How to improve my mobile dj-setup

[Charlie Brown]

Hey i just need to know how to improve a dj setup

and i need as much advice as I can get as im only 14

so please help :D!

How to tidy up wires

Do i need a starcloth?

I have a 1600k sound system so thats fine

For lighting i have brought a goal post trust

i use 2 honeycomb lights 600wat and they fill anydance floor

and i use strobes for teen discos

and par cans

i can use bubble and smoke

but do i need any more lights you can see in my profile picture what the the normal effect is and i can get away with that and charge 90-120 quid


could i charge more or do i need more lights etc and bearing in mind my age?

can i work in pubs or restaurants as most of my gigs have been world of mouth, and i do 4-5 a month, but i would like more as some month are quiter than others.

Can anyone help? Thank you very much

The picture is of an old setup
as i have the goalpost now and the tables are a bit crumby but i have the problem with the wires as you can see, it looks bad but when the lights are off it aint all that bad, which isint the point people seem to be very happy thought so i must be doing something right :D

And here is a picture with the smoke and the effect basic i know but it gets me by

What can i buy to improve please answer me questions thankyou

[Corabar Steve]

How long is a piece of string?

Please introduce yourself in the Newbies section

[Charlie Brown]

what do you meen?

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

what do you meen?

It is polite on forums to introduce yourself and let everyone say hello, rather than just barging in, so to speak. :)

http://www.mobilediscodirectory.co.uk/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=32

[rob1963]

I see from your website that you currently have a special offer...

...which expires on 31st February.

:confused:

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

Come on now, let's be a bit more welcoming please.

[Charlie Brown]

Ok Hello there my name is Charlie Brown

Im 14 years old and just read back my first comment and jees sorry bout the mistakes lol

Nm i hope you get the picture:D

I have read a lot of your replys and you seem to know an awful lots so i wondered if you guys can help me

... if thats ok

thanks x

[rob1963]

Come on now, let's be a bit more welcoming please.

I was being helpful.

I leave the welcoming bit to the admins & mods in the newbies section.

:)

[Charlie Brown]

Oh ok thank you

do you think i should get rid of that special offer thing?

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

Oh ok thank you

do you think i should get rid of that special offer thing?

I think Rob was pointing out that there isn't 31 days in February.

[Charlie Brown]

Oh yeh right lol

yeh sorry im just a bit slow

can you help me with my setup?

thanks

[rob1963]

do you think i should get rid of that special offer thing?


I think Rob was pointing out that there isn't 31 days in February.

Hi Charlie,

There is nothing wrong with your special offer, only with the expiry date.

If it's the end of the month, I think it needs changing from 31st February to 29th.

:)

[rob1963]

can you help me with any of my questions?
Thank you

Sure,

If I was you, I would replace the tables with come kind of deck stand & a surround.

I think this would look much better, and you could also hide your cables behind it.

:)

[Charlie Brown]

Thankyou rob:D

can you help me with any of my questions, i have changed the date, thanks for the advice!!

x

[Corabar Steve]

Where do you think you are lacking? What do you want to improve?

[Charlie Brown]

Hmm yeh the tabels aint mine it was the community centres, the problem is i dont have my own! I just rely on the centre,hotel or house to have them, its bad i know!

Do you know where i could get some tabels or..

Thank you rob for your help


Where do you think you are lacking? What do you want to improve?

Its lacking the wow factor and that proffesional look, it just looks a mess.

I would love to get rid of all the messy tabels and when I recieve the goalpost I think that will make a difference

You cant tell when the lights are off, but that isnt the point

Do i need more lights or can they get me by?

Thank you for your help

[rob1963]

Hmm yeh the tabels aint mine it was the community centres, the problem is i dont have my own! I just rely on the centre,hotel or house to have them, its bad i know!

Do you know where i could get some tabels or..

Thank you rob for your help

Charlie,

I wouldn't use tables.

My advice would be to get some sort of deck stand with either a home made surround or maybe a starcloth.

Apart from that, from what you have said, your current set up seems fine for now.

I wouldn't worry about trying to increase your prices yet...it's important to get some experience first.

Hope this helps.

:)

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

Hey i just need to know how to improve a dj setup

and i need as much advice as I can get as im only 14

so please help :D!

How to tidy up wires

Use velcro ties, cable ties or gaffa tape, or even have the cables cut to length. You could also make a snake or loom for your cables.

Do i need a starcloth?

Personal choice. I think a starcloth or plain cloth looks much better than screens.



For lighting i have brought a goal post trust

i use 2 honeycomb lights 600wat and they fill anydance floor

and i use strobes for teen discos

and par cans

i can use bubble and smoke

but do i need any more lights you can see in my profile picture what the the normal effect is and i can get away with that and charge 90-120 quid

Again, what you charge is up to you. Try not to sell clients your equipment - I read on your site that you entertain and also do magic and games. Concentrate on that.

could i charge more or do i need more lights etc and bearing in mind my age?

Read above

can i work in pubs or restaurants as most of my gigs have been world of mouth, and i do 4-5 a month, but i would like more as some month are quiter than others.

4-5 is pretty good going for someone of your age. Don't run before you can walk though. Leave the pub jobs to over 18s for the time being.


What can i buy to improve

A decent mic and the skills to go with it. ;)

[Charlie Brown]

Charlie,

I wouldn't use tables.

My advice would be to get some sort of deck stand with either a home made surround or maybe a starcloth.

Apart from that, from what you have said, your current set up seems fine for now.

