Meet The APE Entertainment Staff:
MARTIN JAMES created APE Entertainment in 2003 after seeing a need for professional, personalized entertainment in the mobile DJ market. He has worked in the hospitality and entertainment business all of his life and continually attends classes and seminars on performance, public speaking and business. He holds many certifications that acknowledge his skills for talent in the entertainment industry. “I truly enjoy creating unique one of a kind events for my clients that reflect their style and personality!” You can reach me at: martin@gowithape.com
KATHY JOLLIFFE is our master DJ behind the booth. She is our DJ and event coordinator for large events and weddings. Her music skills working with our Master of Ceremony create events that flow smooth and keep your guests entertained no matter how big the guest lists. She pays special attention to detail and is always available for requests and last minute changes on the fly.
KELLY LEE WILLIAMS is a DJ entertainer, comedian and singer/songwriter from Chicago, IL who came to Alaska in December 2008. He runs a weekly comedy show in Anchorage in addition to his DJ duties. This year Kelly is the Anchorage Press Picks winner for Best Local Comic. He wanted to work with the best mobile entertainment company in Alaska, found APE Jan. 2009 and has been here ever since.
ERIC ROBSON is a music teacher by day and truly gifted entertainer at his events. His passion for music, dance and having fun shows in his performances. With a creative ability to help plan and organize, Eric applies his expertise with one on one attention to help you create a memorable celebration. He continually receives high marks from our clients that praise his services and talents at their special events.
JIM DOLAN is our dancing entertainer extraordinaire! He competes in competitive dance all over the world and has won many awards. His love of music and dance really comes through in his performance. APE clients love the fact that he can teach a variety of dance styles at their events and mixes music to keep the dance floor packed! He has regular group dance lessons during the week and is available for private dance lessons.
AARON HENDERSON makes your event look spectacular with color, movement and lighting. He is our master effects technician and will create a unique one of a kind event through lighting and special effects. His love for theatrics and technical savvy brings an element to APE Entertainment that is often imitated… But never duplicated. His work with our clients create an atmosphere that will leave your guests breathless.
Let us Help You Plan a Great Celebration
Planning your event can be a lot of work, but it should also be a lot of fun. Our goal is to provide you with helpful ideas and suggestions that will reduce your work and increase your guest’s overall enjoyment. If you have any questions regarding your contract, online planners, payments, etc., please call and speak with one of our event specialists. In addition, Martin James is available during regular business hours to answer any questions regarding special music, interactive ideas, lighting, room design, sound requirements, order of events, specialty themes and anything in between. We can also offer referrals for event facilities, caterer’s, photographer, videographer, musicians, or any other service professionals to fit your needs.
Planning Your Event
We believe that the pre planning session with your Alaska Professional Entertainment DJ/MC is the foundation of a successful event. It is important to note that this planning session will be done approximately 1 to 2 weeks prior to your event and everyone involved should attend. A short meeting by phone or in person may also take place the week of your event to cover all the last minute details.
The Sequence of Events
In addition to the set-up and lay out, the sequence of events is also a very important part of the overall success of your event. As entertainment professionals, we are experts at helping you plan the best sequence for all the events and activities. While you may get great ideas from others, your Master of Ceremonies is uniquely qualified to create the perfect sequence for you, one that flows smoothly from one activity to the next, while maximizing your guests enjoyment and participation. If you are planning a tentative agenda with any other vendor (planners, caterer, photographer, etc) please let us know first so we can make sure it is presented in a proper manner. Our staff will be happy to share with you our professional expertise that will help you customize the very best party.
Food & Drink
If you would like to provide us with a meal, please discuss it first with your DJ/MC. Vendor meals are often available for us without the additional cost being incurred by you. We can make this arrangement with the banquet staff upon our arrival. Our staff never consumes alcoholic beverages during your event and we respect that we are paid professionals… Not your guest! However, providing ice water and or soft drinks is greatly appreciated.
Gratuities
Unlike many other service professionals, we do not contractually add service charges or gratuities. After considering the advanced pre-planning with your DJ/MC, the level of service and quality of presentation, along with your overall enjoyment, we believe you should decide for yourself what level of gratuity you would like to give. As a reference, a tip of 10% – 15% is most common. For accounting purposes, we ask that you pay any gratuity directly to the DJ/MC.
APE is a proud member of:
