DJ GIG LOG: Venue vs. DJ (Navigating Challenges as a Wedding DJ)
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- čas přidán 11. 08. 2023
- When it comes to being a wedding DJ, adaptability is key. The unique dynamics of an intimate event can present unforeseen challenges. Such was the case with an 80-person wedding that tested my skills to the fullest. Sometimes we must navigate challenging environments and do what it takes to achieve the best outcomes for our couples. Join me as I delve into the intricacies of an intimate 80-person wedding, sharing insights into the difficulties faced and my creative solutions to keep the dance floor alive when they had every reason to leave.
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This is such a great video, I appreciate your breakdown of your gear, and also addressing the common challenges of mobile dj life. I have definitely come out of events feeling mentally fried, despite the systems I had in place to help things go smoothly, especially since there are a ton of "non-traditional" venues in my market. As mobile DJs, almost every time we go to work it's a new office, and I don't think people realize how much of a practice in flexibility and resilience it can be at times. Thank you!
You said it better than I did! Spot on! The fact that we are doing events in non traditional spaces means we really need to be on our toes and have the skills do adapt to the unique circumstances we face. Our job is to make it look easy when it’s not. 😅
Thanks for stopping by. I really appreciate your comment and time to check this out.
that part!! @@DJRachelLynch Such a great perspective, thank you!
Blacklist that joint and never go back! These venues expect people to sit down, drink cups of tea and eat scones and then leave by 9pm, your right they shouldn't be taking peoples money. Great Gig
I don’t plan on going back.
I did one in a barn one time and they came up during the 1st song with their decibel reader (playing r-e-s-p-e-ct...not loud). I thought they were joking. The owner came up later and asked if i could turn down more....i said, "look at this fader...if it goes down any more it'll be off". So she said, "what can we do to make the sound better in here?"...i simply said, "ah yeah..... don't do weddings".
😂 The honesty though. 💯
Sometime ya gotta just spit it out 😅
I agree with what you said about venues that aren't party venues. If they're so concerned about having the cops show up due to loud music playing during a party, then they shouldn't be having parties there in the first place.
When I do my videos I try to show those moments when the dance floor isn't filled because, let's face it, we all experience it. Sometimes it's the slow build. Those that say otherwise is simply a lie. Add to that the noise ordinance issues and you had a handful to manage, yet you absolutely rocked it. Keep on making incredible content. :)
You're so right! The mark of a great DJ is being able to navigate the times when the dance floor isn't naturally full and consistently work to build it up. I've seen you do this in your videos, and it's impressive to see. Keeping it real helps everyone. Clients should understand that if they have "things" that compete for their guests' attention, it can and will affect the dance floor. If they're cool with it, so am I. There's always a way to make it work!
Thanks for your time to watch Lou! 🙂
Venues opening in residential areas is the problem. I wish all couples knew this before selecting a venue. You make it look easy, which weddings are not easy. Also those mats look better than my rubber duct cord covers.
Dj Rachel. I have been a Dj since 1977 YES! I was 15 years old that year. In all my years of experience, it's interesting that you have the most common sense answers for up & coming Djs! I like that you are not only practical but give very easy-to-follow instructions on how to get the job done without highlighting your GREAT! partys of which you have had! Keep up the Great Job Dj Rachel A Dj friend in Los Angeles, Dj Mucho Martinez
I agree - venues shouldn't be taking money and signing contracts if they're concerned about cops being called for reasonable volume levels 🙃
They shouldn't have not took the money without telling them the truth and every event is not a home run. Thank you great job
Let me say This is one of the most relatable vids to date (12.30.23) the challenges of dealing with some of the wedding venues. Tight spaces. Slow dance floors (especially when there is too many activities for the guests outside the ballroom). Annoying management saying “turn down the music” lol Thanks Rachel.. Also I just order those mats which will be clutch for some of my outdoor events.
These mats have been so helpful. I bring them everywhere! To date this was one of the most challenging venue I have worked and as a result I now have a professional DB meter. No longer am I going to put up with “it’s seems too loud”. Let’s run the REAL numbers. 💯😂
Thank you for keeping it "real". In my 15+ years, I've a couple situations just like this. Fortunately, those dates are years behind me and I keep a mental list of those venues that aren't cut out for a full-fledge, modern wedding.
❤❤ the content!! YES I AGREE, let the party come to you when there's so many distractions with other vendors aka Fire Breathers ..lol😅 You have the patience of a Saint and a lesson well learned. Thanks for sharing what you ❤ and do Dj Rachel
Not sure why I said fire breathers. 😂😂 🔥 🔥
Gracias por compartir todo tu conocimiento y experiencia ❤
Having a decibel meter and hard limit specified is the way to go. Unless they give you a number and a meter, yours or theirs, will save things like this from happening. Great vid.