I wouldn't worry about trying to increase your prices yet...it's important to get some experience first.

Hope this helps.

:)

Rob, thank you It may sound silly but I didnt expect this much help its great,

right ok so i could get my dad to make me something, or do you know any shops or websites where i could buy some deck stands?

Thank you very much again


A decent mic and the skills to go with it. ;)

Thanks for all this help i really apreciate it :D

I have taken in all of that

Now insurance it may sound bad again

but do i need it at my age?

I have been looking into it for months but never go round to it

any surgestions also music license?

Thank you

[rob1963]

Rob, thank you It may sound silly but I didnt expect this much help its great,

right ok so i could get my dad to make me something, or do you know any shops or websites where i could buy some deck stands?

Thank you very much again

No problem Charlie!

I don't know too much about deck stands though.,

I just have an "X" type stand (a bit like an ironing board stand) which my deck sits on. I then made a surround out of 3 bits of MDF which I covered with carpet cloth & hinged together. This hides most of my leads.

I don't know much about deck stands, but I'm sure there are other people here who can give you advice about them & maybe point you towards some good websites too.

Depending on what gigs you do & where they are, you probably won't need a music licence.

This link should tell you all you need to know about when you need a licence:
http://djlicence.org.uk/pdffiles/Licensing%20Royalties.pdf

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

I know you have lots of questions, but a lot of them have been answered several times over, so please use the search facility at the top and if there's anything you can't find or don't understand, then ask.

[Charlie Brown]

No problem Charlie!

I don't know too much about deck stands though.,

I just have an "X" type stand (a bit like an ironing board stand) which my deck sits on. I then made a surround out of 3 bits of MDF which I covered with carpet cloth & hinged together. This hides most of my leads.

I don't know much about deck stands, but I'm sure there are other people here who can give you advice about them & maybe point you towards some good websites too.

Depending on what gigs you do & where they are, you probably won't need a music licence.

This link should tell you all you need to know about when you need a licence:
http://djlicence.org.uk/pdffiles/Licensing%20Royalties.pdf

Right ok well thank you very much for all your help, and i will take everything you said into serious consideration,

if there are any more question later on then, i wont be scared to ask you lol

Thanks again, Charlie:)


I know you have lots of questions, but a lot of them have been answered several times over, so please use the search facility at the top and if there's anything you can't find or don't understand, then ask.

Right ok I understand, maybe I need to calm down a bit lol

well thank you all very much for your time, you have been a great help!

I will probably have a question soon so I will speek to you guys then

Thanks again :D

x

[rob1963]

Right ok well thank you very much for all your help, and i will take everything you said into serious consideration,

if there are any more question later on then, i wont be scared to ask you lol

Thanks again, Charlie:)

Feel free to ask away Charlie...everyone is here to help!

:)

[Charlie Brown]

Ohh one last thing..

is it a problem i use a laptop?

and do i need the public insurance thing?

[rob1963]

Ohh one last thing..

is it a problem i use a laptop?

and do i need the public insurance thing?

A special digital DJ licence is currently being worked on for people who use laptops, but nothing final has been agreed yet.

The public insurance you mention is probably public liability insurance. This means that if part of your gear falls on someone, injures them & they then sue you for a large amount of money, the insurance will pay out...so you won't end up going bankrupt.

Most DJs seem to have £2 million or £5 million public liability insurance, which will probably cost about £60 to £120 a year.

[UltraBeat Entertainment]

Hi Charlie

The best thing you can do is get your self a deck stand of some sort as there are many to choose from on the market. this will help improve the look of your rig instantly and is very practical to have.
I must also say light screen work well with stands:D :D :D

I would'nt worry about lighting too much just yet get other area's of your business sorted first i.e PLI, Sound system, stands, improve music collection.

As for price i would'nt put your prices up just yet as you need to get as many bookings as possiable to gain some of that all important experience.

Something i've just noticed is that your lighting stand seems very low. dosen't that become a problem with you getting in the way while mixing?:confused:

As already said velcro cable ties go along way in this job and can put those unsightly wires out of view.

[djgordyp]

Right ok well thank you very much for all your help, and i will take everything you said into serious consideration,

if there are any more question later on then, i wont be scared to ask you lol

Thanks again, Charlie:)



Right ok I understand, maybe I need to calm down a bit lol

well thank you all very much for your time, you have been a great help!

I will probably have a question soon so I will speek to you guys then

Thanks again :D

x
Steady on there Charlie. Most people on here aren't used this much politness :evelgrin: :evelgrin: :evelgrin: :p

You mention you do 4-5 gigs a month and that clients are quite happy with what you do. In that case I wouldn't worry too much about the lighting at the moment. Extra/different lighting won't necessarily mean more work. Likewise, a client isn't interested in wether you use class-d or peavey speakers. It's your own ability to choose the right music and to entertain the crowd that you are selling. Perhaps you should try getting some flyers printed. Maybe this thread would be of some help to you http://mobilediscodirectory.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=10384&highlight=flyers
As for a Public Performance License. You don't need one for birthday parties or weddings (unless the law has changed since prehistoric times :D ). You can find out more here http://www.ppluk.com/ although I wouldn't worry too much about it yet.
Hopefully my comments have been of some help to you.
By the way, if you've only just started then 4 to 5 gigs a month isn't bad. And don't forget the best and cheapest form of advertising is word of mouth. From the time I started back in '81, I never spent a penny on advertising, all bookings came from word of mouth. So, Good luck with the business.

