So you want to be a wedding DJ? It’s not as easy as it sounds. There are a lot of things to consider when starting out in this business. In this blog post, we will go over the basics of equipment you need, what kind of music to play, and how to prepare for your first gig. We’ll also give you a checklist of things to do before your big day!
How to be a Wedding DJ
If you have ever been to a wedding, you know that the music can make or break the event. A good DJ will keep the party going and make sure that everyone has a great time.
If you are thinking about becoming a wedding DJ, there are a few things you should know…
First, it is important to have a good selection of music. You should have something for everyone, from the latest hits to classic favorites.
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Second, it is also important to be able to read the crowd and play the right songs at the right time. This takes skill and practice.
Finally, it is also important to be polite and professional. Remember, this is someone’s big day, so you want to make sure that everything goes smoothly. If you think you have what it takes to be a wedding DJ, then read on for some tips on how to get started.
Learn to DJ
This may sound obvious, but being a wedding DJ needs good skills. You are not a club DJ, but you also want to be more than someone that just plays one song after another.
A big part of being a good wedding DJ is reading the crowd and knowing what songs to play and when to play them. This takes skill and practice. If you are just starting out, it may be a good idea to take some DJ classes or lessons so that you can learn the basics.
DJ Setup for a Wedding
The first thing you need to do is make sure you have the right equipment. You will need a laptop or desktop computer, a DJ software program like Serato or Traktor, and a good-quality sound system. You will also need a microphone so that you can make announcements and interact with the crowd. Lights are also a nice touch, but they are not essential.
If you are just starting out, you may not need to invest in a professional sound system just yet. However, it is important to have a good quality system that can accommodate a large crowd.
If you’re lucky, you might know someone you can borrow equipment from for your first couple of gigs. But eventually, you will need to invest in your own equipment.
You could also hire equipment for your first few gigs until you are able to buy your own. Just don’t rely on this option long-term as it will cost more in the long run.
Another great way to get started is to buy used equipment. You can find some great deals on sites like eBay or Craigslist. Just make sure that you inspect the equipment thoroughly before you buy it to ensure that it is in good working condition. As you start earning more, you can begin upgrading.
Do I Need a Van?
You will need to think about a suitable vehicle to transport your equipment. It is important to have a van or SUV that can fit everything you need. Again, you don’t necessarily need to buy a new (or used) vehicle for your first event. You might know someone who will lend you theirs occasionally. Alternatively, you could look at short-term rentals.
You will definitely want to make sure your vehicle is well-maintained. Have it regularly serviced, and check the tires and fluids before each event. Invest in a good breakdown cover too. You don’t want to be stuck in traffic with a flat tire and all your equipment in the back!
Planning Your Wedding DJ Business
Before you start your wedding DJ business, it’s important to create a business plan. This will help you understand the costs of starting and running your business, as well as any risks that you may encounter.
In addition, you should research the wedding DJ market in your area to make sure that there is a demand for your services.
Once you have a clear understanding of the business, you can start to focus on the fun stuff!
To get started, you’ll need to invest in some quality DJ equipment. You should also consider obtaining liability insurance, which will protect you in case something goes wrong at an event. By taking the time to plan and prepare, you can ensure that your business is off to a solid start.
Promoting Your Wedding Business
There are a number of ways to promote your wedding DJ business.
One way is to create a website or blog where you can showcase your work. You can also use social media to reach out to potential clients. If you don’t have a large budget, there are still plenty of free marketing methods you can use, such as handing out flyers or business cards.
It’s also important to get involved with the wedding community in your area. Attend bridal shows and meet other vendors who can help you promote your business. By networking with others, you can quickly build up a client base.
By following these tips, you can be well on your way to becoming a successful wedding DJ. Just remember to start planning early, invest in quality equipment, and market your business effectively. With a little hard work, you can soon be the go-to DJ for weddings in your area!
Read Next: 8 Tips for Marketing Your Wedding DJ Business
What Does a Wedding DJ Charge?
One of the most important things to think about when starting your wedding DJ business is how much to charge.
This can be a tricky question, as there are many factors to consider. These include the length of the event, number of guests, equipment rental fees, and travel expenses.
