SEDA Update (i135)
Bookings are already appearing on the app for both 2026 and 2027 - surprisingly so. I’ve personally had five enquiries come in for 2027 already, and 2026 is shaping up to be very strong. This feels like a real shift from last year, when work filtered through far more sporadically. Since late November, right through December and into January, enquiries have been consistent - and I firmly believe that’s down to online presence and social media advertising.

I always make a point of asking new clients how they found me, as early feedback is invaluable. Several have said they’ve seen my videos on Instagram, a few mentioned events I’ve previously entertained at, and the rest have come via Facebook. That tells me everything I need to know - social media is where the momentum is. As a result, I’ll be pushing even harder on socials this year.

Some of you may remember I once had a website, but I decided to step away from it. I never received meaningful feedback or enquiries through it, whereas Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok have proven hugely effective. I’m now focusing on short, sharp adverts - no longer than 30 seconds - to stay within modern attention spans, and the results so far speak for themselves.

Education and inspiration also play a huge part. I attended the Pro Mobile Conference the last time it was held and gained a great deal from it, so I’m very much looking forward to the next one in March. Alongside that, networking continues to be absolutely invaluable. Speaking with other professionals, building friendships, and creating bridges within the industry is essential. If you want to move forward without bias or limitation, a strong social backing and professional network are key.

The landscape of advertising has changed dramatically over the last five years, and it’s clear that social media now carries far more power than a traditional website. That’s not to say websites don’t work - they absolutely can - but they demand constant attention, updates, and SEO investment.
I’ll admit I’m a bit old school and tend to lean into what I know best. I’ve always used social media to promote my own business and the Cosmopod brand, and it’s proven successful time and time again.

So my message for 2026 is simple: push your social advertising and don’t be afraid to push boundaries.

Over the Christmas period alone, I worked at several fantastic high-end venues, many of which came through friends within my networking circle - and the pay reflected that quality. My New Year’s event was for a regular client (who receives a special rate), but it was still a solid and worthwhile booking.

Looking ahead, my goal for 2026 is not to do more events, but to do better ones. Fewer gigs, higher potential, and 100% satisfaction. I used to chase three, four, even five nights a week, only to reach a Saturday wedding completely exhausted - and that’s not fair on the client or yourself. Now, my focus is on that one key event where I can give everything, deliver excellence, and achieve a higher yield.

Preparation is crucial. So is communication with your end user. Do your homework - yes, even a little social “stalking”! Check their Facebook or socials, get a feel for who they are, and spend time with them on Zoom. Building that relationship pays off massively and always works in your favour.

Finally, our next SEDA social meeting will take place January 18th at The Bridgewood Manor, from 7pm onwards. We’ll be joined by several fantastic suppliers:

ApeLabs (Sean Smyth) showcasing their latest products
Paladin Innovations
H|H Audio

As always, we’ll have our regular raffle and the ever-popular clear-out table of pre-loved equipment. Members and non-members alike are very welcome - please feel free to come along.

Here’s to a positive, productive, and forward-thinking 2026