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Mobile DJ Business

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How to Start a Mobile DJ Business

Written by: Carolyn Young

Carolyn Young is a business writer who focuses on entrepreneurial concepts and the business formation. She has over 25 years of experience in business roles, and has authored several entrepreneurship textbooks.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on January 12, 2022 Updated on June 5, 2024

Investment range

$4,300 - $58,900

Revenue potential

$36,000 - $216,000 p.a.

Time to build

1 - 3 months

Profit potential

$23,000 - $140,000 p.a.

Industry trend

Mobile DJ services are becoming increasingly popular for all sorts of events as an alternative to bands. A mobile DJ can provide a wider variety of music in a smaller space at weddings, corporate events, or parties of all types.

If you have experience as a DJ or even if you don’t, a mobile DJ business could be an opportunity for you to make money and have fun at the same time.

Starting any kind of business, however, takes a lot of work. The key is to have the knowledge that you need before you start so that you avoid common mistakes people make when starting a mobile DJ business.

Here we provide a comprehensive 13-step guide to help you build a profitable business.

Looking to register your business? A limited liability company (LLC) is the best legal structure for new businesses because it is fast and simple.

Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the Best LLC Services .

Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Starting a mobile DJ business requires time and effort. You need to fully understand what is involved before you decide if a mobile DJ business is right for you.

You will be taking a risk, so educating yourself is critical before making the decision to launch your business.

Pros and cons

Every business has its pros and cons. You will need to weigh these factors to decide if starting a mobile DJ business is your best choice.

Here are some basic pros and cons of starting and running a mobile DJ business.

• If music is your passion, you’ll be doing what you love.
• Flexibility – you will be in control of your own hours, and you don’t need an office.
• Profit potential – you can make a fair amount of money per event.
• You can start with a relatively small investment and invest more later as you grow.
• Competition – you will face direct competition from other DJs, and indirect competition from bands.
• Marketing expenses can be significant to break into the market.
• It will take time to start making significant money.
• You’ll have to be great – people want their events, particularly weddings, to be perfect.

Mobile DJ industry trends

One indicator of how the mobile DJ services market is doing is DJ equipment sales. 

The industry was severely impacted by the pandemic as weddings and other events were canceled but it started to recover in 2021. 

Industry size and growth

• Industry size and past growth – The global DJ equipment market was valued at $465 million in 2019.(( https://www.360marketupdates.com/global-dj-equipment-market-17940028 ))  
• Growth forecast – The market is predicted to grow at least 6% yearly and surpass $730 million by 2026.
• Number of people employed – More than 13,000 people are employed as disc jockeys in the US.(( https://www.zippia.com/disc-jockey-jobs/demographics/ ))

Trends and challenges

Trends in the mobile DJ industry include:

• Increasing use of wireless technology in a DJ setup
• People’s tendency to hold lavish parties to celebrate landmark events is driving demand for mobile DJ services

Challenges in the mobile DJ industry are

• The industry is sensitive to economic fluctuations, declining during economic downturns due to lower consumer budgets for events
• High level of competition

What kind of people work as a disc jockey?

• Gender – 76% of DJs are male, while 24% are female.(( https://www.zippia.com/disc-jockey-jobs/demographics/#gender-statistics ))
• Average level of education – 56% of DJs have a bachelor’s degree.(( https://www.zippia.com/disc-jockey-jobs/demographics/#degree-level-types ))
• Average age – The average age of a DJ is 40 years old.(( https://www.zippia.com/disc-jockey-jobs/demographics/#age-statistics ))

How much does it cost to start a mobile DJ business?

The start-up costs for a mobile DJ business can range from $4400 – $28,800. It will depend on the quality of the equipment that you want to start with. You could purchase basic equipment when you are first starting out, and then buy more professional equipment later as your business grows.

You will need to procure a number of different items to successfully launch a mobile DJ business. Here is a list of things to get you started:

• DJ equipment
• PA equipment

How much can you earn from a mobile DJ business?

Your profit will vary depending on how many events you can book per month and how much your expenses are on an ongoing basis.

DJs can charge between $400 to $2,000 per event, the average being $1,000. Your profit margin would be down to about 65%, considering your ongoing expenses for insurance, marketing, new music, fuel costs, and equipment maintenance.

In your first year, if you can book 3 events per month, you will make annual revenue of $36,000 and a profit of more than $23,000. Your bookings could increase to 5 per month in your second year, bringing in $60,000 in annual revenue and nearly $40,000 in profit.

As your brand gains recognition and you begin to get referrals and repeat customers, you could get to a level of up to 12 events per month just working by yourself. You could also start to charge a higher price. If you have 12 events per month at $1,500 per event you will make $216,000 in annual revenue and around $140,000 in profit.

What barriers to entry are there?

There are very few barriers to entry for a mobile DJ business. Your biggest challenges will be:

• Standing out from the competition. The market is very saturated with mobile DJs, so you will need to try to differentiate yourself.
• You will spend a lot of time and money marketing yourself before you start to make money.

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Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you know what is involved in starting a mobile DJ business, you need to hone your idea further in order to be able to enter a new market with tough competition.

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an opportunity

Since you will have no track record in the business, you need to find a way to make yourself stand out from the competition. First of all, you need to be entertaining, rather than just play music. Practice your skills by having your own party and entertaining your family and friends. Get their feedback and take it to heart.

To start your marketing process, make a video of yourself DJing at your own party. Post it online and listen to the feedback that you will inevitably hear, both positive and negative.

You also might want to consider having a different “look” to make yourself stand out. Watch videos of other DJs and take note of how they look and how they entertain, and then build your own persona to use as a professional DJ. Again, try it out with your friends and family to get more feedback.

What? Outline your DJ experience and packages

You are not just playing music – you are providing an experience and a show. Think about what you can offer during your show, such as sing a longs or dance competitions. Again, research other DJs and what they provide during their shows.

Make a list of what you can offer to your customers and consider if any of those things can allow you to offer upgraded service packages. You may be able to upcharge for certain services.

How much should you charge for mobile DJ services?

When you are just starting out, you may have to charge a lower-than-average price until you have a track record. Average prices range from $400 – $2000 or more for experienced DJs with a larger following. You will need to make a name for yourself to command a price that is at the higher end of the range.

Research other DJ services in your area to determine what prices are in your local market. Once you know your costs, you can use this Step By Step profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

Your target market will be people who plan to host events, or who host events on a regular basis. A great source of business could be wedding planners who can give you referrals. A good first step to finding customers might be to call local wedding planners to sell yourself.

You could also call local companies that have corporate events and offer your services. The challenge will be getting to the right person within the company who makes those decisions.

Where? Choose your business premises

In the early stages, you may want to run your business from home to keep costs low. But as your business grows, you’ll likely need to hire workers for various roles and may need to rent out an office. You can find commercial space to rent in your area on sites such as Craigslist , Crexi , and Instant Offices .

When choosing a commercial space, you may want to follow these rules of thumb:

• Central location accessible via public transport
• Ventilated and spacious, with good natural light
• Flexible lease that can be extended as your business grows
• Ready-to-use space with no major renovations or repairs needed

Step 3: Brainstorm a DJ Company Name

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

• Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
• Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
• Name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
• Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
• Including keywords, such as “mobile DJ” or “music”, boosts SEO
• Name should allow for expansion, for ex: “Mobile Music Makers” over “R&B Mobile DJs”
• A location-based name can help establish a strong connection with your local community and help with the SEO but might hinder future expansion

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

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Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that set your business apart. Once you pick your company name, and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create a Mobile DJ Business Plan

Here are the key components of a business plan:

• Executive Summary: A concise overview of your mobile DJ business plan, summarizing its key points and goals.
• Business Overview: An introduction to your mobile DJ business, including its mission, vision, and legal structure.
• Product and Services: Details about the DJ services and equipment you offer to clients.
• Market Analysis: Information about your target market, including demographics and trends.
• Competitive Analysis: An examination of competitors in the mobile DJ industry.
• Sales and Marketing: Your strategies for promoting and selling your DJ services.
• Management Team: An introduction to the individuals responsible for running the business.
• Operations Plan: How your DJ business will operate day-to-day, including equipment maintenance and logistics.
• Financial Plan: Projections of your business’s financial performance, including income and expenses.
• Appendix: Additional supporting documents, such as resumes, references, or detailed financial data.

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you are planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to mobile DJ services. 

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state. 

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your mobile DJ business will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

• Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
• General Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
• C Corp – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
• S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just needs to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have.

Form Your LLC

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We recommend ZenBusiness as the Best LLC Service for 2024

Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you are completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

• Bank loans: This is the most common method but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
• SBA-guaranteed loans: The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
• Government grants: A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
• Friends and Family: Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
• Crowdfunding: Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like Fundable and WeFunder enable multiple investors to fund your business.
• Personal: Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best options, other than friends and family, for funding a mobile DJ business. You might also try crowdfunding if you have an innovative concept.

Step 8: Apply for Business Licenses and Permits

Starting a mobile DJ business requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money, you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your mobile DJ business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account. 

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

• General liability: The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
• Business Property: Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
• Equipment Breakdown Insurance: Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
• Worker’s compensation: Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
• Property: Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
• Commercial auto: Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
• Professional liability: Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP): This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business.

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks.  

You may want to use industry-specific software, such as Event Master Pro , DJ Intelligence , and VirtualDJ , to manage your bookings, track sales and expenses, mix components of your tracks, and more. 

• Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero . 
• If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial.

Develop your website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism.

You can create your own website using services like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech-savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

They are unlikely to find your website, however, unless you follow Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) practices. These are steps that help pages rank higher in the results of top search engines like Google. 

Here are some powerful marketing strategies for your future business:

• Social Media Engagement: Actively engage with your audience on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter by sharing behind-the-scenes content, playlists, and interacting with music enthusiasts.
• Collaborate with Event Vendors: Partner with event planners, photographers, and caterers to create a referral network, expanding your reach within the event industry.
• Themed Mixes and Playlists: Showcase your versatility by creating themed mixes or playlists that cater to different event types, demonstrating your ability to curate the perfect musical atmosphere.
• Client Testimonials and Showcases: Request and showcase client testimonials along with snippets of your performances to build trust and credibility among potential clients.
• Local Radio and Podcast Features: Approach local radio stations or podcasts to discuss your journey, music preferences, and offer insights into the art of DJing to establish yourself as a local authority.
• Discounts for Package Deals: Offer discounts for clients who book additional services or refer your DJ services, encouraging loyalty and word-of-mouth marketing.
• Attend Local Events: Attend community events, festivals, and markets to network with potential clients face-to-face, distribute business cards, and discuss your services.
• Online Music Challenges: Create online challenges or contests related to music on social media platforms to engage your audience and generate buzz around your DJ brand.
• Interactive Live Streams: Host live streaming sessions showcasing your DJ skills, taking song requests, and interacting with viewers in real-time, creating a virtual experience for potential clients.
• Participate in Wedding Expos: Wedding expos are excellent opportunities to showcase your services to engaged couples actively seeking entertainment options for their big day.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that sets it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your DJ services meet their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your mobile DJ business could be:

• Great music, toasts, and speeches
• Always ready to grant song requests
• Equipped with the latest technology

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a mobile DJ business, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working as a DJ for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in DJ services. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. Online businesses might also consider affiliate marketing as a way to build relationships with potential partners and boost business.

Step 12: Build Your Team

If you’re starting out as a solopreneur from a home office, you may not need any employees. But as your business grows, you will likely need to hire other DJs and other workers to fill various roles. The other DJs have to be as good as you are and represent your brand. But if customers are hiring you for you as an individual performer, you will probably not be able to add more DJs. Potential positions for a mobile DJ business include:

• Office Manager – set appointments, order supplies, general office duties.
• Transport Helpers – move and set up equipment
• Customer Service Representative – answer questions and solve customer issues with bookings or billings.
• Marketing Assistant – social media marketing, SEO, content creation, and any other marketing efforts for the company.

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run a Mobile DJ Business – Start Making Money!

You should consider creating a niche market by specializing in certain events, such as weddings. The wedding services industry is expected to increase over the next five years, and mobile DJ services for weddings are a trend as an alternative to live bands.

Having a niche will jumpstart your word-of-mouth marketing. As a mobile DJ, however, you probably will not want to stick with one niche for long. It’s also a good idea to keep up with the latest technology and take advantage of various apps in marketing your services and keeping in touch with your clients. Now, you’re ready to take that first step toward entrepreneurial success!

• Mobile DJ Business FAQs

Your profit will be dependent on how many bookings you can get and how much volume you can handle. If you can get and manage 12 events per month, you can make north of $180,000 in profit per year.

You need DJ equipment, lighting equipment, and a laptop. You can buy these things on a budget or spend more for professional equipment.

You can choose any business entity type that you want to fit your specific needs. An LLC offers much flexibility in terms of management and taxes as well as personal liability protection.

To promote your mobile DJ business, create a professional website and utilize social media platforms to showcase your services and engage with potential clients. Network with event professionals, offer competitive packages and pricing, and leverage client testimonials and reviews to build credibility.

The profitability of a DJ business depends on factors such as market demand, reputation, and bookings. It can be profitable if you effectively manage expenses, provide exceptional service, and consistently market yourself.

To become a successful DJ, focus on developing your skills, building a diverse music library, establishing a unique style, networking and collaborating with others in the industry, and effectively marketing yourself.

As a beginner DJ, essential items include a DJ controller or mixer, headphones, a laptop or music source, speakers and amplifiers, cables and connectors, and music software and management tools.

Getting your first DJ gig requires persistence, networking, showcasing your skills, and utilizing online platforms. Start with smaller events, network with event professionals, create a demo mix, offer special promotions, and actively seek opportunities to perform.

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• Decide if the Business Is Right for You
• Hone Your Idea
• Brainstorm a DJ Company Name
• Create a Mobile DJ Business Plan
• Register Your Business
• Register for Taxes
• Fund your Business
• Apply for Business Licenses and Permits
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get Business Insurance
• Prepare to Launch
• Build Your Team
• Run a Mobile DJ Business - Start Making Money!

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How To Become A Mobile DJ, Pt 5: Starting Your DJ Business

The first 90 days is crucial if you are to launch your part-time mobile DJ business successfully. In this article, we reveal the right way to do it. Pic: Raiko - Bild in motion / Shutterstock.com

Phil Morse | Founder & Tutor

What this is about….

Have you ever thought about starting a DJ business, or are you already trying to be one? For many, becoming a mobile DJ is a great way to earn extra money, be able to play out more regularly, carry on DJing when family and career become a priority, or play extra gigs alongside club work. That said, for many, mobile DJing is all they do – and they love it that way!

This is one of a special series of Become A Mobile DJ Week articles, exploring the secrets of DJs who’ve built profitable, easy-to-run mobile DJ businesses. If you want to take this further, do check out our New Mobile DJ Blueprint course.

Quick recap…

Back in Part 1 , we looked at the types of mobile DJ, before looking in Part 2 at a change in thinking that’s going to be necessary if you’re serious about running a successful part-time mobile DJ business. In Part 3 we showed how the “New Rules Of Business” have changed everything for mobile DJs, and in Part 4 we looked at some of the things modern “side hustle” mobile DJs do, and the services they use, to build profitable, part-time micro DJ businesses.

Your first 90 days

Today’s fifth and final lesson is a LONG one as you’re now ready to fully gain from what I have to share. We really are going to hit the ground running, because this lesson is based on a piece of real training material adapted from one of the lessons in our New Mobile DJ Blueprint course, a complete course designed to help DJs set up side-hustle mobile DJ businesses from beginning to end.

Today we’re going to focus on how to start a mobile DJ business, specifically how to spend your first 90 days as a new mobile DJ – or, how to spend the next 90 days if you’ve decided now is the time to step up your game and finally make this work!

One of the biggest problems with running, never mind growing, a side hustle mobile DJ business, is knowing how to spend the limited time you’ve got for this. With family, work, leisure and other commitments in the typical busy life, you may find yourself with only a few hours a week that you can put into this.

And on top of that, one of the biggest causes of procrastination is not knowing exactly what you should be doing when you do finally get some time to spend on your business. So here at Digital Dj Tips, we teach our students a simple formula that can be adapted to suit whatever time you have:

Starting a DJ business: Get the handout

Grab your copy of the graphics in a handout as a PDF which you can then print if you wish – click this link to download it directly .

How this works

Let’s say you have four hours a week – an hour a night Tuesday and Thursday, and a couple of hours at the weekend, for instance – to work on your business (not including any DJ gigs, of course – DJ gigs are working “in” your business, not “on” it).

Looking at the graphic above, that means you could decide to spend your two hours at the weekend on marketing, and those two hours in the week on Learning, and Preparation & Practice.

What this immediately gives you is a framework that you can stick to, week in, week out. While these hours may seem small for starting a DJ business, they all add up – after just 90 days, you’ll have spend two whole working days practising and preparing, two whole working days deliberately expanding your knowledge across the various areas of your business, and four whole working days marketing your business. It all adds up.

