Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is included in a wedding AV package?

A: Techtonic Events offers a variety of Wedding Packages, catering to different guest counts, styles, trends and moments. Our Ceremony Sound Package includes a wireless microphone and transmitter, an analog mixing board, an iPad for music, 2 QSC K10.2 Loudspeakers (with skirted stands), a tech table. Our Cocktail Hour Sound Package includes 2 QSC K12.2 Loudspeakers, an analog mixing board, a tech table and an iPad for music. Our Dinner Sound Package includes a wireless microphone and transmitter, 2 QSC K12.2 Loudspeakers, an analog mixing board, a tech table and an iPad for music. Our Wedding DJ Package includes a DJ, a 2 speaker sound system with subwoofers, a wireless microphone, a DJ facade, a DJ table, and basic dancefloor . All of these packages include all necessary cabling, making them all-inclusive Wedding AV Solutions. We will also happily build Custom Packages for any couple looking for something more tailored to their special day. 

Q2: Do I need a separate sound system for the ceremony and the reception?

A: Generally, yes. The ceremony requires discreet lavaliere or handheld mics and lower-profile speakers, while the reception requires a robust sound system (and often lighting) capable of filling a room for dancing and music. We cannot move sound systems between guest arrival and the end of the reception for fear of disrupting the wedding party. Nobody wants a bunch of audio technicians to rush in after the kiss to tear down and move the sound system!

Q3: How do you prevent microphone feedback during outdoor wedding ceremonies? (iffy)

A: Our AV technicians use specialized directional microphones, wind muffs, and precise equalization (EQ) settings to suppress feedback. Rest assured that when we work a wedding, we spend hours planning and preparing to avoid disruptions like microphone feedback so that your special day is perfect!

Q4: Can we connect our videographer’s equipment directly to your sound board?

A: Yes. Our AV technicians can offer a dedicated “audio feed” or XLR output from the main mixer so the videographer captures crystal-clear audio of vows and speeches. Please give us ample notice if your videographer will need an audio feed.

Q5: What is uplighting, and how many fixtures will my venue need?

A: Uplighting consists of ground-based LED fixtures that project light up walls or architectural features. A small room might need 10–15 fixtures, while larger ballrooms can require 30 or more to create a cohesive ambiance. Our AV technicians can program them to display a static colorway of your choosing, or dance around the room to the beat of the music. Whatever your lighting vision is, we will happily accommodate.

Q6: Can you provide battery-powered sound systems for remote outdoor locations?

A: Yes. For beach, forest, or field weddings without power access, our AV technicians use high-performance, battery-powered PA systems and wireless microphone transmitters. We also offer high-wattage generators and batteries so that our AV equipment can operate anywhere, totally independent of venue power if need be. We also offer Wifi hotspots and Starlink units for “off-the-grid” weddings.

Q7: How early does the AV team need to set up before the wedding begins?

A: Setup typically takes 2 to 4 hours depending on the complexity of the lighting and sound, and whether there are multiple locations (ceremony, cocktail hour, reception) to build out. We communicate directly with planners, venues and couples to determine the best course of action to ensure we have ample time to set-up and prepare without rushing, adding stress to a day that (let’s face it) is often stressful enough for couples and planners. 

Q8: Can we display a photo slideshow during the reception? What equipment is needed?

A: Yes. You will need a high-lumen projector and screen package, or a large LED/LCD mobile display (TV), along with a media player or laptop and (sometimes) appropriate video switchers. We have packages for all video needs, and can also build custom packages for couples who have a specific vision in mind (like projecting slideshows onto drape).

Q9: Do you offer Scenic Services like Pipe & Drape?

A: Yes! We have a wide variety of pipe & drape, with different colors, sheerness, lengths/heights, and we can arrange them however you’d like. Couples often ask us for tie-backs on sheer white drape, ceiling drape, long drape walls, and even projection onto drape. We can do it all! We also offer variable-size disco balls (ceiling-hung or mounted), haze machines (to make your lighting arrangements that much more exciting), LED dance floors, and custom scenic installs. One couple had us hang 1000 hand-made origami cranes from the ceiling for their wedding, and we were excited to bring their vision to life!

Q10: Do your DJs bring their own equipment?

