FAQs
Portland Wedding DJ & Event DJ FAQ
Planning a wedding, private party, corporate event, or school dance in Portland, Vancouver, or the Pacific Northwest? This DJ Cutt Entertainment FAQ page answers the most common questions clients ask before booking, including pricing, packages, ceremony sound, reception music, setup times, song requests, microphones, lighting, travel fees, payment schedules, and event planning details.
Yes, our team works with you to tailor the experience to your needs. We'll coordinate with your photographer and DJ for perfect timing
Unfortunately these boxes require a train certified operator that needs to be on site
Our event coordinator will contact you within 24 hours to confirm details and begin venue coordination.
Yes, we bring backup equipment to every event and arrive early for thorough testing. We Always bring a set of back up boxes.
The first 40 miles are free and then we charge $2 a mile after that from Portland Oregon
On average that each event will last anywhere between 15 and 30 seconds. the machines will stop and can be re-fired
We're more than happy to move the boxes for different events but the cost is $100 every additional time we have to move the boxes
The Sparks can be triggered to fire 3 ft in the air, 6 ft in the air and 9 ft in the air.
These boxes are rated as a non-pyrotechnic the Sparks coming out of the boxes are around 50°
All packages include a professional DJ/MC, premium audio, and online playlist customization. Higher tiers add uplighting, photo booths, cold sparks, or live streaming for that extra wow factor.
Premium Bend dates, especially June-September, book 6-8 months out. Check availability early to secure your spot with DJ Cutt Entertainment!
Absolutely! We’ve rocked Tetherow, Sunriver Resort, Aspen Hall, and more, handling each venue’s acoustics, rules, and logistics like pros.
Yes! Our team adapts to unpredictable weather with weatherproof gear and backup plans, ensuring your outdoor reception stays seamless.
Our easy online tool lets you pick must-play songs, do-not-play lists, and vibe preferences, ensuring your dance floor reflects your style.
Yes—we cover Oregon, Washington, and destination events.
Our DJs are trained to adapt on the fly. No stress.
Flexible rescheduling with no penalties.
For the best availability, we recommend booking 6-12 months in advance for large events (galas, mitzvahs) and 3-6 months for smaller gatherings. Prime dates (particularly Saturdays) book quickly.
Yes! With over a decade specializing in diverse private events, we've successfully handled virtually every event type. Our extensive experience with bar/bat mitzvahs, charity galas, fashion shows, and cultural celebrations ensures we understand the unique requirements of your specific event.
Three key differences: 1) Our DJs include active club performers with current residencies, ensuring contemporary mixing skills beyond typical event DJs. 2) We invest in premium production equipment that delivers superior sound and lighting. 3) We offer comprehensive services beyond just DJ/MC, including photo booths, videography, and exclusive special effects.
Absolutely. During our planning process, we'll discuss your vision, preferences, and any specific songs or genres you want included or avoided. Our DJs are skilled at crafting customized playlists that perfectly match your event's atmosphere while maintaining flexibility to read and adapt to the crowd.
Your peace of mind is our priority. We maintain backup equipment for every event and have contingency DJs on call. In over a decade of operations, we've never missed an event due to our comprehensive backup systems.
Absolutely. We strictly play radio-edited, school-appropriate versions of all songs. This is non-negotiable for us.
Very involved! Our online planning portal allows students and committees to submit requests. Advisors have final approval power, ensuring a perfect balance.
Yes. All our DJs undergo background checks, and DJ Cutt Entertainment carries full liability insurance. We can provide documentation upon request.
For best availability, especially for major events like Prom or Homecoming, we recommend booking 6-12 months in advance. Prime dates fill rapidly.
Standard requirements usually include adequate space near the dance floor and access to sufficient, reliable power outlets (typically dedicated circuits). We confirm specifics during the planning phase.
Yes. All our school dance packages include a professional DJ who also serves as an engaging and articulate Master of Ceremonies.
With our deep roster of elite Portland DJs, we always have professional backup talent ready, ensuring your event proceeds flawlessly.
Absolutely! When school's book all three dances we offer these at a discount.
Absolutely. Professional lighting is often the single most impactful element in transforming a venue's appearance. The difference is dramatic - many venues appear flat and uninspiring with standard lighting, but come alive with professional design.
This depends on your venue size and architecture. As a general guideline, smaller venues (up to 100 guests) typically need 12-16 uplights, medium venues (100-200 guests) require 20-28, and larger spaces may need 30+. During your consultation, we'll recommend the optimal number.
Yes! Our LED lighting systems can reproduce virtually any color with precision. We can match specific Pantone colors, fabric swatches, or design elements from your wedding.
Most Portland venues are familiar with our services and approve our lighting equipment. We follow all venue guidelines regarding power usage, setup times, and attachment methods. We'll handle any required venue coordination.
We typically arrive 3-5 hours before your event starts to ensure ample time for setup and testing. For complex installations or venues with limited access time, we may arrange day-before setup for an additional fee.
Absolutely! Our programmable systems allow for seamless color changes throughout your event. Many couples choose elegant, softer colors for ceremony and dinner, transitioning to more vibrant, energetic colors for dancing.
With our company, our packages start out at $350. It really just depends on where your event is located, the date of your event, and if this is an a la carte item, or this is an add on to one of our DJ or video packages.
This really depends on a lot of different factors. The first thing is how much dry ice we need to put into the machine. We usually like to go for about 30 pounds, and on a consistent blast, this could last anywhere between two to about four or five minutes, depending on some of the other elements. It's also going to depend on how hot it is outside. Also the wind is an important factor, because this is a cloud, any kind of wind or AC will disperse the cloud more quickly. So it really depends on a bunch of different factors, but overall the effect lasts about two to five minutes for the first dance.
For this effect, we’re going to be bringing in about anywhere from about 30 to 50 pounds of dry ice. When we get to the venue we need to be able to get water from a tap outlet. We have a hose so that we can fill up the machine. It will require about eight gallons of water to fill up the machine so the effect can last the maximum amount of time. This water doesn't get released onto to the dance floor. It just gets pumped over the dry ice so the dry ice melts and that's what creates the cloud. We also need at least one dedicated circuit that nobody else is using. If possible. We would like access to two, and that way the machine only takes about 20 minutes to heat up versus like 45 minutes to an hour and a half. And this all will depend on the temperature that the water starts at.
When it comes to setting up the machine, there are a lot of different factors that will cause the time to be different. The first thing is we need to have power. If we have it plugged in to one outlet, it’s going to take about 45 minutes to about an hour and a half to heat up. If we have two different circuits, it can heat up from about 20 minutes to about 40 minutes. It also depends on the starting water temperature. When we’re at the event we'll need to have access to water so that way we can fill the machine up. This machine will take about eight gallons of water and this is what's pumped over the dry ice to create the effect.
Usually cleanup can be done very quickly. The only circumstances where cleanup might be a little bit longer as if we have a marble dance floor and a little bit of moisture could make that marble slick. We have mops with us and stuff to clean up but usually this is not a problem. At worst, it's just a little bit damp but it doesn't leave a mark or cause any water damage.
The quick answer is no. But it is possible depending on the time gap involved. If you want to use it for the first dance, let's say the first dance is right after the grand entrance and then you want to use it for another dance later on. There needs to be enough time in between each event for it to be used because once the effect is used, the water then has to take 20 minutes to an hour to preheat again. We also need to add more dry ice between activations. It will usually go through about 30 pounds of dry ice as the hot water is being pumped over the dry ice, melting it to create the effect.
The very first step is setting up a consultation meeting with us via Zoom or a phone call. Zoom is preferred as it’s easier to go over the details of your wedding, the details of our setup, the booking process, and to make sure we’re a good fit for your event. After this call, we’ll send over a contract. Once the contract is signed and deposit is made (50% retainer), then your date is secured. Next, we schedule a site walkthrough (see below). Then, one month prior to your wedding, we’ll reach out again to schedule a final check-in before your wedding. You will need to fill out some forms on our website, which is how you will provide us with all necessary information for your event, and make any song requests. On the day of your event, we will arrive two to three hours beforehand, in order to have enough time for set up.