They had a hard limit specified. Their DB limit outside is 55DB. So essentially EVERYTHING is unreasonable. 😅
Thank you for addressing empty dance floors (that are not music related). I’ve always believed that a DJ’s job is about the overall vibe. If people are chilling checking out the games a couple set up, hanging by the bar, enjoying the beautiful weather, I don’t think any of that is an indictment on your abilities as a DJ. I think it’s better to “ride the wave” rather than resort to “desperation” by almost begging guests to come back/go to the dance floor.
Agreed! Never get desperate or discouraged. People can have fun on and off the dance floor. Obviously, you should be able to tell if people are still vibing and if you're programming music well, regardless of where they want to "hang out."
@@DJRachelLynch If any DJ has doubts, they need to ask themselves, are people coming up to me complaining about the music that I am playing? YES? NO? If YES, try to encourage input from those people, if NO, and chances are it will always be a NO when you're a seasoned professional, and in that case, just relax and know that people are enjoying what you're doing and that while you're job is to entertain them, it isn't to force them to dance. People will do what people will do and that's all you can do.
Great job as usual. Love the honesty and reality when things don’t go as planned. Thank god the pizza truck didn’t come you would lost the dj too 🤣
😂😂😂
Unpopular opinion: The best way to handle stuff like this, is for the most part not to care. Stress sucks. If asked to turn the music down, turn it down as they stand with you and let them tell you when to stop. Then leave the volume at that point and if the couple or guests complain, direct them to the venue manager. This way, if they bother you again it can be thrown back as you are doing as instructed. Word will get out that the venue is not party friendly through reviews and they will suffer. But this is a great vid with lots of food for thought.
Thanks for checking this out! I appreciate your time and comment!
Personally, I’d never want to bother the couple with this and pass this on to them. I’m there to handle the "issues" if possible. I don't plan on returning to the venue, so I have no problem if they "ban me" or don't like me. They were unreasonable and rude.
I was paid to show everyone a good time and I did. My couples come first, always. Moving forward, in any planning meetings I have with couples, I ask them if they are aware of any sound restrictions. If they are not, I suggest they check with the venue. I also do not recommend this venue to anyone. Like you said, it's the only way to combat venues like this that take people's money and aren't transparent about their sound restrictions. It's frustrating...
Nice GO DJ RACHEL 😎🌄 🔥🔥🔥 YOU ARE DOING YOUR THING GROWING MIGHTY BIG 👀💞
👊🏻
Fantastic video! Loved the honesty and description of the challenges and how you were able to overcome them.
We all have challenges and difficult events. Just keeping it real. Thanks for your time to check this out. I appreciate your kindness.
I hear you (pun intended) about venues that 'cloak' their sound level restrictions, having those that impose it sometimes are not around when the party is to start. I only had this weekend a couple that had paid a $500 premium to have the room up to midnight, with no mention/confirmation that the enetertainment will still have to cease at 10pm... That was Fun... NOT!!
Keep rocking these great Gig Logs, very enjoyable and informative :)
Wow!! They paid for extra time to party and had to cut the music short? That’s ridiculous! It really bothers me when venues aren’t forthcoming. Anyone who looks to book me in the future at this place I will let them know about the DB limits. Unfortunately, this was my first time here so I didn’t know before they booked it.
Appreciate your time and comment. 🙂
Always appreciate your videos. You're an absolute diamond to the mobile DJ community!
In my humble opinion...it should never be venue v. DJ...this can always be overcome with communication beforehand. For the venues who impose unrealistic rules, they'll eventually lose "wedding" business. You can't overwhelm clients with unrealistic/endless rules.
💯
Venues who aren’t forthcoming with their policies and restrictions are doing a disservice to EVERYONE.
Thanks for your time to check this out. 🙂
Absolutely! Transparency is key in this business…help us help you! Otherwise, word travels fast!!!
Way to power through with dignity and Grace. You’re right about that venue. Cheers to your happy couple and another successful (albeit challenging) event.
Thanks so much for checking this out. It was a great day regardless and one of my favorite couples. Very relaxed and kind. ❤️
You killed it. I have spur-of-the moment moved the party outside a few times. Of course you could not here. Aggravating with the noise restrictions because if you did the quiet route, guests would ask you 50 times... can you turn it UP????? So irritating.
Top notch as always! Super awkward venue, 100% agree they should probably not be offering weddings without an advance heads up of all the restrictions. I'm sure if they did...they wouldn't have as much business.
Thanks for checking this out!
These are the Gigs that we all question our existence as a DJ YOU ARE NOT ALONE, LOL.. I had a wedding just like this one. the Dancefloor was empty all night because the bar was outside. the last hour of the wedding was great but I was playing music for the chairs for almost 3 hours. it was all good tho. ON TO THE NEXT ONE!!!!
💯💯💯
We all have events like this. All we can do is our best.
OMGOSH, perfect video of reality. If you've been in this business for any time at all you have the constant task of perfect volume. In your eyes and the venue managers eyes. Sometimes it's hard to stay professional with some people. Other note is when the setup is made to DRAW people away from the dance floor it's hard. People wonder why we have to charge the amounts we do. We'll because we have to deal with so many issues, task and struggles. Thank you for being real and showing this DJ job isn't always full dance floors and easy money. Best wishes.
