DJ GIG LOG: Outdoor Wedding DJ Survival Guide! 🌞🌧️

Weddings pose their own set of challenges, but when you factor in the unpredictable elements of outdoor settings to these unforgettable occasions, DJs face an even tougher task. This gig log delves into the distinctive hurdles that arise when striving for perfection in less-than-ideal conditions. DJs must anticipate the unforeseen, bracing for everything from inclement weather to scorching temperatures. Discover some of my essential tips for handling unpredictable elements at outdoor weddings.
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[@djmollyparti]

I love this! You are not even kidding, I’ve been 100% outside since April with lizards falling out of trees on my head in ceremonies, snakes in a lake, 2 separate loose dogs, sooooooo many bugs 🤣 people don’t know what their dj is going through 🤣

[@djgreigza]

Just received my Comica Vimo C (2 transmitter units) via courier this morning. Have tested it in and around the house, with and without the "dead cats" Works really well. Only dropout over 20 metres I got was cupping the receiver in the palm of my hand. When it is elevated, no issues, even through walls ! I have a pair of Sennheiser beltpacks (with lapel or over the ear mics) and a Shure SLX handheld as my go to rig, but these have really impressed me. Going to give them a go next weekend. I was able to crank quite a bit of gain before any sign of feedback, so feeling quite happy with the purchase ..... thanks for the recommendation Rachel !

[@DJRachelLynch]

Hope you love them. Remember it’s not a direct replacement (IMO) for a professional mic but can definitely help out in a pinch or a multi mic situation. 🙂 Best of luck with your new purchase.

[@djgreigza]

@@DJRachelLynch I agree, any wireless system operating in the 2.4GHZ range is potentially going to be affected by wi-fi, bluetooth, Wireless DMX (gulp) transmitters and microwaves (don't go heating pizza slices during the ceremony). I am feeling hopeful, but will not be dependent on them. I purchased a set of Sennheiser 2.4GHZ XSW-D XLR units with the intention of using them to broadcast audio to a wireless satellite speaker. Considering the price, they made it 10 minutes into the gig and 30 seconds into the return to sender box. So far (in home testing) the range on the Comica has been surprising and the audio quality is very acceptable. Based on quality alone they could be a primary device, but the proof will be in their use for this coming weekend's wedding. I am not planning to use them as a primary source but will have them muted to the PA but recording them via an aux feed off my desk. This is a regular venue I play at, so if they work they may well become an option for the groom so I dont have to wire him up with a beltpack, I can just clip the unit onto his jacket in 10 seconds. I will be proceeding with caution ... wish me luck !

[@DJDynablend]

The only good thing about outdoor events is the great sound we can achieve from our systems, no horrible echos or unnatural reverb from poorly designed venue halls. I love the crisp and clean sound my system can deliver outdoors. Great gig log

[@dougtravins9624]

Bring your own drinks! good tip. When the food is not up to par, bringing your own snacks is good too. Nice day for a white wedding...

[@DJRachelLynch]

💯💯 emergency snack packs!

[@shehdslighting]

@@DJRachelLynch Hello Rachel, would u like to collaborate with SHEHDS? I have sent u email. Pls check, thanks.

[@estegarza]

You use your equipment really efficiently Rachel and are so well-organized -- there's a reason you're a success in this industry, great job. Those Comica mics make me crazy wondering why my DJI Mics give immediate feedback when trying to use them for any live sound....

[@DJRachelLynch]

As a solo performer, it's important for me to find efficient ways to get things done. While many DJs are buying more equipment, I focus on minimizing what I use. Good equipment helps me accomplish tasks smoothly. After a long journey, I've finally set up my gear just the way I like it. :) What microphone are you using? The EVERSE 8 features AFS (anti-feedback) and excellent DSP for precise adjustments. It simplifies EQ adjustments, especially with the app. DJI microphones have received positive reviews. Your challenge might be related to EQ settings or the audio chain.

[@Hustlindavehenry]

Love the content! I did a beach wedding this summer on the Texas coast. It was fun but the heat, humidity and sand tested the limits of my patience. It went well overall and I got a good experience! Subscribed!

