This week’s DJ LIFE Mobile Monday DJ spotlight, presented by QSC, shines on Sarah Duran of Kramer Events from San Luis Obispo, CA.
Sarah Duran is this week’s DJ LIFE Mobile Monday spotlight. Presented by QSC, Duran is a mobile DJ with Kramer Events, based out of San Luis Obispo, California.
As a mobile DJ, you take on many roles and responsibilities. When we sat down with Sarah Duran, we had the chance to dive deeper into what it means to be a mobile DJ and having the opportunity to make someone’s day special or an event easier, more meaningful, or a lot more fun. Duran also breaks down how she first got started as a DJ, some of her favorite new gear that she’s been currently using, DJ-related pet peeves, and the most important career life lessons learned thus far. There’s two big tips that Sarah gives to those pursuing the craft or considering doing so: “Experiment with creativity … also, ignore the haters.”
When DJ LIFE spoke with Sarah regarding all things mobile DJ, here’s how it went down…
DJ LIFE: What does being a mobile DJ mean to you?
Sarah Duran: I get to have fun at my job! Personally, I aim to live in high vibrations and live my life in a constant state of celebration. Whether it’s a wedding, holiday party, or housewarming – I get to make someone’s special day or event easier, more meaningful, and a lot more fun! I have the privilege of facilitating memories and maybe even help people get out of their comfort zones and live life more fully! I’m all about it and I am here for it!
DJ LIFE: Do you have any favorite or new gear that you’re currently using?
Duran: I’m so excited to finally be using the K Column, the new 3-way Active Column Speaker System from QSC. Of course, it sounds amazing, but what I love even more is that the KC12 is so aesthetically pleasing and soooooo much easier (and lighter!) to set up. As a chick in a male-dominated industry, I know I have to pull my own weight (and I do), so this makes the physical labor a little less heavy. I dig that.
DJ LIFE: Do you have any DJ-related pet peeves?
Duran: When other DJs attending an event come up to my booth to let me know they are an experienced or veteran DJ and give me unsolicited advice of what I should be doing or do next. Dude, you do you; let me be me—this is my gig—they didn’t hire you, obviously.
DJ LIFE: How did you get started as a DJ?
Duran: Music and dance have always been a big part of my life. Yet becoming a DJ/MC was not on my radar. The opportunity came into my life when I least expected it. But God and His universe knew better, of course! I responded to an ad for an MC, actually, not knowing it involved DJing. I grew up on stage and thought “Oh, I would crush that.” Little did I know what I was getting into; and it evolved from there. I took training and classes and ran with it. I had no idea where it would take me. I have had some pretty surreal moments when I’m on the decks or on an iconic stage or at a well-known venue and think to myself, “This is my life?! I get to do this for a living?!” and I am filled with gratitude.
DJ LIFE: What is the most important life lesson you have gained from your experience as a DJ?
Duran: When opportunities present themselves, more often than not, you should just take it! Figure out details later! It was brought to you for a reason. Be open to learn and receive feedback. Don’t let fear and intimidation keep you from doing something new; it usually can take you to greater heights and places. Experiment with creativity – that’s how you find your niche and you get better. Also, ignore the haters. They hatin’ on you because they see something in you they wish they had.
Featured photo credit: Mariah Hay (@mrh.ay) | Other photo credits: Derek Preciado