May 8, 2017

Meet Sara Williams of Rock with DJ Sara in South Shore

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sara Williams.

Sara, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
As a teenager I hosted radio shows at Maynard High School’s station, WAVM. I remember playing alternative, hardcore, and punk music for my friends and family who tuned in weekly. I have always found pleasure in sharing music with others.

In 2007, timed with a gigantic economic recession, I started my professional DJ career. I began as a karaoke singer for a bar in South Boston, and took over as the DJ a few months later.

Once this passion was rekindled, I tirelessly promoted myself. I approached countless bars and responded to Craigslist posts for DJs. After a couple of years I had recurring gigs on Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday nights. I also had many Saturday nights booked!

My format during this phase of my career was a mix of karaoke and an eclectic blend of music. My early career was filled with amazing experiences, and I met so many fun and exciting people through thousands of gigs.

I called three venues my home for those five years: my cozy hometown bar Morey’s Tavern; the rowdy and fun Porter Belly’s in Brighton; and my first venue — Shenanigans in South Boston.

I hustled through the recession, and even though I had 150-260 gigs a year, I took on private parties and began DJing weddings.

I didn’t yet mention that during this time I was studying; obtaining my undergrad degree in Early Childhood Education; graduating with honors; teaching preschool; and becoming a Montessori school director.

My ten year entrepreneurial anniversary is in June 2017. Things have grown and changed in ten years, yet my approach is the same as it was when I was a teenager: play fun and unexpected music to give people the best time of their lives, and have a good time doing it.

Now I have a family and I accept a small amount of weddings per year (roughly 20 or so). I’ve added a fantastic photo booth which my soulmate Dan runs with a DSLR camera.

Has it been a smooth road?
I’m forging a path in a male-dominated field. I hope that my work over the past decade helps other female music lovers and aspiring DJs pursue their dream. It is within reach.

I have certainly met difficulties along the way. Unlike working for a corporation, gigs aren’t guaranteed … meaning money isn’t guaranteed. In order to achieve success, I must satisfy every customer because I depend on positive grassroots advertising to drive my business forward.

We’d love to hear more about your business.
I began my business independently after a few months of learning the ropes. I’m proud that I have solely been responsible for my success and that my business has grown because of my drive and ambition.

I’m a non-traditional wedding DJ — I specialize in weddings which leap outside traditional boundaries. This can be seen in many ways, from expertly blending couples’ favorite metal or jam band into cocktail hour, to helping plan a celebration that stands out. I DJ a small amount of weddings so couples will work with me exclusively and know exactly what to expect on their big day. I pride myself in quality work.

I’ve helped organize all types of weddings. There have been food trucks and a carnival, Oceanside sunset receptions, swanky uplift historic venues… and everything in between.

My personal music interests include hardcore, metal, punk, jam bands, classic rock, country, indie, blues … and I love learning new music and world music through the people I meet and work with! My favorite band is Queen, fronted by the unrivaled vocalist and songwriter, Freddie Mercury.

I love my job, and I intend on remaining an owner-operator striving to bring couples their best day ever.

Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Boston is an absolutely great place to start as a DJ. There are so many bars to approach! New DJs will have to work hard and pursue the jobs — but hard work, reliability, and determination go a long way in securing a great gig.

Contact Info: