarantee they're going to crush the mix, though like I've said with club-to-wedding DJs, some of the finer wedding nuances may get lost in the mix. If you want a banger rager party with better availability though, just call them.