[Excalibur]

Here is a deckstand, with overhead lighting bar. You don't have to use the overhead, just the stand is fine, the choice is yours. There are cheaper, there are dearer. This will do for now.


http://www.soundlightuk.com/Giraffe_Stands/Pro_Deck_Stand1.htm


BTW, as a born nitpicker, what is your sound system? I'm a little sceptical about about the figure, as I'm sure that for a start it's a misprint, and secondly I reckon it may be an optimistic manufacturers claim. ;)

Much help and knowledge is available on here, ask nicely, and be polite, and a wealth of experience will be at your disposal. :D

Edit: By chance I notice I have shown a shop very near you.

[spin mobile disco]

If you don't want to go for a decks stand yet most venue's are quite happy to lend you a table if asked for. However if you have a decks stand or a table a black cloth as a frontage will improve the look no end. It also means that you can hide cables and any boxes that carried equipment out of sight under it.
I used to use venue tables for years with no problems as I always requested tables in advance. However these days decks stands have come down so much in price and can have over head truss etc it is almost silly not to buy one. As for cables as has already been said you can but black velcro ties . You use them to keep your cables tied in transit and when you setup you use them to tie cables to stands etc. Gaffa is still needed for safety for walkthrough area. More for the client safety than yours. As for insurance most venue's will require you to have it or they will not let you play there. But as far as I am aware it is not a legal requirment merely to protect your interests incase of problem. You may want to look into P.A.T testing as well as this is very important. Search the forum many threads are on this subject.
Nothing wrong with using a laptop but make sure you have backup incase of problem. Even an ipod with a few choice songs could save your neck in a crunch.
You could try asking local DJ's if you can come and roadie for them to help get some pointers. Im sure they will be more than willing to let you watch in exchange for a bit of help setting up.

[Tony Scott]

Hi Charlie,

As 'Spin' has pointed out a plain Black cloth will totaly improve the look of your show and is the most cost effective way to achieve a more 'Pro' appearance. (A 3mtr piece will cost you between £10 -15 from any fabric shop) Most venues will be happy to provide a table as you know.

Take off the out-riggers from your Maplins stand and just use the top 'T'-bar, put the 'Mushroom' effects under and the 'strobes' & 'laser crab' above. This will also improve the look of your lighting and give it more symmetry.

When you get your 'Goalpost' try to have everything that goes on it symmetrical, I believe that this along with tidy cables and a neat front (black cloth, or deck stand etc.) is key to getting that 'polished' look.

Just a note on your website, the testimonials look a little fake. I'm not saying they are and if they are genuine I appologise, but the wording and content doesn't feel right. Prospective clients need to trust you and what you say on your site has to be 100% accurate to be credible. Also check your spelling, nothing shouts amature louder than bad spelling on a site.

You quote that your sound is '1600K', this is 1'600'000watts (1 million, six hundred thousand watts)!!! Not sure those 'Pro-sound' will handle that! You should be quoting '1.6k' or '1600watts' Even this ia a peak value so the true value will be '0.4K' or '400watts RMS'. PEDANTRY? :D


I have been Mobile DJing since I was 14 so I know how it feels to be your age and starting out, I still love it. You've got off to a good start and you will get loads of really sound advice on this forum so stick with it and good luck. Good to have new blood!

Tony. :)

[Excalibur]

Hi Charlie,



You quote that your sound is '1600K', this is 1'600'000watts (1 million, six hundred thousand watts)!!! Not sure those 'Pro-sound' will handle that! You should be quoting '1.6k' or '1600watts' Even this ia a peak value so the true value will be '0.4K' or '400watts RMS'. PEDANTRY? :D




Tony. :)

That was what I was politely alluding to, not jumping in with both feet, you great :Censored: :p :D I hadn't seen the legendary Prosound badges, my eyes are failing a bit you know. ;) Those figures are exactly what I would have expected to find. :)

Charlie, rather than quoting figures, since in the the pecking order of life,
400w RMS is nowadays on the low side ( even though it's quite big enough for you at the moment ) I would just put something like " A sound system suitable for the more cosy venues, yet capable of filling the larger ones "

PS Take very little notice of heated abuse between some longer serving members. You will soon learn to differentiate between chery banter, and handbags at twenty paces. :D

[rob1963]

PS Take very little notice of heated abuse between some longer serving members.

There speaks the expert!

:rolleyes:

[Tony Scott]

Charlie, rather than quoting figures................

............I would just put something like " A sound system suitable for the more cosy venues, yet capable of filling the larger ones "

Like it, might use that on my site!




PS Take very little notice of heated abuse between some longer serving members. You will soon learn to differentiate between chery banter, and handbags at twenty paces. :D

:D :D :D :D

[Excalibur]

Like it, might use that on my site!



:D :D :D :D

Yes, but yours A) Won't fit in any cosy venues, and B) Would nearly fill Wembley Stadium! :D

[Tony Scott]

Yes, but yours A) Won't fit in any cosy venues, and B) Would nearly fill Wembley Stadium! :D

:lol: Fair point! :D

[Mister Musicman]

It's nice to see such a young entrepreneur starting out. Are you doing gigs for free or actually charging? If you are charging, I hope you have registered your business with the inland revenue and are up to date with the self employed NI payments. I have it on good authority that some people operating Discos in the area I cover will be having a nasty shock very soon and anyone starting up should take this good advice very seriously.

