We had the good fortune of connecting with Kelly Hooper and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kelly, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
The process of starting my own business was to network and meet other people within the event industry. I knew I wanted to entertain and music was my first love so with the help of my dad and many industry professionals, I started DJ Kelly Hooper and Push Play DJ Services.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Being a female in a male dominated profession was hard at first because I was never taken seriously. After hundreds of weddings and events under my belt, I started hustling and helping other event professionals. I am a proud member of SWP (Society of Wedding Professionals) and have learned so much from this core group of amazing people. I learn something new everyday and try to put whatever goals I have for myself into action. I have learned so much and still continue to learn how to be a better me! DJ Kelly Hooper began entertaining audiences from the moment she could walk. She started by first performing solo dance routines in her parent’s living room, and then later competing in front of more than five hundred people. Born and raised in Dallas, TX, Kelly’s childhood was filled with music. Her parents were, and are, full time studio musicians who also perform live often. She has a radio background as an on air personality and producer, and worked for such stations as Kidd Kraddick in the Morning, Radio Disney, 97.1 the Eagle, 96.3 KSCS and once had a podcast. Music is her life, and she has continued to surround herself with it. Her husband is a musician, as well as her in-laws. Family gatherings inevitably include a jam session. This influence of music is what ultimately led her to want to deejay. With 12 + years in the business, she has performed at thousands of events including weddings, private parties, corporate events, birthdays, proms, school dances, and more. If it can be celebrated, Kelly Hooper can provide the entertainment.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
My favorite place to go and visit would be The Dallas World Aquarium first and foremost because it’s the most beautiful place to go and see amazing animals and the staff is very knowledgable and accommodating. Especially if Kyle Hennigan is around to give you a tour! I love to eat and shop local and would have to say Will Call Bar is at the top of my list along with sixty vines in uptown for the fabulous food and patio.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The biggest shout out goes out to my dad who is also a musician as well as Colby Logan with Astounding Sounds. Both Colby and my dad gave me the tools to use to become a great DJ and MC. My biggest mentors are Rod Baker with DFW Parties, Andy Austin, and Dan Quinn with Dan Quinn Band. My biggest supporters would be first and foremost, my husband Cameron and my manager/agent/BFF Renee Hart with Party Time Texas.

Website: www.djkellyhooper.com
Instagram: @djkellyhooper
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DJKellyHooper

Image Credits
Photos by Melissa Claire Photography and Rafael Serrano

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.