Love that…
“This job isn’t always full dance floors and easy money.” 💯
Great video!! And thank you for showing the real side of DJing weddings. These venues should be ashamed basically conning clients like this and waiting until the last minute. Sounds like thanks to your hard work, the client still had a great time!!
I totally agree! It's a shame they spring this on clients or even operate with these types of restrictions. It makes it very hard for everyone.
I think some of the problem here is that we are our own worst enemies. DJs show up with gear that is too big and too loud for the event space. They are looking to crush venues with sound just because they can or think that's what people want, and they don't use the right tools for the job. Because of this, venues don't trust us to be reasonable, and this is how we are treated in return.
Appreciate your time!
@@DJRachelLynch Good point! I think we’re usually worried about not having enough sound and guests asking to turn it up, so this idea of having too much sound is something new to get used to. When music is too loud it can easily kill the vibe at a party. It seems like this venue had a problem with any music at all though!
New sub here from Utah that was a Great great video! so real! thanks! I totally agree sometimes we think some events are not great because not having a full dancefloor or in this case people inside and out all the time however I learned with time what you said... people enjoys in different ways, not all people goes crazy all night but that doesn't mean they are not having a great time... so Yes! you did an awesome job, sometimes people think we wedding DJs are wack because we are not at a Club however we deal with lot more things during each event and we get stuff done and we do a great Job! so shout out to all wedding and private events DJs out there for giving your best all the time and focusing in what really matters entertaining people in a respectful way and the best way possible no matter what!!! cheers!!! David from Utah
Hi David from Utah! Appreciate your time to check this out and leave a comment. DJs beat themselves up if their dance floors don’t look like a EDC concert all the time. Like you said people can enjoy themselves on and off the dance floor. 💯
Literal blood, sweat, and (maybe) tears! Wow! And you handled it like a champ! A great video for us to see as we've all been there in various ways. Thank you for your spirit and commitment to your clients, and to all of us in the DJ community!
great video. you painted a spot on perspective of the ish that happens to us that no one wants to speak about. Salute!!!!!!
In a Gig, you do not care if people dance or not. You keep on going keep on bringing dance list even people don't dance in. They could be just on their seats and listening chill'n and still enjoy your music, so if no one is dancing you just continue and enjoy what you do and what music you bring because if you don't enjoy it, then that would be the atmosphere for all.
YOUR TALENT and PROFESSIONALISM, always OVERCOME those OBSTACLES, Thank You for another GREAT VIDEO RACHEL(DJ GORGEOUS)!!!
🫡
Thanks for your time to watch this! Appreciate your kindness!
This is an excellent DJ V-log! I've been DJing weddings for a very long time (about 30 years) and have been through, what you went through, during this event of yours. You handled it all very well and your thinking around the limitations imposed on your performance, were spot on! Nicely done! I believe that couple, is very happy with the service you provided.
Great to see you highlight the ups and downs of djays and venues sound issues. Been there many times.
I have a gig at the Deuvalle in NJ this week with 85 db limit lets see how that goes.
We ALL go through this. Hope you have a great event. Best of luck! ☺️
Why have I NEVER thought of 4 deck mode for ceremony!?!? This is Genius!! Thanks Rachel :)
Omg! Yessssss!
This way everything is loaded and ready to go! 4 deck makes it so easy. You can still use auto mix for pre-ceremony too. Glad I could help. This is why I make these videos. It’s all basic stuff. but sometimes we may see something we didn’t think of.
Appreciate your time to check this out!
Nice vid Rachel 👌🏽 good job✅️🔊👍🏾
❤️🙏🏻
Don't hang on too tight on gigs on this. It's not a matter of caring less....it's a matter of not letting things affect you personally/negatively, that you don't have a lot of control over. Took years for me to learn.
Great video! Solid notes. I’ve been shocked by the hollyland mics. More so in how they handle wind noise better then mics that cost 10x more. It doesn’t make sense. Last wedding had 16mph wind and they barely had any wind noise. Crazy. 😊 Small old venues like this are where true professionals shine. This slice is for you! 🍕🍕🍕
Thanks a lot for stopping by the channel. I couldn't agree more about the Hollyland mics. Their noise cancellation is fantastic. They are incredible in windy conditions. It's also amazing to not have any wires and be able to use two pairs at the same time. They are very convenient. I love them.
Unfortunately, I'm not confident enough with things operating on the 2.4GHz spectrum. I've had great luck so far, but these won't be replacing my normal mics... yet.
I’ve only used them twice. I have more testing to do.
Venues like this definitely test our ability and experience! 💯❤️
@@DJRachelLynch May have to look into these. Average wind here in my part of the world is easily 15mph and often times we'll do ceremonies in guests up to 40-50 and even 60 mph.
This gig log should be on your Masterclass series!
True professional!
All multi-ops should show this video as training for new DJ’s.