[@DJRachelLynch]

The beach can be extra brutal. Sand is the worst. Also little to no shade. I feel you! Thanks for subscribing and stopping by the channel!

[@sonidogalvan4055]

As always such a great video , outdoors is another type of experience , but we do what we have to do, thank you Rachel for your always awesome advice and tips. greetings from Chicago !

[@DJRachelLynch]

🫡♥️ Definitely a unique experience and set of challenges for us. Luckily we have technology to let us do what we need to do. Thanks for stopping by the channel! 🙌🏻

[@timwiedt]

While most djs only display their mixing skills, you offer something different. Tips, tricks, and helpful information. A mini seminar. Thanks!

[@DJRachelLynch]

I try to keep it as helpful and transparent as possible. Real DJs doing real things. I appreciate this. The music is the easy part if you ask me. 😂

[@Pourier1961]

❤from the Caribbean BONAIRE

[@DjHarvieMOSCOW]

Hello, Rachel! We made event in Egypt, and rental company droped maui44 just on sand😅 Your way of work is super CLEAN🎉❤

[@DJRachelLynch]

Hey, my favorite DJ from across the globe! I hope you're doing well. Ugh, sand is just the worst. I'd rather decline a job than ever place my equipment on sand. Working outdoors always means extra cleaning, but I make sure to keep my gear protected and away from any potential damage. Thank you, as always, for watching the video! :)

[@thekennyfiesta]

Just got those pads! Thanks for the great info and good cheer.

[@DJRachelLynch]

Amazing! Hope you love them!

[@beatbuildersstudio]

Great info.It's good to see the Everse 8 holding up with all those people outside. It's interesting how your voice changed when you introduced the wedding party. It sounds so different from your regular speaking voice. LOL. I always think it's funny when DJ's going into "sounding like a broadcaster and pronouncing words clearly.

[@DJRachelLynch]

Thanks for checking this out. 🙂 The EVERSE 8 packs a lot of punch in a little package. It’s definitely my favorite ceremony speaker out right now and I’ve heard basically all of them. Ha! I mean when you try to annunciate names with excitement and clarity, the voice does tend to change. I definitely don’t try to be a radio DJ and do the “announcer thing”. This is my normal voice just with extra effort to speaker clearly and bring up the energy a bit.

[@TeeBizz]

I’ve been using the two channel Comica version periodically…..I’ve owned mine for about a year….Great to have as a backup

[@DJRachelLynch]

Their “new” sound canceling feature is FANTASTIC!

[@djshazam_sc]

Essential video, thank you!

[@DJRachelLynch]

Thanks for this!

[@djAXCESSmusic]

great topic idea Rachel!

[@DJRachelLynch]

Thanks. I’m sure there will a part 2. I haven’t even scratched the surface! 😂

[@johncolon8614]

Hola, always great to see you thriving, and your tips are always helpful.

[@DJRachelLynch]

Thanks so much for stopping by the channel and spreading a little kindness. I appreciate it a lot. ❤️👊🏻

[@maximusclean]

Rachel, your and your videos are amazing and informative! Thanks!

[@DJRachelLynch]

👊🏻❤️

[@thomastaylor1512]

Nice video. thank you. What lave mic's did you use? The ones you used were clear.

[@DJRachelLynch]

It’s shown in the video and listed in the video description. 🙂

[@allandenola5968]

Great video - i always wind up picking up some great tips from you ! Love those pads for the ground and pickup 2 inches of height inside as well Thank You

[@DJRachelLynch]

They have saved me MANY times outside. Great solution for height and ground issues. Definitely get a set if you do outdoor work!

[@stevenandrews6880]

Great video! Love the hacks and tips. Would like to know where you found the laptop shelf? Looking forward to your next video!

[@DJRachelLynch]

The laptop shelf comes with the Danny Max Edge L booth. Thanks so much for stopping by the channel! ☺️

[@biniyamwhite3015]

awesome!

[@DJRachelLynch]

Thanks! ☺️

[@soundsensationsindy]

Thank you for the great advice.