We accept most forms of payment, including Venmo, Paypal, credit card, and debit card. There is a 3% fee charged for each credit card or debit transaction.
If you choose to go with the DJ Cutt package, I will be assigned to your event. For all other packages, staffing will be assigned based on service needs. This will be listed inside on your online portal account.
Many weddings are at popular venues that we’ve worked many times. But especially for sites we’ve never worked before, we highly encourage a site walkthrough beforehand to go over all the necessary details and make sure we have access to everything we need. At the site walkthrough, we’ll go over the floor plan and figure out the best spot for our set up, where we’ll be drawing power from, and other logistical details.
None of our employees will drink alcohol before or during your event. We ask that you provide a vendor meal (equivalent to what your guests will be eating) for each of our staff working your event. We’ll provide the number of staff based on the package that you’ve ordered.
Our standard DJ package start at five hours. If you need to add time to your package, that is no problem. We typically charge $150 dollars for every hour added. It’s possible to add extra time during the event, but we ask that you pay the overtime fee at that time, rather than after the event.
We provide you with the ability to make requests and create a Do Not Play list prior to the event. During the event, we will take requests from guests. If a song is requested that is on your Do Not Play list, we’ll check with the Bride or Groom before playing it to make sure it’s okay.
Our pricing package is based on hours, not on the type of event (such as a ceremony vs a reception). This means that we are able to accommodate both a ceremony and reception if it fits within the time frame of your event. Another question we get a lot is what if you’re not having a ceremony. This will not impact the price, as once again, our fees are based on hours, not the type of event. This means that we are able to cover both a ceremony and a reception with one of our standard packages.
There is no limit to how far we’ll travel. We do not charge a travel fee for any wedding within 40 miles of Portland. For venues that are more than 40 miles from Portland, we will charge a travel fee of $2 per mile (both ways).
Our open-air photo booths require approximately an 8'x8' space for the booth itself, plus room for guests to gather. We can adapt to most venue spaces and will work with you to find the ideal location.
Absolutely! We'll create a custom template featuring your names, date, and design elements that match your wedding styling. You'll receive a proof to approve before your event.
Prints are delivered instantly at the booth. Digital photos are available in real-time through our sharing system, and your complete gallery is available within 48 hours after your event.
Our open-air design can comfortably fit 8-10 adults in each photo, perfect for capturing friend groups and family moments.
While having an internet connection makes things easier, it is not a requirement as we have our own network equipment that we can utilize when needed.
Yes, we carry comprehensive liability insurance and are approved vendors at most Portland wedding venues.
Yes, we have our attendant wipe down props after each use. Other safety precautions include providing hand sanitizer for individuals, to ensure a germ-free environment. This is a protocol that we will be focusing on for the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic.
We include 40 miles of travel at no additional cost from Portland, Oregon. For venues located beyond 40 miles, travel is billed at $2 per mile (one way) to cover transportation and travel time. For events more than 75 miles from Portland, we require overnight lodging accommodations to ensure our team arrives rested, prepared, and on time for your event. If you’re unsure about your venue distance, simply send us the location and we’ll calculate everything clearly in your proposal.
If we haven’t worked at your venue yet, we’ll still make it smooth: we’ll either request photos/videos and key details (ceremony + reception locations, power access, load-in path), or schedule a site walk so we can plan placement, timing, and logistics ahead of time.
For beach ceremonies, wind is the deciding factor for microphones. If it’s windy, we’ll use handheld microphones because they’re the most reliable and minimize wind noise. If the wind is calm, we can use lapel (lavalier) mics for a cleaner, hands-free look.
Key backups: extra wireless mic(s), cables, mixer/controller/laptop redundancy, spare speaker/amp options.