Not all gigs are ragers and all that matters is the opinions of the beautiful couple that hired you. Love that you were home by 11:30. Gotta love east coast weddings. Here gigs end at midnight or 1 AM even when there is an on-site ceremony
I’m normally home at 12:30-1AM. This was a RARE treat. But most weddings are over by 10 out here. 🙂
Thanks for your time to check this out and your kindness !
I really like your positive attitude keep the videos coming
☺️ Thanks for checking this out. Appreciate your kindness and comment.
I have to admit, the new battery operated speakers has been the top advancement for ceremony. You can get closer which improves mic reception plus DJAY Pro is the most underrated software for ceremonies.
💯💯💯
Wow! New Video❤🎉 thanks for great ideas and lifehacks!
Wow those restrictions are something else- thanks for sharing. I have a wedding next year where the open air venue has noise restrictions. After seeing this video I may just do 2 Everse 8s on flexetands.😬
thise 2 EVERSE 8s will be more than enough. Rachel said it right when she said this was a ceremony and not a concert.
I love how you handled this. I have been in this type of venue before and faced the same challenge. Kudos to the professionalism you had on display that saved the day, and night. I love your videos!
🫡❤️
Absolutely fantastic gig log Rachel, bravo to u , live real world tips and great knowledge sharing
Appreciate it! 🙂
So much fun and lessons in this video thanks and congrats
Btw....love your effort here and your calm demeanor explaining your concerns at the end. You continue to be a wealth of info and advice. Well done.
I appreciate that! Thanks so much for your comment and time to watch. We have to keep our cool and work well in less than ideal circumstances. Otherwise we have failed our couple. I do whatever I can to isolate them from any issues like this. We just gotta do what we have to do! 🙂
Thank you - always honest and real 👏⭐️
We gotta. It helps set REAL expectations for clients and takes some pressure off DJs to always feel like their weddings need to look like EDC to be successful. It’s just not true! 💯
Thanks for sharing this because we often see the best of the best in gig logs, but seeing this wil help a lot of fellow dj’s learn that this is also what we come across thanks for the great video and explaining it to us all.
Appreciate this a lot! That’s EXACTLY why I wanted to show this side of the business. We usually see hyped dance floors and the best of the best moments, but it’s not always that straightforward, and I know DJs beat themselves up, like I used to. It took years to build the skills and confidence to take on difficult dance floors like this. The modern DJ has so many things working against them…
Cell phones
Couples wanting more options for their guests
Non-traditional venues
Photo booths
Sunset photos
Late-night food
Yard games
Our door bars/activities
Etc.
People can have a great time on and off the dance floor!
Thanks for your time to watch!
I have been looking for the video where you record entry songs on to controller pads. Can't just find it. Would you please 🙏 help me??
I love you Rachel, you are the best DJ !!!
I think it’s this one…
czcams.com/video/cgiEU8iMQLc/video.html
@@DJRachelLynch quiero clases privadas. I wish to be your first graduate as DJ. Pleeeease..
Awesome job despite the challenges! Thanks for sharing.
Thanks! I did my best! ☺️
Those freaking grilled cheese trucks!
I mean, I ain’t even mad about it. 😂✌🏻🍞🧀
I have to agree, if there's a decibel limit at a venue, they shouldn't be in the business. Maybe the client should
think about this before they book the
venue.
The problem is the cleint was told AFTER they booked it. THAT is the problem. It is deceptive and bad business for the venue to not be upfront about these limits so people can make informed choices. This location should not be doing weddings IMO.
Been there... done that. You handled all of it 100% professionally.
❤️💯 Thanks a bunch! I think we all have had this situation!
I feel like the Northeast experiences this more than some other parts of the country… i had a place give me the speech of speeches a month out, the couple had no idea until I told them.
Place def playin pass-the-buck on the faults.
It's a big problem up here. There are a lot of unconventional venues popping up, especially in residential areas. It really makes it tough for everyone.
Well, its good to know that my hero Rachel once in a while has a challenging night..and you did splendid...I accommodate all aspects of a venue, and If I had to DJ THAT venue, t would only be the 1st and LAST time...Id turn down a $10K wedding if I had to go there. The owners must think it's zoned for Church or something...in 35+ years of wedding dj and entertainment..we have been asked just once to turn down the music, and it was at a Barn, in the country, where Mason Jars were being used to make the toasts...and GrandMa couldn't sleep in the adjacent house.....lol
We ALL have tough gigs and anyone who says otherwise isn’t telling the truth. Everything turned out great and the couple was amazing! I won’t be back. 😉
That's what's so original about you and your business. It takes a lot of commitment to also show the not so happy side of gigs that we do on occasion and this video kept it real. Just showing a video constantly as a banger is fluff for potential clients..but the reality is..we all have had gigs we are not that proud of..I've had my fair share of them. I had a young lady consistently come up and tell me that the Bride had requested a song that was on the DO NOT play list... And the alcohol was so strong that I knew that it wasn't just the booze blowing at me..I would not play it, and she got very upset, brought the bride over to me to complain in the middle of a song, speaking obscenities and I looked at the bride..showed her the list of songs SHE requested NOT to play..she looked up, and looked at her friend, flipped her off, and walked away...found out that the friend had tried to get the future husband into bed several years before they got married, and the friend wanted to relive her fantasy at the Bride's expense... needless to say..it did not end well for the friend....lol
I feel your pain... There are several venues I dread because of sound challenges. I have a very small setup I bring to these venues, and still get nagged about the volume. One venue in particular hassled me so much about volume and song content (they did not allow any type of Hip-hop) that I started telling potential clients that I would not work the venue. Then come to find out that I was the only DJ the venue was recommending... What! They had a very funny way of teamwork. I agree, some venues have no business hosting events. They like taking couples money, but they don't like actually hosting the events.