If possible, try to find out what other DJs in your area charge for weddings. Ideally, 5-10 prices to give you an idea of what people will pay for your services.
In general, most DJs charge between $500 and $2000 for a wedding. However, it is important to tailor your price to the specific event.
If you are just starting out, you may want to consider charging less than your more experienced competitors. This will help you attract customers and build up a good reputation.
As your business grows, you can gradually increase your prices. Just make sure you cover your costs and have enough left over for a reasonable hourly wage, minus taxes of course!
What Music Does a Wedding DJ Play?
The music you play as a wedding DJ will depend on the specific event.
Some couples will have very specific requests, while others will leave it up to you to choose the songs.
It is important to get an idea of the couple’s taste in music before the big day. This can be done by meeting with them in person, or by sending them a questionnaire.
In addition to the couple’s requests, you should also have a selection of your own songs that you can play. This will give you some flexibility on the day, and ensure that there is something for everyone to enjoy.
When choosing your songs, it is important to consider the different parts of the wedding. For example, you will need to pick a selection of songs for the ceremony, the first dance, and the reception.
You should also have a few contingency songs in case there are any last-minute changes to the schedule. By being prepared, you can ensure that everything runs smoothly on the day.
It’s a good idea to create some generic playlists for different parts of the wedding. This will make it easier to choose the right songs on the day and ensure that you have a good mix of music.
Of course, you should also be prepared to take requests from guests! By having a wide selection of songs, you can ensure that everyone has a great time at the wedding.
Differences Between General and Wedding DJs
One of the main differences between general and wedding DJs is the equipment that they use.
Wedding DJs need to have high-quality equipment that can be used for a range of different events. This includes speakers, turntables, and mixers.
In addition, wedding DJs need to have a wide selection of songs. They should also be familiar with a range of different genres so that they can cater to the specific needs of each wedding.
Read Next: Different Types of DJ: A Comprehensive Guide
General DJs do not need to have as much equipment, as they will usually only be playing one type of event.
Wedding DJs are usually expected to make various announcements throughout the day. This can include introducing the bride and groom, announcing the first dance, and thanking the guests for attending.
General DJs do not need to make announcements, as they will usually just be playing music.
What to do Before the Big Day: Checklist
As a wedding DJ, there are a few things you need to do before the big day:
- First, you need to meet with the couple to discuss their specific needs. This includes finding out about their taste in music, and any special requests they may have. Make sure you know their names and, more importantly, what they will be known as once they are married.
- You should also create a playlist of songs that you think will be suitable for the wedding. This can be done by using the couple’s taste in music as a starting point. Remember any special songs you must play, such as the first dance, father-daughter dance, etc. It’s a good idea to see if they want to choose the last song of the night too.
- In the weeks leading up to the wedding, you should confirm all the details with the couple. This includes the date, time, and location of the event. Visit the venue to get an idea of the layout. This will help you plan where to set up your equipment on the day.
- Find out if there are other entertainers, such as a band or magician. You will need to coordinate with them to ensure that everything runs smoothly on the day.
- In addition, you should create a schedule for the day. This will help you to keep track of what needs to be done, and when. If you’ve never set up the equipment, it may be worth doing a few test runs and find out how long it takes you and that you have all the required cables.
- Make sure you have all the equipment you need, and that it is in good working order. This includes speakers, turntables, mixers, and lighting. Backups are always a good idea, in case something goes wrong on the day. Make a checklist so you don’t forget anything.
- Finally, on the day of the wedding, make sure you arrive early. This will give you time to set up the equipment and test it. It will also give you time to meet the other vendors, such as the photographer and videographer.
Read Next:
- Where do DJs get their music?
- Best Wedding Reception Songs
- How To Read The Crowd; Be A Better DJ
- 10 Wedding DJ Equipment Checklist (The Essential Guide)
- How To Be A Wedding DJ
Conclusion
Being a wedding DJ can be a lot of fun, but it’s also a lot of work. By following these tips, you can ensure that you are prepared for the big day. Equipment, playlist, announcements, schedule, and checklist. These are all important elements to consider when becoming a wedding DJ.
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