So let’s look a little more at how you’ll be spending your time in each of those areas:

50% marketing

• “First connection” – Are you on LinkedIn? You know the people there who are shown as “1st connections” in your list of contacts? These are people you know directly, and can pick up the phone to speak to, right? And that’s what this means. Who do you see daily who you can talk to about your DJing, and ask if they need a DJ for something? Who’s in your phone’s speed dial, last 10 called, last 10 received etc? There is absolutely no point spending money on advertising until you’ve spoken to these people. I’ll bet you haven’t, or haven’t recently. So do it. They are the source of your first or next gigs, for sure.
• Friends and family – These people, frankly, owe you one. So lean on them. Explain your hopes and dreams for your DJ business and see if they can get you gigs, either for themselves or by asking around their friends and their connections. One of the truths about this kind of thing is that gigs lead to gigs, so as we’ll see a bit later, really getting ANY gigs on the board early-on is essential – and there’s nobody better than your friends and family to help you make that happen
• Very close to home – Just as you have an “inner circle” of people, you have a geographical “inner circle” around your daily life – the neighbourhood you live in, the places you visit regularly, the venues you naturally go to to eat, drink, hang out with friends and so on. Your first gigs will more than likely be at these venues. Don’t look further until you’ve looked on your own doorstep. Approach venues, talk to people in the cafes, pubs and restaurants you already frequent, and get the bookings that are under your nose. Too many DJs plan big marketing campaigns and start targeting 20 miles around, when they don’t even walk out of their front door and target 2 miles around first!
• Get past go – Marketing can be intimidating, because there’s so much to do, and you start off with very little confidence that you can “do it right”. The trick is to get some momentum – to “get past go”. You can always come back later and change your business cards, or your website, or your Instagram feed and so on, as you improve – the trick is to “get past go”. Because what happens is that once you solve a couple of problems, get a booking or two, and see some wins (and failures), you’re “in the game” – you’re not worrying about starting any more, you’re just thinking about improving. That’s where you want to be. So “get past go”

25% learning

Remember back in Part 2 , I spoke about how succeeding as a side hustle mobile DJ will take a “new attitude”? What I was talking about was an open-mindedness, a willingness to learn.

The truth is that there is a lot of new stuff to learn when starting a DJ business like this (just look at all the services I listed in Part 4 , for instance). Apart from what I listed, there is also a lot you can learn away from your laptop, out and about or just watching and listening to other DJs.

• Work out how to use your streaming service for music more effectively
• Listen to a local DJ you admire and see how they mix or structure their sets
• Figure out how that annoying laptop DJ you instinctively don’t like is actually managing to fill his or her dancefloor while apparently just hitting “play”
• Study another DJ’s website to see how they talk about themselves on their About Us page, and get some ideas for yours
• Read articles on mobile DJing (or even just recap this series ) to see if there are ideas you’ve missed or forgotten about
• Study the manual for a piece of gear you own (or don’t – manual PDFs are easy to find online) and work out how to use a feature you’ve body-swerved until now

Once you start looking for things to learn about, and once you accept that this is not only an acceptable way to spend some of your time, but a crucial one, you’ll soon get the hang of it. One tip is to write down things you’d love to dig into when you have time; then, when it comes to your learning session, just pick one where you feel your energy lies.

25% preparation & practice

You might think that you should spend more of your time doing this than a quarter, and the truth is that when you’re playing an important gig the next day, you will miraculously find however long it takes to prepare properly so you don’t make a fool of yourself (that thought of making a fool of yourself in public is a particularly powerful motivator!).

But the purpose of tying 25% of your time deliberately, and no more, to this is to make sure you make time for the other two things – because if you don’t do this, you simply won’t grow and you won’t get to where you want to get to. And most DJs try and spend ALL of their time doing this, which is understandable: After all, this bit is the most fun, or at least, the closest to what you’d be doing if this was simply a hobby, not what you have to do when starting a DJ business.

So – you’re probably already completely sure what you’ll be doing when you  next get some “deck time”, let’s run through our list quickly nonetheless:

• Making playlists – You should never DJ from your “master collection”. You should always DJ from crates/playlists/folders that you’ve thought about beforehand. As a very minimum, put together a playlist for each and every gig you play, that contains around double the number of tracks you think you’ll play. To be clear, a “playlist” doesn’t imply you’ll play every track on it, or play the in the order they appear in, but it does give you a more focused “master collection” for that particular event, or time of night, or mood (ie “warm up singalong”) that makes it much easier to quickly lay your hands on similar songs than it would be if you were just browsing through your complete collection
• Practising performing – Never underestimate how much you’ll personally need to “raise your game” once you’re playing music in front of real people. A DJ performance is no less stressful than any other type of performance, be that public speaking, singing or theatrical, for instance, and so you need to be prepared for this. One of the best ways to do that is simply to practise, as if you were playing in front of a real audience – play music (and don’t stop if you mess up), use your mic, work on your body language and mannerisims, and record it – on video if possible. It may feel silly, but it’s invaluable nonetheless
• Practising setting up your gear – Ever been camping and taken a tent you didn’t know? It doesn’t really matter, if the weather is good and you have all day to work out where the poles go. But as soon as it’s a bit windy, the kids are hungry and it’s getting dark… well, I’m sure you’ve been there or can imagine. Point is, if you know how to put the tent up, you can cope. Same thing with DJing. There are a lot of “moving parts” to coordinate when setting up lights, stands, speakers, scrims, a facade, power, screens and so on – and there are things that will undoubtedly be thrown at you that you weren’t expecting when you get to a venue. So make sure that you’re utterly profificent at the stuff YOU are in control of
• Preparing your “Plan B” – One thing we teach in The New Mobile DJ Blueprint is the importance of having a “Plan B”. A Plan B can be different music (if the music you are playing doesn’t hit the spot), but even more importantly, a different technical set-up should you suffer issues with your gear. What if a laptop crashed? What if a speaker fuse blew? What if your lights failed? Your radio mic didn’t work (or picked up a police frequency instead)? What would you do? The point is, know this stuff! Make sure you have practised steps to get the music playing and the party back on the road again in all circumstances

Ask anyone who’s ever tried starting a DJ business, and they will tell you there is a very particular flavour to those early weeks. Excitement. Nerves. Elation at first sales. Worry when there seems to be no interest at all out there. It’s definitely a rollercoaster!

Our graphic above shows you what that “flavour” should be like for you. These four things are shown in a circle because they all feed into each other, and as long as you keep a close eye on all of them, you’ll be giving yourself the biggest chance of success. Let’s look at them, then:

• Keep costs low – Stands to reason, right? But seriously, “a penny saved is a penny earned”, especially at startup time. Remember those friends and family we spoke of earlier? Lean on them. Get them to do things for you to save you paying for them (think, web design, logos, accountancy, printing things out, helping at gigs, loan of online software accounts, loan of money…). Use “sweat equity” (that means not expecting to pay yourself for the time you put in). Use “pay as you go” options on any services, such as online services, phone etc, rather than contracts – even if the contracts are cheaper overall
• First sale ASAP – A “bias to sale” is crucial for a new business. Businesses grow by understanding what customers want, and no customers means no chance to get on this road. Also, in DJing, gigs lead to gigs. All this points to always saying “yes” to gigs at the start of your journey, but remembering that your business’s emphasis must be on marketing in order to get the gig flow up and give you a chance to raise prices (raising prices ALWAYS involves saying “no” to gigs eventually, by the way – there’s a detailed framework in the course as to how this works). The main point here, though, is “formality increases with experience”, meaning contracts, big paying events, high stakes etc. will come – but at the start, any gigs are wins. Take the gigs, play them, and learn fast
• “Market before manufacturing” – You know Kickstarter, right? Think of how the companies on there market products that don’t exist, and even raise money to pay for their manufacture ahead of time. Same with Tesla with new models – huge waiting lists, money in the bank before the first car has rolled off the production line. You can and should do exactly the same when you’re starting a DJ business. Don’t worry about gear when you’re getting bookings – just get the bookings! If you have to, hire or borrow the gear. Once you’ve been paid, you can start to buy stuff. If you ask for a deposit for a gig (and you should), use it to hire equipment for that gig. Juggle your pennies and stay debt free, and don’t think you need to own everything. Even big DJs often hire in equipment for particularly larger-scale shows, when they don’t own all they’ll need. Get used to doing this early on
• Adapt based on first gigs – Your first gig or gigs will teach you so much. As I said above, businesses grow by understanding what customers want. Whether it’s the music you play, the gear you use, your microphone style, what clients say to you afterwards, thing you learned about how you set up and break down, knowledge gained from talking to venue owners about your competition… it’s all solid gold stuff. So be ready to make changes, sometimes quite drastic ones, based on this first feedback. Smart side-hustle mobile DJs react quickly and completely to things they learn from their early gigs

Final word…

We’ve covered an awful lot in this series of five articles, designed to help you in starting a DJ business as a profitable and fun side-hustle. From being honest about the kind of business you want (and what’s possible), to getting your mindset right, to realising it’s the (new) business ideas that drive success, to understanding just how many services are out there to help you nowadays, to having a solid plan for your first 90 days… hopefully you’ve now got plenty to go off, and are ready to get started on your new or revitalised part-time DJ business immediately!

For many that’ll be all you need, but if you love the idea of my team and I teaching you all of this, showing you right from the beginning about every aspect of being a part-time mobile DJ – the gear, the music, the business side (marketing, sales, client care, admin), the performing skills, and how to grow over the months and years – you should check out our New Mobile DJ Blueprint course. It’s helped hundreds of DJs learn about starting a DJ business, and it can help you too.

Click here to learn more about the course

Now get good, get out there, and make the moments!

Phil Morse is the founder of Digital DJ Tips. His DJ career has taken him from a 15-year residency in Manchester, England, to the main room at Privilege in Ibiza - the world's biggest club. He is also an award-winning club promoter, and has taught music tech and DJing since 2010. He regularly speaks at DJ seminars and events worldwide. His book, “Rock The Dancefloor!”, is a global best-seller on how to DJ.

Related Posts:

• How to Start a Mobile DJ Business

Go to any wedding or get-together and they’ll all have one thing in common - music. While some party planners hire a band to play, a DJ is the most practical musician, as they require less space and have a wider repertoire of music to choose from. The tunes played set the tone for the entire party.

Learn how to start your own Mobile DJ Business and whether it is the right fit for you.

Ready to form your LLC? Check out the Top LLC Formation Services .

Start a Mobile DJ Business by following these 10 steps:

• Plan your Mobile DJ Business
• Form your Mobile DJ Business into a Legal Entity
• Register your Mobile DJ Business for Taxes
• Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
• Set up Accounting for your Mobile DJ Business
• Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Mobile DJ Business
• Get Mobile DJ Business Insurance
• Define your Mobile DJ Business Brand
• Create your Mobile DJ Business Website
• Set up your Business Phone System

We have put together this simple guide to starting your Mobile DJ Business. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas .

STEP 1: Plan your business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

What will you name your business?

• What are the startup and ongoing costs?
• Who is your target market?

How much can you charge customers?

Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

Choosing the right name is important and challenging. If you don’t already have a name in mind, visit our How to Name a Business guide or get help brainstorming a name with our Mobile DJ Business Name Generator

If you operate a sole proprietorship , you might want to operate under a business name other than your own name. Visit our DBA guide to learn more.

When registering a business name , we recommend researching your business name by checking:

• Your state's business records
• Federal and state trademark records
• Social media platforms
• Web domain availability .

It's very important to secure your domain name before someone else does.

Want some help naming your Mobile DJ Business?

Business name generator, what are the costs involved in opening a mobile dj business.

Since this is a touring business, most DJ entrepreneurs operate from a home office. Foregoing the expense of an office space will help reduce start-up and ongoing expenses, allowing you to budget more for what matters most - your “party supplies.”

Below is a list of basics you’ll need to get started:

• Laptop with plenty of storage space
• PA Equipment
• Uniforms - remember, you’ll be in the spotlight throughout the event, so it’s important to look clean and professional
• Marketing materials - website, brochures, and business cards
• Attorney and/or CPA to help ensure you have a solid business plan and that it’s carried out smoothly
• Vehicle large enough to transport all your equipment

Sound and light equipment alone can set you back between $20,000 - $40,000, so be sure to conduct thorough research and shop responsibly.

What are the ongoing expenses for a Mobile DJ Business?

As a DJ business owner, your overhead expenses will be minimal. Below are a few items you’ll want to budget for in your monthly expenses:

• Purchasing new music regularly
• Advertising and website maintenance
• Travel time and fuel costs
• Payroll expenses - you could combat this expense by hiring employees on a 1099 basis
• Maintenance of sound/lighting equipment and purchase of new equipment as needed

Who is the target market?

Your customer base will span a wide variety of individuals who all have one thing in common - they have a need for music at their special event. While each will have a different idea of what music they want to hear, they should each understand that the DJ is integral to the success of the party.

How does a Mobile DJ Business make money?

Your business will generate revenue through each event played. The number and types of gigs you’re booked for depends largely upon your music collection and “party personality.” Most DJs charge an hourly rate or a flat fee for a given event.

Your fees depend upon your professional experience, services offered, and length of time for each event. Since you’ll be charging per event, spend some time researching what other DJs in your general area are charging. Experienced DJs have reported charging anywhere from $950 to $2,000 for a five-hour package.

How much profit can a Mobile DJ Business make?

If you participate in three events a week and charge $2,000 per event, your company will earn approximately $288,000 annually before expenses. Hiring additional DJs will not only assist in covering overhead costs, it can more than double your business’ profit, depending upon the pay scale you and the employee agree upon.

How can you make your business more profitable?

The following are a few strategies other mobile DJ businesses have implemented to ensure a more profitable business:

• Consider partnering with musicians/live bands to offer a unique sound.
• Approach local nightclubs, bars, and restaurants. Many are now regularly providing live music for their patrons as they eat or socialize. Think outside the box. Obviously weddings will be high on your list as a profit generator, but what about birthday parties, grand openings, music festivals, and bat mitzvahs?
• Offer audio production for jingles, ads, and videos for radio, internet, and tv spots.

Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC's free Small Business Startup Guide - a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!

STEP 2: Form a legal entity

The most common business structure types are the sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC) , and corporation .

Establishing a legal business entity such as an LLC or corporation protects you from being held personally liable if your Mobile DJ Business is sued.

Form Your LLC

Read our Guide to Form Your Own LLC

Have a Professional Service Form your LLC for You

Two such reliable services:

You can form an LLC yourself and pay only the minimal state LLC costs or hire one of the Best LLC Services for a small, additional fee.

Recommended: You will need to elect a registered agent for your LLC. LLC formation packages usually include a free year of registered agent services . You can choose to hire a registered agent or act as your own.

STEP 3: Register for taxes

You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.

In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It's really easy and free!

You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website . If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?

There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.

STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card

Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil .

Open a business bank account

Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:

• Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
• Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.

Get a business credit card

Getting a business credit card helps you:

• Separate personal and business expenses by putting your business' expenses all in one place.
• Build your company's credit history , which can be useful to raise money later on.

Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.

STEP 5: Set up business accounting

Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.

Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.

STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.

State & Local Business Licensing Requirements

Certain state permits and licenses may be needed to operate a mobile DJ business. Learn more about licensing requirements in your state by visiting SBA’s reference to state licenses and permits.

Most businesses are required to collect sales tax on the goods or services they provide. To learn more about how sales tax will affect your business, read our article, Sales Tax for Small Businesses .

Service Contract

Since mobile DJ businesses provide services for events, it would be beneficial to write up a contract outlining exactly what services are expected, what form of compensation shall be received, and any other relevant information. An example of such a contract can be seen  here .

Recommended: Rocket Lawyer makes it easy to create a professional service agreement for your DJ business when you sign up for their premium membership. For $39.95 per month, members receive access to hundreds of legal agreements and on call attorneys to get complimentary legal advice.

Music Licensing

In order to play music in a business setting, permission must be acquired from the composer or license holder. Typically, it is possible to obtain a “blanket” license allowing a businesses to play music owned by a large catalog of artists and recording studios. Such licenses can be obtained from Performance Rights Organizations, such as ASCAP or BMI.

• Learn more about music licensing requirements

Since mobile DJ businesses provide services for events, it would be beneficial to write up a contract outlining exactly what services are expected, what form of compensation shall be received, and any other relevant information. An example of such a contract can be seen here .

STEP 7: Get business insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.

There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance . This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.

Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance . If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers' Compensation Coverage.

FInd out what types of insurance your Mobile DJ Business needs and how much it will cost you by reading our guide Business Insurance for Mobile DJ Business.

STEP 8: Define your brand

Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.

If you aren't feeling confident about designing your small business logo, then check out our Design Guides for Beginners , we'll give you helpful tips and advice for creating the best unique logo for your business.

Recommended : Get a logo using Truic's free logo Generator no email or sign up required, or use a Premium Logo Maker .

If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator . Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.

How to promote & market a Mobile DJ Business

While you’ll have some events during the week, the bulk of your business is made on the weekends. This offers you ample downtime to focus on marketing the company. Like many small businesses, word of mouth will be one of your greatest marketing tools.

As word spreads regarding your talents, DJs have found success implementing these marketing strategies:

• Purchase ad space in online and printed business directories, community news mailers, and in the society and/or wedding sections of your local paper. If your community has a special wedding magazine, ask to be featured in a guest slot, either as a guest writer or as a spotlighted DJ.
• Maintain a wedding or event blog on your website and participate in online blog forums, such as The Knot and Style Me Pretty.
• Network and build relationship with event and wedding planners in the area. Don’t limit yourself to just planners - target hotels, country clubs, and other party venues, bridal shops, photographers, videographers, and caterers.
• Remind past customers you’re available and offer incentives.
• Make your website informative. Provide answers to prospective customers’ most burning questions, even offering tips on things they might not have thought of.
• Join online and local organizations that offer networking opportunities - you never know where you might find a marketing partner.
• Utilize social media regularly.

How to keep customers coming back

Due to the services you’ll be providing, word of mouth is critical to attracting and retaining clients. Maintain a professional air at all times and really go above and beyond when it comes to assisting your customer in planning their event. You’ll be remembered by the host, guests, venue employees, and everyone else that’s a part of making the event a success. That’s a lot of potential customers, so make every moment count.

STEP 9: Create your business website

After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business .

While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.

Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

• All legitimate businesses have websites - full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
• Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
• Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.

Recommended : Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders .

Other popular website builders are: WordPress , WIX , Weebly , Squarespace , and Shopify .

STEP 10: Set up your business phone system

Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.

There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2023 to find the best phone service for your small business.

Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com

Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it's fair pricing.

Is this Business Right For You?

If you love bringing people together through music, being around crowds, and are ready to be your own boss, owning your own mobile DJ business would be a rewarding career choice.

Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?

Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!

Entrepreneurship Quiz

What happens during a typical day at a Mobile DJ Business?

As a DJ, you’ll spend your days split between music and interacting with people. While the activities of each day vary, most days you will:

• Conduct interviews with party hosts and/or planners to get a feel for what their vision is for the party and what types of music they love, as well as what music they would like to avoid
• Schedule and carry out walk-throughs of party venues. This will allow you to make the most of the space made available to you. Your walk-through also offers you a great opportunity to get a feel for the acoustics - not every space you play in will have good acoustics; it’s your job to adjust
• Increase your music catalog based on newest trends and current customer requests
• Map out a timeline for each of your upcoming events, based on the party’s schedule/needs
• Market your business and network
• Follow up with hosts after the event to get any feedback

Additionally, there will be administrative duties to attend to. As your business grows, it might be cost-effective to delegate these responsibilities to a trusted staff member, offering you more time to focus on the nuts and bolts of the company.

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful Mobile DJ Business?

A successful mobile DJ needs to be a fairly empathic person, as your job consists of “reading” the crowd to determine what music is best suited at a particular time. This involves paying close attention to the mood of the event-goers and the overall atmosphere of the event. Interaction with the crowd is also critical, so it’s imperative that you have an outgoing personality. As the DJ, much of the focus will be on you throughout the event. It’s your job to ensure the crowd appreciates and reacts to you, without taking the spotlight away from the party hosts.

Since you’ll be playing a variety of tunes, it’s also important that you have an ear for music, so the transitions from one song to another are smooth.

What is the growth potential for a Mobile DJ Business?

Your company’s growth potential is directly tied to the needs of the area you serve, saturation of the market, and the amount of talent available for hire. There are currently no franchise opportunities available - once you’ve built a sound reputation, offering this opportunity to others could be a great way to expand your business.

TRUiC's YouTube Channel

For fun informative videos about starting a business visit the TRUiC YouTube Channel or subscribe to view later.

Take the Next Step

Find a business mentor.

One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.

Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.

Learn from other business owners

Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.

Resources to Help Women in Business

There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:

If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a Mobile DJ Business?

The following are some insider tips from individuals who have found success in this growing industry:

• Get involved with organizations such as the American Disc Jockey Association and United States Disc Jockey Association. This instantly provides you with a support group of other DJs, ensuring you’re up on the latest news and trends of the industry. They can also provide a wealth of information and resources to ensure the startup process goes smoothly and that your business continues to grow.
• Consider signing up for a record pool - this is a great way to acquire new music at a reduced cost.
• Keep in mind that weddings are seasonal, which makes your business seasonal as well. Expand your talents and target customers to include more than just wedding events to ensure you’re busy year-round.
• Keep it professional at all times. Your clients are trusting you to provide this valued service, regardless of what is going on in your personal life. Your hours will often be long and there’s no calling in sick.
• Really think about your vision for the company before getting started. What can you offer that makes you stand out over the competition?
• Learn the business aspect first, before investing in equipment of your own. Consider seeking a position with a well-respected DJ company in your area to learn the ropes.
• Lay out your business plan on paper first. Conduct market research to see what areas are saturated and what is lacking.
• Music genres will vary from party to party, so be sure to have something for everyone in your music catalog.

How and when to build a team

Each event only needs one DJ, leading many to believe that it has to be a one-man operation. Think about how far your company could go, however, if you had multiple DJs available. Once you’ve built a name for your business, you’ll want to consider adding employees to your team. During the hiring process, pay close attention to each prospect’s personality and outward appearance. Remember, they’ll be the face of the company; your reputation depends upon it.

Useful Links

Industry opportunities.

• American Disc Jockey Association
• United States Disc Jockey Association
• Explore more Entertaintment based Business Ideas

Real World Examples

• KM Productions, Mobile DJ Company
• Jenny Z, Mobile DJ Service

Further Reading

• DJing For Dummies by John Steventon

Have a Question? Leave a Comment!

How to Start a Mobile DJ Business: 8 Things You Need to Know

Today we find out how to start a mobile DJ business. We’ll learn all about the equipment you’ll need, how to get gigs, how much you’ll earn, and we’ll give you some great tips and gear recommendations.

Back in 2008 I was lucky enough to be able to start a mobile DJ business. It started out as a bit of fun with some friends, as you can see in the picture above. But turned into a bigger and more exiting business than I ever could have dreamed.

It doesn’t take a massive amount of hard work, and if you can get the gigs, you’ll make a good living at it. For anyone wanting to know how to start a mobile DJ business, this article has it all! We’ll go over the kit, how to set it up, how to start gigging, and what to charge.

So the first thing you’re going to need to start a mobile DJ business is the equipment.

This will be the most expensive part of setting up your business, nobody said it was cheap to start a mobile DJ business… But the good thing is, once you have the kit it will last you for many years to come. It’s important that you buy quality reliable kit, some cheaper brands will not last long. But don’t worry, I’ll give you some great suggestions in this article.

Buying mobile DJ equipment

The first thing you’ll need is something to play the music with. Most mobile DJ’s will go with a DJ controller simply because of the convenience they bring. A DJ controller comes with two deck controllers and a mixer all built in as one. Buying a controller rather than 2 separate decks and a mixer will save space, and you’ll have less cables to carry around.

You will have to take your laptop with you but you can leave your CD case at home. This way you can play music directly from the audio files on your laptop.

Deciding on the right controller to start a mobile DJ business can be hard. So I’ve put an article together which contains a list of the best controllers for all budgets and different skill levels  HERE .

Featured on the list is the  Denon DJ MC7000  which is my top choice for anyone wondering how to start a mobile DJ business. The value for money the controller offers is just incredible. And it even comes with the full Serato DJ software that you’ll need to use it alongside your computer/laptop. Once again check out the list as there is something for everybody.

If you decide to get a different controller on the list, getting the right software is also important, you don’t want something that will be laggy or unreliable. The best 2 choices for mobile DJing software are  Serato DJ  or Native instruments  Traktor Pro.

You can see my article comparing the two  HERE  to make your own mind up on which one to choose for your specific needs.

Next you’ll need a set of speakers. I recommend that you get at least 15″ speakers for mobile DJing. Anything less will not fill a decent sized room very well.

If you’re using an amplifier you’ll want passive speakers. But I recommend you get active speakers as there will be less kit to carry around. Active means that the speakers have an amplifier built in so you can just plug them straight into your controller.

The  Pyle PPHP155ST  are fantastic reliable speakers.

I’ve owned a set and they are just perfect for mobile DJing. You can plug in a microphone for karaoke party’s. And you can even plug in a USB stick to play tracks without the need to use your controller. They also come with speaker stands, cables, and a microphone.

I always use a separate set of monitors which are only used by yourself as the DJ. Monitors are used because the main speakers will be facing away from you and could also be a long way away. You may hear the sound slightly later than what you hear in your headphones. This can be even more of a problem in bigger venues as the sound bounces around the room. If you’re just blending tunes this won’t matter so much. But if you are mixing and beatmatching your music, monitors are essential.

If you’re using the previously mentioned  Denon DJ MC7000  controller, these will plug into the booth outputs on the back. It has a separate volume control on the mixer section and your main PA speakers will plug into the master outputs.

A good set of headphones will be super important. Buying cheap headphones will cost you much more in the long run as they simply don’t last. Check out my full buyers guide that also features the best headphones available  HERE . And you’ll also need to learn how to use DJ headphones correctly, so go here ->  show me how to use them.

You’ll want a set of speaker stands to hold the monitors and main speakers up high. Don’t place the main speakers on the floor if they have a hole for a stand. Even though most speakers have a protective grill, many a foot has gone straight through and destroyed woofers and ruined the party.

It’s also good practice to tuck away cables, or tape them down to prevent people tripping. Just a single trip could destroy speakers and pull your controller or laptop off the desk.

You’ll also need a good solid desk to put your controller and laptop on. I’ve always used dedicated DJ tables that fold for easy transport and storage. You can find quite a few different options on sites like Amazon. Make sure you check out the reviews to see what experiences people are having, you don’t want anything flimsy that wobbles around as you mix.

Next you’ll need something to mount your lights on. A simple telescopic stand like the  Gorilla lighting stand  that I use should be enough for most venues. You can fit 4 lights or a smoke machine on it, and it’s very sturdy. Chose your lights wisely. I’ve found that a moon-flower, a laser, a strobe and a smoke machine are plenty for most venues.

Now you have all of the kit to start a mobile DJ business, your sound system should really look the part. If you have never DJ’d before and you need to learn all about mixing first..

Check out my beginners mixing guide here.

And if you need help learning how to use your equipment check these out >  Using a mixer  and >  Using a controller/mixing decks.

How to get mobile DJ gigs

I recommend you get your mixing on point before you start marketing yourself. People will be paying good money for you to put on a great party, mixing keeps that party vibe going. If you can’t mix very well or your mixes sound like somebody hammering a nail into the wall, customers won’t be happy. Once you have the mixing down you’ll really be ready to get out there and start gigging.

How do you go about getting your first gig?

You need to market yourself in a way that attracts potential customers. You need to price your services right, not to high but not to low. And you need to be clear on the services you will provide.

For example, if you’re playing at weddings what can people expect from your sets? What playlists do you have? Do you accept special playlist requests? (I recommend you do, as everyone wants something different). And tell people your previous DJ history, this can give you a lot of social proof and attract more clients.

How much should a mobile DJ charge

Don’t price yourself by the hour. Set a price for about 4 hours, then tell people they can extend the booking for an extra hourly fee.

For 4 hours I normally charge about $450 and $65 for each additional hour. You may be able to charge a little extra for weddings as they usually have a higher budget. Don’t forget to charge for travel to the venue. You can do the first 25 miles for free, but charge for each additional 10 miles on top of that. Try to cover a wide area, I’ll travel up to 500 miles as long as the travel expenses are paid. This way you’ll get more work, and make more money per gig.

Where to find your customers .

When you first start a mobile DJ business nobody will know who you are. And until you’ve built up a good name for yourself, this will be the tricky part.

You could start a website and put an advert in the local paper. Why not start a Facebook page and ask everybody you know to share it! Post flyers through doors, and put them in shop windows. My first few gigs were done as favours for friends but this helped me get a name and recommendations to others. This is how the word is spread, so keep marketing yourself in lots of different ways and eventually you will have loads of work.

Another great way to advertise yourself is by recording mixes. Give these mixes out for free around town, or post them to YouTube with a free download link. Then you can get your friends to share it, and you can post them on your Facebook page. Don’t forget to put your contact number or web address at the start of the mix so people can find you.

What music should you play?

Whenever somebody books you work closely with them. Find out what music they like and cater for their exact needs. Ask them to provide a playlist that you can mix in with your own choices. This way you’ll find they will be much happier with the music being played. Making people leave happy and singing songs you have played will make them remember you. This way you’ll get more work and more recommendations from these people in the future.

You can also have some business cards made and leave them on your desk as you play. People will take the cards and keep them in their wallets, this is another way to get more work in the future.

When your playing a gig, be careful not to drink any alcohol. This can mess up your set and ruin any future chances of working from these peoples contacts. I’ve seen many a DJ make a fool of himself because of alcohol, so just drink orange juice.

The best mobile DJ insurance

Before you start a mobile DJ business you should check to see if you need to get public liability insurance ( US click  here   UK click  here ). Some venues will not let you play without it. This may sound petty but if somebody trips over your cables this could cause you a lot of trouble. It’s always best to get it just in case, and it’s not even that expensive.

You should also check with the venue that they have a PPL for UK or ASCAP license if you’re in the US. This is a license to play background music. You’ll need one if you are charging an entry fee, or if you are playing open air. You may not need one if your playing at a private party, like a wedding.

By now you should really have a good understanding of how to start a mobile DJ business, and how it could work for you.

Once you have all of your kit you need to set it all up and time how long it takes to get ready. Time how long it takes to pack it all up too.

This is something you need to be aware of so that you can have your sound system set up ready before the people start arriving at the venue. The venue owners will also need to know how long it will take to pack up. This is so they know how late they need to employ staff on the day of the party.

Knowing things like this and including them on your advertisement will make you come across more professional. Try to answer as many questions on your flyers as possible. The less questions people have to ask or guess for themselves, the better. These are good marketing tactics that will work in your favour.

Your presence behind the decks.

How is your overall presence behind the decks? This is as important as your mixing skills, you need to be enjoying every minute of it.

This sounds like a no brainer right? Maybe so, but I’ve seen so many DJ’s looking bored or fed up behind the decks. This rubs off on the crowd you’re playing too. If you look bored or like you’re not enjoying it, the crowd will feel the same.

But if you’re grinning from ear to ear, dancing, and looking like you’re having the time of your life, the crowd will get that vibe too. Make a habit of dancing and singing along while you’re playing a set.

You could even buy yourself a microphone to hype up the crowd even more. Put yourself in the shoes of your audience and think what would make it a better set for them. Anything that gives the crowd a better time is a bonus, and it’ll definitely bring you more work over time. And if you’re the DJ for a wedding or any type of event where people will be well dressed, try to match their dress code. This will look better in photos and reflect well on you’re business.

Read my guide on crowd reading here for more tips.

Can DJing be a full time job?

This is the biggest question people ask when they’re wondering how to start a mobile DJ business! You see tons of club DJ’s making a living and even getting rich from DJing, but you don’t hear about any mobile DJ’s making a full time living out of it. Why not? Because they’re not celebrities, and don’t make the press! Believe me, mobile DJing can be a full time job.

Buy the good kit, spend some money on your marketing and always have your customers best interests at heart. You are there to please them by giving them the party of their dreams. Once the party is over, you want to leave them wanting more. Use the many tips in this article and you’ll soon see the gigs piling up.

Go and start a mobile DJ business!

So there you have it, you now know how to start a mobile DJ business! The mobile DJ business of your dreams awaits you and your many future customers.

Now all you have to do is put everything you have just read in to practice. The next step is up to you, so have fun and keep me posted on how it works out for you.

Find out what items you should always pack before a gig  HERE .

Check out some of the best controllers available to you >  HERE .

And check out my review of the new great value Pioneer DDJ-1000 controller >  HERE .

How to start a mobile DJ business

Step by step guide to starting a disco.

So you want to start a mobile DJ or disco business?

I’ve included links to handy resources and ways to push your business to the next level. I update this article regularly with the latest tips and tricks to have a successful mobile DJ career. I’ll also be expanding on some of the topics in future articles.

Are you ready for the working environment?

So here’s a few things to think about

You’ll be working most weekends

This wont be a problem when you’re just starting out as you’re likely to have a few free weekends anyway, but as you get busier you’ll soon wish you had planned for a few weekends off.

Working in a loud environment

Not only that but quite often people shouting in your ear for requests.

I used to love over-the-ear headphones as these used to be the best money could buy, but things have changed. I know plenty of DJs who love ear-buds now as they’re less bulky and also keep your head cooler as they’re not trapping in heat radiating out of your head. Whatever you choose go for quality over price. You want headphones you can rely on.

You’ll need to be professional and sociable

You’ll need to be good and talking with a microphone.

I highly recommend you have a radio mic that others can use too. This is perfect for that best man’s speech or a special announcement and also handy in an emergency as well. Definitely more versatile than a wired mic.

You’re willing to put in the hours of preparation before gigs

There’s plenty to think about and prepare before any mobile DJ gig, so you need to make sure you can devote the time to these jobs as much as you can devote your weekends to them too.

Insurance, Licences and legal stuff?

Insurance for mobile discos, hardware insurance.

You need new equipment and fast, a quick turnaround and an understanding of your business needs can be crucial to get you back up and running. Check out Insure 4 music as a great example of specialist insurance .

Liability insurance

It only takes one drunken idiot falling over your gear, or even a fight breaking out too close to your setup (I’ve seen that happen) and before you know it people are attempting to blame you and your equipment for their injuries.

Licences and Permits

You may not know this but ANY business that uses music needs to pay royalties to any artist they play. This includes bars, coffee shops, even hair dressers and clothing stores. If music is part of your business you have a legal obligation to pay for any copyrighted music you play.

