Vendor LOVE: AUX Boston
AUX Boston: Michael Phillips
We first worked with AUX Boston on Rachel and Drew’s wedding at the Cyclorama last May. We loved how easy Michael was to work with and his laid back approach to the day. He lets the music do the talking and remains discreet; announcing important things but otherwise focusing on keeping everyone on the dance floor! We look forward to working with AUX Boston again in June for Lydia & Henrik’s wedding at the beautiful Lyman Estate. Continue reading to learn more about Michael.
Where did you grow up?
I was raised in Acton, MA. It’s the suburbs, man. Spent some time in Burlington, VT and Dover, NH as well. For nostalgia’s sake, I always think about buying a house back in Acton and raising the fam there someday but on the surface it lacks the vibrant culture we’ve really been enjoying in Somerville and the city in general.
How long have you been in business and how did you get started?
AUX Boston started in 2013 after having some time to myself to figure out how to showcase my passion for seeing people react to music. Corny, right? But it’s always been such a huge part of my life – Right out of college I was working as a DJ in radio and after a nice stint in the office, I realized that I’m most comfortable not at cubicle but here, there, and everywhere… or the couch, because why not do work on the most comfy piece of furniture you own? I also co-own a karaoke business which has me meeting lots of people during the week (The People’s Karaoke) and helps pay the bills! I’ve picked up a good number of events & weddings in a short period of time so I know people like the product.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
All of it? Can I say that? Probably overused response, but very true. Ok, first thing that comes to mind – Creating playlists with & for those who bring me on as part of their team. I’m very hands-on when it comes to dialing-in the vibe of what a couple is going for musically because folks I work with typically have good taste & knowledge for music. In an abstract way, you get to narrate & produce a story with music all while making sure it’s unique to their style & vision. It’s rad. I also love working with the crowd and I actually get psyched when friends & fam come up for requests.
How would you describe your style?
For a second I thought this question was about fashion and almost decided to pass on answering but now that I think about a name for it, it’d be “kinda-sorta hipster” but I’ve been to Williamsburg & Bushwick (Brooklyn) to know that’s a huge over-statement. Okay, my style: Let the music do the talking. I have no problem announcing first dances, toasts, the shuttle’s coming, but other than that – Why is there a need to squawk over the jams?? I like to know the couple outside of their wedding world, even if its just a few short chats here & there, it definitely helps me establish the music that is connective and integrative to the celebration.
What’s your guilty pleasure?
Hardly any guilt in this but I’ll say Cheez-Its and Cheer Wine (cherry soda).
What’s your favorite quote?
“If it’s not fun, why do it?” – Jerry Greenfield of Ben & Jerry’s. It also was a bumper sticker I put on several cars I drove.
What makes you unique in your field?
It comes down to my background, my personality, and my connection to music. I grew up looking up to DJ’s in Boston Radio (i.e. – WFNX & WBCN) who sounded like & acted like people you’d want to be friends with. Then I started working as a radio “on-air personality” and discovered a lot of those DJ’s were salt of the earth folks who cared about the listeners and the music. I naturally have that same ethos and individuality which helps stand out as genuine. I love a good party too, so being there to support a couple in that quest is my motivation to nail it!
What is the best piece of advice you can give to a couple?
The little stuff adds up FAST, and sometimes you forget to include stuff like centerpieces, thank you cards, guest book, gratuities, etc. In terms of DJ advice – You might find a bit of emotional stress figuring out what to pick for your first dance (or other “spotlight” dances), but the trick is to pick those out as far in advance as possible without reservation because you’ll probably remember those moments of the day the most.
Learn more about AUX Boston: www.auxboston.com.
Cheers,
The Swank Team
