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Mobile/Wedding DJ
Behind the spotlight of the Club DJ, there as a whole world dedicated to the mobile/wedding DJ. In this post will talk through what makes a mobile DJ, the pros and cons and how to become one.
What is a Mobile/Wedding DJ?
The definition of a mobile DJ is a DJ that owns their PA equipment and plays to a crowd on special occasions. PA equipment can range from a couple of speakers to multiple speakers, light and DJ equipment to play music on.
Owing PA equipment gives the ability to play where there is no DJ gear or PA system in the venue. Having this allows for booking on special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries and weddings.
Mobile Dj Vs Club DJ
There are a few ways that a mobile DJ differs from a bar or club gig. Firstly, setting up the equipment. In clubs, the equipment will be there and in bars, the DJ may need to bring a controller to plug into the PA system. With mobile gigs, it is important to get to the venue early to allow time to set up. Set up time can take at least an hour, so being at the venue two hours before the gig is needed. This will also include the breakdown of the equipment, is not unusual to be the last person to leave the venue after the event has finished.
Secondly, the type of music that should be played will be determined by the person that has made the booking. For special occasions, it is always good practice to get a playlist of songs from the customer, this should contain songs they want to hear or at least the genre music they are expecting. Mobile DJs tend to see more request from the event-goers. People feel more comfortable with the other guests also as you are paid directly you are providing them with a service.
Lastly, other expenses associated with mobile djing. Some venues may ask for PLI (public liability insurance) and a PAT certificate for a DJ to play. The DJ is responsible to purchase and provide these two certificates. PLI can be purchased through a dedicated insurer. This ensures any persons (the public) against any injuries that might happen during the event at the venue. A PAT test is where you will have all your electrical devices tested by a PAT machine. This test is to make sure all electrical wiring is working and will not cause electrical damage at the venue. A certified engineer will have to do the test. This can be done at home or wherever the equipment is kept. Once the equipment is tested and in good condition, A certificate is produced which can be give to the venue as proof.
How to become a mobile DJ
Become a mobile DJ or Wedding DJ is not as easy as just getting equipment.
Firstly you must become comfortable in front of a crowd and be able to play a range of genres. Playing a private event can be more stressful than a regular set. A good first step into the mobile world would be to play a short set at house parties. If another DJ is playing, you can use their equipment. This can break you into playing to a crowd and you will not have to play the whole night.
Next steps would be to start investing in a PA system. There are many choices when looking at a PA system but I would suggest starting with the bare minimum. A is a pair of active top speakers which will connect directly to a controller. This will allow you to play house parties and small to medium-sized venues.
Mobile gigs are harder work than a regular bar or club gig. Bringing your equipment, setting up, playing the full night and once done, take it all down to pack up. However, because of this, mobile DJs can charge more for their service. Once you start to build up your kit by adding multiple speakers, light and other devices you can charge more. The ability to offer more for your service and cater to a larger crowd, this will allow you to control your rates.