A: Yes! Our Wedding DJ Package includes everything you need for sound for your wedding reception, and can be customized to serve weddings of any size. We can also add more lighting, larger sound systems, and even accommodate live bands.

Q11: Are your DJs well versed in different cultures and genres?

A: Yes! Our DJs have many years of experience, working with couples from many different cultures and backgrounds. They can accommodate any couple’s taste. We use an app called SongBoard that lets couples pick songs, artists, genres, as well as a “do not play” list. You can even choose songs for specific moments (like processional and recessional songs). SongBoard is very user friendly, and our DJs are always happy to help and hop on a call if there are any questions. 

Q12: Do I need an on-site technician?

A: Generally, it is advised and sometimes mandatory. Depending on the complexity of the day, an on-site technician may be crucial for seamless transitions between systems and spaces. For a simple wedding, with just a Ceremony Sound Package and a Wedding DJ Package, your DJ can probably handle the ceremony in addition to the reception. For a wedding with 3 or more sound systems, any video projection, or live musicians, at least one on-site technician is necessary.

Q13: Why is wedding AV so expensive?

A: Wedding AV involves far more than just showing up with speakers. Long before your big day, we invest hours in meticulous planning, site visits, and technical design.

On the event day, we have anywhere from 1-4 technicians working tirelessly to set-up, troubleshoot, and operate the equipment. They often arrive 4+ hours before guest arrival, managing venue power, optimizing acoustics, and programming the lighting, and they stay on hours after guests have left to safely pack down. First and foremost we are a service industry and we conduct ourselves accordingly, but under the kind, accommodating smiles are highly specialized professionals and industry veterans operating with precision to ensure your wedding runs flawlessly.

We often see couples regret choosing the cheapest DJ or AV option—some budget providers fail to show up entirely. On the most important day of your life, don’t leave your memories to chance; invest in professionals who guarantee perfection.

Q14: Do you offer livestreaming over Zoom for remote attendees?

A: Yes, and we do this fairly often. With flight prices climbing, we see this more and more. To livestream your ceremony over Zoom, we often need a professional Camera and Tripod, a digital mixing console, video switchers, and a laptop to run Zoom. We can either provide the Zoom link, or use yours, and are happy to facilitate sending it to your virtual guests. We would have one technician whose job is just monitoring the Zoom feed to ensure no audio or video issues, and to monitor comments from virtual attendees in case they are having any issues. We would work closely with the venue to ensure adequate internet infrastructure, and if necessary run our own Starlink unit.

Q15: Do you offer LED Dance Floors?

A: Yes! We offer LED dance floors that are discrete and easy to drop, set and operate. They are a tasteful addition to any wedding, and are available at multiple sizes, from 10’x10’ (best for parties of 60 guests) up to 24’x24’ (for parties of up to 400 guests, or 120 people dancing at once). They consist of 2’x2’ fully DMX programmable tiles that can match any wedding’s color and theme, and can be programmed alongside other lighting fixtures for a fully immersive lighting experience.

Q16: What lighting services are available, and what lighting services are included in my Sound Package?

A: We have a wide variety of lighting options available as add-ons for any Wedding Package. We offer uplighting, moving heads, custom gobos, pinspots, static washlights, string lights (bistro), curtain lights, LED tube lighting, GigBars, lasers, and Jolt LED washlights. The only package we offer that includes lighting is our Wedding DJ Package, which includes a GigBar as the “basic dancefloor lighting.” If your goal is to impress, we highly recommend adding some lighting to spice up your wedding! We would be happy to discuss options and recommend a custom lighting display to fit your budget, venue and style.

Q17: Why do I need lighting?

A: You may not, but every wedding is different, and every couple has a vision for their special day. Depending on your venue, their lighting installs may be sufficient. However, if you have a specific theme in mind, 9/10 times the lighting is going to make the difference between bringing your vision to life and feeling disappointed. For example, an elegant “Bridgerton” style wedding (warm, Victorian lighting) is going to require a very different approach than a bright, colorful 80’s aesthetic. Working with you or your planner, our team will happily discuss your vision and determine how our lighting inventory might make your vision a reality.

Q18: Do I need microphones?