Good luck,

Rob (Mister Musicman)
www.mistermusicman.co.uk

[thex-faders]

Hi there, we start out when we were 15 and now how you feel starting out

Looking through your website, on part of it you put "If you don't feel satisfied we will give you your money back" all good intensions, but your basically giving anyone the right to say at the end of a night, i wasn't satisfied i want my money back, even if it was the best night ever!
Would think about removing it.

Also do you have any terms and conditions for your service?

Hope this helps

[Charlie Brown]

A special digital DJ licence is currently being worked on for people who use laptops, but nothing final has been agreed yet.

The public insurance you mention is probably public liability insurance. This means that if part of your gear falls on someone, injures them & they then sue you for a large amount of money, the insurance will pay out...so you won't end up going bankrupt.

Most DJs seem to have £2 million or £5 million public liability insurance, which will probably cost about £60 to £120 a year.


Rob,

Thank you very much, for all your advice. I wont bother about the laptop licence yet then, maybe some public liability insurance, is going to be my next investment,

Well thank you very much again, you will probably be hearing from me again in the near future!:)

[rob1963]

Rob,

Thank you very much, for all your advice. I wont bother about the laptop licence yet then, maybe some public liability insurance, is going to be my next investment,

Well thank you very much again, you will probably be hearing from me again in the near future!:)

My pleasure, Charlie!

I'm here to help...just like everyone else is.

:)

[Charlie Brown]

Hi Charlie

The best thing you can do is get your self a deck stand of some sort as there are many to choose from on the market. this will help improve the look of your rig instantly and is very practical to have.
I must also say light screen work well with stands:D :D :D

I would'nt worry about lighting too much just yet get other area's of your business sorted first i.e PLI, Sound system, stands, improve music collection.

As for price i would'nt put your prices up just yet as you need to get as many bookings as possiable to gain some of that all important experience.

Something i've just noticed is that your lighting stand seems very low. dosen't that become a problem with you getting in the way while mixing?:confused:

As already said velcro cable ties go along way in this job and can put those unsightly wires out of view.


Right ok, this weekend I think i am going to by a new deck stand, as it should improve my image,

The Goalpost also does the trick and looks a lot better,

May sound a bit silly, but where can I buy those velco straps?

Im a quite ignorant when it comes down to thing like that,

Again thank you very much for your advice, espically for taking the time to write it, I keep saying it but cant believe how much help I'm geting I really apreciate it,

Thanks Again, Charlie


Steady on there Charlie. Most people on here aren't used this much politness :evelgrin: :evelgrin: :evelgrin: :p

You mention you do 4-5 gigs a month and that clients are quite happy with what you do. In that case I wouldn't worry too much about the lighting at the moment. Extra/different lighting won't necessarily mean more work. Likewise, a client isn't interested in wether you use class-d or peavey speakers. It's your own ability to choose the right music and to entertain the crowd that you are selling. Perhaps you should try getting some flyers printed. Maybe this thread would be of some help to you http://mobilediscodirectory.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=10384&highlight=flyers
As for a Public Performance License. You don't need one for birthday parties or weddings (unless the law has changed since prehistoric times :D ). You can find out more here http://www.ppluk.com/ although I wouldn't worry too much about it yet.
Hopefully my comments have been of some help to you.
By the way, if you've only just started then 4 to 5 gigs a month isn't bad. And don't forget the best and cheapest form of advertising is word of mouth. From the time I started back in '81, I never spent a penny on advertising, all bookings came from word of mouth. So, Good luck with the business.

Thank you very much for all this advice and I think flyers are the best option

Right ok let me try and explain something:

I have my website and have 40pounds a month budget on google adwords

So when I tpyed in my name in google "Charlie Brown Disco" it would come up higlighted, now when I type it in, it comes up with this site as my name is mentioned on the newbie page!:mad:

Is there any way of getting it off as my website is a quater of the way down the page due to this website (having such a big budget, it has overtaken me) so its taking up the first few spaces!

Might sound a bit sad or complecated but I wonder if you could help,

thanks again for all your help Charlie:)


Here is a deckstand, with overhead lighting bar. You don't have to use the overhead, just the stand is fine, the choice is yours. There are cheaper, there are dearer. This will do for now.


http://www.soundlightuk.com/Giraffe_Stands/Pro_Deck_Stand1.htm


BTW, as a born nitpicker, what is your sound system? I'm a little sceptical about about the figure, as I'm sure that for a start it's a misprint, and secondly I reckon it may be an optimistic manufacturers claim. ;)

Much help and knowledge is available on here, ask nicely, and be polite, and a wealth of experience will be at your disposal. :D

Edit: By chance I notice I have shown a shop very near you.

Lol it is, my fault I have changed it now its all cool,

well I have my goalpost so I could just use the deck stand I think, its very handy but can I transport it?

Many thanks Again for all help, Charle:)


If you don't want to go for a decks stand yet most venue's are quite happy to lend you a table if asked for. However if you have a decks stand or a table a black cloth as a frontage will improve the look no end. It also means that you can hide cables and any boxes that carried equipment out of sight under it.
I used to use venue tables for years with no problems as I always requested tables in advance. However these days decks stands have come down so much in price and can have over head truss etc it is almost silly not to buy one. As for cables as has already been said you can but black velcro ties . You use them to keep your cables tied in transit and when you setup you use them to tie cables to stands etc. Gaffa is still needed for safety for walkthrough area. More for the client safety than yours. As for insurance most venue's will require you to have it or they will not let you play there. But as far as I am aware it is not a legal requirment merely to protect your interests incase of problem. You may want to look into P.A.T testing as well as this is very important. Search the forum many threads are on this subject.
Nothing wrong with using a laptop but make sure you have backup incase of problem. Even an ipod with a few choice songs could save your neck in a crunch.
You could try asking local DJ's if you can come and roadie for them to help get some pointers. Im sure they will be more than willing to let you watch in exchange for a bit of help setting up.


