Where Should I Put My DJ?
Most DJs, myself included, need access to power (I always bring extension cables) and a reasonable sized area to set up our gear (typically an 8’-10’ square area for our DJ booth, speakers, and lights). Some venues have specific, assigned areas for us, while others provide multiple options in their event space(s). So, when you’re planning your event, where should you put your DJ?
Photo Credit: Lulan Studio, at Chateau Roland, San Luis Obispo, CA
To start, if it’s possible, I encourage positioning my DJ booth/your DJ at the front and center of the dance floor. If aesthetically (like in the image above) that’s not what you want to see, the next best option is placing us slightly off to the side at one of the corners of the dance floor.
This matters because we do our best work when we can see everyone on the dance floor, hear/feel the energy as you and your guests celebrate, and this allows us to quickly adjust how we mix/play to best fit every minute.
If space and time allows, we typically spread our speakers apart in a way that provides even coverage (which makes the overall volume of music, speeches, etc. consistent regardless of where you are in the event space) with the volume being the loudest on the dance floor.
Photo Credit: Derek Preciado Photography, at The White Barn, San Luis Obispo, CA
Spacing between speakers especially matters during dinner because we don’t want the guests nearest our setup to be hit by volume 2-3x louder than the further edges of the room. If dinner and dancing take place in the same room or space in your venue, be strategic with who you seat nearest the DJ booth.
During dinner, the overall volume of music will be lower, but we raise it to dance floor levels for Introductions, your First Dance (at weddings), and other special moments prior to officially opening the dance floor.
The ideal guest to be seated closer to my speakers is someone who will want to dance, who loves listening to music loud, and isn’t bothered by high volume environments. Generally safe picks include your wedding party/younger guests.
Photo Credit: Derek Preciado Photography, at The White Barn, San Luis Obispo, CA
As for Wedding Ceremonies and Cocktail/Social Hour, the same recommendation to place me near an electrical outlet applies; however, it is not a requirement. I take a silent, powerful 1000Wh battery to every wedding and I have a pair of battery powered PA speakers for locations where power is limited/inaccessible.
For moments like those (where extended, dance floor level volumes aren’t necessary), I’m flexible - if you’d prefer me to be set-up off to the side, out of photos, or in a way that’s easily photoshopped out, that’s very doable!
Photo Credit: Bethany Joy Photography, Oak & Vine Vineyard Estate, Templeton, CA
So what else should I keep in mind?
If we’re outside, weather and temperatures can adversely impact a DJ’s equipment, and subsequently, their performance. A good rule of thumb - if outdoor conditions aren’t good for a laptop, they’re not good for your DJ.
Rain, sleet, high temperatures (above 100 degrees Fahrenheit), cold temperatures (below 55 degrees Fahrenheit), dew, etc. can all be damaging to DJ equipment over prolonged or intense exposure. Placing us in shade when it’s hot, under umbrellas/similar covering when the forecast includes rain, and close to a heater when it’s cold are very appreciated and will ensure we keep the party rocking!
