10 Questions with Mark Aria

Mark Aria Entertainment

DJs - Mark Aria

10 Questions with Mark Aria

1. Introduction: What's your story?

Hello! I’m DJ Mark Aria- I started Dj’ing in 2011, I actually started out as a house and club DJ. My wife got me started in weddings with a few friends of ours, and we ended up falling in love with the business... and here we are now! What started with just offering DJ/MC services with lighting option, we now have two DJ’s, two photos booths and we are busier than ever. We allowed the business to grow organically and we took a family approach to this business. My wife and I run every aspect of it together and it has made us fall deeper in love, because we have met so many amazing couples and we believe what we offer makes a real difference to all of our clients.

2. What's your experience as a wedding DJ? How many weddings have you done?

My experience as a wedding DJ began as just doing word of mouth gigs for friends or friends of friends. After my second or third wedding, I realized how truly happy it makes me to play a part in a couple’s day. From there, we created a business page, started to advertise, and things really took off! We closed out 2020 with hitting our “100th wedding” mark and our numbers have been on a steady incline ever since.

3. How far in advance do couples need to book your services?

As soon as possible! Most of our inquiries come to us about a year in advance. We hate turning down business, so the sooner couples reach out, the sooner we can get them on our books!

4. What's your rate? What does that include?

Our most basic 4 hour package starts at $700. We have several different packages that include a multitude of services. Everything is tailor made to our couples and their needs. We strongly recommend reaching out to discuss your vision, so we can get an accurate quote to you and start the fun part... the party!!

5. Are you available to travel if needed?

Yes, within reason! We impose a travel fee at any time when booked for a wedding or event over 50 miles out of Jacksonville, Florida.

6. How would you describe your style?

My true style is house music. I enjoy an upbeat atmosphere the most! But we realize, not every genre is for everybody. I really pride myself on being a malleable DJ. My style changes with the clientele and their guests. If I’ve got an older crowd, I throw down some 80’s. If I’m playing a hispanic wedding, I throw in some bachata and merengue! That is why it’s important to read the room as a DJ and customize your sound to fill a dance floor. We also get together with our couples multiple times prior to the big day to discuss the overall vibe of the party and the music desired.

7. What's your backup plan if there's an equipment malfunction? Do you bring backup equipment?

Yes- I have backups for my backups! My wife always teases me that I am always OVER prepared. But there’s no such thing in my book!

8. What's your sick day policy?

We have a great team! Every wedding has an assigned DJ, as well as a backup DJ. If the assigned DJ has to call out sick, the backup DJ already has the date set aside to fill in.

9. How do you motivate a shy crowd to dance? What do you do to motivate the crowd if nobody is dancing?

The best thing to do to try to get the crowd involved is with either a slow dance or a line dance. But our favorite way to motivate a crowd to start dancing is to get our bride and groom involved and right in the middle of the dance floor to get the party started! Because if the bride and groom are having a good time, everyone will want to join in!

10. What is your cancellation and/or refund policy?

Cancellations must be done in writing at least 30 days prior to the event. Deposits are non-refundable, but any other funds paid will be paid back within the months end.

Gallery

Awards

WeddingRule Editor’s Choice 2020