Yeh your right I think I need a backup, maybe some CD's and my old decks but would be worth it!

I do use all the community centre tables or school what ever,

I looke in to it, and what should I do about tax?

You have to earn 4000 pound a year dont you, to have to pay tax because Im not earning no way near that !

Thank you for all your help, wonder if you could help me with the tax question, if not thank you! :D


Hi Charlie,

As 'Spin' has pointed out a plain Black cloth will totaly improve the look of your show and is the most cost effective way to achieve a more 'Pro' appearance. (A 3mtr piece will cost you between £10 -15 from any fabric shop) Most venues will be happy to provide a table as you know.

Take off the out-riggers from your Maplins stand and just use the top 'T'-bar, put the 'Mushroom' effects under and the 'strobes' & 'laser crab' above. This will also improve the look of your lighting and give it more symmetry.

When you get your 'Goalpost' try to have everything that goes on it symmetrical, I believe that this along with tidy cables and a neat front (black cloth, or deck stand etc.) is key to getting that 'polished' look.

Just a note on your website, the testimonials look a little fake. I'm not saying they are and if they are genuine I appologise, but the wording and content doesn't feel right. Prospective clients need to trust you and what you say on your site has to be 100% accurate to be credible. Also check your spelling, nothing shouts amature louder than bad spelling on a site.

You quote that your sound is '1600K', this is 1'600'000watts (1 million, six hundred thousand watts)!!! Not sure those 'Pro-sound' will handle that! You should be quoting '1.6k' or '1600watts' Even this ia a peak value so the true value will be '0.4K' or '400watts RMS'. PEDANTRY? :D


I have been Mobile DJing since I was 14 so I know how it feels to be your age and starting out, I still love it. You've got off to a good start and you will get loads of really sound advice on this forum so stick with it and good luck. Good to have new blood!

Tony. :)

Right well I have taken your advice with the Goalpost and looks a lot better, thank you

Hahahah about the testimonials, I didn’t know I should use them until I started getting comments on my Bebo, and surprisingly they are all true and have kept all the cards etc for prooth, I did tell people to emphasize a bit when righting them, do you think I should adjust them accordingly?

Thank you for all your much appreciated help again :D


That was what I was politely alluding to, not jumping in with both feet, you great :Censored: :p :D I hadn't seen the legendary Prosound badges, my eyes are failing a bit you know. ;) Those figures are exactly what I would have expected to find. :)

Charlie, rather than quoting figures, since in the the pecking order of life,
400w RMS is nowadays on the low side ( even though it's quite big enough for you at the moment ) I would just put something like " A sound system suitable for the more cosy venues, yet capable of filling the larger ones "

PS Take very little notice of heated abuse between some longer serving members. You will soon learn to differentiate between chery banter, and handbags at twenty paces. :D

Hahah you guys are funny, no I wont take any notice,

And if you don't mind Im gonna use your genius quote if thats ok?

No i know it couldnt cope with that, do you think I may need bass bins or not?

Thank you, for your time and advice :D

Charlie


It's nice to see such a young entrepreneur starting out. Are you doing gigs for free or actually charging? If you are charging, I hope you have registered your business with the inland revenue and are up to date with the self employed NI payments. I have it on good authority that some people operating Discos in the area I cover will be having a nasty shock very soon and anyone starting up should take this good advice very seriously.

Good luck,

Rob (Mister Musicman)
www.mistermusicman.co.uk

Ohh im scared now :attn: What do I have to do? Don't I have to be earning so much a year, as I do charge but its petty cash?

Please help as this seems an important matter....

Thank you raising awarness and making me scared lol

Charlie


Hi there, we start out when we were 15 and now how you feel starting out

Looking through your website, on part of it you put "If you don't feel satisfied we will give you your money back" all good intensions, but your basically giving anyone the right to say at the end of a night, i wasn't satisfied i want my money back, even if it was the best night ever!
Would think about removing it.

Also do you have any terms and conditions for your service?

Hope this helps

No your right.. not good, I will change that,

Ohh this is great, I did'nt expect so much help, you guys must reli know your stuff, to pick on things like that, so thank you

Yeh your right I do need some terms and conditions

So thanks again for your help and advice:D

Charlie

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

Please don't put post after post up. Use the edit or multi quote system please. They are on the right hand side at the bottom of each individual post. Just click the " for which ever post you want to quote.

Posts merged.

[rob1963]

You have to earn 4000 pound a year dont you, to have to pay tax because Im not earning no way near that !


I believe it's more like £5,000...but you should still register your business with HM Revenue & Customs, even if you earn less than that.

[Charlie Brown]

Please don't put post after post up. Use the edit or multi quote system please. They are on the right hand side at the bottom of each individual post. Just click the " for which ever post you want to quote.

Posts merged.


Oh right ok,

Im sorry, will do next time

(delete them if you want!)

Thank you, sorry for being a pain

Charlie


I believe it's more like £5,000...but you should still register your business with HM Revenue & Customs, even if you earn less than that.