Great Job!
Thanks for the visit! 🙂
I like your vlogs fr I do the same at ceremonies at the back and music wired yes. But about small mics I will try next ceremony with Rode Wireless GO maybe someone tried already?
That venue would have been amazing with the 50M's inside and the 30M's (and/or Everse) out on the patio with your mix. Very disappointing about the restrictions. At least they didn't have the alarm/flashing light on the wall that goes off when you exceed whatever library-quiet level they chose...
I agree! What makes it even worse, is there is no standardized of their “volume limit.” It’s just an arbitrary opinion when the venue FEELS it’s too loud. Establishing decibel limits without proper equipment is silly and makes everyone unhappy.
Not that you’re ever negative, but you handled this beautifully. You’re a true pro. Is this a question that needs to be asked of the couple in the proposal process? If the venue has any restrictions/limitations with sound, equipment used, etc.
The problem is, the couple didn't know when they booked me. They only found out during our final walkthrough, at the same time I did. I obviously keep records of venues that do this and inform couples when I'm in the know.
But that is what gets me so upset: they aren't transparent with the couples when booking. They take their money, lock them in, and then spring it on them after it's too late, so they can't make an informed decision.
Thanks for your comment and checking this out!
Rachel its like doing a 5yr old party, heres my tip Rachel your paid to play to 12am thats it, if they run around like kids, you just keep playing till 12am then you pack up and go home.
and dont worry about epic video footage for your viewers, this is the reality, some gigs are shit and others are amazing, dont worry too much about it, Your doing a gig log and you handled this Gig like a Boss, other DJs would coward behind the booth and have a cry... dont feel down, just move onto the next Gig take it from a veteran DJ like myself... Love your work Rachel :) and you got Paiiiiid... niice.... In regards to Noise level... dont stress whaen you turn the vol down the couple gets upset and you tell em the venue told you too, I just carry on playing, it doesnt faze me ... as long as you tell the couple whats happened they wont hold that against you.
Your totally right on venues that should not be venues... it aggrevates me
Hola cute 😍
Great video! In my experience, I would forego subs in exchange for more fillers. Your Everse for example (I have the Mackie Thump Go’s) could be used with a wireless dongle on another corner of the room. Everyone can hear, while satisfying the venue issues. Usually it is because of the bass (I even had a venue ask me NOT to bring subs! 🔊 😅) I can appreciate the way you handled it though. Cheers!
Unfortunately, the venue had a dB limit of 55 outside. There was nothing I could do to make that even remotely reasonable for a private event that wanted music to enjoy outside. The limit is simply unreasonable in my opinion.
The "sub" on the Evolve 30M is not any different from using something like a QSC K10 or K12. The 10 "sub" isn't a subwoofer. All full-range tops have "subs" with highs/mids and lows. Even though on the Evolves it is separated from the tweeters, it's not a true subwoofer.
The Electro-Voice 30M may have some low-frequency capabilities due to its larger driver, but it is not specifically designed to function as a true subwoofer. It is primarily intended for mid-range and high-frequency reproduction, making it suitable for monitoring vocals and instruments on stage.
They were basically asking me to turn down the bass on a traditional top that any DJ would use. That's crazy. The 30M was a perfect speaker for the room size and body count. They just were very difficult to work with. It’s unfortunate.
It happens to all of us. All we can do is try our best to make the good outcomes for our clients. I most likely won’t be back at this place. It makes it unnecessarily stressful.
Over all things turned out great. Thanks so much for your time to check this out and comment. Cheers! ☺️
Thank you for the video tips and perspective DJ Rachel. I'm interested in trying out the Hollyland Lark M1. How's the reception and quality? I have an upcoming wedding gigs between 80-100 guests and would love to try wireless rather the wired. Appreciate your input.
Thanks for taking the time to check this out. If you scroll through the comments you’ll see a few responses regarding how the mics are and what I think of them. 🙂
Would you be able to provide what settings you used on the Everse8 and on the Hollyland L1 for the ceremony?
Great video as always. Question: we’re you only using the ape lab uplights to color the room?
Yes. Only Apelabs Maxis. This was 18 of them.
for all of my cables I use rubberized ones, that avoids the non straight cables I have seen at your power extension .. they are a little more expensive but helps in my opinion .......