A: Usually, yes; but not always. We recommend microphones for parties larger than 20 people, especially in outdoor areas or large rooms. The last thing you want is for grandma to miss the vows, or for the best man’s punchline to fall flat during his toast. Chances are, your wedding party is putting their hearts and souls into their vows, toasts and speeches, and guests being able to hear and appreciate every word makes all the difference.  

Q19: My venue said they have microphones and speakers. Can’t we just use those?

A: Probably, yes. We would recommend asking your venue for clarification on who will be setting up and operating the equipment, and where the equipment will be. Often, venues will tell couples that they have speakers and microphones, but will not specify that they are only available in the ceremony space. On the day of the wedding, no one wants to find out that they are on their own for cocktail hour, dinner or reception. If your venue offers these services, be sure to get as much clarification as possible.

Q20: When should I start booking AV for my Wedding?

A: Generally as soon as possible (ideally no less than 6 months in advance), however there are some caveats here. If you have not decided on a venue, there is often very little an AV provider will be able to do for you until they know where the wedding is taking place. You can still reach out, but you likely will not get a final quote until the provider knows the variables associated with the venue. For example, if they don’t know the room size or dimensions, there are certain costs they won’t be able to calculate yet. So, reach out as soon as possible, but don’t expect a final quote until the venue details are accounted for.

Q21: Why can’t my AV provider just give me a quote?

A: Wedding clients often reach out to us expecting a very clear, simple cost projection for their wedding. The fact is that the AV quoting process is not simple. It requires a lot of detail, planning and thought, as well as close collaboration with planners, venues and couples. There are a lot of variables to account for when quoting certain services. For example, when quoting pipe & drape, we need to know exact room dimensions, the plans for where the drape is going to be, how high it needs to be, when the guests arrive, when they leave, and how long our set-up and tear-down windows are. We do our best to get quotes out as quickly and easily as possible, but oftentimes it takes more communication than couples anticipate. The fact is we operate in a very dynamic industry, and as plans change, costs change as well; so we are rarely able to offer an “out the door price” for our services. Accordingly, we always come prepared to roll with the punches, adapting wherever necessary to ensure a successful day.

Q22: What is a “Run of Show” (ROS), and why does the AV team need it?

A: A Run of Show is a minute-by-minute timeline of your event. The AV team relies on it to know exactly when to trigger audio cues, change lighting scenes, switch slide decks, or activate microphones. Providing an accurate ROS before the show begins is crucial in ensuring a seamless event. 

Q23: What is the difference between an aspect ratio of 16:9 and 4:3 for presentations?

A: 16:9 is the modern widescreen standard used by almost all modern screens and projectors. 4:3 is the older, boxier television format. Presenters should always build modern decks in 16:9.

Q24: What is a confidence monitor, and do our speakers need one?

A: A confidence monitor is a screen placed at the foot of the stage facing the speaker. It allows them to see their current slide, notes, or a countdown timer without awkwardly turning around to look at the main screen.

Q25: How do you handle multiple presenters using different laptop types (Mac vs. PC)?

A: AV providers utilize a multi-format video switcher at the tech table. This allows technicians to seamlessly switch between various inputs (HDMI, USB-C, DisplayPort) without any screen flickering or downtime. 

Q26: What does “scrimming” mean in corporate stage design?

A: Scrimming refers to using fabric (scrims, or duvetyne) to hide ugly equipment like tripod stands, cables, or truss structures, giving the stage a clean, professional, corporate aesthetic.

Q27: Do corporate AV quotes include labor, or just equipment rentals?

A: Our AV quotes will clearly separate equipment rentals from labor fees (which include load-in, setup, operation, and strike). Usually, quotes from Techtonic Events will be separated into different line items, so that equipment rentals for room X are separate from rentals for room Y, and labor and logistics always have their own separate line items. If you have any questions about your AV quote please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

Q28: What is a “pipe and drape” setup?

A: It is a modular system of vertical pipes, horizontal crossbars, and fabric drapes used to create clean backgrounds, divide large rooms, or hide backstage preparation areas.

Q29: How do we ensure our corporate branding colors are accurately represented on stage?

A: You provide your specific HEX or RGB color codes to the AV team. They will program intelligent, color-matching LED lighting fixtures to match your brand precisely.

Q30: My event has a panel of four presenters. I only need four microphones, right?