[@DJRachelLynch]

Happy to share! Thanks for checking this out. 🙂

[@bboymac84]

Yea the heat ☀️ and water 💦 is the DJs worst enemy!!

[@DJRachelLynch]

Humidity is really bad here too. The elements are tough for us! That’s for sure!

[@bboymac84]

@@DJRachelLynch I’m in Vegas trust ! I know

[@geraldwatkins3543]

Thanks for thanks for the video.Great advice. I always love your content. Wonderful shade of paper😂

[@DJRachelLynch]

😂❤️ I’m basically a vampire. 🧛🏻‍♂️ Appreciate you taking the time to check this out. Thanks for the laugh!

[@DJCaseyKay]

All super valid. Always with the best tips, thx Rach!

[@DJRachelLynch]

🫡❤️

[@DJChrisCenzo]

Great and informative video. As a DJ in the Hamptons we do numerous outdoor events. You’re spot on with your intro. Perfectly said indeed. For equipment bases on grass i’ve been using custom cut black painted plywood. I’m going to toss them and purchase those equipment bases. Great suggestion.

[@DJRachelLynch]

So glad you were able to check this out. I think these pads will work great for you. Link is in the comments to purchase. The added height of them is a GREAT benefit. If there is any ground saturation or random flooding it gives extra piece of mind and they are easy to keep clean. Nobody works harder than an out door wedding DJ. 😂

[@DJBennyswift]

I really enjoyed this video! Thank you!

[@DJRachelLynch]

Thank you so much for your kindness and time to check this out. See y’all on the next one.🫡

[@DJBennyswift]

@@DJRachelLynch your content helps us understand and grow, truly appreciate you!

[@djtjkaapuni]

here for this Rachel!! 🙌🙌

[@DJRachelLynch]

❤️🫡

[@JimHornEntertainment]

Great content!! And I always love listening to what you have playing for cocktails

[@DJRachelLynch]

Thanks so much for your time! ❤️ I wish KZbin made it possible to share more. I have to be so careful about what’s playing in the background. 😕

[@stuartmillsom3509]

Welcome back. Nice to see you uploading ❤

[@DJRachelLynch]

☺️ Been working hard! Thanks for stopping by. 👊🏻❤️

[@rockybourg]

Great crowd. Kudos.

[@DJRachelLynch]

Thanks for stopping by!

[@jimsargent7288]

thank you for sharing. I just did an outdoor wedding on Saturday. it was a perfect day. sunny 72 degrees and little wind. You are so right about people thinking outdoor dj'ing is easy... WRONG. much tougher to hit the cues. make the singers, speakers and bride and groom to sound good. I use Bose speakers and they are awesome. question other than uplighting what other dj lights did you use? I had up lights but because of ground level I didn't set up a light bar. Thoughts?

[@DJRachelLynch]

Appreciate you watching! ☺️ Anything outdoors is so much more work and so much harder on our gear. I definitely charge more for outdoor events. I usually just use my up lights or I’ll add a WASH FX to give more punch. Lots of bang for your buck with those. I highly recommend them.

[@jimsargent7288]

@@DJRachelLynch thank you for the response. Have a great wedding season.

[@chrisfejeran4401]

🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@DJRachelLynch]

❤️👊🏻

[@jimdunlop4427]

Hey there! So good to see / hear you! Thanks for the advice and gig log!

[@DJRachelLynch]

👋🏻 Thanks for being here! Great to see you too!

[@jimdunlop4427]

So many hekpful tips!

[@dantaddia43]

Nailed it!

[@DJRachelLynch]

👊🏻❤️

[@MrMaui38]

Awesome video with amazing tips!! Thank you for sharing and showing all the details! Those equipment pads and the ceremony mics were especially interesting to me and great ideas that you had!

[@DJRachelLynch]

Glad it was helpful! I appreicate your kind feedback and time to check it out. Those equipment pads have gotten me through a LOT of tough events outside. Best thing I've purchased in a LONG time. :)

[@MrMaui38]

@@DJRachelLynch seriously those are a great idea and I havent seen anyone on youtube using them yet. I will definitely be getting a set for my outdoor events too!