Right ... then I have to start getting insurance and then its the whole thing "am i older enough" or not?

Thank you

[Jiggles]

you aint old enough :D

[Charlie Brown]

you aint old enough :D

Thank you very much

Btw, great website :)

Charlie

[Jiggles]

Thanks :)

[DJWilson]

Hi charlie

your set-up looks quite good but once you get that deck stand your improve the look a lot. what did you use to make your website?

[Charlie Brown]

Hi charlie

your set-up looks quite good but once you get that deck stand your improve the look a lot. what did you use to make your website?

Hey thank you and the goalpost makes so much difference!

Erm website ... no program it all came with the package

www.one.com

I am very pleased with it

And the price.. well it might as well be free!

Hope this is useful,

do you have msn?

Thanks Charlie

[Excalibur]

Charlie, well done so far, please feel free to use any of my ramblings, no copyright there.:D Seriously, for tax, go see an accountant, it won't cost much for a quick word, and they can save you money and grief as you go forward. All of us on here are keen to promote good practice, and registering for tax, and having PLI are necessary nowadays, in order to keep you apart from the :cowboy: operators.!

Deckstand, fear not, you don't need a Pickfords van to shift it, it takes apart into user friendly component parts.:D :D If you get one you will find it is more useful than you ever expected. You can fit it into the smallest places, and also use it instead of, or as well as your goalpost rig. The only thing you'll need is a couple of bits of ply or similar to make shelves for it.

Velcro or similar, don't tell anyone I said so, but there's a shop most of them on here don't know about called Maplins.;) Very useful for bits and pieces, be aware that some of their gear is not necessarily designed for the rigours of Mobile DJ'ing ( some would say crap ) :D

And finally : Bass bins are way down on your shopping list at the moment, believe me. Should you get to the stage when you wish to upgrade your sound system, ask for advice again on here. Then get behind the sofa, and watch the bullets start to fly!:D :D :D

Don't try to run before you can walk. Do all the basics well, have a good sound system, a clear microphone, ( plenty of suggestions available on here if you want ) a neat and tidy set up, a reliable playout system ( laptop, CD'S , Vinyl, whatever ) . Good luck.:)

[leighinstoke]

Final thoughts:

:) Work out a system of setting your gear up - is it sound first or lighting first? (I do sound as I can at least put a CD on to supply some background music which is useful if the client is present)

:) Appearance - check yours and dress accordingly - if it's an 18th birthday party, black jeans, open collar shirt and black t-shirt under for later might suffice whereas, if it's a wedding or similar formal, it's shirt/tie or the full suit job.

:) Case/box everything up - look after your gear and cables and they will look after you.

:) Walk, don't run - many of us, even after years of working, are still establishing ourselves and changing our rigs/shows. Building a good client base can often be more important that having the latest piece of gear.

:) Be yourself - your attitude will rub off with your clients and your audience. Remember, you're who you are and develop your own style and leave the idea of being 'Westwood', etc, to the other guys.

:) Presentation - business cards, flyers (as mentioned), free phone book/YP listing, good website, list yourself everywhere and always have a 'not too pushy' chat with venue staff. You'll often hear stories from them about 'such and such a DJ' from them - so set out to impress and leave your cards. I get a lot of work this way on a regular basis.

:) Enjoy yourself - if you don't enjoy doing what you are doing, why do it!?

Leigh.....

[Excalibur]

Everything Leigh said.:D

[Charlie Brown]

Charlie, well done so far, please feel free to use any of my ramblings, no copyright there.:D Seriously, for tax, go see an accountant, it won't cost much for a quick word, and they can save you money and grief as you go forward. All of us on here are keen to promote good practice, and registering for tax, and having PLI are necessary nowadays, in order to keep you apart from the :cowboy: operators.!

Deckstand, fear not, you don't need a Pickfords van to shift it, it takes apart into user friendly component parts.:D :D If you get one you will find it is more useful than you ever expected. You can fit it into the smallest places, and also use it instead of, or as well as your goalpost rig. The only thing you'll need is a couple of bits of ply or similar to make shelves for it.

Velcro or similar, don't tell anyone I said so, but there's a shop most of them on here don't know about called Maplins.;) Very useful for bits and pieces, be aware that some of their gear is not necessarily designed for the rigours of Mobile DJ'ing ( some would say crap ) :D

And finally : Bass bins are way down on your shopping list at the moment, believe me. Should you get to the stage when you wish to upgrade your sound system, ask for advice again on here. Then get behind the sofa, and watch the bullets start to fly!:D :D :D

Don't try to run before you can walk. Do all the basics well, have a good sound system, a clear microphone, ( plenty of suggestions available on here if you want ) a neat and tidy set up, a reliable playout system ( laptop, CD'S , Vinyl, whatever ) . Good luck.:)

Ha ha right ok I understand, and take all your advice seriously so thank you.

I will buy the velco straps:D and book my self an oppontment to see an account, to get everything cleared!

Thanks again

Charlie


Final thoughts:

:) Work out a system of setting your gear up - is it sound first or lighting first? (I do sound as I can at least put a CD on to supply some background music which is useful if the client is present)

:) Appearance - check yours and dress accordingly - if it's an 18th birthday party, black jeans, open collar shirt and black t-shirt under for later might suffice whereas, if it's a wedding or similar formal, it's shirt/tie or the full suit job.

:) Case/box everything up - look after your gear and cables and they will look after you.