Regardless of this there is another licence you will need in the UK which is called the “ProDub” licence. This allows you to use copyrighted music for professional purposes.

Other legal matters

Risk assessment.

Many venues and sometimes clients will require the company they work with to have a full risk assessment for the equipment they’re operating. This can sound both dull and over-whelming but its actually fairly straight-forward.

P.A.T. (Portable Appliance Testing)

To make sure your equipment always passes you should look after it, buy rugged long lasting cables and equipment. Keep your equipment in strong and well padded cases.

What sound system is best for mobile discos?

Sound quality at all volumes.

This is one of the key areas for me as an audiophile. There’s nothing worse than hearing an inadequate sound system being driven to the maximum just to give the required volume. Or a cheap but loud system that suffers greatly at lower volumes.

I’ve always been a big fan of JBL speakers. for the exceptional sound quality at any level. Their current active loudspeakers like the PRX815 are quite amazing . Not only as they have more than enough power output to fill any venue, they also have built in wifi-enabled technology that allows you to walk around your venue, adjusting the sound and frequency equalisers via a tablet or mobile. An ingenious way of sound checking before the gig starts. For something a little cheaper check out the  JBL ES Series eon610  which boasts 500 watts and bluetooth connectivity as a bonus. Remember you’ll need two speakers too.

Portability

While bigger is often better you need to think about how they will fit in to your vehicle too. More on vehicles later, but keep in mind that they will spend a lot of time being loaded and unloaded from your vehicle along with all your other DJ gear.

Ease of setup

Make sure you have ample power cables and long high quality durable audio cables that can reach the rest of your DJ gear.

A word of warning on cheap sound systems

They are not built to high standards, with cheap cases that will not provide good sound quality. I guarantee within a few gigs you’ll notice case damage and within a year will be wishing you’d invested more wisely in a professional sound system.

Generally cheaper speakers offer a narrower focus of sound, pushing everything they can give in one direction. Fine if you’re stood right in front of them but not much good for filling a venue with sound.

Watts vs Volume

So a 1000 watt sound-system wont be twice as loud as a 500 watt sound-system. It will likely be more capable of handling louder volumes with better efficiency and sound quality. This is why filling larger venues with sound is done with multiple speakers, offering better sound driver efficiency and pushing the sound in to the right places.

What disco lights you will need

So where do you start?

Light projection / Scans

Moving heads don’t have a mirror and are instead controlled by motors moving the entire light source on X and Y axis. While scans are arguably more portable they’re also more fragile, moving heads tend to be more robust and aesthetically more exciting.

[/column][column total=2]Here’s a typical moving head projector

Scans are generally easier to hang from a bar. Moving heads are better either on the floor if you’re on a stage or on their on plinths. In both cases you’ll want to own multiple units rather than just one. I’d say a minimum of 4 to really fill a room with colour and create some great party effects. For this reason its usually easier to get multiple scans which you can add to one rig, compared to getting multiple moving heads that require a plinth each.

Lasers also don’t really have much impact unless coupled with a smoke machine also known as a fogger or mist machine. More on that in a moment.

Look out for lighting effects like moving head par cans, DMX controllable light bars and carousel effects that contain multiple mirrors to scatter patterns around the room. Again the most professional lighting isn’t the cheapest but is well worth the money. Remember you’ll be installing and de-installing these lights a lot so they need to take a hit or two.

Lighting rigs

All these projection style lighting effects need somewhere to hang from or sit on so lighting rigs are an important part of your DJ setup.

Smoke machines and foggers

Most of the lighting effects above will have much more impact with the addition of a smoke machine, also called a fogger or mist machine. These use an alcohol solution, boiled and then sprayed out through a fine jet nozzle.

Here’s a smoke machine worth looking at , reasonably priced and high power.

As you might expect smoke machine scan set off smoke alarms, depending on the type of smoke alarm installed in the venue. So always notify the manager of the venue before using a smoke machine. They may be able to isolate the nearest smoke detectors to your mobile disco setup, avoiding any embarrassing evacuations!

What DJ hardware is best for mobile discos

Your budget will no doubt play a part too but I urge you not to overspend on your sound and lights and then underspend on your DJ gear. Being professional, flexible and ready for any situation will win you more clients than anything else.

An integrated DJ solution

Both of these are high grade professional units that have all the most important buttons and controls right there in front of you.

If you’re on a tighter budget its worth looking at some older models like the Pioneer DDJ-SB2 and the Denon DJ MC4000 both of which have decent build quality and enough features for a mobile disco environment.

"> Why these controllers are best

Most importantly they do what they do really well. Big clear buttons for key features you’ll be using constantly. The Traktor Kontrol S8 especially has high definition screens built right in and some advanced features like Native Instrument’s “Stems” audio format and easy library browsing and looping.

Avoid budget DJ controllers

While you may see lots of cheap DJ controllers there are plenty of reasons to avoid them.

All of these things are a nightmare if you’re trying to run a professional and reliable business. You want something that is long lasting, highly capable and built with professionals in mind.

A word of warning: Avoid any laptops powered by AMD processors as you’ll often find DJ software will not play nicely with them. This isn’t true for all AMD laptops but I’ve read many reports of DJs having problems with AMD powered laptops. So stick to laptops you know are powered by Intel CPUs.

Personally I’d go with the Kontrol S8 hardware, its powerful, robust and has some of the best features available in the industry right now.

How to promote a mobile DJ business

Online marketing.

Search for business directories that include mobile discos, submit your website and contact details. Most are free but if there are a few that seem to be active and can prove they get traffic then by all means pay a little to be added.

Make sure each customer leaves a review of your business on Google. You can incentivise them by offering a discount on future bookings if they do.  Maybe “15% off your next booking when you submit a Google review”. You can send them details via email after the gig. For more information on leaving Google reviews read this .

Print marketing

So targeting particular venues and local community publishers will get your brand away from the noise and possibly in front of a different audience.

Creating playlists for mobile DJing

Here’s some handy pointers to get you set up.

Create general playlists for any gig

Dinnertime playlist – If its a wedding reception or corporate gig they often want background music while they eat. Pick easy listening tracks, instrumentals and nothing too in-your-face.

Romantic songs – Perfect for changing the tempo or for weddings after the “first dance” of the bride and groom. Also often used at the end of the night to wind things down.

You’ll need to keep all of your playlists up to date, order the songs by release date so you have the latest tracks at the top of your list.

Create playlists for your booking

Make sure you play all of the tracks in the “Requests” playlist and drop in almost all of the tracks you picked out for the “Suggested” playlist.

Don’t throw away these playlists, you may get repeat bookings! Simply archive the playlist and use again in the future if the client books you once more. Be sure to update them with more requests and suggestions.

How to approach each gig

Always arrive early and be ready, stay sober, friendly and helpful, be prepared for anything, be confident, happy and excited.

Don’t let your client down just because you’re not in the mood. Let the happiness of the party lift your spirits!

How to get repeat business

Word of mouth, business cards and leaflets, always offer incentives.

Be sure to let your previous customers know that you have a new promotion, the best way is by email if you have that contact detail. It takes minimal effort and can reward you with a few extra gigs every year.

Time to start you new disco business

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Mobile DJ Setup: How To Start A Mobile DJ Business In 2023

September 20, 2023

Starting a mobile DJ business requires understanding what clients expect from you, building a comprehensive music collection, and investing in the right gear.

Whether you’re focused on corporate gigs or prefer the idea of becoming a wedding DJ, mobile DJs have to be flexible and knowledgeable about the music they play.

In this guide, we’ll share a range of insights and tips to help you start your business and pick up a steady stream of clients.

What Is A Mobile DJ?

Mobile DJs are required not only to have a comprehensive archive of popular music but must also invest money in a good selection of DJ gear to use at venues.

We’ve covered what gear is expected from a mobile DJ service and how to promote your services and build a list of repeat clients to earn money.

So, with our criteria established, here’s everything you’ll need to start a mobile DJ business in 2023:

Mobile DJ Equipment Checklist

Becoming a mobile DJ requires a broad selection of equipment used for both playing impressive sets and interacting with the audience.

Here’s a complete checklist to set yourself up as a professional mobile DJ, from audio equipment to lights and accessories.

1. DJ Booth

While bar and club DJs don’t have to worry about where they’ll set up their gear, a mobile DJ is expected to have everything ready for use.

This includes a DJ booth where everything is laid out in the venue, from your DJ controllers to speakers and other DJ gear.

If you’re working on a budget, you can consider using your flight case and a sturdy table, to begin with before investing in something more robust.

2. DJ Controller

A mobile DJ doesn’t have the same luxuries as a club DJ, who can turn up at the venue and use the controllers at hand.

Spend some time researching the best DJ controllers on the market to make sure you pick the model that best suits your requirements.

This is perhaps the biggest investment you’ll make in your career, so it’s crucial you choose one that delivers all the features you’ll need.

If you’re playing music from your collection of MP3s or other downloadable formats, you’ll also need a laptop with plenty of storage space.

You can use your laptop to run DJ software instead of a fully-fledged DJ controller if you wish to keep the weight down.

Make sure it’s running smoothly and is free of bugs, as the last thing you want is for a hardware failure to put an end to your DJ set.

4. DJ Software

The DJ software you opt for will vary depending on whether you’re using a dedicated controller or running music from your laptop.

There are plenty of great software options to consider, ranging in price from Virtual DJ to Traktor and Serato DJ Pro.

Weigh up the pros and cons of Traktor vs. Serato and other popular software, so you make the best decision before investing.

5. PA/Speaker System

Whether playing background music at a casual corporate function or hosting a house party, you’ll also need your own speakers.

A good mobile DJ invests in the best quality speakers they can afford when bringing their own equipment to an event.

You may not be able to afford a high-end sound system used at club gigs, but you should aim for the best clarity and performance your budget allows.

6. Peripherals

Lastly, you’ll need to invest some cash in a selection of peripherals that you’ll need when performing your mobile DJ gigs.

Like a wedding DJ, this includes choosing the best DJ headphones, a  microphone, and a set of spare cables in case of emergency.

If you’re playing music at corporate events or birthday parties, you may also want to acquire a set of DJ strobe lights to illuminate the dance floor.

Mobile DJ Setup: How To Start A Mobile DJ Business In 2023 (Step-By-Step)

Starting a mobile DJ business requires more than just investing in the best DJ gear, with marketing and promotion elements also essential for success.

We’ve covered everything from researching how other mobile DJs achieve success to contacting different venues to give you the tools needed to succeed.

Now that you know our criteria, here’s how to start a mobile DJ business in 2023:

Step 1: Understand Your Equipment

Once you’ve invested in a DJ controller, software, peripherals, and the other essential DJ equipment needed to be a mobile DJ, you need to practice using them.

Before you play music in front of a crowd of strangers, make sure you know how to use the effects and tools your equipment provides.

Being a great mobile DJ requires a degree of flexibility when mixing tracks to create a fun experience and get the crowd dancing.

As well as knowing what good songs work on the dance floor, you’ll need to be able to switch things up at the drop of a hat when new music is requested.

To that end, understanding your equipment is as essential for mobile DJs as it is for traditional DJs working in clubs and bars.

Step 2: Do Your Research

A great way to excel as a mobile DJ is to thoroughly research how others approach mobile DJing to deliver professional results.

The research phase can also help you to determine the right gear for your business model, for example, whether or not you’ll need disco lights.

Different events require different approaches, with some mobile DJ gigs offering background ambiance while others require interaction with the guests.

If you’re hoping to play at weddings, look into how to market your wedding DJ services to ensure you’re doing it the right way.

This research should also be used to help establish your prices, for example, whether you need to charge an additional fee for particular services.

Step 3: Attend Other Mobile DJ’s Events

Perhaps the best way to gain actionable insights into how mobile DJs operate is to spend time attending relevant events.

By attending events, you can see what music selections work well, using this information to fine-tune your music collection and approach to DJing.

If you have kids attending school dances, see what tracks work well there or research the music that wedding DJs include in their playlists.

You can also find out if any special events are coming up in your area and see if the DJ is happy for you to tag along and take notes.

It’s a great way to start DJing on the right foot and learning what works from more experienced DJs who understand the landscape.

Step 4: Build Your Music Library

Without a strong and diverse selection of music in your arsenal, you won’t have any luck hosting a successful event, no matter how great you are at DJing.

Mobile DJs, in particular, should focus on building a library of popular songs from mainstream artists known to be crowd-pleasers.

A great resource for establishing a strong archive of tracks is a record pool, which offers access to extensive back catalogs for a subscription fee.

With a tendency to lean towards more commercial releases, you can also use a DJ pool for promotion to further your career.

Step 5: Upload Your Mixes Online

There are a variety of ways you can promote your services to prospective clients, but one of the best methods is to showcase your talent through mixes.

Creating a selection of DJ mixes at home and recording them is an excellent way to hone your skills and see what works and what doesn’t.

Once you’re happy with your DJ sets, you can upload them to platforms such as the online music streaming service MixCloud and YouTube and share them to gather feedback.

These mixes can also be used in marketing campaigns and shared across your social media pages to help drum up fresh business.

Step 6: Get Your Official Licenses

If you’re working as a professional gigging DJ in licensed venues, you’ll need to comply with local laws and regulations in your area.

One thing to bear in mind is that you’ll be playing copyrighted music in a public sphere, which requires permits and licenses before you perform.

If you fail to comply with these regulations, you could face a hefty fine and face the prospect of your mobile DJ business shutting down.

Check out your state and local business requirements to ensure you have the necessary paperwork before you begin mobile DJing.

You should also take the time to research the best DJ insurance in the event of an accident or other incident that damages your equipment.

Step 7: Advertise Your Services

The next step when building your mobile DJ business is to start advertising your services to pick up a list of clients.

You can start by putting together a DJ press kit that details your level of DJ experience and your performance history.

Put together a spreadsheet of local venues you know hold relevant events, whether this is corporate gigs or local weddings.

As you continue to pick up more work, make sure you update your press kit accordingly so it includes everything you’ve done.

Step 8: Build Word Of Mouth

One of the best tips when learning how to promote your music is to take advantage of word of mouth to get your name out there.

Word of mouth is worth far more than a paid advertisement, especially if someone compliments your performance to a booking agent.

The way you engage with clients and guests at events is a crucial element in building a reputation through word of mouth.

This means dressing to impress while working on your people skills so you’re adept at engaging with people at your events.

Step 9: Collaborate With Other Artists

If you know any musicians or singers in your local area willing to collaborate, working together is a great way to bring additional value to the table.

While mobile DJ work is typically a solitary affair, adding a touch of flair with a singer or musician is a surefire way to set you apart from the competition.

Start by reaching out to artists you know in your circle of friends, and if that fails, you can always place an ad in your local newspaper.

Just be aware that, should you collaborate with other artists, you’ll need to adjust your fees accordingly so everyone is happy with their compensation.

Step 10: Use Your Gigs For Promotion

Lastly, when you land a gig as a mobile DJ, you should seize the opportunity to get your next gig lined up while at the event.

Most DJs are too focused on the work at hand to spend time networking at events, but making the effort to do so can pay off big time.

Networking is one of the most cost-effective ways to get DJ gigs , and all it requires is setting aside some time before and after your set to chat with venue owners.

Likewise, if you’re working as a wedding DJ, chatting with the guests will put you front and center of their considerations the next time someone gets married.

You can also use your mobile DJing events to hand out flyers and other promotional materials to guests and keep in touch after the event has ended.

Learning how to build a mobile DJ business requires a combination of musical skill and knowledge with savvy business-minded acumen.

When you apply yourself across these multiple domains, you can develop the necessary marketing and interpersonal skills to make mobile DJing truly pay.

It’s a competitive industry, but if you build up a reputation and continue to work on an archive of music, it can soon be a full-time job.

Start your mobile DJ business on the right foot with a ZIPDJ subscription and build a strong archive of the best new music.

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Top 10 Advanced DJ Techniques To Be A Better DJ In 2023

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• Sample Business Plans
• Entertainment & Media

DJ Business Plan

High demand and a recurring revenue model make starting a DJ business a lucrative and rewarding profession.

Anyone can start a new business, but you need a detailed business plan when it comes to raising funding, applying for loans, and scaling it like a pro!

Need help writing a business plan for your DJ business? You’re at the right place. Our DJ business plan template will help you get started.

Free Business Plan Template

Download our free DJ business plan template now and pave the way to success. Let’s turn your vision into an actionable strategy!

• Fill in the blanks – Outline
• Financial Tables

How to Write A DJ Business Plan?

Writing a DJ business plan is a crucial step toward the success of your business. Here are the key steps to consider when writing a business plan:

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is the first section planned to offer an overview of the entire business plan. However, it is written after the entire business plan is ready and summarizes each section of your plan.

Here are a few key components to include in your executive summary:

• Market Opportunity: Summarize your market research, including market size, growth potential, and marketing trends. Highlight the opportunities in the market and how your business will fit in to fill the gap.

For instance, you may include music selection & mixing, equipment setup & operations, event planning & consultation, and lighting & visual effects, as some of your services.