To officially reserve your wedding date, we require a signed contract and a 50% retainer fee after our initial meeting. Once those two items are completed, your date is secured on our calendar. All weddings also include a mandatory pre-wedding consultation to review timeline details, music selections, logistics, and final event planning to ensure everything runs smoothly on your big day.
For power, we require at least two dedicated 20-amp circuits (separate breakers) for reliable operation—especially once you factor in speakers, DJ gear, and lighting. If your ceremony is on the beach (or anywhere without accessible power), we’ll bring a battery-powered generator/power station to run the ceremony sound system, so you don’t have to worry about finding an outlet or running long cords across sand.
Coast load-ins can be slow (stairs, sand paths, elevators, tight docks). Get exact arrival time + footprint. Alot of times will come in the night before
Ask for examples: “high-energy hype,” “polished and minimal,” or “behind-the-scenes.” Make sure it matches you.
On the coast, you’ll often have mixed-age groups and family vibes—get clarity on clean edits and filtering.
Popular venues book 8-12 months out. Castaway Saturdays in summer? Gone by January. Don't wait.
We're Portland-based. No travel fees anywhere in the metro area. Period.
Weatherproof everything. Covered setups. Quick-strike plans for ceremony pivots. We've DJed through it all.
Every venue has different rules. We know them all and have the gear to comply without killing the vibe.
20+ years, 500+ weddings, and personal relationships at every major venue. We're not learning on your dime.
Absolutely—but we filter them through what actually works. Trust us, not every request should make it to the dance floor.
Peak season (May-October) books 6-8 months out. Willamette Valley Vineyards Saturdays? Even earlier. Check now.
All day. Weather-resistant gear, wireless mics that reach the rose garden, and backup plans for Oregon's moody weather.
Common at Convention Center and wineries. We coordinate timing, respect sound limits, and keep your party feeling exclusive.
Our online portal lets you add must-plays, never-plays, and vibe preferences. Share the login with your wedding party for input.
Covered setups, weatherproof equipment, and quick venue pivots. We've DJed through Oregon drizzle more times than we count.
Premium Vancouver dates, especially May-August, book 6-8 months out. Check availability now to lock in your spot!
We offer flexible cancellations with full refunds if canceled 60 days before your event. Contact us for details to ensure peace of mind.
Yes, we carry $1 million in liability insurance, protecting you and your Vancouver venue for worry-free celebrations.
We bring backup gear for every critical component, ensuring your reception keeps rocking without a hitch.
Nope! Vancouver's our backyard, so we're just across the river in Portland. Same great service, zero travel fees.
Our easy online tool lets you pick must-plays, do-not-plays, and set the vibe, ensuring your dance floor reflects your unique style.
Hood River is popular! Premium dates (especially summer) book 6-12 months out. Check availability early to lock in your date.
Yes! We come prepared with wind-resistant mics and secure setups, ensuring your outdoor ceremony and reception sound perfect, rain or shine (or wind!).
Yes—our portal makes it easy.
We bring backup gear for every critical component, ensuring your reception keeps rocking.
We offer flexible cancellations with a refunds if canceled 60 days before your event.
Yes, our team works with you to tailor the experience to your needs. We'll coordinate with your photographer and DJ for perfect timing
Unfortunately these boxes require a train certified operator that needs to be on site
Our event coordinator will contact you within 24 hours to confirm details and begin venue coordination.
Yes, we bring backup equipment to every event and arrive early for thorough testing. We Always bring a set of back up boxes.
The first 40 miles are free and then we charge $2 a mile after that from Portland Oregon
On average that each event will last anywhere between 15 and 30 seconds. the machines will stop and can be re-fired
We're more than happy to move the boxes for different events but the cost is $100 every additional time we have to move the boxes
The Sparks can be triggered to fire 3 ft in the air, 6 ft in the air and 9 ft in the air.
These boxes are rated as a non-pyrotechnic the Sparks coming out of the boxes are around 50°
Yes, our team works with you to tailor the experience to your needs. We'll coordinate with your photographer and DJ for perfect timing
Unfortunately these boxes require a train certified operator that needs to be on site
Our event coordinator will contact you within 24 hours to confirm details and begin venue coordination.
