We were lucky to catch up with Kelly Hooper recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Kelly thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Before we get into specifics, let’s talk about success more generally. What do you think it takes to be successful?
I think it takes a few things to be successful. When I started my business, I had no idea what I was doing. Everything was so new and I never in my life thought that this would be a full time job, I went into this fully believing this would be a “side hustle” and a way to make money playing music. It was fun and I loved to watch people happy and having a good time. Since my dad is a business owner and in the music industry, he has given me many pointers in becoming a successful business owner. One of which is to work on at least one thing a day for your business whether it’s posting on social media or answering an email. I also have lots of other DJ peers I look up to that mentor me as well. I believe you should always surround yourself with like minded people to be successful as well.
Kelly, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
With over 15+ years in the wedding and corporate industry, DJ Kelly Hooper is your go-to for professional, fun, interactive, and creative DJ services! Kelly has appeared multiple on multiple episodes of Real Housewives of Dallas, has opened for legendary acts such as Mary J. Blige and Sting, and has performed for many other influential personalities. Kelly is also an entertainer for the DFW Live Nation VIP Lounge venues at Dos Equis Pavillion, Toyota Music Factory, as well as the newly opened, Echo Lounge. She has provided her DJ entertainment for the pre and after party at those venues for acts such as: Maroon 5, Korn, Alanis Morrissette, Garbage, Slipknot, and Rufus De Sol.
Kelly’s parents were, and are, full-time studio musicians who also perform live often. Her husband is a musician, as well as her in-laws. Family gatherings inevitably include a jam session. She has a radio background as an on-air personality and producer and worked for shows and stations such as Kidd Kraddick in the Morning, Radio Disney, 97.1 The Eagle, 96.3 KSCS, and also had a podcast. Music and entertaining are her life, and she has continued to surround herself with it. She now owns and operates DJ Kelly Hooper LLC as well as DJ Kelly Hooper & Co and is a full time wedding and event DJ.
DJ Kelly Hooper & Co was started in September 2022 and offers and plays alongside live musicians during her DJ sets. Whether a violinist or sax player, the duo will sure to elevate any and all event standards.
What’s been the best source of new clients for you?
The best source for me personally is word of mouth, event planners, and Instagram. I have found Instagram to be more successful than any social media platform for my business. It’s all about the algorithm, reels, and the time of day you are posting. I never knew hashtags were so powerful LOL!
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being a creative is the trust my clients, agents, and planners have in me. There is no higher honor than that. I also have several repeat clients I have worked with for 6 years + and continue to stay humble and grateful for everything is sent my way.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.djkellyhooper.com
- Instagram: @djkellyhooper & @djkellyhooperandco
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DJKellyHooper/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-hooper-9598bb14b/
Image Credits
Solid Rock Productions- @solid_rock_productions Opal & Onyx Photography- @opalonyxphotography Avery Earl Studios- @Averyearlstudios Elidia Neese- @e.tmemories