• Financial Highlights: Briefly summarize your financial projections for the initial years of business operations. Include any capital or investment requirements, associated startup costs, projected revenues, and profit forecasts.
• Call to Action: Summarize your executive summary section with a clear CTA, for example, inviting angel investors to discuss the potential business investment.

Ensure your executive summary is clear, concise, easy to understand, and jargon-free.

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2. Business Overview

The business overview section of your business plan offers detailed information about your company. The details you add will depend on how important they are to your business. Yet, business name, location, business history, and future goals are some of the foundational elements you must consider adding to this section:

Describe what kind of DJ company you run and the name of it. You may specialize in one of the following DJ niches:

• Celebrity DJ
• Production DJ
• Describe the legal structure of your DJ company, whether it is a sole proprietorship, LLC, partnership, or others.
• Explain where your business is located and why you selected the place.
• Owners: List the names of your DJ company’s founders or owners. Describe what shares they own and their responsibilities for efficiently managing the business.
• Mission Statement: Summarize your business’ objective, core principles, and values in your mission statement. This statement needs to be memorable, clear, and brief.
• Future Goals: It’s crucial to convey your aspirations and vision. Mention your short-term and long-term goals; they can be specific targets for revenue, market share, or expanding your services.

This section should provide a thorough understanding of your business, its history, and its future plans. Keep this section engaging, precise, and to the point.

3. Market Analysis

The market analysis section of your business plan should offer a thorough understanding of the industry with the target market, competitors, and growth opportunities. You should include the following components in this section.

• Competitive Analysis: Identify and analyze your direct and indirect competitors. Identify their strengths and weaknesses, and describe what differentiates your DJ services from them. Point out how you have a competitive edge in the market.
• Regulatory Environment: List regulations and licensing requirements that may affect your DJ company, such as business registration & licensing, music licensing, noise regulations, insurance coverage, tax obligations, health & safety regulations, etc.

Here are a few tips for writing the market analysis section of your DJ business plan:

• Conduct market research, industry reports, and surveys to gather data.
• Provide specific and detailed information whenever possible.
• Illustrate your points with charts and graphs.
• Write your business plan keeping your target audience in mind.

4. Products And Services

The product and services section should describe the specific services and products that will be offered to customers. To write this section should include the following:

• Music selection & mixing
• Equipment setup & operation
• Event planning & consultation
• Lighting & visual effects
• Customized playlists & requests
• Audio recording & production
• Event coordination & timeline management
• Mention music genres: Name the musical genres that your DJ business supports. Mention how you can accommodate a wide range of musical tastes, from mainstream hits to specialized genres.
• Additional Services: Mention if your DJ company offers any additional services. You may include services like event planning, sound system rentals, lighting design, etc.

In short, this section of your DJ plan must be informative, precise, and client-focused. By providing a clear and compelling description of your offerings, you can help potential investors and readers understand the value of your business.

5. Sales And Marketing Strategies

Writing the sales and marketing strategies section means a list of strategies you will use to attract and retain your clients. Here are some key elements to include in your sales & marketing plan:

• Pricing Strategy: Describe your pricing strategy—how you plan to price your services and stay competitive in the local market. You can mention any discounts you plan on offering to attract new customers.
• Marketing Strategies: Discuss your marketing strategies to market your services. You may include some of these marketing strategies in your business plan—social media marketing, email marketing, content marketing, and print marketing.
• Sales Strategies: Outline the strategies you’ll implement to maximize your sales. Your sales strategies may include partnering with other businesses, offering referral programs, etc.
• Customer Retention: Describe your customer retention strategies and how you plan to execute them. For instance, introducing loyalty programs, discounts, personalized service, etc.

Overall, this section of your mobile DJ business plan should focus on customer acquisition and retention.

Have a specific, realistic, and data-driven approach while planning sales and marketing strategies for your DJ business, and be prepared to adapt or make strategic changes in your strategies based on feedback and results.

6. Operations Plan

The operations plan section of your business plan should outline the processes and procedures involved in your business operations, such as staffing requirements and operational processes. Here are a few components to add to your operations plan:

• Staffing & Training: Mention your business’s staffing requirements, including the number of DJs or support staff needed. Include their qualifications, the training required, and the duties they will perform.
• Operational Process: Outline the processes and procedures you will use to run your DJ business. Your operational processes may include pre-event preparation, client inquiry & booking, equipment preparation, event execution, etc.

Adding these components to your operations plan will help you lay out your business operations, which will eventually help you manage your business effectively.

7. Management Team

The management team section provides an overview of your DJ business’s management team. This section should provide a detailed description of each manager’s experience and qualifications, as well as their responsibilities and roles.

• Founders/CEO: Mention the founders and CEO of your DJ company, and describe their roles and responsibilities in successfully running the business.
• Organizational structure: Explain the organizational structure of your management team. Include the reporting line and decision-making hierarchy.
• Compensation Plan: Describe your compensation plan for the management and staff. Include their salaries, incentives, and other benefits.

This section should describe the key personnel for your DJ business, highlighting how you have the perfect team to succeed.

8. Financial Plan

Your financial plan section should provide a summary of your business’s financial projections for the first few years. Here are some key elements to include in your financial plan:

• Profit & loss statement: Describe details such as projected revenue, operational costs, and service costs in your projected profit and loss statement . Make sure to include your business’s expected net profit or loss.
• Cash flow statement: The cash flow for the first few years of your operation should be estimated and described in this section. This may include billing invoices, payment receipts, loan payments, and any other cash flow statements.
• Balance Sheet: Create a projected balance sheet documenting your DJ business’s assets, liabilities, and equity.
• Financing Needs: Calculate costs associated with starting a DJ business, and estimate your financing needs and how much capital you need to raise to operate your business. Be specific about your short-term and long-term financing requirements, such as investment capital or loans.

Be realistic with your financial projections, and make sure you offer relevant information and evidence to support your estimates.

9. Appendix

The appendix section of your plan should include any additional information supporting your business plan’s main content, such as market research, legal documentation, financial statements, and other relevant information.

• Add a table of contents for the appendix section to help readers easily find specific information or sections.
• In addition to your financial statements, provide additional financial documents like tax returns, a list of assets within the business, credit history, and more. These statements must be the latest and offer financial projections for at least the first three or five years of business operations.
• Provide data derived from market research, including stats about the industry, user demographics, and industry trends.
• Include any legal documents such as permits, licenses, and contracts.
• Include any additional documentation related to your business plan, such as product brochures, marketing materials, operational procedures, etc.

Use clear headings and labels for each section of the appendix so that readers can easily find the necessary information.

Remember, the appendix section of your mobile DJ service business plan should only include relevant and important information supporting your plan’s main content.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

This sample DJ business plan will provide an idea for writing a successful DJ plan, including all the essential components of your business.

After this, if you still need clarification about writing an investment-ready business plan to impress your audience, download our DJ business plan pdf .

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What is the Layout of a Business Plan

Frequently asked questions, why do you need a dj business plan.

A business plan is an essential tool for anyone looking to start or run a successful DJ business. It helps to get clarity in your business, secures funding, and identifies potential challenges while starting and growing your business.

Overall, a well-written plan can help you make informed decisions, which can contribute to the long-term success of your DJ company.

How to get funding for your DJ business?

There are several ways to get funding for your DJ business, but self-funding is one of the most efficient and speedy funding options. Other options for funding are:

• Bank loan – You may apply for a loan in government or private banks.
• Small Business Administration (SBA) loan – SBA loans and schemes are available at affordable interest rates, so check the eligibility criteria before applying for it.
• Crowdfunding – The process of supporting a project or business by getting a lot of people to invest in your business, usually online.
• Angel investors – Getting funds from angel investors is one of the most sought startup options.

Apart from all these options, there are small business grants available, check for the same in your location and you can apply for it.

Where to find business plan writers for your DJ business?

There are many business plan writers available, but no one knows your business and ideas better than you, so we recommend you write your DJ business plan and outline your vision as you have in your mind.

What is the easiest way to write your DJ business plan?

A lot of research is necessary for writing a business plan, but you can write your plan most efficiently with the help of any DJ business plan example and edit it as per your need. You can also quickly finish your plan in just a few hours or less with the help of our business plan software .

How do I write a good market analysis in a DJ business plan?

Market analysis is one of the key components of your business plan that requires deep research and a thorough understanding of your industry. We can categorize the process of writing a good market analysis section into the following steps:

• Stating the objective of your market analysis—e.g., investor funding.
• Industry study—market size, growth potential, market trends, etc.
• Identifying target market—based on user behavior and demographics.
• Analyzing direct and indirect competitors.
• Calculating market share—understanding TAM, SAM, and SOM.
• Knowing regulations and restrictions
• Organizing data and writing the first draft.

Writing a marketing analysis section can be overwhelming, but using ChatGPT for market research can make things easier.

How detailed should the financial projections be in my DJ business plan?

The level of detail of the financial projections of your DJ business may vary considering various business aspects like direct and indirect competition, pricing, and operational efficiency. However, your financial projections must be comprehensive enough to demonstrate a complete view of your financial performance.

Generally, the statements included in a business plan offer financial projections for at least the first three or five years of business operations.

What key components should a DJ business plan include?

The following are the key components your DJ business plan must include:

• Executive summary
• Business Overview
• Market Analysis
• Products and services
• Sales and marketing strategies
• Operations plan
• Management team
• Financial plan

Can a good DJ business plan help me secure funding?

Indeed. A well-crafted DJ business will help your investors better understand your business domain, market trends, strategies, business financials, and growth potential—helping them make better financial decisions.

So, if you have a profitable and investable business, a comprehensive business plan can certainly help you secure your business funding.

What's the importance of a marketing strategy in a DJ business plan?

Marketing strategy is a key component of your DJ business plan. Whether it is about achieving certain business goals or helping your investors understand your plan to maximize their return on investment—an impactful marketing strategy is the way to do it!

Here are a few pointers to help you understand the importance of having an impactful marketing strategy:

• It provides your business an edge over your competitors.
• It helps investors better understand your business and growth potential.
• It helps you develop products with the best profit potential.
• It helps you set accurate pricing for your products or services.

About the Author

Upmetrics Team

Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more

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How to Start Mobile DJ Business Cost, Profit, Setup, Gigs

Starting a new business demands a lot of hard work and commitment from any new entrepreneur. It is full of risks, both in terms of personal and financial engagements.

But things get more-comfortable if there is someone to guide you with their experience, with DOs and DON’Ts and the tips & tricks. This self-help guide is going to explain the basic building blocks of starting a new business in the competitive DJ industry.

It takes many years to establish a profit-making enterprise. There are many ups and downs in the market, and one needs to take resolve of not getting afraid of these challenges.

Once we familiarise you with the basics, you will feel more confident in taking this bold step. The very first step is to make up your mind by accepting the facts and circumstances.

Table of Contents

Make up your Mind for Mobile DJ

Before starting the business, you need to understand what you are getting into. In addition to financial implications, you are investing the right amount of your time.

All the holidays and weekends will be usually booked in advance because people typically get time to celebrate from their busy schedules during these days.

So, eventually, you may need to work 24×7 for planning, organizing, executing, and monitoring your activities. If you have a family with kids, you need to think twice if you can manage this.

Secondly, in a loud environment, constant exposure to high decibel sounds can damage your ears permanently. You may have to face issues like a loss in hearing and tinnitus due to outside noise as well as due to the high volume in your headphones.

Although there are preventive technologies available, it is still a significant occupational hazard that you have to face. Before you take the final plunge, make sure you have given a second thought to these sorts of problems.

If you love music, I am sure you will be able to surmount all these challenges and earn the right name and money in the mobile DJ business.

Thirdly, in this business, you need the right kind of skills and experience, which take some time to learn and practice. You can volunteer to work for a friend’s party or accept the job of an assistant with an experienced DJ.

This will provide you with first-hand experience of the much-needed expertise to start your mobile DJ venture.

The mobile DJ is essentially a part-time job, but it can be made a full-time business with interest and persistence. Spending some time on your promotion activities will bring you more customers.

This guide will help you in understanding broad areas of setting up a mobile DJ business which include the type of setup required for DJ equipment and related gears, a business plan, legal formalities, marketing, advertising, and promotion activities and setting up Gigs.

Mobile DJ Tips and Tricks

1. set up of equipment and gears.

You need to carry all the required equipment at the venue, including, tables, cases, and speaker stands. Since you are going to run the entire show, you need to plan in detail so that you have the right stuff for all types of situations.

As a mobile DJ, it is crucial to keep your equipment handy, lightweight, and easy to set up. Let us see all the equipment and gear required in a mobile DJ setup .

1.1 All in one Controller

This is the most important consideration for a mobile DJ. An all-in-one controller avoids the hassle of carrying mixers or turntables separately.

Some DJ controllers come with inbuilt sound cards, and you can connect the controller to your laptop through USB and access your entire digital music collection. It is easier to operate a single all-in-one unit instead of multiple units.

1.2 Speakers & Monitors (with stands)

You should invest in active speakers, which means that an additional amplifier is not required. For a Mobile DJ, it is essential, and it would mean carrying one less piece every time.

The speakers should have handles so that you can quickly unload them from your vehicle, take it to the venue and install them easily. Avoid wasting time and money in a cheaper variety of speakers flooded in the market.

They do not have actual wattage, which they claim to have. The cases are made of substandard material, which breaks in a short period of use. It is better not to regret after six months.

To buy peace of mind, you should opt for established brands. You also need a sturdy pair of speaker stands for inadvertent damage to them.

The monitors are required in prominent places where the speakers are kept at a distance and facing away from the DJ. This will cause a slight delay in hearing the sound.

The monitors are needed to help DJs get instant feedback sound and hence no scope for mistakes. If you know it very well that in the first few months, you may not be performing in huge gatherings, you can postpone the purchase.

However, it is still an essential piece of equipment which is part of your start-up costs.

1.3 Laptops

A decent laptop is a must for any professional DJ. You should buy a laptop with a fast processor, higher RAM, and loads of storage space to put your valuable music and for its regular backup.

A laptop is required with almost all the controllers. Incidentally, It is also possible to run a DJ with just your laptop. That way, it becomes an important backup for your setup.

1.4 Headphones & Mic

A good pair of Cans is essential for every professional DJ. Make sure they have the swivel features along with a noise cancellation mode. They should be comfortable for your years for long hours of working.

Don’t buy a headphone with an inbuilt microphone. You need a separate set of microphones for adding your personal touch during the performance or for those urgent announcements during the party.

1.5 Lights, LEDs, Foggers, Lasers, Alcohol solution, DMX, Rigs

The lights should be durable to install and uninstall every weekend. It is better to have lights with options of changing effects and should be easy to switch on and off.

The light projectors light up the ceilings and surroundings thereby creating a delightful ambiance. These lights are also known as scans or moving head projectors. You may need 4 to 5 pieces to fill the room with colorful lights.

Lasers are also visually appealing as you can cover a wide area by pinpointing. They complement the foggers or mist machines or smoke machines. The mist machines use jet sprays to spew boiled alcohol solution in the form of harmless smoke.

This kind of stuff adds a Wow factor to DJ music.  Buy the alcohol solution in bulk and keep the mist machine full of this solution. Make sure you don’t flash laser in people’s eyes directly as it can damage the eyes.

These lasers should be targeted above the heads and constantly moving. You can add LED lighting and light boards also to illuminate the area. It is good to invest in DMX control so that you get more power and control by chaining the light systems.

You will also need lighting rigs where you can hang these lights.

1.6 Miscellaneous Stuff

There are many small things you need to carry and are equally important

The earbuds are super important for saving your ears from damage. They go deep inside your ear and protect the eardrums. The buds also come with noise cancellation features and need to be a part of your regular setup.

You will need one or two folding tables to put your laptop and controller. The tables should be strong enough to take the weight of the equipment.

c) Music & Cables

It is advised to keep a variety of music genres. Different people have different tastes for music. Apple iTunes could be an excellent option to start.

You need to carry all the cables supplied with the equipment. Also, you may keep spare cables and extra length cables as per the layout and size of the venue.

d) Transportation

If you are targeting a recommended radius of 500km; you need to arrange for reliable transportation. Although you may charge your client for long distances of more than 50 km, the arrangement is still to be done by your team.

In the initial days, you can rent a vehicle, but it is prudent to invest in a new or a second-hand vehicle for reliable and time-bound transportation of all your equipment, team workers, gears, luggage, etc.

You may need a place to store all your valuable instruments safely when not in use. As a beginner, you may keep them in the garage or storehouse, but if such space is not readily available, then on a rental basis.

The basic idea is to keep them safe and readily available for every event.

Here is a summary of our recommendations for Budget and Premium categories of equipment with prices and buying links:

1.7 Budget Recommendations

1.8 Premium Recommendations

2. Business Plan – Target Market and Profitability

You should have a detailed business plan ready. It may include the plan for marketing your services, source of funds, manpower, target market, gears, and the overall strategy.

2.1 Target Market

Every business has an idea behind it. The mobile DJ business is based on the idea of providing DJ style entertainment to people in small to medium-size gatherings like wedding parties, celebrations at clubs or societies, school competitions, annual fests, birthday parties, etc.

The mobile DJ business should cover an area of up to 500 KM with a personalized touch and a DJ experience, which is just a phone call away.

You should study and find out whether there is enough market for your business idea in your area. Also, try to understand the competitive scenario.

