SmallSat | Audio Visual + DJ Services
By DJ Cam Reeve
Over the years, I’ve provided production including sound, lighting, video and DJ services for many receptions and afterparties surrounding the Small Satellite Conference (AKA Small Sat) at Utah State University in Logan, Utah. Back when I had been in business for about 4 years, I clearly remember my colleague in Salt Lake City calling me and asking me to provide production for him at a Space X reception. You see, he had been asked to DJ and was turning to me to provide sound and lighting for him because, at the time, he didn’t have the right gear to make it happen. How could I say no? At that stage of my career, production was my focus so this event lined up with my expertise. Everything went really smoothly and we ended up partnering for the event together for the next 3 years.
Fast forward to the year 2019. The pandemic came and changed the scope of things as you are well aware. A lot of companies changed their marketing teams over the pandemic and, sadly, I lost contact with those who hosted that specific event. However, 2022 brought new partners and companies to work with.
As 2023 rolled in, I got the chance to work with Nano Avionics along with Virgin Orbit.
For the Nano Avionics SmallSat reception we provided sound, lighting, and DJ Services. I provided 16 pixel tubes & 40 uplights for their venue - we even matched the company colors. As for audio setups, we actually had two full DJ Setups. One was placed upstairs and another downstairs. We began with the reception upstairs and ended the evening downstairs (due to local sound ordinances)
During the event we played Deep House, Euro House, Tech House, and even mixed in a little Bass House. As a DJ, I get to be a part of a lot of events; however, it’s not too often I get to play full house sets (though I tend to attract a clientele that lean towards this vibe). Although there was no expectation of dancing at the event, I am happy to report we had dancing for about half of the event with an incredibly nice and energetic group.
For Virgin Orbit, we provided sound and a video wall for their reception. For those who don’t know what a video wall is, it’s basically a giant mobile billboard. We create a truss structure to hold things together and then build, panel by panel, a video wall the size of a billboard you would see on the side of the highway! On this occasion, Virgin Orbit had their own music in mind so we gave them an iPad connection and they utilized their own playlist. This year the event was a rollercoaster; no fault to anyone! The weather was crazy the entire time. On the night of the event the weather was incredible - it was looking to be an easy, fun night. But about 45 minutes into the event the wind picked up and brought a storm in. Working closely with Virgin for the safety of those in attendance, we took the video wall down for 20 Minutes to let the storm pass before proceeding with the event. At this event they has food, bull riding, horshoes, archery and even ax throwing. Besides the half hour of worrying about weather the event went off really without any major issues. Though we did have to pause the video screen and bring it down for 30 minutes, we were still able to make it happen for the team at Virgin Orbit.
Ever since I can remember I’ve always looked to the sky in awe. As a person who attended Utah State University and who also has a father that works in technology, I remember being told about a really cool conference that comes into town called SmallSat. I never really thought I would get the chance to work at it! I’m excited to see where the Small Satellite Conference (AKA SmallSat) at Utah State University goes as technology and companies grow and change. I love working with companies who are creating events to connect with both their customers and partners.
If you are ever in need of a DJ or production for a reception, afterparty, or a conference like SmallSat in the US let us know.
We can be reached at info@reeverbent.net
