Get the most out of your DJ music at a home party

Sydney's leading DJ, Brenton Parkes from Platinum DJ Services shares how to get the most out of your DJ music at a home party.

There’s nothing like having a DJ bring your home party to life. From creating the perfect vibe to reading the crowd, a skilled DJ can turn a simple gathering into an unforgettable night. I’ve been spinning tracks at Sydney house parties for years, and I can tell you — the right setup, atmosphere, and communication with your DJ make all the difference.

Set the Scene for Sound
Good music deserves great sound, so make sure you clear a space for the DJ booth or table so speakers can project evenly throughout your party space. If possible, keep the DJ set up away from walls or corners to avoid muffled bass. “Sound is half the experience,” I always say. “If the audio’s crisp and well balanced, the music will hit exactly how it’s meant to.”

Brief your DJ in Advance - give the DJ your vibe, not just a Playlist
While it’s great to share a few favourite songs, your DJ will craft a better set if they know the mood you’re going for — whether it’s funky rooftop cocktails, a high-energy dance floor, or chilled backyard vibes. “Tell me the mood, and I’ll tell you the music,” is a motto I live by. Trust your DJ to read the crowd and adjust on the fly.

Lighting is Key
Nothing amps up a DJ set like lighting that matches the beat. Even a few LED uplights, fairy lights, or a small moving light setup can transform the atmosphere. I always recommend clients consider mood lighting because “if your eyes are loving it, your ears will love it even more.” (I hear Walkers Hire offer fairy light installation!!). To really up the vibe hire a Disco ball, nothing gets guests moving faster than a dance floor spinning under the shimmer of a disco ball!

Keep the Dance Floor Clear
Make sure there’s space for people to move. Avoid placing furniture or drink tables in the main dance area — the easier it is to join in, the quicker your party will get going. If you do need to place furniture for the initial guest arrival make sure it can be easily moved for when the party kicks in the guests start dancing! And if you want to Hire a dance floor, my buddies at Walkers Hire has a range you can hire to suit an indoor and outdoor party.

Let the DJ Work the Energy
A great DJ set isn’t all bangers from start to finish — it’s about building anticipation, creating peaks, and knowing when to slow it down so people can catch their breath. “Think of it like telling a story,” I tell clients. “The build-up is just as important as the drop.”

If you’re hosting a home party in Sydney, booking an experienced DJ and giving them the right space, vibe, and tools will make all the difference. Music is more than just background noise — it’s the heartbeat of your event. Get that heartbeat pumping, and your party will be the one people talk about for years.