Tom,

I've done the same thing-fluctuating back and forth. Suggestion 1-don't get into the inkjet thing-if you are fluctuating on anything, don't do it to where you would be spending your money getting into something new. Spend the money on promoting what you already know, the area you already know, the people you know.

Vistaprints is a great organization for getting inexpensive printed materials (brochures and such) IF you don't know how to create your own professional brochures. Consider that Schools, Retirement Centers and other organizations may want a DJ for a day-program. Humane Societies would love to have inexpensive (or yes, free) DJ for some of their adoption events (in fact, many charities would kill for your services!) Why donate your time?

As a DJ, we need to get out there to let others know what we do and what we have to offer. If we offer ourselves to charity events, people will come up to you and ask about what you have to offer, especially if they are planning their own events. Be a professional. Always carry your best business cards (Vistaprints, again, has some wonderful designs and you can customize them yourself. You can get 500 for like, 10 bucks! So, don't omit this necessity!) Give your cards out ALWAYS. Join NAME (National Association of Mobile Entertainers) or ADJA (American DJ Association) and other professional organizations. Go to their meetings.

Yes, take your daughter. As you age, she may become the primary DJ, and you might get to be the roadie. :) Network with other DJ services who may ask you to cover when an emergency comes up (assuming they know what you do, the type of DJ you are when you are working, etc). I never drink alcohol when I am working - it helps prevent foot-in-mouth disease. If another DJ asks you to cover, they will probably want a percentage (after all, they did the original booking!)

If you don't already, have a contract for your clients. Send notes to previous clients and ask for their testimonials and feedback. Can you improve? Something they wanted that you didn't have? Do you offer anything extra? Karaoke? Lights? Bubbles? Smoke? These are all important things to keep in mind, to add to as you go along, and to build upon.

Good luck!

Connie and David Spicer, Artists/Entrepreneurs
Spice of Life Studios
CN Starz* Entertainment
Hidden Harbour Cards & Gifts
Secure Opportunities