09/17/2023
I’ve been asked countless times what my price is for a "relaxed outdoor wedding."
"You know, nothing fancy."
"We don't need all the bells and whistles."
"It's a laidback event."
"It's just a party in the backyard."
“It’s only a short ceremony outside.”
“We are keeping things basic.”
Comments that imply that by removing the formal glitz and glam of a traditional wedding venue somehow means there is less responsibility and workload, when this could not be further from reality.
DJs work MUCH harder to make great things happen in spaces like your backyard, state parks, beaches, or anything that doesn't have a real roof, walls, ramps/elevators, and air conditioning.
I don’t just need to DJ. I have the extra burden of:
Sun glare.
Hot/cold temperatures.
Uneven surfaces.
Anything mother nature has to offer, from rogue wasp nests to changing weather conditions.
Having a rain plan just in case.
Extra cleaning due to dirt, sand, pollen, and dust.
Power source considerations.
Dialing mics in to work in windy conditions.
Covering multiple areas in challenging layouts.
Sharing tight spaces with other vendors.
Dragging gear over gravel, mulch, or grass.
No elevators. No ramps. No convenient walkways.
Having condensation on equipment once the temperature drops at night.
Cleaning up in the dark.
Noise complaint considerations.
Etc.
Professionally navigating the unpredictability of being outside demands additional preparation, effort, expertise, great technology, and adaptability. When you hear the price, under stand you’re not paying for a DJ in your backyard, your paying for someone to skillfully to make the impossible, seem effortless.