[@Dj_Dynamiks]

Hey Rachel! Great content as ever! We can totally relate having just spent this weekend at a gig 2 inches deep in mud and water! We also use foam mats to raise up equipment. How do you find the Comico mics? We have tried the Hollyland Lark duo wireless mic with very widely mixed results... We now just use them to record audio for social media video clips.. Those Comica really catch my eye though... around $400.00 four the Vimo Q 4 channel down under... I'd love to see a more in depth review of them if and when you have time - or a link to one that swayed you to purchase. Keep up the great content! Love your work!

[@DJRachelLynch]

This was my first time using the Comica mics. They worked fantastic. The issue is that’s what happens with 2.4GHz tech. Them work great, until they don’t. Since there is no way to “scan” for a clean channel, you’re at the mercy of the environment around you. I’ve NEVER had a 2.4GHZ mic fail me, but I also don’t use them every event. Only when needed like this. Every DJ should still have a quality pro mic.

[@DJRachelLynch]

There are a few reviews out there now. I watched many before I grabbed these off of Amazon. Thanks for your time to watch! I appreciate it. 😊

[@KevinRasmussen-hk4xf]

Picked up the Comica Vimo Q4 because of those video. You’re always so helpful and transparent with what you use and how things go together. I’ll be using them at my next wedding in a couple of weeks! Thanks!

[@DJRachelLynch]

Hope they work out great. Keep in mind 2.4GHZ mics can be hit or miss! It is always dependent on the frequency environment. So far so good for me. Appreciate your time to check this out. 🙂

[@Omo_Jimoh]

How have they worked for you thus far?

[@DJRachelLynch]

@@Omo_JimohI’ve only use them this one time.

[@Omo_Jimoh]

@@DJRachelLynch - I'm sorry, Rachel, I meant to direct that towards Kevin. Lol I want to use these for the ceremony, but you said these shouldn't be your main go-to’s. I'm still learning all about proper body packs for lapel and GHZ.

[@KevinRasmussen-hk4xf]

@@Omo_Jimoh I’ve used them 3 times now. No issues. Good sound, easy to use. Most of my weddings are destination type weddings so the 2.4 Hz issue is no issue at all.

[@DJAdrian.Esparza]

Nice job! Keep it up

[@DJRachelLynch]

Thanks so much for your time and kindness. 👊🏻❤️

[@louprimo6062]

I charge an up fee for outdoor weddings..... mostly because of the wear and tear on my equipment. I had an outdoor gig last week and the dew was so bad it looks as if my equipment was rained on.

[@DJRachelLynch]

Same here. Premium pricing for outdoor events always. I know the exact dew situation you’re talking about about! 😩

[@DJMAC8202]

As always, great vid Rachel! As a newer DJ, this never occurred to me. Do you charge more for outdoor weddings? Especially considering all that you mentioned here with the elements etc. I don't know how much more to charge. Any pointers?

[@DJRachelLynch]

Hey! Thanks for checking out the video. In general, my prices reflect the time, travel, talent, and resources required to do what's asked of me as professionally as possible. That said, outdoor events are significantly more complex and require more work due to all the factors mentioned, so my prices reflect that as well.

[@rmcguffie]

Rachel thank you as always for all the good information. may I ask what kind of roller car do you use? I trying to decide on one. Thank you for all you do!

[@DJRachelLynch]

This is a 10 year old Rock N Roller

[@philipbalistreri6849]

im assuming the actual lavalier mic is sold separately ?

[@DJRachelLynch]

Yes. But I did get it in a “bundle” on Amazon.

[@philipbalistreri6849]

@@DJRachelLynch Can you share the bundle link. I’m going to purchase this unit. 🤗

[@DJRachelLynch]

@@philipbalistreri6849link in video description. 🙂

[@DJDynablend]

Be aware of those itchy grubs, I had one inside one of my dj totes from an outdoor wedding, it made my life hell for 3 weeks I couldnt stop scratching and its hairs were all over my dj gear. Everytime i opened that tote my allergies kicked in.