A: Great question! Not necessarily. It depends on the change-over after the panel, whether or not there is a scheduled break before the next presenter, and if there is an audience Q&A. If you have no time scheduled for a break, our AV technicians will need to prepare the next presenters with their microphones during the panel to ensure a smooth transition. Additionally, if you have audience Q&A, you will need 1-2 handheld microphones dedicated for audience questions. 

Q31: What is a “lavaliere?” 

A: A lavaliere, or “lapel mic” is a microphone that clips onto the presenters collar or lapel, eliminating the need for a handheld microphone or a mic stand. It is ideal for presenters who use their hands a lot, but also requires more meticulous preparation, as they are more sensitive and prone to feedback. Additionally, “countrymen” or earset microphones are “TedTalk” style microphones, and are an alternative to lavaliere mics. Ask your presenters which style microphone they would prefer, and we will happily accommodate.

Q32: Why do I need a hardline internet package?

A: Hardline internet is necessary when there is a livestreaming or conferencing component to your event. Many hotels and corporate venues have weak WiFi that is spread thin across hundreds of guests. Hairline internet is a way to receive adequate bandwidth for Zoom, Teams or any other livestream/conferencing software. 

Q33: Do I need microphones?

A: Usually, yes; but not always. We recommend microphones for groups larger than 20 people, especially in large rooms. Your presenters have worked hard on their presentations, and many of your guests have traveled great distances to hear them speak. After room rental fees, travel fees and employee compensation, it would be a shame if your group members missed aspects of the presentations because they couldn’t hear. 

Q34: How big does my projector screen/TV need to be?

A: At Techtonic Events, the first details we request for any event is the expected attendance and room dimensions. We do this to determine how big the displays and sound systems need to be. For corporate events, the value of the event is determined by the information shared, and how it is received and implemented. Therefore, having an adequately-sized display.

Q35: Do I need lighting?

A: You may not, but when considering lighting, it’s important to identify your goals for your event. If your goal is to impress executives, partners or shareholders, lighting is one of the best ways to dazzle your audience. It’s also important to explore the venue’s installed lighting fixtures, and understand what they can provide in-house. If you are showcasing new products, lighting is going to play a fundamental role in presenting your work. When Apple rolls out a new product, their AV spares no expense for a reason. 

Q36: Can I run slideshows on my laptop, or do I need my AV team to provide one?

A: That depends. We often advise clients to rent a laptop to ensure that we have full control during the event. We don’t want your private Teams notifications to pop up on-screen in the middle of a presentation (trust us, it happens).

Q37: Can my AV provider work with our company’s IT department to facilitate meetings?

A: Absolutely, we do so all the time. If your company has a dedicated IT or AV team, we’d love to work alongside them to ensure that our technicians fully understand the intricacies of your business and infrastructure. 

Q38: Why are there 4 logistics charges for a 2 day event?

A: Our logistics charges cover travel logistics to and from the venue (i.e. delivery and pickup). Each charge represents one-way travel to or from the venue. 

Q39: Do I need an on-site technician for my event?

A: That depends on the complexity of the event. For simple breakout meetings with a single projector/screen package, you likely will not need an on-site technician for the whole event. We would just need one on-site for kick-off to ensure a smooth, punctual start to the meeting. However, if you have a general session with multiple microphones and slideshow presentations, we would need at least one on-site technician for a seamless event. For even more complex events, like a seminar with panels, slideshows, cued lighting, and live conferencing, we would require 2-4 on-site technicians. 

Q40: Do you offer LED Video Walls?

A: Yes!

Q41: My event is next week. Is it too short-notice to book top-notch AV?

A: No, not necessarily. We have pulled off very complex productions with a week or less of pre-production planning. However, it is not ideal, and should be avoided if possible. Generally, it’s best to start shopping for AV for corporate events 3-6 months in advance. 

Q42: Do I need a tech run-through?

A: The short answer is yes. For smaller meetings and breakout sessions, it is not as necessary. However, for events with multiple presenters, microphones, slideshows, etc. a tech run-through will ensure you and your AV technicians are on the same page, and can anticipate and solve problems before they arise. It is crucial for a smooth event, and the more moving parts are involved, the more vital it is. 

Q43: What is cellular bonding, and why is it used for livestreaming?

A: Cellular bonding combines multiple cellular networks (like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile) into one ultra-stable internet connection. This provides a crucial backup if the venue’s hardwired Wi-Fi drops out.