How many DJs are there, and what is their style, and how much do they charge? Can you do better than them, and can you position yourself differently?

It is recommended that the DJ should take a fixed charge for 3 to 4 hours, followed by hourly payments. The customers may also bear the traveling expenses beyond 50km. Whatever system you adopt, keep the pricing competitive.

Initially, you may target small gatherings of 100 to 500 people. Once you become a little famous, you may need to invest more money in the equipment of higher configurations.

You may be required to invest in speakers with higher wattage, software upgrades, new laptop, etc.

You need to understand the existing pain points in the market. What kind of niche or market segments are still untapped? How lucrative are they? Do clients have any genuine concerns which you can efficiently address?

2.2 Start-up costs

These are necessarily the costs of equipment, marketing, and promotion expenses, licensing fees, laptops, vehicles, etc.

2.3 Ongoing costs

Some costs will be recurring, and you need to cover them up with a number of events. These include insurance, salaries, maintenance expenses, fuel, rent, and insurance, traveling, etc. Besides, you also need to buy new music titles to keep your music library up to date.

2.4 Is it Profitable?

You have only one source of income, and that is the frequency of your performance. The profitability will depend upon the rate charged by you. If you have a premium positioning, the number of events will mean a much higher profit.

But, if the prices are competitive, you need to control your costs and increase your events to justify the additional costs. After the breakeven, you can improve your profitability by popularising and increasing the price per performance.

3. Legal Formalities

3.1 Legal entity

What is in a name? In business, the name is all that matters. So, brainstorm and decide on a catchy interesting name for your DJ business. You also need to decide whether it will be a sole proprietorship, partnership, or a limited company.

3.2 Tax registration

In many countries, tax registration is compulsory for any economic business activity. You need to register your company separately as a business entity and comply with the taxation laws. You may have to register for state and federal taxes separately.

3.3 Banking & accounting

Open a separate business current account so that your personal and business finances do not get mixed up. This is also important for taxation and audit purposes.

You may need loan and credit card accounts as per the source of funds. To understand the specific business performance, you also need to maintain accounting books. This also helps in preparing accurate tax returns at the end of the year.

3.4 Licensing & Insurance

You must get your equipment insured for any eventuality like breakdowns, fire, theft, etc. Your future bookings may also get affected, and you may incur heavy losses on missing any scheduled performance.

Apart from the insurance of your hardware, you need to insure against liabilities. Clients may sue you for any mishap or accident, or non-performance during the event. Liability insurance may protect you from such substantial losses.

You may also need to obtain licenses for using copyright music. E.g. In the UK, you may need to get a license from PRSPPL and ProDub. In the US, you need an ASCAP license to play background music.

Ignorance of the law is not an excuse, and you must study the law of the land to apply for such licenses. Some venues or clients may ask you to provide PAT (Portable appliance testing) or risk assessment reports. You can check with the venue if they have valid music licenses.

In some cases, the client may ask you to provide a license. Some clients simply refuse if the DJ is not licensed.

Generally, the license is required only for places where an entry fee is charged or where it is an open area. It is not required for performances in the private parties.

3.5 Contracts

A DJ should prepare a service contract to protect his interest. You can find the templates online, or you can draft your contract. These contracts save you hassles in case of disputes.

A service contract spells out the details of expected services and compensation thereof.

4. Gigs – How to start doing gigs in your locality.

The final moment has come to give your performance in the event.

By now, you must have practiced with your friends or with an experienced DJ or learned from a dedicated professional course. Once you are confident of running the show, make sure to practice a little on the freshly purchased equipment as well.

Try to learn every function of the hardware and the software. Go through the manuals and troubleshooting sections.

Reach at least one hour before the scheduled time to set up your equipment. Meet the coordinator and exchange your schedules, and notes related to the event. Be in touch with the videographer and the photographer.

Try to understand from the host about their expectations. It is a better idea to schedule a prior visit to the venue of the party to get an idea of the space and its layout.

Your dress and overall presentation in the also event is very important. It should seem as if you are enjoying it. You should be well dressed and should try to match the dress of the hosts if it is a wedding gig. This will make you look professional.

You can add a personal touch with your voice on the microphone during the live performance. If you have a team, try to have a uniform for everyone to look authentic and professional.

5. Marketing Activities

A mobile DJ business is all about self-marketing. You should brand yourself and promote the brand as much as possible. Your growing network will convert into potential job orders soon.

You need to be in touch with one and all. In the process, you will also learn how to talk to people and how to sell your services.

The primary goal of any marketing promotion activity is to make the potential customer aware of the service brand. You can get your cards or leaflets printed and distributed on college campuses, clubs, event planners, etc.

Similarly, aggressive promotion needs to be done online in blogs, social media, and paid advertising.

You may think of developing your website with promotional videos, music samples, activities, images, and search engine optimization. Here are a few guidelines.

• Branding – You need to create a new brand to distinguish you from other DJs. Once you finalize a name and get it registered, popularise the brand name by self-marketing.
• Promotion offline – You can promote your brand through business directories, display of services at local businesses, visiting cards, flyers, cold calls, reminders, word of mouth, etc.
• Online promotions – In addition to the website, and social media, you can use email marketing, joining associations online, blogging tools, advertising, etc. Your website is also a very important tool to attract new customers and retain old clients.

6. Tips & Tricks

With experience, you will come to know what work and what does not. These tips may help you in sharpening your skills.

• Practice music of all genres. You may discover yourself.
• Practice DJing for small crowds and mini-performances to improve your learning curve.
• Try to have exposure to as much variety of music as you can. You may need to address the music needs of a wide variety of audiences.
• You should be mentally prepared for likely unfavorable situations like power failure, equipment breakdown, or even drunkards. Always have a plan B to ward off any such eventuality.
• Be ready to face special requests of your clients in terms of a particular song, making announcements, breaks for cake cutting, or any other special unearthly offers.
• If you have stage fright or are unable to speak in front of people, you must practice beforehand. You may be asked to make an announcement or do a little talk in between the songs.
• If you use a Fogger or smoke machine, please notify the manager in advance, so that the smoke doesn’t trigger the fire alarms.
• Keep a note of birthdays and important events of your clients and remind your customers well in advance through messaging and emails. Some of those reminders may turn into direct job orders for you.
• Keep your laptop updated with the latest software upgrades and patches to avoid last-minute delays.
• Start a wedding blog, as the wedding DJ event is the most profitable segment.

Last but not least, a business is a personal commitment. Do your best, and nothing can stop you from achieving your dreams.

All the best in your new venture!!!

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Start a Mobile DJ Business

Ignite Your passion: Travel, Groove, and Earn with a Mobile DJ Business

MOBILE DJ BUSINESS

Related business ideas, discover your perfect domain, mobile dj mini business plan, expected percent margin:, earnings expectations:, actions to hit those numbers:, equipment investment:, marketing and customer acquisition:, dj service:, cost control:, business operations:, not what you had in mind here are more ideas, grab your business website name, step 1: determine if mobile dj business is right endeavor, breakdown of startup expenses, breakdown of ongoing expenses, examples of ways to make money, step 2: name the business, step 3: obtain necessary licenses and permits, step 4: create a business plan, step 5: obtain licenses and permits, step 6: purchase equipment, step 7: market your business, step 8: set prices, step 9: launch your business, step 5: secure financing, step 6: purchase necessary equipment, step 8: network and build partnerships, step 9: create a business plan, step 8: network with other djs, step 9: keep records and maintain professionalism, explore more categories, take the next steps.

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How to create a DJ business plan

• Jeremy Greenbaum
• Sep 14, 2023

Proper planning is essential for any successful DJ business. Whether you're spinning beats at private events, rocking the dance floor at weddings or creating memorable experiences at clubs, a well-structured business plan is your backstage pass to success.

From setting clear objectives to defining your strategies and financial projections, your business plan can help you keep rhythm when starting a business in the DJ industry. In this guide, we'll delve into core components of a DJ business plan and steps for getting started.

Ready to turn your passion for music into a business? Kickstart your DJ journey by making a website with Wix .

Why create a DJ business plan?

There are many benefits to creating a DJ business plan. Among them: a business plan provides a structured foundation for your business. By defining your business's purpose, objectives and target audience, you can start your business with a clear understanding of how you plan to grow it and differentiate yourself from other DJs out there.

A well-crafted business plan also helps with attracting investors, should you need it, and raising money for your business . Investors and lenders often require a business plan as a means to assess your business's viability. A detailed plan showcases your understanding of the market and the potential for success, thereby increasing your credibility.

Furthermore, a business plan plays a big role in establishing a professional online presence, which is especially important when you’re working in the entertainment industry. By defining your strengths, style and target clientele—you can use your plan to guide tactical decisions, such as when you’re creating a business website or advertising your services. Your plan can guide your messaging, as well as the types of promotional channels you choose to invest in.

Learn more: how to start a service business

Regardless of the type of business you’re starting, a well-structured business plan includes several key components:

Executive summary

Business and domain names

Market analysis and research

Operations plan

Marketing and advertising plan, financial plan, 01. executive summary.

The executive summary of a DJ business plan is a concise overview that encapsulates the key aspects of your plan. It provides a snapshot of your business's purpose, target market, services offered, competitive advantage and financial projections. The executive summary serves as an introduction to your business plan, giving readers a glimpse of what to expect.

To craft a clear executive summary for a DJ business like GrooveBeat Entertainment, focus on highlighting your unique style, the range of events you cater to and your commitment to creating unforgettable experiences.

Here's an example: “GrooveBeat Entertainment is a dynamic DJ services company committed to delivering exceptional musical experiences at weddings, parties and corporate events. With a diverse playlist and a passion for reading the crowd, we bring energy and excitement to every occasion. Our projected growth anticipates a 30% increase in bookings within the first year as we establish our brand as a reliable source of entertainment that keeps the dance floor buzzing.”

02. Business and domain names

Choosing an appropriate business name is crucial for your brand identity. Your name should reflect your business values and appeal to your target market. You can use a business name generator to think of a creative name. Then, choose a domain name that matches. Make sure to keep it simple and memorable. Avoid using characters, numbers and hyphens and be sure to check that it's available for use.

Be inspired: DJ name ideas

Remember to register your business once you’ve landed on a name and legal structure.

03. Market analysis and research

For this section, conduct market research to identify the events and demographics most likely to benefit from your DJ services. This analysis will help tailor your marketing efforts to specific client needs.

Make sure to also study other local DJ businesses to identify gaps in the market or unique selling points. This will help you identify ways to differentiate yourself, plus promote yourself on the right channels.

04. Operations plan

Your operations plans should cover the following components in relation to your DJ business:

Location: Determine whether you'll primarily operate in a specific city or if you're willing to travel for gigs and events.

Equipment: List the equipment needed for various types of events, such as sound systems, lighting and backup gear. Regular maintenance and equipment updates are essential for reliability.

Staffing: Define the number of DJs and assistants you'll need based on event size and complexity. Specify roles and responsibilities to ensure smooth event execution.

05. Marketing and advertising plan

You might want to consider the following marketing strategies and ideas in order to promote your DJ business. Be sure to lay these out clearly in your business plan.

Event showcases: You can attend local events or fairs to showcase your DJ skills. This provides potential clients with a live experience of your talent and music.

Online portfolio: Make a website showcasing your services, past events and client testimonials. Use social media platforms to share event photos and engage with followers.

Networking: Collaborate with event planners, wedding venues and other vendors to tap into their networks and gain referrals.

Need a cool DJ logo ? Try Wix’s free logo maker . And learn how to make a DJ logo for your brand.

06. Financial plan

You’ll need to factor the following into your financial planning efforts for your DJ business plan. The main ones include:

Startup costs: Estimate expenses for equipment purchase and maintenance, marketing materials and initial event showcases.

Revenue projections: Project revenue based on the number of events and average service fees. Aim for steady growth at first.

Funding: Consider self-funding, personal savings or a small business loan to secure the necessary funds for startup and initial operations.

Profitability roadmap: With a solid marketing strategy and efficient event execution, anticipate reaching profitability within the first 12 to 18 months.

Hypothetical DJ business plan example: HarmonyGroove Entertainment

HarmonyGroove Entertainment is poised to make waves in the DJ industry by offering an exceptional blend of music, energy and entertainment at various events. Our versatile and professional approach sets us apart, ensuring memorable experiences for clients and their guests. We project a 25% increase in bookings within the first year as we establish our brand as a go-to source for high-quality DJ services.

Company and domain names

Company name: HarmonyGroove Entertainment

Domain name: www.HarmonyGrooveEntertainment.com

Our company name, "HarmonyGroove Entertainment," reflects our commitment to creating seamless musical experiences that resonate with our clients. The corresponding domain name reinforces our brand identity, making it easy for clients to find us online.

Marketing analysis and research

Target market: Our research reveals a demand for skilled DJs at weddings, corporate events and private parties. We'll focus on serving clients who appreciate a diverse range of music genres and a DJ who can cater to their specific preferences.

Competitor analysis: We've analyzed other DJ businesses and identified an opportunity to stand out by offering a broader musical repertoire and personalized event planning. This analysis informs our marketing strategies and helps us identify gaps in the market.

Location: While based in Los Angeles, we're open to traveling for events across California. This flexibility allows us to cater to a broader range of clients and events.

Premises and equipment: We'll invest in top-notch sound systems, lighting equipment and backup gear to ensure seamless performances. Regular equipment maintenance is essential for our reliability.

Staffing: Our team will include skilled DJs with expertise in various genres, as well as event planners to collaborate with clients on event details and music selections.

Event showcases: We'll host regular DJ showcases at local venues, inviting potential clients to experience our musical style and energy live.

Online presence: A professional website will feature our portfolio, testimonials and event photos. We'll actively engage on social media platforms to connect with potential clients.

Networking: We'll establish relationships with event planners, wedding venues and other event vendors to generate referrals and collaborative opportunities.

Startup costs: Our initial expenses will cover equipment purchase and maintenance, marketing materials and event showcases. We anticipate an initial investment of $20,000.

Revenue projections: Projected revenue will be based on the number of events booked and our competitive service fees. We aim for consistent growth, targeting a 20% increase in revenue annually.

Funding: We plan to fund the business through personal savings and a small business loan to secure the necessary funds for startup and initial operations.

Profitability timeline: With a focused marketing approach and stellar event execution, we anticipate reaching profitability within the first 12 to 15 months.

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How to start a DJ business in 5 simple steps

Amy Wilder Community Manager

Jan 24, 2024

Launching a DJ business can be an exciting and profitable venture for anyone with a passion for music and entertaining crowds. But remember that starting any business takes work. As a DJ and new business owner, you’ll be responsible for everything from building your playlist and shopping for equipment to marketing your services and booking events.

Don’t worry, with some planning and hustle, you can get your own mobile DJ operation up and running in no time. The key is to start small, with events run by friends and family, like birthday parties or sweet sixteen events. Just don’t overlook the necessary steps you need to take to make your business official, ensure you have the equipment you need, and promote your business to the crowds.

It may seem daunting, but with the right dedication and strategy, you can turn your love of music into a thriving business. Read on for the five steps you’ll need to establish your DJ services and start delighting clients.

Make your DJ business official

Sure, you could keep spinning tunes for friends and getting paid as a freelancer, but it’s more professional to register your business and make it official. Here’s what’s involved in licensing your DJ business.

Choose a business structure.

A sole proprietorship is simple but leaves you personally liable for business debts, while a Limited Liability Company (LLC) protects you from business liability but has more paperwork. Consult a lawyer to determine the best structure for your needs.

Select a business name.

This might be your DJ stage name, or a different name for your business. Register your business with your state’s Chamber of Commerce using your new business name and a business address.

Get a tax number

If you’re operating as an LLC, you’ll automatically get an EIN (employer identification number) from the IRS. If you’re a sole proprietor, you can register on the IRS website and get one within a few minutes. This helps identify you for tax purposes.

Create a business plan for your DJ company

To start a successful DJ business, you’ll need a solid plan to guide you. Creating a business plan helps you outline your vision, target the right customers, and prepare for challenges. You can keep it simple, but you should include these elements:

Your target market. Will you focus on weddings, corporate events or birthday parties, provide full DJ and emcee services or just play music, work as a mobile DJ or only cover a limited geographic area?

Your financial estimates. Outline where you’ll get the capital to buy the equipment you need to get started, what expenses you expect on a regular basis, and how much income you predict on a monthly and annual basis. Think 1-3 years ahead.

Your marketing plan. Describe how you’ll promote your DJ services and attract new clients, like using social media, a professional website, email marketing, and flyers in your local community centers.

The competition. Research and detail other DJs that serve your target market, and explain what makes your DJ business stand out.

Obtain DJ equipment and music

To start a mobile DJ business, you’ll need equipment that is portable yet powerful enough for events, as well as plenty of tracks from different genres.

Get the right DJ equipment

Research popular options at various price points, and look for bundled packages or good quality second-hand items to save money.

Your initial shopping list should include:

A laptop is essential for playing digital music and DJ software. Look for one with lots of storage space.

DJ controllers, which are hardware that connects to your laptop to intuitively queue up and mix songs. Popular brands are Pioneer and Numark.

A mixer to combine multiple audio signals into one output. A 2-channel mixer is good enough for beginners.

