The Groove
With many DJ services, you’ll find part time DJs with less experience, training, and little or no investment in the equipment and music they are using. They won’t feel the same sense of ownership that we do with your event. We feel more like we are invited to our events, versus hired to be there.
You will never be surprised by The Groove DJ who shows up to your party since you will have met with them multiple times throughout the planning stages. We do everything in our power to make sure you and your guests are happy.
We have back up DJs in case of an emergency and back up equipment is always on hand. The Groove staff is comprised of fun, experienced DJs who share a common belief of what our role is on your day.
We care as much about the success of your event as you do, not only because we love to make our clients happy, but we strive for your referrals as well. Each and every show is important to us. We truly believe we are only as good as our last performance, so we will do everything we can make your day awesome!
Hopefully we will have the chance to talk further with you about your special day and work together to make it great!
Meet our D.J.s Andy, Tim, and Mike below.
Andy Hagenah
Andy has owned and operated The Groove for over 30 years. He grew up in Minnesota and moved to San Diego in 1999 where he met and married his wife Amy. They have three beautiful children and Andy loves the fact that his profession allows him to spend so much time with his kids.
Andy has an excellent skill for motivating people and entertaining crowds without being obnoxious or acting like the “Cheesy DJ” many people associate mobile disc jockeys as being. Andy believes that being himself and blending in, rather than trying to put on an act and be the star of the show, is one of the secrets to his success.
The music knowledge, experience, and people skills that Andy has, makes him the perfect choice for your next event. He is very trustworthy, reliable, and you will feel like you have hired a friend when you choose to work with Andy.
Tim English
Tim has been providing clients with expert DJ service for over 30 years as well. His vast knowledge of music and warm, friendly personality are a perfect fit for any type of event you might be planning.
Tim has been happily married to his wife Laura since 1998, and he is the proud father of two beautiful girls. Being a family man helps Tim to understand all the feelings that surround your special event.
Tim knows that your wedding day, anniversary party, or corporate event is special and unique, and he devotes himself to making it a terrific memory for everyone who attends. Tim’s friendliness and experience are just two great reasons why he should be a part of your next event.
Mike Farmer
Mike is pretty much a native San Diegan. Being in a Navy family meant moving around a bit, but he was lucky enough to end up San Diego. He now lives in the East County with his bride of 25 years and high school sweetheart, Suzie.
Mike got his start in the DJ biz spinning in various clubs around town. He began getting requests to do private events and his mobile DJ career was off and running. He’s run his own business for many years and was excited to join Andy with The Groove a few years ago.
Mike has done over a thousand weddings and many hundreds of corporate events and private parties. Working with the client to get the music, announcements and scheduling just right is a big part of what Mike does – but keeping the dance floor full is the best and most fun part of his job.
Mike has tons of 5 star reviews and would look forward to the opportunity to bring that level of expertise to your event.
Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT GOES INTO PRICING?
At The Groove DJs, we like to keep it simple: TEE—Time, Equipment, Experience. Sure, it might look like you’re just paying for “5-6 hours” on the day of your event, but we invest 40+ hours behind the scenes. This includes consultations, music prep, set-up/tear-down, vendor coordination, and much more to make your special day perfect. Our top-of-the-line gear and 30+ years of experience means we’re ready for anything. Our rates vary by the hours of service, extra equipment needed if any, and add-ons people choose. Our 4-hour base packages range from $995 to $1295 right now, and most 6-hour weddings with extra gear and lighting added are in the $1895 to $2295 ballpark.
WHAT IS YOUR CANCELLATION POLICY?
Our deposit is non-refundable as it covers initial planning and securing your date. Full payment is due within 30 days of your original event date and becomes fully non-refundable if canceled.
DO YOU PROVIDE 1 OR 2 DJs/MCs?
Typically, we provide 1 DJ/MC who handles both roles. You work directly with the person performing at your event.
WHEN DO I PAY FOR YOUR SERVICES?
We require a deposit of $450 to reserve a date. The remaining balance is due 30 days before the event.
ARE YOU INSURED?
Absolutely! We have a $2-million liability policy. We can add your Venue as an additional insured easily, and many of our preferred Venues have our policy on file annually.
WILL YOU PLAY MY MUSIC & REQUESTS?
Of course, it’s your event! We’ll go over your must-play and do-not-play lists, handle requests if you allow, and keep the vibe just right. We talk with you at length about the music dos & don’ts.
WHAT KIND OF EQUIPMENT DO YOU USE? DO YOU CARRY BACKUPS?
We use the best gear! Our DJs have slight differences in our systems since we all own our own gear. As a company standard we only use professional sound and lighting equipment, and we always bring back up!
WILL I MEET MY DJ AHEAD OF TIME? CAN THEY HELP US WITH PLANNING?
Yes, and yes! You’ll meet your DJ, discuss your vision, and plan every detail. Our DJs are pros at how events should flow, and we take time to learn what you like and dislike so that we can recommend the best ideas. We have a great online planning system, and you’ll have a final planning call with the DJ.
WHAT IF SOMETHING HAPPENS TO MY DJ?
We have backup DJs ready to step in if anything unexpected happens. We all have online access to the planning forms you fill in and can step in to do a great job if needed.
HOW MUCH TIME DO YOU ALLOW FOR SETUP? IS THAT INCLUDED IN YOUR COST?
We arrive at least 90 minutes before the event starts. Setup time is included in our pricing, ensuring everything runs smoothly. We perform for the number of hours contracted, and then our clean-up is included.
DO YOU ATTEND THE REHEARSAL?
Typically, we don’t attend rehearsals. In certain cases, we can charge an extra fee to be at your rehearsal. It is not really necessary.
DO YOU PROVIDE A WRITTEN CONTRACT?
Yes, we provide a detailed contract to ensure everything is clear and confirmed.
DO YOU INCLUDE LIGHTING?
We do include lighting for your dance floor with all our packages. We can provide Up Lighting, Monogram Spot Lights, Moving Head Fixtures, and Pattern Throws for an additional cost.
WHAT DO YOUR SETUPS LOOK LIKE?
We aim for simple, tidy, and elegant setups that look professional and sound amazing. Check out our IG for some samples at recent events.
DO YOU TAKE BREAKS?
We only take a short break while food is being served, if applicable. Music will still be playing during this time.
HOW MANY YEARS OF EXPERIENCE DO YOU HAVE?
Our owner Andy Hagenah has been a DJ since 1992, and the rest of the team at least as long or longer! With so much combined experience, we will absolutely make your event a success!
WHAT DO YOU WEAR?
We dress appropriately for the occasion and match the guest attire generally. We want to look great as your guests will be watching as we MC the event!
WHAT IS YOUR DJ STYLE?
We are fun and polished pros. We don’t make ourselves the center of attention, but we make sure guests won’t miss a thing. We are laid back, fun, and really work great behind the scenes with your other vendors. We all have experience mixing at clubs, reading the crowd, and playing the best music for your night!
HOW DO WE KNOW YOU ARE GOOD?
We have been in business for over 30 years! We are on dozens of Preferred Vendor lists from San Diego to Temecula and more. You can find wonderful testimonials and reviews on Wedding Wire and The Knot.