Yes, but my suggestion goes beyond just keeping things straight/neat. Safety is also a concern. Even with rubberized cables that lay nicer, in my opinion, all cables should be taped or covered to eliminate trip hazards. For venues that don't allow gaff or in grassy areas, these mats work great. 🙂
Thanks for stopping by the channel! ❤️.
Shure just seen Urs, and thought rubberized would be more easy to hide 😇🤗🤗@@DJRachelLynch
You could have gotten away with 2 of those EVERSES during the dance. We in St. John's have a lot of old buildings where we get some of these same issues pop up. I actually have a microsystem for these sorts of events. 2 HK Polar 8s. I totally agree with you on the transparency. See these venues rent themselves out for what clearly is a cash grab. As for the churn of guests coming and going, you're absolutely right on that. I see DJs post videos all the time of full dancefloors of like typical wedding line dance tracks under ideal circumstances and I'm like, really? Every DJ will hit a brick wall at some point at some gig and if they haven't? I will suggest that they are playing at one of their first gigs.
You know, when I hit a night like what you had in this video, I always remind myself that this isn't a reflection on what I do. Now if every night was like this for me, I would have to ask myself what should I be doing but I do know that most nights are full dance floors, and I remind myself of that. Finally in these situations where there are issues, I always remind myself that I just need to keep my emotions in check until I am packed up and out the door. Whatever grievances I may have towards the venue, the client or guests are not worth addressing then and there, it is completely point at best and self distractive to my own reputation so why bother?
I do know that in situations like this I have 3 choices.
1, Make adjustments for the next time I am scheduled to play there like bringing a smaller system, be more proactive on keeping the bass down at a lower level based on my previous experience
2, Make an extra effort to get the staff to warm up to me so that they may be more relaxed and give me more flexibility. Situations such as these, the staff tend to be quite insular and while they may have genuine concerns, much of the time, they see the DJ as an intruder and they will try to as we like to say in Newfoundland "put the gears to you" and really enforce the rules. I know of cases where I have a great working relationship with a venue, yet other DJs get nailed to the wall with the rules, even threatened with a early shut down yet compaired to them, I can almost get away with murder. HA!
3, Play out whatever contracts I may still have at that venue and no longer accept bookings at that venue. Luckily it has never come to that and I've played at least 125 venues with in a 60 mile drive from my house.
Anyway, amazing videos and all practical real world advice you're giving. I did put an order on an EVERSE 8 this morning.
Cheers!
ShaneTheDJ
St. John's, Newfoundland
Enjoy your EVERSE!
Sounds great. What did you use to amplify the exchange of vows.? Thank you
Scroll to 2 min 36 seconds. 🙂
It’s also listed in the video description.
Great Gig Log as always! What are your overall thoughts on the Hollyland Mics? I have had them for about a year, but can’t seem to get them to ever sound good enough to use in a ceremony. Not sure what I am doing wrong
Thanks for your time to check this out.
My thoughts are that they are very convenient and easy to use; however, since they use the 2.4GHz spectrum, this doesn't make them the go-to mic in my book. I used these for a last for a last-minute change at this event but would not recommend DJs to leave their pro mics at home in exchange for these. I’ve only had the chance to use them at two weddings so far and they were great, but…
They will work great until they don't. Since you don't have the ability to scan, you'll never know when that is. So use them with caution or knowing there is a chance you can have dropouts/poor quality.
As for sounding good, I don’t think it has to do with the mic. Honestly, there aren’t any “sound quality” features on the Hollyland, other than noise canceling and volume, which actually works very well.
Mine sounds great! I’m using the onboard DSP on the EVERSE that has a TON of tuning capabilities like compression, anti feedback, speech settings etc. My suggestion would be to dial in your mixer, audio chain, or use a speaker with more tuning capabilities.
Venues screw things up so much it seems that they can be clueless on what is really best for the event and put a strangle hold on things. They are just out for the $$ and sometimes I feel that they make things as bad as possible so the party will end soon there by cutting expenses further by not having to pay the employees extra hours.
It can definitely affect the celebration. I agree. 👍🏻
As always great job Rachel question how was the Microphones
Thanks for checking this out! Appreciate it!
What you saw/heard in the video is how the microphones were. 😉
Great content Rachel! Thank you for the in-depth breakdown of your gear and the challenges we face as mobile dj's. Couple of questions for you ... (1) How was experience with the Hollyland Mics? I've been looking to purchase something like this (Rode, DJI) as backup/secondary source of sound. (2) Can you tell me where you placed the mics on the two ladies and what wire were you using to to connect the receiver into the Everse 8? (3) Were they plug and play or did you have to adjust any of the settings?
Thank you for your time!
Hello Chris- 1. My encounter with the microphones is precisely as you witnessed in the video. :) 2. A microphone was positioned on the officiant's binder and another on the hidden pocket of the green suit, concealed beneath the flower adornment. The cable transitions from 1/8 to XLR. 3. The microphones possess solely two tiers of "noise canceling" settings; all modifications were executed using the DSP on the EVERSE 8.
