Hello, everyone. I'm starting out as an independent DJ and need help. I have equipment and have done a few weddings, only for friends and through pools. Now I want to go into business for myself to get business moving and make more money. What did you do when you started out? What pro-tips have you accumulated along the way? Input from everyone on your process is welcome; I'd love to hear everything I can. TIA
If I'm reading this correctly, it sounds like you want to do more weddings. That probably means also doing some MC'ing, not just DJ'ing. If you are not comfortable talking, with a microphone,
in front of a large group of people - well, you need to work towards that. By "comfortable", I mean easily ad-lib in front of them, for lack of a better description.
Some people just naturally have personalities that are like this. If yours isn't, start working on it now, and it doesn't have to be DJ'ing. Public Speaking course at Adult Ed, Toastmasters, singing Karaoke in large venues (even if you suck as a singer) and interfacing with the crowd, Eulogies, whatever. The more you do it, the better (except maybe eulogies). Just put yourself out there.
Thou shalt not wedding DJ sitting down. The more energy you throw at them, the more you get back!
You did not say how old you are. If you are young, lets say less than 30, learn Spanish if you don't already know it. IMHO, this applies to any business in the US, not just DJ'ing.
What I'm describing takes time and work, as opposed to equipment and a song library which can be acquired quickly - but it's what will separate you long term from the legion of run-of-the-mill wedding DJ's. As for getting known/advertising/pricing, the guys above me have already given great advice.