About Elation
Elation is defined as a state of great joy, pride, or high spirits—an exhilarating sense of happiness and well-being.
Elation Entertainment brings this spirit to every celebration, crafting unforgettable moments on the dance floor and filling your special day with music, laughter, and lasting memories.
We’re dedicated to creating the perfect soundtrack for your celebration, ensuring you and your guests are swept up in the joy and excitement of every moment.
Let Elation set the perfect tone for your wedding, so you and your guests can experience true elation from the very first song to the last dance.
Why Elation?
Elation is more than a name — it means going beyond to create moments that inspire joy and provide service that truly stands apart.
During a toast, the bride’s best friend mentioned playing Madonna’s “Like a Prayer” full blast and the singing and dancing that ensused in their college dorm room. Paying attention during the toast created a very special moment.
The song was not on the couple’s playlist. Remembering back to the toast, I mixed into “Like a Prayer” during dancing. The bride’s best friend lit up. They found each other on the dance floor and it was just like they were back in their dorm room!
About DJ John Hathaway
A unique love and passion for music serves as the foundation for John’s story in becoming a DJ. John has entertained at hundreds of private celebrations, performed at numerous public venues (bars and clubs), and has livestreamed mixshows online for the better part of the last 20 years.
A deep knowledge of music and very diverse experience as a DJ contribute strongly to John’s ability to create fun and memorable events. Beyond his ability to curate awesome musical soundtracks, execute as a talented event host, and capably live-mix, he values client satisfaction above all else.
His friendly, laid-back, approachable demeanor instills confidence that he will deliver an exceptional music experience that guests of all ages and backgrounds will enjoy. John ensures that client wishes and input are at the heart of his approach to performance!
This is a picture of John and his wife, Michele, DJing a wedding at the Four Oaks Country Club in Dracut, MA.
Listen to this Open Format Mix!
What People Are Saying
“John helped create the wedding day of our dreams! While planning, he was very responsive to our needs and wants. He guided us when we need him to while also letting us plan and get creative. He was absolutely professional, but also very fun, loving, and heartfelt. Our entrance into the reception still gives us butterflies! We HIGHLY recommend John Hathaway!”
— Sara K
“Jennifer and I could not have been more pleased with your service. The introductions were perfect… “GALEA!!!” The music was great and you had everybody dancing all night! All in all, our wedding went off without a hitch and you were a huge part of that! Thank you so much! ”
— Peter G
“John did a wonderful job DJing our wedding! He played every request that we asked for as well as other requests from others throughout the evening. Great mix of all genres of music that kept people on the dance floor all night. He also provided excellence service checking in with us every month leading up to the big day. Was an absolute pleasure to work and will recommend to everyone we know! Thanks, John! ”
— Eric and Megan B
How is Elation different from other DJ companies?
I pride myself first and foremost on connecting with people and really learning what is important to you.
Being flexible and adaptable—not only with the music, but also with event logistics and scheduling is also a significant differentiator. No two events are the same and there is no cookie-cutter approach.
Whether it’s adapting to last-minute changes, coordinating with vendors, or adjusting the timeline on the fly, I ensure the event runs smoothly so you can relax and enjoy the moment.
Musically, I am a true open-format DJ and can move effortlessly between genres and eras, maintaining continuity and flow so the dance floor stays lively and engaged.
How long have you been DJing?
For more than 15 years, I’ve been behind the decks at a wide variety of events: weddings, private celebrations, corporate events, and school dances.
I have also spent a lot of time in the bar/club scene holding local residencies over the years. includes years of bar and club residencies.
With this diverse experience, it has given me the versatility to read the room and ultimately have something for everyone!
What areas do you service?
I provide service all over New England.
When should we book a DJ for our wedding or other special event?
For weddings, you should consider your DJ as you are booking your wedding venue, photographer, videographer, and other event professionals.
Some DJs book 12-to-18 months in advance and it’s not uncommon for popular wedding dates to book 2 years in advance.
For private parties and other events, plans sometimes don’t come together for many months or a year in advance. It never hurts to make an inquiry even in the very earliest stages of planning.
I keep seeing references to event professionals being insured. Are you insured?
It has become increasingly common for venues to require event professionals that work on-site to have liability insurance. I am covered for any event I host and perform and can readily provide a certificate of liability insurance for any venue requiring it.
What is your 'style' as a DJ/MC?
As a DJ/MC, I am upbeat and articulate speaking clearly and naturally without schitck, routine, antics or anything of the like to create a relaxed but celebratory atmostphere.
Generally speaking, I emcee to facilitate introductions, coordinate formalities / spotlight moments, and any necessary announcements while not taking the attention from you and your guests.
My style ultimately ends up meeting what you envision for engagement and interactivity where most of the time the music is doing most of the talking.
What type of music do you have in your collection?
From timeless tracks of the 1950s to the hottest songs on today’s Billboard charts, our collection spans decades and styles. You’ll find popular genres such as pop, R&B, 80s, 90s, funk, soul, Motown, hip hop, dance, electronic, EDM, rock, country, disco, alternative, reggae, dancehall, and beyond. If there’s a song you want that I don’t have, we’ll make sure to get it for you.
Can I provide playlists?
Absolutely! Clients more often than not provide playlists detailing music they want played. The Elation online planning portal helps to make that process easy and fun. As important as the must-plays are, you can also provide a do-not-playlist.
Do you help with the planning?
Planning support is a core part of my service. I proactively reach out on a monthly basis to say hello and ask how everything is going.
I commonly assist with building your event itinerary, recommending creative touches, song suggestions, and providing advice and any other support I can to ensure your celebration is seamless and memorable.
Do you provide a written agreement?
Yes, every booking comes with a detailed written agreement. This document outlines all event specifics, including services provided, payment details, and any special arrangements. It ensures transparency and peace of mind for your big day.
What are the payment terms?
With a signed contract, I take 50% down as the first payment to secure the date. I can, however, offer flexible payment terms. The remaining balance is due 2 weeks from the event date.
To put this into perspective, being a DJ is a service and not a tangible/physical product. For DJs, available dates on the calendar are effecitvely their ‘inventory.’
When the date is reserved, that date is yours and is no longer in my ‘inventory’ shelf.
When do you arrive for my event?
For weddings, I arrive 2.5 to 3 hours early to ensure adequate time to set up equipment and do soundchecks.
For private events, I arrive 1 to 1.5 hours early to ensure adequate time to set up equipment and do soundchecks.
Do we need to take the DJ into account for food and drink?
It’s very uncommon for DJs and other event professionals not to be offered food and drink while performing.
However, we never expect to eat on our client’s dime and come prepared for that circumstance.
What if I have other questions?
Feel free to Reach out and I’ll be happy to answer any questions you have!