Becoming a Wedding DJ: 3. Sourcing Equipment

DECIDE YOUR PREFERENCE

Now I’m going to show my age but hey. When I started as a Wedding DJ many, many years ago Vinyl was the most readily available resource, only the high tech DJ’s had CD players! Now though there are several equipment choices out there. Some Wedding DJ’s still use the old faithful Vinyl but many have now moved to Laptops, iPod's, MP3 Players and my preferred choice - CD’s.

Of course though there are many more things to consider when sourcing your equipment. It can be a very time consuming task and expensive if you jump in feet first. Therefore it’s very important that you do your research before you hand over your hard earned cash.

FOR STARTERS

When starting out as a Wedding DJ, sourcing top drawer equipment wouldn’t be the first thing on my to do list but having reliable, trustworthy equipment, certainly. As is making sure your music sounds good to your audience. It took 10 years of hard earned Wedding DJing to get my BOSE PAS system, I would of course recommend it to one and all, however not until your sure this is a profession you will enjoy.

DO’S AND DON’TS

• Don’t rush out to your nearest DJ equipment shop/ store and buy the first thing you see!
• If you choose a Laptop, DO ask does it come with pre loaded music and software? If not check prices and software compatibility.
• Don’t get sucked in by bells and whistles. Equipment should be sourced for a working purpose, if its fun to use then that’s a bonus.
• Do, buy good quality speakers. Remember though high wattage doesn’t necessarily guarantee a good sound
• Don’t buy a cheap mic! You need to sound good and clear. Don’t live up to Peter Kay’s stereotypical DJ image!
• Do, buy excellent quality, durable cables and leads. Also make sure you have at least 1 set spare at all times
• Don’t rely on one source of music only. If you choose technology based equipment such as a Laptop, always have a back up system. An iPod perhaps.
• How many lights will I need? Do get a good balance as too little can make your dance floor bare, too many could make your set up seem overpowering and could look tacky!
• Don’t get second hand equipment if your serious about working as a Wedding DJ. Having reliable equipment is paramount.

If your still unsure about what equipment will suit you, try asking someone you know who is a Wedding DJ or Party DJ. Or if you don’t know anyone you could try online forums for advice.

Sourcing equipment is an exciting prospect, just make sure you get what you need not what you think you desire.

Happy pickings!