Yes, we bring backup equipment to every event and arrive early for thorough testing. We Always bring a set of back up boxes.
The first 40 miles are free and then we charge $2 a mile after that from Portland Oregon
On average that each event will last anywhere between 15 and 30 seconds. the machines will stop and can be re-fired
We're more than happy to move the boxes for different events but the cost is $100 every additional time we have to move the boxes
The Sparks can be triggered to fire 3 ft in the air, 6 ft in the air and 9 ft in the air.
These boxes are rated as a non-pyrotechnic the Sparks coming out of the boxes are around 50°
Yes, our team works with you to tailor the experience to your needs. We'll coordinate with your photographer and DJ for perfect timing
Unfortunately these boxes require a train certified operator that needs to be on site
Our event coordinator will contact you within 24 hours to confirm details and begin venue coordination.
Yes, we bring backup equipment to every event and arrive early for thorough testing. We Always bring a set of back up boxes.
The first 40 miles are free and then we charge $2 a mile after that from Portland Oregon
On average that each event will last anywhere between 15 and 30 seconds. the machines will stop and can be re-fired
We're more than happy to move the boxes for different events but the cost is $100 every additional time we have to move the boxes
The Sparks can be triggered to fire 3 ft in the air, 6 ft in the air and 9 ft in the air.
These boxes are rated as a non-pyrotechnic the Sparks coming out of the boxes are around 50°
Yes, our team works with you to tailor the experience to your needs. We'll coordinate with your photographer and DJ for perfect timing
Unfortunately these boxes require a train certified operator that needs to be on site
Our event coordinator will contact you within 24 hours to confirm details and begin venue coordination.
Yes, we bring backup equipment to every event and arrive early for thorough testing. We Always bring a set of back up boxes.
The first 40 miles are free and then we charge $2 a mile after that from Portland Oregon
On average that each event will last anywhere between 15 and 30 seconds. the machines will stop and can be re-fired
We're more than happy to move the boxes for different events but the cost is $100 every additional time we have to move the boxes
The Sparks can be triggered to fire 3 ft in the air, 6 ft in the air and 9 ft in the air.
These boxes are rated as a non-pyrotechnic the Sparks coming out of the boxes are around 50°
Yes, our team works with you to tailor the experience to your needs. We'll coordinate with your photographer and DJ for perfect timing
Unfortunately these boxes require a train certified operator that needs to be on site
Our event coordinator will contact you within 24 hours to confirm details and begin venue coordination.
Yes, we bring backup equipment to every event and arrive early for thorough testing. We Always bring a set of back up boxes.
The first 40 miles are free and then we charge $2 a mile after that from Portland Oregon
On average that each event will last anywhere between 15 and 30 seconds. the machines will stop and can be re-fired
We're more than happy to move the boxes for different events but the cost is $100 every additional time we have to move the boxes
The Sparks can be triggered to fire 3 ft in the air, 6 ft in the air and 9 ft in the air.
These boxes are rated as a non-pyrotechnic the Sparks coming out of the boxes are around 50°
Yes, our team works with you to tailor the experience to your needs. We'll coordinate with your photographer and DJ for perfect timing
Unfortunately these boxes require a train certified operator that needs to be on site
Our event coordinator will contact you within 24 hours to confirm details and begin venue coordination.
Yes, we bring backup equipment to every event and arrive early for thorough testing. We Always bring a set of back up boxes.
The first 40 miles are free and then we charge $2 a mile after that from Portland Oregon
On average that each event will last anywhere between 15 and 30 seconds. the machines will stop and can be re-fired
We're more than happy to move the boxes for different events but the cost is $100 every additional time we have to move the boxes
The Sparks can be triggered to fire 3 ft in the air, 6 ft in the air and 9 ft in the air.
These boxes are rated as a non-pyrotechnic the Sparks coming out of the boxes are around 50°
Yes, our team works with you to tailor the experience to your needs. We'll coordinate with your photographer and DJ for perfect timing
Unfortunately these boxes require a train certified operator that needs to be on site
Our event coordinator will contact you within 24 hours to confirm details and begin venue coordination.
