How to run your first DJ gig

-->

 Hosting your first small club event or DJ Gig

Questions to think about:

Chances are you love music and would love to play it more if your reading this!

Have you ever hosted an event? Did you think it may be fun or you may be good at it?

Why not? It is fun! You most likely will be good at it!

Hosting events can be easy or very difficult. It depends how organized you are and the depth of the planning you take. Take good notes is the first step! If it’s an event and you are new to the area, don’t even attempt it.

Here is some tips on how to make the process easier on yourself!

First do some area research. Do you know anyone that has performed or hosted a top notch event? Ask them questions, even if it's your uncle Tom who did a wedding dj job or a random DJ from the local bar down the street. If it’s home, go out and shake hands with your role models and see what makes them so successful. Take some notes on what elements they have in these events. Trust me, it helps! It will stir the passion!

If it’s simple to you, then look at the details. Go out and see a random event that is similar to what you want to do. Role model after it. How much security do they have? Where is the venue located? What does parking look like? Who played and how long? Can you ask them questions about their fees and riders? What was the vibe like? What was unique about this event? Was it a good turn out? How many people do you believe were attending and the cost they incurred? What do you think the bar rang on that particular night? How many bars were there? Based on what figures did you make these estimates, did you notice age, race, drink style, dress code, affiliations and sponsors?

If you are doing an event, try and figure out your target market in detail. Look at the ages and what they like. Is there a unique way to promote it and reach these people?  What are some details about your target market in the events they attend and focus on digital marketing? How do you plan to set yourself apart from the rest?

Get in touch with a good graphic designer. Learn prices for digital flyers and video promotions. Set a budget for expenses and start there. Contact the management of the venue when they are not busy (during the day time) ask when is a good time to talk about booking it. See what the prices are for rental versus a bar guarantee, any options they have for you. What nights are not booked and what the bar needs to ring on that specific night. If you get a little better, ask for their worst night of business and explain that when you are down he must offer you his best night. One time offer.

NOW YOU HAVE SOME REAL DATA!

After you have a great venue and a good idea of designer fees. Look at the talent you plan to be booking. It shouldn’t be to much on your first show! Start small and work up to those big dreams way later! Its good to have goals! 

Think about a small turn out and minimal security, minimal bar tenders, minimal capacity to fill, ticket sales, and how to make it a big success. Have goals that are attainable. Learn from your mistakes because it will not be easy your first run with it!

Get the rider for the entertainers you like! Is there any you know that will play for free? Are you comfortable getting them to sign a contract?

 image credit: 

http://www.525lexrestaurant.com/images/photo-top-hosting.jpg

https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcS2CPt9YnNaMaTYB25MHOvQv_hUwqpTN99C5MU9bFXd1A0MqdDh1Q