[@DJRachelLynch]

😱 Ugggggghhhhh! That’s sounds awful! I really really hate bugs. I freak out anytime they touch me.

[@timsmith8506]

Hey Rachel, and/or other CT DJ’s. CT with a trailer? Not so much worried about rural venues, but city ones…..is it as big a pain as Boston or Providence or it’s fine?

[@MBrulla]

Welcome to the (Comica) Dark Side.

[@DJRachelLynch]

😂😎 Do you have pizza here? Otherwise I may have to rethink this.

[@MBrulla]

@@DJRachelLynch "Do you have pizza here?" Pssshhhtt. Haven't you seen Spaceballs?

[@djdaltee9054]

Not trying to jump on Rachels bandwagon - but - If you are in the Hartford area and need the equipment pads or even 1 - 4 inch cork pads for vibration isolation to keep equipment stable reach out to me.

[@DJRachelLynch]

Good to know! Thanks for sharing! 🙂

[@djshocase4577]

Hey Rachel, I'm curious does the EcoPad's effect the bass from the EV's in anyway? Thanks for sharing

[@DJRachelLynch]

Nothing I’ve noticed. 🙂

[@MsLGmobilos-sb3hb]

What about power to the gear, when you are outdoor? Is it in your "writer" that they have to ensure that it is there, and there is power enough? Or do you yourself have a 1 km power-wire :-)

[@DJRachelLynch]

I do require them to supply power, even if it’s with a generator, but I have a battery backup option in the event we lose power. kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y4LSlZKshqpgnbssi=XWEizrrGqNfD3PFs

[@StreamlineEntertainment]

Hello, great video! Off topic question. I use VDJ and Dropbox. Until recently, I have stored my music in the music folder on my Mac. I would build crates inside the music folder on the Mac and then they would show up on VDJ, because VDJ searches for music / folders in the Mac “music” folder. I would THEN copy my Mac “music” folder and drop it into Dropbox as a backup. I feel like if I could direct VDJ to search IN Dropbox for my music, then I wouldn’t have to copy/paste my music folder from my HD to Dropbox, thus less steps. Can this be done? Also, do you build your crates in your music folder or within VDJ. I feel like everytime I create new crates, I’m duplicating tracks due to copy/paste from there original location to the crate of the day for that event. Please explain your process for backing up and crate making.

[@DJRachelLynch]

1. Check out “CLOUDDRIVE” within VDJ. CloudDrive provides the ability to store files and folders with an online storage provider that can easily be accessed inside of VirtualDJ regardless of what computer is used. Using Google Drive, OneDrive, DropBox or iCloud, you can easily create emergency folders or even backup your entire music folder to the cloud that can be later accessed from any computer running VirtualDJ. Lean more here: www.virtualdj.com/manuals/virtualdj/interface/database/onlinemusic/clouddrive.html 2. I build my “crates” using the file management system in VDJ. This video is a bit older but will give you a general idea. kzbin.info/www/bejne/eHiwlqxuiq-ChMUsi=pVl91y0RSWY42nyS

[@afrodje-nice5625]

This is awesome how is the MSI Sword on stem ? is it smooth i was looking to get another laptop. will you recommend of have something else in mind. Cheers

[@DJRachelLynch]

I just got it so I don’t have much feedback on it yet. It’s spec’d out to handle live STEMS so it’s been solid on that front. I’ve used ASUS for many many years. This is my first MSI laptop. Both brands have been highly recommended.

[@afrodje-nice5625]

@@DJRachelLynch Cheers much appreciated. I wills ay you have used ASUS long enough to say it can handle STEM LIVE with no issues yes? i really appreciate the time and response. Cheers

[@DJRachelLynch]

@@afrodje-nice5625it’s not about the brand, it’s the internals that determine that. This is a $4,000 gaming laptop there isn’t much it can’t do. 🙂

[@afrodje-nice5625]

@@DJRachelLynch much appreciated

[@djmidnightgonzalez6284]

Mami me gustas mucho 🤩🤍🤍💜💜

[@Sweetlove.entertainment]

Are you sure about that 😂😂 are you sure????

[@DJRachelLynch]

😂😂😂