In Conversation With DJ Emma AKA The Lil’ Gay Celebrant
When we first became acquainted with Emma, AKA The Lil' Gay Celebrant, we were immediately drawn to her charismatic character and fun outlook toward weddings. We knew that if we loved her, then you would as well.
Emma is both a DJ and a wedding celebrant, priding herself on her sparkly, colourful style and ability to read a room.
Here's our latest In Conversation piece with Perth-based DJ and celebrant Emma, AKA The Lil' Gay Celebrant.
“…I found that my DJ meetings were going for two hours just talking about their music tastes and their lives. I was getting to know the newlyweds, hearing all about their guests, so I thought, why not save them some time and money in the hunt for a celebrant and just book me for both.”
Tell us a little about yourself, Emma…
The year I was born, a few other events took place; Nicki Minaj was born, the film “ET” was made, the song “Come on Eileen” was written, the AIDS epidemic was officially named, and the nightmare of discrimination in the queer community worsened. Those events pretty much sum me up; my obsession with the 80s, music and equal rights. I’ve been fortunate enough to make a career out of serving LGBTIQA+ folks and our allies. My very first gig was circa 2001 at Perth’s favourite alternative music venue “Amplifier”, which still exists today.
What brought you into the world of weddings?
In 2017, I was living in the Margaret River region, about to have my first child, and I needed a job. I started my DJ website and played at a relaxed, local wedding. The couple didn’t even realise that they wanted a DJ until a month before the wedding. There was so much joy, humanity and good vibes in the air that day. I got a rave review for helping them make their night a success, and from then on, I was HOOKED!
So you’re a DJ and a celebrant, the ultimate combination. What made you want to offer couples both services?
The people that choose me as their DJ are pretty unique and interesting individuals. I found that my DJ meetings were going for two hours just talking about their music tastes and their lives. I was getting to know the newlyweds, hearing all about their guests, so I thought, why not save them some time and money in the hunt for a celebrant and just book me for both?
Describe your style, firstly as a celebrant and then as a DJ…
Celebrants have a unique role in delivering a service that’s so personal yet entirely public at the same time. I try to get to the bottom of what the nearly-weds want, from the intimate “quickie” elopements to the elaborate Draq-Queen-Flash-Mob inspired nuptials so that they are well and truly “in the moment” when they get married. My style as a DJ is to rock the room and get everyone involved, from your elderly grandparents to your little ones to your drunk uncle. If people aren’t smiling, relaxed, and enjoying the night, then the DJ/MC isn’t working hard enough.
What inspires you as a celebrant?
The high drama, beautiful aesthetics, and bad fashion keep me coming back for more each season. But, a couple being allowed to be the most vulnerable and beautiful versions of themselves, surrounded by their favourite people, is what I truly live for.
What is unique to you as a brand that couples won’t find from anyone else?
Definitely my sparkly, colourful style and ability to read a room. Possibly my love of imperfection and just rollin’ with the curve balls, baby!
What excites you the most about celebrating a couple’s love?
Being invited to the VIP section at one of their most fabulous days on Earth! Followed closely by hearing about their next adventure together on Instagram.
How do you see wedding styles change moving past covid?
Like all of us whose plans have changed, the same goes for people planning weddings. Don’t be afraid to cull those numbers, elope, and do what you need to do if the big party or event just doesn’t work for you anymore. Mostly just TALK to your vendors when you need the extra support; we’ve been a part of a lot more weddings than you have.
What is your number one piece of advice for couples on the hunt for someone to officiate their special day?
DO book your celebrant and DJ early in the stages of planning and USE their knowledge and referrals. We’re a passionate and committed bunch, and the odds are that the celebrant and DJ that you choose will have great tips and suggestions for your entire day.
And finally, how long before their wedding do you suggest a couple reach out to you?
As there’s only one of me, and I don’t usually substitute myself for someone else, I’d encourage couples to enquire 12-18 months in advance. Please reach out even before you have a date to chat about my availability and pricing - I’ll do my best to fit you in or recommend someone else that’s amazing and free on your date. HOT TIP: I highly recommend getting married on a day other than Friday or Saturday as there will be reduced demand for vendors on your special date, and could potentially save you on costs. One of the most banging weddings I hosted was on a Monday night, followed by a week of fun with their best mates, I was so impressed!
You can find Emma - aka The Lil’ Gay Celebrant on THEODOREMagazine by CLICKING HERE, or at djemma.com.au, and also on Instagram @dj_emma_.
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