Q44: What is the difference between a virtual event and a hybrid event?

A: A virtual event takes place entirely online. A hybrid event features a live, in-person audience and stage, but simultaneously broadcasts the experience to remote viewers with interactive elements.

Q45: Can remote presenters be integrated into a live, on-stage panel discussion?

A: Yes. Using platforms like Zoom ISO, Teams, or WebEx integrated into professional video switchers, remote speakers can be projected onto the main venue screens and hear the live audience in real time.

Q46: What is “picture-in-picture” and why do I need it?

A: Picture-in-picture allows for multiple video feeds to be displayed on one screen simultaneously. For example, in a livestream/conference, if you have a camera shot of the presenter, you may also want the slideshows to show up directly on the screen. Picture-in-picture will show both the camera shot and the slide shows next to each other so both are clearly visible. 

Q47: What is a “Webinar” platform versus a standard “Meeting” platform?

A: Meeting platforms allow all participants to turn on video and audio. Webinar platforms restrict video/audio to designated presenters while giving attendees a view-only experience with chat, Q&A, and polling features. We offer both.

Q48: How much internet bandwidth do we need to stream a 1080p video safely?

A: A dedicated, unshared upload speed of at least 10 Mbps to 15 Mbps is highly recommended for a stable, high-definition 1080p broadcast.

Q49: Can you record our livestream so we can edit and distribute it later?

A: Yes. Our technicians can perform a local “master record” or “ISO record” (recording individual camera feeds cleanly) in addition to recording multitrack audio and saving the broadcasted stream.

Q50: How do you handle latency (delay) between the live venue and the virtual stream?

A: Stream latency is normal and typically ranges from 5 to 30 seconds depending on the platform. AV teams minimize this by using hardware encoders and low-latency streaming protocols like SRT.

Q51: Can you broadcast to multiple platforms simultaneously (e.g., YouTube, LinkedIn, and Facebook)?

A: Yes. This is called “simulcasting” or “multistreaming.” The AV team sends a single video feed to a cloud-based distribution server, which splits and routes it to all your target channels.

Q52: What is a PTZ camera, and why are they used in conferencing?

A: PTZ stands for Pan-Tilt-Zoom. These are robotic cameras controlled remotely by a single technician using a joystick, allowing for dynamic shots without cluttering the floor with camera operators. Alternatively, for smaller meetings we use our OWL unit, which is a 360 camera activated by its microphone, panning to whoever is speaking. It is best for smaller groups where background noise is minimal, so the unit does not get confused. 

Q53: What kind of AV is needed for a milestone birthday party or anniversary?

A: Generally, a compact PA system for background music and announcements, a wireless mic for toasts, and festive party/dance lighting are sufficient.

Q54: Can you provide a microphone and sound system for a charity gala auctioneer?

A: Yes. Auctioneers require fast, highly intelligible speech. Wireless headset or handheld microphones paired with strategically placed “delay speakers” ensure everyone in the room hears every bid.

Q55: What is a gobo light, and can it display a custom monogram or logo?

A: A gobo is a small stencil template placed inside a lighting fixture to project an image, pattern, or text onto a floor or wall. Templates can easily be custom-made with your logo or initials.

Q56: Do you provide ambient background music, or do we need to plug in a phone?

A: We absolutely can provide curated, licensed playlists streaming from one of our rentable devices, or provide a simple aux/Bluetooth connection for you to plug in your own device.

Q57: What happens if it rains during an outdoor social event? Is your equipment waterproof?

A: Our professional AV equipment is not waterproof. If rain is a threat, the equipment must be placed under commercial-grade tents, or pop-up protective structures must be utilized.

Q58: Can you provide safe AV effects like low-fog (“dancing on a cloud”) or cold sparks?

A: Yes. Cold spark machines and dry-ice foggers are indoor-safe, non-hazardous effects that do not trigger smoke detectors when operated by professionals. That said, our cold spark machines require venue approval, a fire marshal inspection, and a licensed pyrotechnician in the state of California. Due to these constraints, they are often not cost effective, but they are available pending these requirements. 

Q59: How do you hide messy power cables at a high-end social gala?

