Scott,
I will make a concession here up to a point. Again, if it was me, by the time the Agreement is signed and money is exchanged I would know if it is the client that would be providing me with some sort of platform/riser/stage or if I had to provide it myself. My price will reflect one or the other.
In asking for the platform, riser or whatever, it would be more of an inquiry than a demand or actual request. My question would be worded something as follows "Is there going to be a riser/platform etc on which the DJ would be setup or would the DJ have to provide their own?"
Now tell me what part of that question is offensive? Why should they think you are hard to work with and stop talking to you and go look elsewhere? Maybe the Bride or Venue did not think of that until it was mentioned. If they did and really wanted the DJ to provide one then you will then know for sure. Bottom line is the question would be answered one way or another and then you move on from there.
Lastly, if I lived and DJd in a place where there was a likelihood of doing many events like this, I would build/buy my own setup in case it was needed. Even though I may own one, I would still ask whenever negotiating for a Gig like that.
I bet ten to one that if they were hiring a band that a stage or something would be provided for the band. Does that mean the DJ is insignificant and a band is not? It too is a part of making THEIR event look more polished. Putting speakers on the ground is not a good look, one may just as well have wires all over the place. The look is the same, unpolished!
I would not offer a criticism without a positive suggestion. If it was me and I knew I would be afraid to ask a question as the issue above, I would either get my own riser/platform etc or get a nice large piece of Green Outdoor Carpet large enough on which you can setup your gear. That would look so much better than the bare ground, and help to protect your equipment.
Totally agree. It's all in how you ask. I also agree that if you are selling it as as it looking better, I'm all for that too.
I took "asking" for a riser to mean that would be a provision required to do business with. If that's not at all what you meant, I can totally see where you are coming from.