:) Walk, don't run - many of us, even after years of working, are still establishing ourselves and changing our rigs/shows. Building a good client base can often be more important that having the latest piece of gear.

:) Be yourself - your attitude will rub off with your clients and your audience. Remember, you're who you are and develop your own style and leave the idea of being 'Westwood', etc, to the other guys.

:) Presentation - business cards, flyers (as mentioned), free phone book/YP listing, good website, list yourself everywhere and always have a 'not too pushy' chat with venue staff. You'll often hear stories from them about 'such and such a DJ' from them - so set out to impress and leave your cards. I get a lot of work this way on a regular basis.

:) Enjoy yourself - if you don't enjoy doing what you are doing, why do it!?

Leigh.....


No no thank you I love it, and im going to get my self off to the printers, and not buy anything else until I have gained some more experiance,

So thanks again as I will always refer to this, as its good help, like a checklist you could say :D Thanks

Charlie

[yourdj]

Hi have not had time to trawl through the replies so sorry if i am repeating anything.

At age 14 you have done a great job :) you should be proud as i would not have been able to start a business as good as yours at that age! The website is good and I would say that you might be better off concentrating on school disco's and kids parties as this seems to be your stength. it might be very good undercutting the older dj's out there and using your age to your advantage :D

As a client i would think twice at booking you for a party with people over the age of 30 due to your age, unless you could persuade me other wise with a demo or face to face etc. thats just my opinion though. bookings form gigs are another matter as the older people have seen you in action. A video link to youtube of your set might be a good move?

You seem a little desperate for the gigs on the site. believe in what you do and that will come across to your clients. I would charge a little less than the others, which will mean you can cut down the amount of gigs and put more effort in to improving your performance etc.

Your set up seems ok, but i would add a black cloth, and a couple more lights in time. at the end of the day its the right music selection that matters

Good luck, if you have any questions please give me a pm :D
*ADMIN NOTE:

Content removed. Please read the forum rules regarding buying and selling. Please use www.djbids.co.uk

[bank]

Couple of things to try and help clear up, firstly, you're 14 and I don't think you have to start paying tax until you're 16. Secondly the taxable level is around £4k, so when you're starting out, there's a little chance of reaching it.

I noticed you mentioned a £40 p/m advertising spend on google adwords? If I was you, rather than spend all that money on advertising on google when starting, why not get some business cards done, take them to you're local shops, village halls, etc.

Also, some one mentioned visiting an accountant.. Well, its a nice idea, although for you're age a little on the expensive side, if you hunt around you're area, theres a few government run agencies that can help provide information for start ups, and would help explain what you need to do. Also, one other thing, try arrange a meeting with a bank manager or simular, they're clued up and could help you out.

Hope that Helps

[Shaun]

Couple of things to try and help clear up, firstly, you're 14 and I don't think you have to start paying tax until you're 16. Secondly the taxable level is around £4k, so when you're starting out, there's a little chance of reaching it.


Under 16s do have to pay tax if their earnings are above the tax threshold. They don't need to pay national insurance contributions though.

Charlie.....here some additional reading for you. Click Here (http://www.youthinformation.com/Templates/Internal.asp?NodeID=89868)

[Charlie Brown]

Under 16s do have to pay tax if their earnings are above the tax threshold. They don't need to pay national insurance contributions though.

Charlie.....here some additional reading for you. Click Here (http://www.youthinformation.com/Templates/Internal.asp?NodeID=89868)


Couple of things to try and help clear up, firstly, you're 14 and I don't think you have to start paying tax until you're 16. Secondly the taxable level is around £4k, so when you're starting out, there's a little chance of reaching it.

I noticed you mentioned a £40 p/m advertising spend on google adwords? If I was you, rather than spend all that money on advertising on google when starting, why not get some business cards done, take them to you're local shops, village halls, etc.

Also, some one mentioned visiting an accountant.. Well, its a nice idea, although for you're age a little on the expensive side, if you hunt around you're area, theres a few government run agencies that can help provide information for start ups, and would help explain what you need to do. Also, one other thing, try arrange a meeting with a bank manager or simular, they're clued up and could help you out.

Hope that Helps

Yes it sure does, I think I will wait untill I make any rash decissions, lol

So thank you, and I will be having some bussines cards made very soon

Thank you both Charlie

[daz226]

i used a company called vista print for all my cards and went with the option of having a callender on the back of them worked out quite cheep for 1000 of them. I then made up a flyer on the pc and printed them myself a5 (was a lot cheeper then buying them) then sent my kids round my local area putting them through letter box's.

I have had a few bookings from these allready so this works well. I am just about to place myself in the local advertiser which hits 13000 homes for 3 months see how that goes.

Regarding tax i am calssed as self employed with small earnings excemption as i have a full time job all ready but i make sure all my bookings are accounted for and i could be wrong here but i keed 35% of what i earn in another account for the tax man.

as i started in April last year i have spent loads on my initial start up to do this and the amount i have spent on cd's scares me but i am hoping as i have kept a record and receipts the tax man will be my friend this year and send me a cheque now that would be lovley.

[rob1963]

i used a company called vista print for all my cards and went with the option of having a callender on the back of them worked out quite cheep for 1000 of them.

The good thing about that company is that once you've placed your initial order, everything else after that is pretty much free!

:rolleyes:

[Twinspin]

I use vistaprint for my business cards. They are very good and theyre are some great bargains to be had.

[Excalibur]

I use vistaprint for my business cards. They are very good and theyre are some great bargains to be had.