Speakers with a subwoofer provide full range sound for small to midsize events. Look for a minimum of 1000 watts total power.

Over-ear headphones let you preview songs before playing them through the speakers.

Microphones are useful for making announcements and taking requests. Wireless mics free you up to move around.

Lighting is optional but can enhance the mood. LED par cans, laser lights, and strobe lights are popular.

You’ll also need a way to transport your gear to and from events, so consider purchasing a van or trailer.

Build your music library

As well as equipment, you’ll need to build a music library with a wide range of genres so you’re ready to please any crowd. It’s a good idea to subscribe to an online music streaming service, for legal access to thousands of songs. Consider a service with an affordable DJ subscription plan like TIDAL, Beatport Link or BPM Supreme, but you can also play music from streaming services like Spotify and Soundcloud.

Alternatively, you can purchase must-have tracks from digital music stores like Beatport, Juno Download or Bandcamp, or record pools that offer monthly music downloads tailored to DJs. Some top options are DJ City, Digital DJ Pool and BPM Supreme. This way you can mix your own mashups and bring your unique flair to your playlists.

It’s worth investing in music management software to organize a large collection. Serato and Rekordbox are popular DJ library tools that sort, tag, and create playlists.

Market your DJ business

Now that you have registered your business, outlined your vision, and gotten the equipment you need, it’s time to start marketing your DJ business to attract clients and book events. A successful marketing strategy will help get the word out about your new business and bring in more customers. Here are some of the best ways to promote your new DJ business

Build a website

A website is one of the best ways to market your DJ services and establish an online presence. Include details about your experience, equipment, music library, and pricing, and optimize your site for search engines so potential clients can easily find you.

Utilize social media

Having a strong social media presence is essential for marketing yourself as a DJ, so create social media profiles on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, and post regularly to build brand awareness. Post updates about your DJing, share photos and videos from events, promote upcoming gigs, and engage with your followers.

Share interesting content

Creative content like blog posts, photos, videos, and podcasts are great for showcasing your knowledge and skills, and will attract more potential customers to your business. For example, you could start a video series where you share tips for planning a party or review the latest DJ equipment.

Promote your DJ services offline

Attend industry meetups, wedding expos, school events, and more. Set up a booth to hand out business cards and flyers, network with attendees, and look for opportunities to DJ at upcoming events. You never know where you might find new potential clients.

Build relationships with other vendors

Connect with photographers, event planners, caterers, and venue owners in your area to let them know about your DJ business and see if they’d be open to referrals or recommendations. These types of partnerships and word-of-mouth marketing can be very valuable for small business owners.

Build your reputation as a skilful DJ business

The best opportunities come about through word of mouth. Play at as many gigs as possible to gain experience, build your reputation and skills, try out new music and equipment, and boost your confidence.

Develop your DJ Skills

Practice your DJing skills at home, create playlists and mixes to build your repertoire, and listen to the latest songs to stay on top of popular music trends. It can also be worth taking a DJ course or watching tutorial videos to improve your technique.

Boost your reputation

The key to finding more work as a DJ is building a solid reputation. Start by offering your DJ services for birthday parties, school dances, or other local events, and provide the best experience possible for your clients by using professional equipment, dressing for the occasion, and engaging with guests. Ask happy clients to leave reviews on your business profiles and social media to help you get discovered.

Strengthen your professional network

Connecting with others in your industry is one of the best ways to find new opportunities. Meet other DJs in your area, join online communities, and don’t be afraid to ask fellow DJs about available gigs. Get to know venue owners, event planners, and photographers and let them know you’re available for upcoming events and parties. Exchange business cards, follow up, and try to build genuine relationships.

Your new DJ business is waiting for you

Starting any business is challenging, but by following these 5 steps you’ll be well on your way to success as a DJ business owner. Promote your services, build your online presence, define your target market, and get out there to network and market your business at upcoming events. With hard work and persistence, you’ll gain more experience, build your reputation, and attract new clients, and soon you’ll have a thriving mobile DJ company!

Better your business with vcita’s complete business management platform.

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How to Start a Mobile DJ Business

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business ideas » Entertainment Industry » DJ

Do you want to start a mobile DJ company? If YES, here is a complete guide to starting a mobile DJ business with NO money and no experience plus a   sample mobile DJ business plan template.

If you have ever considered starting an entertainment related business in the united states, a business that is not highly competitive, then one of your options will be to start a mobile DJ business. The Mobile DJ business is concerned with moving from one location to another in a bid to carry out your services as a Disc Jockey (DJ).

It is a business that is doing moderately well in the United States of America and Canada Depending on the scale you want to start, the startup capital for this type of business can be considered to be low or perhaps moderate.

As a matter of fact, you can start your own mobile DJ business and then grow it big within a short period of time by reinvesting your profits back to the business. Before launching this type of business, it will pay you carry out your due diligence as it relates to market research, economic and cost analysis and of course feasibility studies .

If you get things right before launching your mobile DJ business, it will not take you long before you break-even and start smiling to the bank. Here is how to go about starting your mobile DJ business in the United States.

Steps to Starting a Mobile DJ Business

1. understand the industry.

A disc jockey which is popularly called a DJ is a person who mixes recorded music in real time from any sources, including cassettes, CDs, or digital audio files on a digital media player or laptop. Disc Jockeys often perform for a live audience at a club or other venue or for a broadcast audience.

So also, DJs create mixes that are recorded for later sale and distribution and for playback during DJ sets. Disc Jockeys make use of musical equipment that can play at least two sources of recorded music simultaneously and mix them together using an electronic gadget known as DJ mixer machine.

There is a large market for DJs because it is a known fact that Disc Jockeys are a well – accepted component of the entertainment industry. They are known to provide background music at night clubs, bars, and parties and even in corporate events.

In most cases, at special occasions like weddings or in clubs, Disc Jockeys are often the focus of the entertainment and if they perform below expectation it will definitely affect the overall rating of the event.

The demand for the services of disc jockeys is on the increase, as growth in household formation rates expanded the available clientele base for industry players and rising per capita disposable income. As the economy improved and small – business lending increased, the number of operators in this industry experienced steady increase.

As a result of this, the competition in the industry is extremely high, leading profit to only improve marginally over the period, despite noticeably improved economic conditions.

In the face of economic recovery, the overall revenue generated in the Disc Jockey line of business shrunk slightly in 2011, as businesses and consumers wary of the recent recession held off on event spending. On the other hand, renewed assurance in the economy in successive years has encouraged businesses and consumers to host events that require the services of Disc Jockeys.

Continued economic recoveries will likely aid growth through 2022. So also, with higher personal and corporate income, households and businesses are projected to expand their party budgets, which will allow them to spend more on hiring Disc Jockeys.

The Entertainment and Leisure Industry that mobile DJ business is a part of is indeed a large and vibrant industry not only in the United States of America and but also in most countries of the world as long as parties and events are organized there.

The mobile DJ business will continue to blossom because people will always organize parties and other related entertainment events. This industry is not saturated and there is room big enough to accommodate aspiring entrepreneurs who intend opening their own mobile DJ business in the United States of America.

Some of the factors that encourage entrepreneurs to start their own mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) business could be that the business is thriving and easy to set up and manage with minimal startup capital and manpower. The truth is that if a mobile DJ business is well – structured and also well positioned in an environment with the right demography, they will sure attract regular clients and their services will be booked all through the year.

2. Conduct Market Research and Feasibility Studies

• Demographics and Psychographics

The demographic and psychographic composition of those who patronize mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) businesses cut across all genders including households, schools and businesses that organize parties, and those who have the financial means, hence the demographic composition for mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) businesses is all encompassing.

Your target market can’t be restricted to just a group of people but all adults, households and businesses within your target location.

3. Decide Which Niche to Concentrate On

It is important to state that there is no known niche area when it comes to the mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) business. Every player in this line of business makes use of musical equipment that can play at least two sources of recorded music simultaneously and mix them together using an electronic gadget known as DJ mixer machine.

The Level of Competition in the Industry

The competition that exists in the mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) business goes beyond competitions within players in this line of business; you will be expected to compete with any other business such as event planners et al that also have disc jockeys under their payroll.

So, it will be right to say the competition in the mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) business is relatively tough. The truth is that no matter the level of competition in an industry, if you have done your due diligence and you brand and promote your services or business properly, you will always make headway in the industry.

Just ensure that you have standard music mixing machines, laptop and related gadgets, experienced and competent disc jockeys and you know how to attract and reach out to your target market.

4. Know Your Major Competitors in the Industry

These are some of the leading mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) businesses in the United States of America and in the globe;

• Benny Blanco
• Cheat Codes
• Louis The Child
• David Guetta
• Calvin Harris
• The Chainsmokers
• Seth Troxler
• Markus Schulz
• Dillon Francis

Economic Analysis

If you are looking towards successfully launching a business and maximizing profits, then you need to ensure that you get your economic and cost analysis right and try as much as possible to adopt best practices in the industry you choose to build a business in.

Mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) business is not a Green business, as a matter of fact, you will come across several mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) businesses when you go sourcing for one.

So, if you are mapping out your economic analysis, you should carry out thorough market survey to find out the amount needed to purchase DJ mixing machines, laptop, van and other related gadgets and of course music that are in demand in your location, and also the cost to successfully run the business.

Over and above, if you are considering starting a mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) business, then your concern should not be limited to the cost of purchasing your gadgets and van, but also on branding and on how to build a robust clientele base. The truth is that if you are able to build a robust clientele base, you are sure going to maximize profits in the business.

5. Decide Whether to Buy a Franchise or Start from Scratch

If you are looking towards starting a mobile Disc Jockey business, you would have to start from the very scratch because you can hardly get the franchise of a mobile Disc Jockey business to buy.

Besides starting a mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) business from the scratch is less stressful when compared to other small – scale businesses. With a mobile Disc Jockey business, you should just try as much as possible to purchase the needed gadgets and then leverage on every marketing tool within your disposal especially the internet when it comes to marketing your business.

Please note that most of the successful mobile DJ businesses around started from the scratch and they were able to build a solid business brand. It takes dedication, hard work and determination to achieve business success.

6. Know the Possible Threats and Challenges You Will Face

If you decide to start your own mobile Disc Jockey business today, one of the major challenges you are likely going to face is the presence of well – established mobile Disc Jockey businesses and any other business such as event planners that also have Disc Jockey’s under their payroll. The only way to avoid this challenge is to create your own market.

Some other challenges and threats that you are likely going to face is economic downturn; if the economy is in a bad shape, mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) businesses and the likes usually struggle to maintain their old customers or even welcome new customers. So also, unfavorable government policies can also hamper the growth of your business.

7. Choose the Most Suitable Legal Entity (LLC, C Corp, S Corp)

When considering starting a mobile Disc Jockey business, the legal entity you choose will go a long way to determine how big the business can grow.

You can either choose a general partnership, Limited Liability Company, or a sole proprietorship for your mobile Disc Jockey business. Sole proprietorship is the ideal business structure for a small – scale mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) business especially if you are just starting out with moderate startup capital in a small neighborhood.

8. Choose a Catchy Business Name

As it relates to choosing a name for your business, you should be creative because whatever name you choose for your business will go a long way to create a perception of what the business represents. If you are considering starting your own mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) business, here are some catchy names that you can choose from;

• Jeff Teddy® Mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) Services, Inc.
• Part Ryders™ Mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) Service, LLC
• B M X™ Mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) Services, Inc.
• Broadway® Mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) Service, LLC
• Gab Marshal® Mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) Services, Inc.
• Jason Clarkson® Mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) Services, Inc.
• Rock ‘N’ Roll© Mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) Services, Inc.
• DJ Folly™ Mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) Service, LLC
• DJ Holly™ Mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) Services, Inc.
• DJ Knuckles® Mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) Service, Inc.

9. Discuss with an Agent to Know the Best Insurance Policies for You

In the United States and in most countries of the world, you can’t operate a business without having some of the basic insurance policy covers that are required by the industry you want to operate from. So, it is important to create a budget for insurance and perhaps consult an insurance broker to guide you in choosing the best and most appropriate insurance policies for your mobile Disc Jockey business.

Here are some of the basic insurance covers that you should consider purchasing if you want to start your own mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) business in the United States of America;

• General insurance
• Auto Insurance (for your truck/van)
• Personal Accident Insurance
• Personal Effects Coverage
• Commercial Auto Liability
• Health insurance
• Liability insurance
• Workers Compensation
• Overhead expense disability insurance
• Business owner’s policy group insurance

10. Protect your Intellectual Property With Trademark, Copyrights, Patents

If you are considering starting your own mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) business, usually you may not have any need to file for intellectual property protection/trademark. This is because the nature of the business makes it possible for you to run it without having any cause to challenge anybody in court for illegally making use of your company’s intellectual properties.

But if you just want to protect your company’s logo and other documents or software that are unique to you or even jingles and media production concepts, then you can go ahead to file for intellectual property protection. If you want to register your trademark, you are expected to begin the process by filing an application with the USPTO.

11. Get the Necessary Professional Certification

When it comes to mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) business, you do not need to have any formal training or special certification before you can be allowed to start up. All you need is informal training that will expose you to the in and out of the business.

On the other hand, if you come across any form of certification that can aid you to effectively manage and grow your mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) business, then by all mean try and pursue such certification, like the Pioneer DJ Certified and DJ & Producer Certificate .

12. Get the Necessary Legal Documents You Need to Operate

The essence of having the necessary documentation in place before launching a business in the United States of America cannot be overemphasized. It is a fact that you cannot successfully run any business in the United States without the proper documentations.

If you do, it won’t be too long before the long hand of the law catches up with you. These are some of the basic legal documents that you are expected to have in place if you want to legally run your own mobile Disc Jockey business in the United States of America;

• Certificate of Incorporation
• Business License
• Tax Payer’s ID / Tax Identification Number
• Business Plan
• Copy of license for recent inspection report
• Employee Handbook
• Employment Agreement (offer letters)
• Operating Agreement for LLCs
• Insurance Policy
• Online Terms of Use
• Online Privacy Policy Document (basically for online payment portal)
• Company Bylaws
• Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
• Franchise or Trademark License (optional)

13. Raise the Needed Startup Capital

Starting a mobile Disc Jockey business can be cost effective especially if you choose to start on a small scale. Purchasing standard mixing machines, laptop, van and other related gadgets are part of what will consume a large chunk of your startup capital, but if you choose to start the business on a large scale, you need to go source for fund to finance the business.

No doubt when it comes to financing a business, one of the first things you should consider is to write a good business plan. If you have a good and workable business plan document in place, you may not have to labor yourself before convincing your bank, investors and your friends to invest in your business.

Here are some of the options you can explore when sourcing for startup capital for your mobile Disc Jockey business;

• Raising money from personal savings and sale of personal stocks and properties
• Raising money from investors and business partners
• Sell shares to interested investors
• Applying for Loan from your Bank
• Source for soft loans from your family members and your friends.

14. Choose a Suitable Location for your Business

When it comes to choosing a location for your mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) business, the rule of thumb is that you should be guided by the frequency of parties and related entertainment events. Of course, if you are able to secure a central location for your mobile Disc Jockey business, it will help people locate you easily.

But if you want to cut your expenses, you can run the business from your home, or even out of your van. These are some of the key factors that you should consider before choosing a location for your mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) business;

• The demography of the location
• The demand for DJs in the location
• The frequency at which parties are done in the location
• Accessibility of the location
• The number of mobile Disc Jockey businesses and any other business such as event planners that supply DJs in the location
• The local laws and regulations in the community / state
• Traffic, parking and security et al

15. Hire Employees for your Technical and Manpower Needs

On the average, there are no special technology or equipment needed to run this type of business except for DJ mixing machines, laptop, van and other related gadgets and software applications and all these can be gotten as fairly used.

When it comes to hiring employees for a standard mobile Disc Jockey business, you should make plans to hire a competent Manager (you can occupy this role), Disc Jockeys, and Van Drivers.

The Service Delivery Process of the Business

When it comes to the business service process of a mobile Disc Jockey business, the process is simple and straightforward and can be run on autopilot. Generally, a mobile Disc Jockey business lists out the different types of services. When a party organizer or customer approaches them, they agree on the price of the service to be rendered, payment is made, and deposit is also made.

The deposit is compulsory because it is used to replace any damaged equipment at the venue. In most cases, once the payment and deposit are done, the DJ and driver take the required gadgets to the chosen location, set up the equipment, perform in the party and entertain the guests.

It is important to state that a mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) business may decide to improvise or adopt any business process and structure that will guarantee them efficiency and flexibility.

16. Write a Marketing Plan Packed with ideas & Strategies

Generally, running a business requires that you should be proactive when it comes to marketing your goods or services. If you choose to launch a mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) business, then you must employ strategies that will help you attract customers or else you will likely struggle with the business because there are well – known brands that determine the market direction of the business.

These are some of the marketing ideas and strategies that you can adopt for your mobile Disc Jockey business;

• Introduce your mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) business by sending introductory letters alongside your brochure to households, event planners and other key stakeholders in the neighborhood where your business will be located
• Advertise on the internet on blogs and forums, and also on social media like Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn to get your message across
• Create a basic website for your business so as to give your business an online presence
• Directly market your services.
• Join local disc jockeys associations for industry trends and tips
• Provide discount days for your customers
• Advertise your business in community based newspapers, local TV and radio stations
• List your business on yellow pages ads (local directories)
• Encourage the use of Word of mouth marketing (referrals)

17. Work Out a Reasonable Pricing for your Services & Products

One key factor that will help you deploy your disc jockey services at rock bottom prices is to ensure that you obtain your business loan from financial institutions that will not put pressure on you; you should source for loan that will give you enough time to pay back.

