We recently connected with Michael Duke and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Michael thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Let’s jump right into the heart of things. Outsiders often think businesses or industries have much larger profit margins than they actually do – the reason is that outsiders are often unaware of the biggest challenges to profitability in various industries – what’s the biggest challenge to profitability in your industry?
As a DJ, there is so much equipment out there that you can purchase to up your game. It is enticing to get the next new controller, some club cannons, or a photobooth setup. So many of these things can help raise your profitability. However, often times, you end up spending a lot of money on something that does not show the same return. As I’ve grown, I’ve learned to do more research on my purchases. Moreover, I’ve found it doesn’t pay to cut corners in cost. As the saying goes “You have to spend money to make money”.
Michael, 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?
My name is Michael Duke! I am a sole owner and operator of DJ MC Duke. I mostly am a DJ/MC for weddings; however, I have been known to do birthday parties, school dances, and corporate events. My mother was a music teacher growing up and between her and my 4 older brothers and 3 older sisters, music filled the house. I graduated with a degree in Music with a Business minor from the University of Arizona in 2011. After college, I worked an office job for some time, but it had me wanting more. In 2021 I opened DJ MC Duke and have never been happier. I myself have been married for 9 years to my high school sweetheart. Together we have 2 children ages 4 and 7. Everything that I do is for my family. Every week being able to experience that same love I felt on my wedding day is what dreams are made of.
Can you talk to us about how your side-hustle turned into something more.
It is hard to say that DJing was ever a side-hustle for me. I went into this knowing that I was going to make it a full time thing. With that being said, I had to start somewhere, and that somewhere was very small. I have worked along side a daily job for the last two years. At the beginning, I needed to have my prices low in order to gain experience and ensure that I was providing a product that was worth the price (I never want my couples to feel like they aren’t getting their money’s worth!). As the years went on, it became clear that demand was out competing supply. I had to raise my prices. At this point, I am earning more that I do at my weekday job. I now consider my job as a “Technical Project Manager” my side-hustle.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
I think this one boils down to networking. As I started this business, I wanted to work with someone that knew what they were doing. I found a local DJ and worked with him through a season. He taught me so much about the industry and helped me to meet some really great connections. I think starting small had a huge impact on growing my reputation quickly as well. I was able to offer services to many people, get reviews quickly, and build my brand.
Contact Info:
- Website: djmcduke.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/djmcduke
- Facebook: facebook.com/djmcduke
- Youtube: https://www.yelp.com/biz/dj-mc-duke-gilbert-2?osq=dj+mc+duke
Image Credits
Aaron Kes Photography Andrew Millett Photography Nadine Eliza Photography Brittany Nemec Photography