And very smart they are too. They put mine to shame. :mad: ;)

[DJWilson]

psssst..... vistaprint have for a free SALE on now.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

How can it be a sale if it's free?

[DJWilson]

How can it be a sale if it's free?

Thats what the e-mail i recieved said: http://ebm.e.vistaprint.com/c/tag/aBHu$BuAZ5PC5ByvTjUBqvrDR.AZdBOAJH/[email protected]

[rob1963]

How can it be a sale if it's free?

Well...it could be a "100% off everything" sale

:D

[UltraBeat Entertainment]

Everythings Free:confused:. Cool:)
I bet you have to pay for delivery:rolleyes:. Do you need to enter your credit card details?

[DJWilson]

Everythings Free:confused:. Cool:)
I bet you have to pay for delivery:rolleyes:. Do you need to enter your credit card details?


yes, for delievry, but im going to take advantages of this 'sale'

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

Well...it could be a "100% off everything" sale

:D

It is!

[DJWilson]

im gettin b cards, envelopes etc...


my total is £3.62


ive got the erge to order everythink in the 'sale' :lol:

[rob1963]

I'm tempted to go for some brochures...just so I have something to send the enquirers who ask to be sent some information in the post.

[UltraBeat Entertainment]

I'm guessing there good quality then?:o

I don't understand if there as good as everyone says how come they can do this for free??? Do they advertise there own website on the back of the card or something? i just don't understand how this works.

I live by the motoe if it sounds to good to be true you must be drunk, reading it wrong or theres some hiden caught...

[Vectis]

I'm guessing there good quality then?:o

"OK quality" is the description I use. I use them for stuff like request cards, postcards etc..



I don't understand if there as good as everyone says how come they can do this for free??? Do they advertise there own website on the back of the card or something? i just don't understand how this works.

Because they either a) have hidden charges, such as art uploads (which they sometimes do for free and of which I take full advantage ;) ) or because in order to get from basket to checkout they make you wade through 3 or 4 pages of "and can I interest you in XXX sir?" type waffle.


I live by the motoe if it sounds to good to be true you must be drunk, reading it wrong or theres some hiden caught...

If you're prepared to put up with the onslaught of spam mail and being offered stuff you don't want (at daft prices) at every turn, then they represent good value IMHO.

Great for small runs of stuff - last year I did a couple of weddings where I had the request cards personalised - got an amazing reaction from the hosts yet cost me about £1.70 :D

[UltraBeat Entertainment]

Well in that case might have to try them out myself:)

I currently recieve alot of spam everyday so i'm sure i can live with alittle more. may even design myself a new logo and see how that comes out.

been playing around on thier site and it looks good fun. may get some postcards and magnets too if there any good:rolleyes:

[UltraBeat Entertainment]

Orderd myself some item from vista print last night. got myself:
250x Free Business Cards
250x Premium Business Cards
1x Free Note Pad
1x Free Rubber Stamp

Total Cost: £16.70

Price Breakdown:
250x Premium Business Cards = £9.74
P&P (Slow Option) =£4.48
Tax = £2.48

Total = 16.70

Also when entering my details i was very careful not to tick or untick boxes that offer membership and other stuff.

Looking Forwards to receiving my delivery

[dave stanson]

hi charlie
welcome to the ear bursting industry pal. daz is right though you should've gone to newbies for intros. don't worry too much though ( as at the moment i'm the biggest offemder ) i blame my age 56yrs & raving to the grave. anyway back the subject. depending on your funds to start with a giraffe stand with star cloth would help, they don't come cheap though. as for tidy wiring ( i think a must for safety reasons ) you can buy re- usable velcro cable ties. ihave a supplier from ebay. i'll send his details via email soon
hope this helps. regards the duke.

[DJWilson]

[quote=dave stanson;204696]hi charlie
welcome to the ear bursting industry pal. daz is right though you should've gone to newbies for intros. don't worry too much though ( as at the moment i'm the biggest offemder ) i blame my age 56yrs & raving to the grave. quote]


yay! another raver :lol: :DJ:

[Corabar Steve]

daz is right though you should've gone to newbies for intros. He did.

[dave stanson]

hi charlie
as promised details for velcro cable ties. go to ebay & look for mikeymoosef(private) he can help you & good luck
regards the duke .

[ppentertainments]

Worth checking out your local ASDA. You get a pack of 6 (i think) cable ties for under a pound. Really strong and if you shop there anyway should work out cheap considering the postage costs normally incurred. Only problem is they are only available in one length - ok for my use but not sure about some rigs.

[Charlie Brown]

He did.

Yes thank you I did lol

:D

And yes i have brought bussiness cards of vista print so thank you very much, also velco straps, any more advice will be greatly apreciated :D

Thank you Charlie

[Corabar Steve]

hi charlie
as promised details for velcro cable ties. go to ebay & look for mikeymoosef(private) he can help you & good luck
regards the duke .

Just to keep things tidy, I've merged your thread with this one (as it is in effect replying to it)

[dave stanson]

dear charlie
unfortunately mikeymoosef is not trading at the moment, but i.ve looked on ebay for you ( we're a kind lot here ) & if you go on ebay & type in reusable cable ties you will find the velcro cable tie suppliers there. they are very good as you can kink them together. and as opposed to plastic ones they're reusable time & time again & they're cheap. good luck, the duke.

[Corabar Steve]

Or just go to B&Q or Homebase & buy a reel of double sided Velcro™ & cut it to the lengths you need.