I am actually quite apprehensive about even posting this but I think it could be very helpful to me. Full disclosure, I have never done a gig of any kind for over $700 (DON'T JUDGE ME!!!) That said, I would LOVE to be able to command a much larger price. I am learning this DJ thing through trial and error. The closest thing I have had to a mentor is reading in forums like this. I have been DJing for about 8 years.
So, help me up my game to the next level so I CAN charge more. To those DJs who command those kind of prices, what sets you apart?
I think I will go over what I do to prep and do a wedding so you can see where I could improve.
When I give a bid I usually talk to someone on the phone or I give a very detailed written bid. If the potential client wants to meet me first, I am glad to do so.
Once I get the gig I have them fill out my 'Wedding Worksheet'. This is a 7 page document getting all the information I need like what songs they want at various points fo the wedding and reception. It also contains a lot of useful information that I have compiled over the last 8 years.
I also am very adamant that they can call me anytime with questions and I am happy to give suggestions based upon my experience.
I don't do a venue visit unless it is a) very close to my house or b) they pay me a little extra for my time. I explain to them that I am equipped to DJ any venue so long as I have power.
I make one or two phone calls to the B&G before the wedding, one the week of the wedding, just to make sure we are all on the same page.
I always show up earlier than I need to. I uaually wear a white shirt, tie and sports coat unless they specify otherwise.
I DJ alone unless I am doing lights (which I charge extra for). I MC the event.
My gear is good. I have 2 Yamaha 12" DSX subs with 2 Yamaha 10"DXR satalites standard (more than enough sound for the average wedding) and can bring an additional set of Yamaha 12" DXR satalites for more sound if needed. I have a nice rack. I use Otsav. I have a second small set up if I need to play music for the wedding and the reception is in a different part of the building. That way there is almost no downtime of music between the wedding and cocktail hour/reception. They have access to a handheld wireless mic (Shure) or lapel mic AND a wired mic if needed. My lights consist of a Chauvet Mini-Kinta, Chauvet 4 bar, Chauver Mega Trix, a black light, and an American DJ Spherion mirror ball.
I have excellent reviews. I don't have a web site but do have a Facebook page.
Sooo... what can I do better to up my game and up my pricing?
So, help me up my game to the next level so I CAN charge more. To those DJs who command those kind of prices, what sets you apart?
I think I will go over what I do to prep and do a wedding so you can see where I could improve.
When I give a bid I usually talk to someone on the phone or I give a very detailed written bid. If the potential client wants to meet me first, I am glad to do so.
Once I get the gig I have them fill out my 'Wedding Worksheet'. This is a 7 page document getting all the information I need like what songs they want at various points fo the wedding and reception. It also contains a lot of useful information that I have compiled over the last 8 years.
I also am very adamant that they can call me anytime with questions and I am happy to give suggestions based upon my experience.
I don't do a venue visit unless it is a) very close to my house or b) they pay me a little extra for my time. I explain to them that I am equipped to DJ any venue so long as I have power.
I make one or two phone calls to the B&G before the wedding, one the week of the wedding, just to make sure we are all on the same page.
I always show up earlier than I need to. I uaually wear a white shirt, tie and sports coat unless they specify otherwise.
I DJ alone unless I am doing lights (which I charge extra for). I MC the event.
My gear is good. I have 2 Yamaha 12" DSX subs with 2 Yamaha 10"DXR satalites standard (more than enough sound for the average wedding) and can bring an additional set of Yamaha 12" DXR satalites for more sound if needed. I have a nice rack. I use Otsav. I have a second small set up if I need to play music for the wedding and the reception is in a different part of the building. That way there is almost no downtime of music between the wedding and cocktail hour/reception. They have access to a handheld wireless mic (Shure) or lapel mic AND a wired mic if needed. My lights consist of a Chauvet Mini-Kinta, Chauvet 4 bar, Chauver Mega Trix, a black light, and an American DJ Spherion mirror ball.
I have excellent reviews. I don't have a web site but do have a Facebook page.
Sooo... what can I do better to up my game and up my pricing?