Hi Rachel! Appreciate the feedback & quick reply!
"Rotation" (mini-sets, to use your verbiage) rarely spoken these days. 70's-80's club dinosaurs, like yours truly, consciously sent the dancers to the bar, the bar to the dancefloor...in approx 20-30 minute "shifts."
👍
Thansk for checking this out! Enjoy your weekend. :)
Great video AND SO TRUE! How did those mics work out?
They worked out great. 🙂
@@DJRachelLynch Aww bought a pair and one mic did not work so returned for another and one mic did not work again! So bummed because the working mic did sound good.
Ok 2 more questions... Thanks in advance. Where did you put the mics to avoid clothes rustle and keep the mics out of the wedding pics AND do you have a link for the exact cable you used to connect the speaker to the mic unit
Link in video description.
One mic was on the pocket of the suit jacket hidden by the boutonniere. The other was on the officiants binder.
Rachel, where did you get the cable that goes from the Hollyland to your speaker?
Would like to find that exact cable. Thanks.
amzn.to/461yYOc
@rachel - How specifically do you have the hollyland connected 1) is it set as a line in or mic in? 2) what cable did you use? 3) What volume setting (low/med/high) do you use on the hollyland receiver? Love your videos - we share a similar approach to quality and details
I just found your comment about the 1/8 to XLR cable, but can you drop a link to the specific cable? I just bought the hollyland but am not getting clean signal out of them.
@@fplava amzn.to/45J86SQ
Middle volume with sound suppression on. Keep in mind I also have a full onboard DSP with the EVERSE 8 to dial things in nicely. But as you hear in the video they should sound great as long as there is no interference (which is always possible with 2.4GHZ).
Thank you!@@DJRachelLynch
Will you continue to use the hollylands? Seems like good value if they’re reliable
I’ll use them when the situation calls for it (like this). They do work very well, but can be unpredictable as a 2.4GHz device. I will continue to use a proper mic for ceremonies (EV RE3).
I absolutely hate those venues with noise restrictions. Fair enough if its 11pm and after, yet I'm a resident DJ at a venue that has a house near by with a very small forest in between. And I still get asked to turn bass down before 11pm so I think I might do a test that includes the person who runs the venue. Get them to go near the house and listen out for the music/frequencies. I have speaker wise 2x Alto TS310 and 2x Alto TS318s subs. so yh I think testing is in order.
I think 11PM sound limits are totally reasonable.
@@DJRachelLynch Oh yh 11pm for sure if there are houses near by. But by having a house 150/200 yards away and a forest in-between. that'll dampen the sound even though I don't have the main Chanel on the equal Librium to the main output mix.
So.... How did you like the mark1s?... btw... Love the video Great job
Thanks a bunch!! 🙂
They have been solid. I have only used them twice so I’m sure there are some situations where they won’t be ideal, but for the price no complaints!
very curious about your cermony mics is this your new setup? any interference issues?
What you saw/heard is exactly how they performed. 🙂
What up lights were you using?
Everything is Apelabs MAXI lights.
There is a venue near me that has the dance floor outside in a residential area. No subs allowed and speakers must be on the ground. The owner is constantly monitoring the volume with a db meter. One time, she told me I was over 150. I wasn't. So I bought my own db meter. Next gig there, we compared. Mine showed 88....hers 124. She did not believe mine. Moral of my story is to always have your own db meter.
150 db? Does she realize that 150 would be beyond the threshold of pain? Some people (her) are in the wrong industry. Good idea to have your own meter. I think her issue was she didn't like the DJ and all those people being there but still loved the money.
150dB is a JET ENGINE at 1m distance!!!!!
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sound_pressure
Hey Rachel! I’m curious if you do these gigs all by yourself or if you have an assistant or help with the set up and through out the event? You use “we” often and Im not sure if you are referring to a group of people who help you? Id love to know! Thank you!
Everything is setup, recorded, and edited by me. There definitely is no group of people. I wish! 😂😅
“We” is either the couple, staff, or everyone (including me).
Thanks for letting me know! That is super inspiring know you do it all by yourself! Im a small woman trying to become a wedding dj and don’t see myself paying for an assistant. Do you just use dolly’s if there is super heavy equipment or do you specifically purchase speakers etc that are under 50lbs?
@@audreyzluticky7789Don't get me wrong, when I have large, complicated events or need to use my bigger ETX system, I do have help. At the end of the day, the job needs to get done safely. However, the reason behind the gear I own is so that I can be independent and efficient. It allows me to set up myself and fit into tight areas if needed. The EVOLVE 50s are AMAZING speakers. If you are looking for speakers that are easy to move and set up, you won't find a better option. I use them for 95% of my events. YOU CAN DO THIS. You CAN find gear that lets you do great things by yourself. :)
Thank you, Rachel!! I appreciate your help so much!! @@DJRachelLynch
Have you had an event at this venue again since this vlog?