A: Cables are managed using color-matched gaffer tape, rubber floor ramps (cable ramps), or routed cleanly behind room draping and decor elements. When we work an event, cables are taped down, out of sight and safely managed so that you forget they are even there.

Q60: Can we use your sound system to play audio for a surprise tribute video?

A: Absolutely. The audio from the video playback device will be routed directly into the main audio console so the sound plays beautifully through the room’s speakers.

Q61: What is the difference between a Front of House (FOH) engineer and a Monitor engineer?

A: The FOH mixer controls what the audience hears. The Monitor mixer controls what the performers on stage hear through floor speakers (wedges) or in-ear monitors.

Q62: What are “in-ear monitors” (IEMs), and why do musicians prefer them?

A: IEMs are specialized earphones that deliver a clear, personalized audio mix directly to the musician’s ears. They protect hearing and reduce stage noise, preventing microphone bleed.

Q63: What is a “sound check,” and how long does it take?

A: A sound check is a pre-event rehearsal where technicians adjust individual microphone levels, instrument EQs, and monitor mixes. For a full band, it typically takes 45 to 90 minutes.

Q64: What is an audio “Line Array” speaker system?

A: A line array is a vertical cluster of multiple loudspeaker modules hung from a tower or ceiling. They are designed to project sound evenly across long distances, perfect for large concert venues or outdoor festivals.

Q65: Why do some instruments need a “DI Box” (Direct Injection)?

A: A DI box converts unbalanced, high-impedance signals (like an acoustic guitar or keyboard) into a balanced, low-impedance signal. This allows the audio to travel long distances through cables without picking up noise or static.

Q66: What is acoustic feedback, and how do you stop it instantly?

A: Feedback happens when sound from a speaker loops back into a microphone and re-amplifies, causing a screech. Technicians fix this instantly by pulling down the specific volume fader or using digital feedback suppressors to notch out the offending frequency.

Q67: What are “subwoofers,” and are they always necessary?

A: Subwoofers are speakers dedicated entirely to reproducing low-frequency sounds (bass and kick drums). They are essential for live musical performances and high-energy dance parties, but rarely needed for speech-only events.

Q68: How do wireless microphone frequency conflicts get avoided at large venues?

A: Sound engineers use RF (Radio Frequency) scanners and coordination software to scan the local airspace and assign clean, non-interfering digital frequencies to all wireless gear.

Q69: What is a “General Session” in event planning?

A: A general session is the main keynote or opening meeting of a conference or corporate event where all attendees gather in one large room before breaking out into smaller sessions.

Q70: What is a “VMIX” or “Video Switcher” operator’s role in an All-Hands meeting?

A: The operator is responsible for seamlessly switching what is projected on the big screen—toggling between live camera shots of the CEO, presentation slides, or videos playing on cue.

Q71: How do we handle interactive Q&A sessions with large audiences?

A: Options include passing wireless handheld mics using event staff (“mic runners”), utilizing throwable foam microphones (like a Catchbox), or using digital app-based polling tools like Slido.

Q72: What is an LED Video Wall, and is it better than a projector?

A: An LED wall consists of interlocking panels that emit their own light. They are significantly brighter and sharper than traditional projectors, making them perfect for bright rooms or high-end corporate staging.

Q73: What is a “Green Room,” and do we need AV equipment in it?

A: A green room is a backstage waiting area for VIP speakers. It often features a small “comfort monitor” or audio feed so speakers can watch the live stage and know when it’s their turn to walk out.

Q74: How do you ensure backup power if the venue experiences an electrical outage?

A: For mission-critical meetings, AV companies deploy enterprise-grade UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) battery backups for computers and control consoles, or use heavy-duty tow-behind generators.

Q75: What is a “downstage monitor” (DSM)?

A: It is another term for a confidence monitor placed at the front edge of the stage, helping presenters stay tracked with their timing, slides, or script notes without having to turn their back to the audience to see their slides on-screen.

Q76: Can you accommodate real-time closed captioning for accessibility at our All-Hands?

A: Yes. Live audio can be routed to a human stenographer or an AI captioning engine, embedding real-time text onto the venue’s side screens or the virtual stream.

Q77: What is an “AV Strike”?

A: “Strike” is the industry term for tearing down the equipment, packing it securely into road cases, and loading it out of the venue once the event concludes.