Yes, we bring backup equipment to every event and arrive early for thorough testing. We Always bring a set of back up boxes.
The first 40 miles are free and then we charge $2 a mile after that from Portland Oregon
On average that each event will last anywhere between 15 and 30 seconds. the machines will stop and can be re-fired
We're more than happy to move the boxes for different events but the cost is $100 every additional time we have to move the boxes
The Sparks can be triggered to fire 3 ft in the air, 6 ft in the air and 9 ft in the air.
These boxes are rated as a non-pyrotechnic the Sparks coming out of the boxes are around 50°
Yes, our team works with you to tailor the experience to your needs. We'll coordinate with your photographer and DJ for perfect timing
Unfortunately these boxes require a train certified operator that needs to be on site
Our event coordinator will contact you within 24 hours to confirm details and begin venue coordination.
Yes, we bring backup equipment to every event and arrive early for thorough testing. We Always bring a set of back up boxes.
The first 40 miles are free and then we charge $2 a mile after that from Portland Oregon
On average that each event will last anywhere between 15 and 30 seconds. the machines will stop and can be re-fired
We're more than happy to move the boxes for different events but the cost is $100 every additional time we have to move the boxes
The Sparks can be triggered to fire 3 ft in the air, 6 ft in the air and 9 ft in the air.
These boxes are rated as a non-pyrotechnic the Sparks coming out of the boxes are around 50°
Yes, our team works with you to tailor the experience to your needs. We'll coordinate with your photographer and DJ for perfect timing
Unfortunately these boxes require a train certified operator that needs to be on site
Our event coordinator will contact you within 24 hours to confirm details and begin venue coordination.
Yes, we bring backup equipment to every event and arrive early for thorough testing. We Always bring a set of back up boxes.
The first 40 miles are free and then we charge $2 a mile after that from Portland Oregon
On average that each event will last anywhere between 15 and 30 seconds. the machines will stop and can be re-fired
We're more than happy to move the boxes for different events but the cost is $100 every additional time we have to move the boxes
The Sparks can be triggered to fire 3 ft in the air, 6 ft in the air and 9 ft in the air.
These boxes are rated as a non-pyrotechnic the Sparks coming out of the boxes are around 50°
Yes, our team works with you to tailor the experience to your needs. We'll coordinate with your photographer and DJ for perfect timing
Unfortunately these boxes require a train certified operator that needs to be on site
Our event coordinator will contact you within 24 hours to confirm details and begin venue coordination.
Yes, we bring backup equipment to every event and arrive early for thorough testing. We Always bring a set of back up boxes.
The first 40 miles are free and then we charge $2 a mile after that from Portland Oregon
On average that each event will last anywhere between 15 and 30 seconds. the machines will stop and can be re-fired
We're more than happy to move the boxes for different events but the cost is $100 every additional time we have to move the boxes
The Sparks can be triggered to fire 3 ft in the air, 6 ft in the air and 9 ft in the air.
These boxes are rated as a non-pyrotechnic the Sparks coming out of the boxes are around 50°
Yes, our team works with you to tailor the experience to your needs. We'll coordinate with your photographer and DJ for perfect timing
Unfortunately these boxes require a train certified operator that needs to be on site
Our event coordinator will contact you within 24 hours to confirm details and begin venue coordination.
Yes, we bring backup equipment to every event and arrive early for thorough testing. We Always bring a set of back up boxes.
The first 40 miles are free and then we charge $2 a mile after that from Portland Oregon
On average that each event will last anywhere between 15 and 30 seconds. the machines will stop and can be re-fired
We're more than happy to move the boxes for different events but the cost is $100 every additional time we have to move the boxes
The Sparks can be triggered to fire 3 ft in the air, 6 ft in the air and 9 ft in the air.
These boxes are rated as a non-pyrotechnic the Sparks coming out of the boxes are around 50°