I have not. Honestly, honestly, I probably wouldn’t go back.
I use Bluetooth for the ceremony but unfortunately I learned I have to use my Samsung cell phone or another Android phone cause my iPad Pro has issues with Bluetooth, it’ll work fine at the wedding rehearsal then the day of the weddings it plays the music like it’s losing connection with songs cracking up on my run through before the wedding starts so I have to load the songs to my cell phone. It’s probably a software issue with Apple cause I notice even songs I load onto my iPad I can’t use default music players cause the music has missing parts.
Why use Bluetooth if you’re having issues? I always want the most reliable connection possible. It takes 2 seconds to connect a cable from your phone or iPad to the speaker. There are zero dropouts or audio issues that way. My recommendation would be to consider getting a cable that allows you to plug directly in, then it’s a non issue. 🙂
At this point i think krk monitors would be too loud for the venue 🤣
😂😂
When the dance floor is empty= "Sometimes we have to Work really hard "
I don't know about that, I feel like that's the easy part lol, just chill and play some filler tracks. 😂🎉🎉🎉🎉
😂
Which mics were you using for the ceremony again?
Please the links in the video description. 🙂
@@DJRachelLynch Do you have just as much faith in it as using a G4 or similar?
@@dnette07 absolutely not. 2.4 GHZ is a crowded frequency range. They work amazing until they don’t. I would always recommend having a professional microphone that allows you to scan for clean frequencies.
@@DJRachelLynch I appreciate you being honest! Take care.
Nothing better than the event’s attention away from the DJ, time keeps ticking and we’re still getting paid.
Now if everyone is sitting in chairs staring at you for entertainment, you got problems.
Otherwise, the non attention makes our job easier. Embrace those moments, were getting paid anyways.
I personally find it difficult to DJ when no one is in the room. I'm energized by seeing people interact with music, whether that is dancing, singing along, foot tapping, etc. I'm not there to collect a paycheck. It makes for a long night if I don't have people to play for. That's just me. I’m ok with people celebrating how they want. I’m not stressing when they are doing other things, but it’s nice to see people enjoying what I was hired to do.
@@DJRachelLynch but of course… I was mainly saying, if the bride and groom told me a band was going to play for an hour i ain’t tripping.
And I hear your passion in regards to “not there to collect a check” But bottom line is that’s exactly what we’re doing, otherwise don’t charge.
Do you use Canva templates as thumbnails 😊
Don’t we all? 😂
@@DJRachelLynch How Bad tho
@@DJRachelLynch If it looks good it fine it does
It good tho
Why not just use the wireless system inside so you dont have to use tape or mats? Seems the easiest solution.
I would NEVER rely on wireless technology for the main setup. Wired connections offer a more stable and higher-quality audio signal. When it comes to critical and main setups, it's always wise to prioritize reliability. I use wireless technology only when absolutely necessary, such as when I need sound in a different room or when putting a speaker would be hazardous with a long cable run. Since the wire can be safely run with just a little time to gaff or use mats, that is what I do.
Wireless technology can be a great solution for specific situations where running cables is not feasible or safe. However, if a wired connection can be safely established with minimal effort, using cables is indeed the best option, especially for your main setup.
what's a decibel limit? 😬thanks for the video
It’s when the venue won’t let you play louder than a certain volume level.
A decibel limit refers to a maximum level of sound or noise that is allowed in a specific setting or environment. It is a measure of the intensity or loudness of sound. Different locations and events may have different decibel limits depending on regulations, safety standards, or the comfort of those present.
@@DJRachelLynch brutal. we don't have those here. total opposite
@@FSP.Entertainment Lucky! They are very common in venues that shouldn’t be venues. 😬
Awesome log, and nice seeing you at he the DJ Expo!!! I was curious how the Hollyland mics performed for you, and if you’ve used them at any other gigs. Thanks in advance.
@@TheDJTwitch100 I’ve only used them one other time. So far I’ve had great results. The issue is they will always work great until they don’t. There is much less flexibility to get these dialed in to a clean frequency than something like the EV RE3 or Sennheiser packs. So….
They are a great backup option or when needed in a pinch/unique situations. But I would always recommend having a solid mic that lets you actually scan for open channels.
Hope you enjoyed EXPO! ❤️🙂
Get rubber coated extension cords instead of the plastic kind. They will easily lay straight and flat on the floor.
Thanks. I’ll check em out.
Man… that venue sounds like more of a headache than it’s worth. And so much of it is unnecessary.
So tired of these "venues" that have no business being venues. It's not like you had a double 18" sub smh
They are EVERYWHERE in CT. 😒
@@DJRachelLynch That's terrible. I've only had 1 instance at a barn here in PA...no subs and there was an employee with a meter at the property line.
what kind of rubber mats??? it looks terrible! use at least the Legrand 032800 cable channel.
No thanks. 🙂
If you don’t like mats that’s totally cool, but they are perfect for what I need.