Another strategy that will help you is to ensure that you cut operational costs to the barest minimum and channel your efforts towards marketing and promoting your brand name. Aside from the fact that this strategy will help you save cost, it will also help you get the right pricing for your services.

You can also try as much as possible to work with independent contractors and marketers, it will help you save cost of paying sales and marketing executives.

18. Develop Iron-clad Competitive Strategies to Help You Win

The availability of standard DJ mixing machines and related gadgets under your care, your business process and of course your pricing model are part of what you need to stay competitive in the industry.

Another possible competitive strategy for winning your competitors in this particular industry is to offer freebies once in a while to your clients. Over and above, ensure that your organization is well positioned, key members of your team are highly qualified and your DJ music mixing machines and other related gadgets can favorably compete with the some of the best in the industry.

19. Brainstorm Possible Ways to Retain Clients & Customers

When it comes to business, no matter the industry that you choose to pitch your tent in, one of the easiest ways to increase customer retention and perhaps to attract new customers is to produce results and satisfy your customers always. If your customers are satisfied with your services delivery, they can hardly source for alternative service providers.

Statistics has it that one of the major reasons why clients source for alternative service providers is when there is a drop in quality. Another reason is poor customer service. Ensure that you offer your customers incentives if you want to retain them and of course continue to generate repeated sales from them and also to attract new customers.

Part of what you need to do to achieve this is to track progress, results or outputs with the aim of improving on them quickly as the case demands. When it comes to managing your customers, and building loyal clientele base, you should purchase a customized CRM software.

With a customized CRM system, you can easily stay in touch with your clients (you can carry out quick surveys, you can introduce new products and prices to them without any hitch, you can felicitate with them on their birthdays and other anniversaries, you can keep track of their progress, you can send bulk sms and customized e – mails and above all, you can easily receive compliant and feedback from them).

20. Develop Strategies to Boost Brand Awareness and Create a Corporate Identity

If you are in business and you are not conscious about boosting you brand awareness and communicating your corporate identity, then you should be ready to take on whatever the society portrays your business to be. One of the secrets of larger corporations is that they are willing to spend fortunes to boost their brand awareness.

If your intention of starting a mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) business is to grow the business beyond the city where you are going to be operating from to become a national and international brand by franchising, then you must be ready to spend money on promotion and advertisement of your brand.

Here are the platforms you can leverage on to boost your brand awareness and create a corporate identity for your business;

• Place adverts on both print (newspapers and events and lifestyle magazines) and electronic media platforms
• Sponsor relevant community based events / programs
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Google + et al to promote your mobile Disc Jockey business
• Install your Billboards in strategic locations all around your city or state
• Engage in roadshows from time to time in targeted neighborhoods to create awareness of your company
• Distribute your fliers and handbills in target areas
• List your company in local directories/yellow pages
• Advertise your mobile DJ business in your official website and employ strategies that will help you pull traffic to the site.
• Position our Flexi Banners at strategic positions in the location where your company is located.
• Ensure that all your disc jockeys wear your branded shirts and all your mixing machines, laptops, and public address gadgets and trucks are branded with your company logo.

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How to Create a Mobile DJ Business Plan

• December 23, 2021

Table of Contents

What is a mobile DJ and what do they do? A mobile DJ is a DJ who travels to different venues with their own equipment, different from a regular DJ who shows up to venues and uses the venues’ equipment. Think about a DJ who plays at a wedding with their own equipment—that is the perfect example of a mobile DJ. Both types of DJs require a lot of hard work and dedication to the job. It’s not an easy task to put together several hours of music for just one show.

At Insurance Canopy, we offer DJ insurance and DJ business tips. We’ll share with you how to create a mobile DJ business plan, and things you need to be a DJ, so you can take your business on the road and to the next level.

Step #1: Put Together a DJ Business Plan

The first step in creating a mobile DJ business is to put together a business plan. A business plan guides you through each stage of starting and managing your business . This can include the services that you are going to provide, what type of gigs and shows you will play, how much your services will cost, how you will market your mobile DJ business, who your target audience will be, where you will be providing your services, what your business’ budget will look like, and more.

Establishing all of these things upfront will help you have a clear plan in mind of what you want your business to look like, how it will operate, and what you would like to achieve as a DJ.

Take the time to develop a great DJ business plan, as you will be referring back to it often as you get your business started and growing. When you have completed your business plan, you are ready for the next step: gathering your DJ equipment!

Step #2: Name and Register Your Business

Once you have lined out a mobile DJ business plan, you are ready to select a name for your business. This may be difficult, but it is very important because this is what your business will be known as. You will want to select a name that is unique, yet easy to remember. If you plan on creating a website for your mobile DJ business, keep in mind you will need to create a domain name , which is often the business name. Make sure that when you’re thinking of a business name, you also check for website names that are available.

After you have selected a name you like, you will want to register your business. This is different for each business, because licenses and registrations differ depending on business operations and location. Take a look at the Small Business Associations’ website to learn more about what information you need and the necessary steps to register your mobile DJ business. You will also need to obtain an EIN in the registration process for your business’ tax purposes.

Step #3: Costs of Beginning a Mobile DJ Business

Gathering equipment and obtaining a vehicle to transport it all is the next step in a mobile DJ business plan. You’ll also need to organize other business needs, like taking inventory of equipment and thinking about employees if needed.

DJ Equipment

Gathering DJ equipment may be the most expensive step of starting a mobile DJ business. DJ equipment involves a lot of technology and there are several different things you need to be a DJ. Here is a list to help you get started:

• Vehicle (big enough to transport all your equipment)

DJ equipment typically costs thousands of dollars . Because there are different types and sizes of equipment for different needs, make sure you do your research so you can find what you’re looking for.

Once you have purchased your equipment, make sure it is in a safe place and you take good care of it. It is expensive to replace if stolen or damaged. However, if you have DJ insurance, you can have coverage for your tools and equipment, which leads to our next step—purchasing DJ insurance.

Organizational Needs

This step may or may not be needed, depending on your business model. If you are going to run your mobile DJ business as a one-man-show, you won’t need to hire other employees. However, if you plan on expanding your business quickly, you will need to hire additional employees and consider hiring a manager to keep track of your shows, expenses, and other business operations. You should also keep a spreadsheet to track your business information.

Purchase DJ Insurance

DJ insurance is essential if you plan on running a successful mobile DJ business. Many venues where you perform will require you to add them to your policy as an additional insured , so their property can be covered. If a guest at the event trips on your equipment and sustains an injury , someone spills their drink on your turntable, or your equipment damages the venue’s floor, you will be grateful you have DJ insurance.

Insurance Canopy provides three types of DJ insurance so you can purchase a policy that fits your needs. We offer a DJ event policy , monthly policy , and an annual policy . As a mobile DJ business owner, you will likely be performing at multiple events throughout the year, so you may be most interested in the annual policy. Our year-round coverage costs $192 per year and includes both general liability and professional liability insurance. If you’re new to DJ insurance or have any questions, feel free to reach out to our licensed insurance agents today .

Market Your DJ Business

Your final step in starting a mobile DJ business is to market your business. This step will take some time and will be ongoing, so you can always be finding new gigs and events. Marketing is different for each business and what may work for one, may not work for you.

Start by telling everyone about your new mobile DJ business and ask them to spread the word. You can also create a website and link it to Google My Business so people can leave online reviews about your business. On your website you will want to include your services offered, your contact information, prices, and any other relevant business information.

You should also post on social media platforms to share pictures and videos of your DJ business. Pick a platform or two—whether that be TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, etc.—and post consistent content. You can also consider printing business cards so you can hand them out to people at the events you perform at. Collaborate and network with other DJs in the area to stay connected and up-to-date with current DJ trends and events.

Start Doing What You Love

We hope these steps listed above have been informative and helpful to get you started with your mobile DJ business. Start with selecting a name and registering your business, put together a mobile DJ business plan, purchase all the necessary equipment, make sure you obtain DJ insurance, then never stop marketing your business. We wish you the best of luck in all your DJ endeavors!

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Sample Mobile DJ Service Business Plan

Mobile dj business plan sample.

Starting a mobile Disc Jockey (DJ) business is surely a good idea, especially since our society today is one that loves and appreciates music.

A Disc Jockey business is one that we will continue to see springing up, as long as we will always have events and parties, or the need to play music to a large audience.

By now, you should be familiar with the steps necessary for starting a mobile DJ business, and are set to write a good and simple business plan for your mobile DJ business.

Need to write a plan for your venture? Download a FREE Business Plan PDF Sample to develop a template for your own startup.

Here is a sample business plan for starting a mobile DJ business.

BUSINESS NAME:  Emcee Mick Mickey DJ Services.

Executive Summary

Our Products and Services

Vision Statement

Mission Statement

Business Structure

• Market Analysis

Sales and Marketing Strategy

• Financial Plan

Sales Forecast

Emcee Mick Mickey DJ Services is a fully registered mobile DJ business which will be carrying out its business operations in Los Angeles, United States.

The business will be concerned with providing music related services to its clients.

Emcee Mick Mickey will be the owner and CEO of Emcee Mick Mickey DJ Services. He has contributed a total of $150,000 towards starting up the business, while plans have been made to secure the remainder from the bank to complete the total startup capital of $300,000.

Emcee Mick Mickey DJ Services is a mobile DJ business in Los Angeles, United States which will be particularly interested in providing its services to clients in the United States.

We are a fully equipped DJ and musical equipment rental service business whose primary aim is profit-making.

Our business is a mobile one, and we will be going around offering our services to our clients, rather than them coming to us.

The following are the products and services which we will be providing to our customers:

• Handling the affairs of our clients’ events as regards music and entertainment such as wedding parties, birthday parties, corporate events, graduation parties, etc.
• Fully running a standard musical equipment rental service.
• Retailing mixed records / music.
• Advisory and consultancy services as regards entertainment and disc jockeying.

Our vision in the industry is to become a standard disc jockey and musical equipment rental services company that will become a major force in the industry in the whole of Los Angeles, and other major cities in the United States of America.

We want to make sure Emcee Mick Mickey DJ Services becomes a household name before our tenth anniversary.

Our mission in the industry is to become a very reputable mobile DJ business that will be vital to promoting quality music services in Los Angeles and the whole of the United States and Canada as well.

We want to grow a profitable business that will be vital towards providing quality services.

The business structure of any business goes a long way towards determining the success of the business. This is the reason why we will pay maximum attention to our DJ business structure.

We will take very seriously our recruitment process. We will make sure to hire professional hands that are very skilled and proficient in their respective fields.

They will occupy the following positions in our business:

• Manager (CEO and owner)
• Sales and Marketing Executive
• Accountant / Cashier
• Disc Jockey (Deejays) (5)
• Truck Driver
• Customer Service Personnel

Market Analysis Market Trend

One notable trend in the industry is that any disc jockey company that wants to stay relevant and on top of the game has to always keep abreast with the latest changes and developments as regards technology in the industry.

Target Market

We have identified the following groups to constitute our target market:

• Event Planners
• Facility managers
• Individuals and Households
• Restaurant, bars, Hotels, and Motels
• Camp grounds
• Music producers as well as concert organizers
• Schools and Institutions
• Night clubs
• Residential Places

Our business will primarily be promoted by great customers’ services as well as quality delivery.

We well know how important developing a good sales and marketing strategy is to the success of a business; hence, we have done well in creating a good sales and marketing strategy and programme which will help us fully promote our DJ services to clients.

The following ways are how we have intended to implement our sales and marketing scheme:

• First, we will go around introducing our DJ business to everyone in our neighbourhood in Los Angeles. This, we will fully carry out by means of our introductory letters and fliers.
• We will encourage friends and family as well as our esteemed clients to help spread the word about our DJ business.
• We will particularly advertise our DJ business on relevant magazines, newspapers, radio and TV stations.
• We will use the social media platforms such as Twitter and Instagram to the full in promoting our business.
• We will keep abreast and connect with top stakeholders and prospective clients alike, by attending expos, seminars, business fairs, etc.

Financial Plan Source of Startup Capital

If you intend to really make it big in this industry, you must put in enough resources.

So far we have been able to realize a total of $150,000 from the owner, Emcee Mick Mickey. We will however need to obtain a loan of $150,000 from the owner’s bank to complete the startup capital.

Below is the sales forecast for our DJ business, Emcee Mick Mickey DJ Services.

This sales forecast is for the first three years after launching our mobile DJ business. It is however based on credible statistical data which we were able to obtain in the industry.

First Fiscal Year $250,000 Second Fiscal Year $500,000 Third Fiscal Year $900,000

This article contains a DJ business plan sample which bears the name, ‘Emcee Mick Mickey DJ Services’. The business will be carrying out its operations in Los Angeles, United States.

It will be owned and headed by Emcee Mick Mickey.

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Dj Business Plan Template & Guidebook

How to write a dj business plan in 7 steps:, 1. describe the purpose of your dj business..

It also helps to include a vision statement so that readers can understand what type of company you want to build.

2. Products & Services Offered by Your Dj Business.

When you think about the products and services that you offer, it's helpful to ask yourself the following questions:

3. Build a Creative Marketing Stratgey.

If you don't have a marketing plan for your dj business, it's time to write one. Your marketing plan should be part of your business plan and be a roadmap to your goals. 

Target market

Customer base , product or service description, competitive analysis, marketing channels, form an llc in your state, 4. write your operational plan., what equipment, supplies, or permits are needed to run a dj business.

In addition to these basic requirements, you may also want to invest in other equipment and supplies to help you provide high-quality DJ services, such as backup equipment, cables, and cases to transport your gear. You may also want to take classes or workshops to improve your DJ skills and stay up to date with the latest music and technology in the field.

5. Management & Organization of Your Dj Business.

6. dj business startup expenses & captial needed..

Startup costs are typically the first expenses you will incur when beginning an enterprise. These include legal fees, accounting expenses, and other costs associated with getting your business off the ground. The amount of money needed to start a dj business varies based on many different variables, but below are a few different types of startup costs for a dj business.

You should include any costs associated with marketing and sales, such as advertising and promotions, website design or maintenance. Also, consider any additional expenses that may be incurred if you decide to launch a new product or service line. For example, if your dj business has an existing website that needs an upgrade in order to sell more products or services, then this should be listed here.

7. Financial Plan & Projections

Here are some steps you can follow to devise a financial plan for your dj business plan:

Frequently Asked Questions About Dj Business Plans:

Why do you need a business plan for a dj business, how to write a business plan for your dj business).

To build a business plan for your dj business, start by researching your industry, competitors, and target market. Use this information to define your business's goals and objectives, as well as the strategies and tactics that you will use to achieve those goals. Next, create a financial plan that outlines your projected income, expenses, and profit. This should include a projected income statement, cash flow statement, and balance sheet. Once you have all of this information, you can use it to create a comprehensive business plan that outlines the goals and objectives of your business, as well as the strategies and tactics that you will use to achieve those goals. A well-written dj business plan contains the following sections: Purpose, Products & Services, Marketing Plan (including Marketing Strategy), Operations/Management Plan (including Operations/Management Strategy), Financial Plan (including Financial Forecasts), and Appendixes.

Can you write a dj business plan yourself?

Related business plans, home inventory business plan template & guidebook, home inspection business plan template & guidebook, home decor business plan template & guidebook, health and wellness business plan template & guidebook, hauling business plan template & guidebook, hardware business plan template & guidebook, handyman business plan template & guidebook, hair extension business plan template & guidebook, handbag business plan template & guidebook.

I'm Nick, co-founder of newfoundr.com, dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs succeed. As a small business owner with over five years of experience, I have garnered valuable knowledge and insights across a diverse range of industries. My passion for entrepreneurship drives me to share my expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to turn their business dreams into reality.

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Entrepreneurs in the (mobile) DJ business? (Is it B2B or B2C or some weird hybrid?)

I'm currently running a project for (mobile) DJs and I've found that it's an interesting industry. That is because:

It's technically a B2B industry. As a supplier I supply my product to mobile DJs, they're usually incorporated and are therefore formally considered to be a company.

Most mobile DJs have more income streams than their gigs. Some rent out equipment, some provide additional related services and many of them have a totally separate job, because the mobile DJ market isn't necessarily a gold mine. Because of this many DJs do not act in a similar fashion as a 'regular' company. They do not have long-term investment plans, they do not have separate management positions, they do not have a sales department and their marketing strategies usually consist for a large portion of word-of-mouth.

Furthermore I've noticed that the industry balances between a resentment because of the lack of pay, and a deep love for the thing they do, which results in undercutting to get more gigs. I feel like these businesses are both a hobby and a living, which creates entirely new challenges and opportunities as a supplier for them.

How do you deal with this?

I'm curious what you do in this world, and how you deal with it? Where do you apply B2B techniques (cold-calling, having a dedicated account manager, things like that) and where do you focus on B2C techniques to gain and maintain a good (and profitable) relation with your clients.

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