Episode 11: Oak City Entertainment

with Dylan Huddock

Introduction

In episode 11 of the Casual Nonsense podcast, I had a chance to talk with former military man, Dylan Huddock. Dylan shared his experiences and insights on various topics, ranging from business strategies to personal challenges. Throughout our conversation, Dylan shed light on the journey of a musician turned entrepreneur who is also the proud owner of Oak City Entertainment, a successful DJ entertainment company. This article delves into the key takeaways from the podcast episode, reflecting on the wisdom and determination demonstrated by Dylan in navigating the ever-changing landscape of the wedding industry and his personal aspirations.

The Resilience of Oak City Entertainment

Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Dylan Huddock’s Oak City Entertainment managed to weather the storm. He revealed that although they had to postpone almost 50 weddings in 2020, only one event was canceled entirely. This resilience can be attributed to their strong relationships with wedding planners and venues, who continued to refer business to Oak City Entertainment even during uncertain times.

Maintaining a Niche

Dylan acknowledges the importance of understanding one’s target market and staying true to his craft. While considering expanding Oak City Entertainment to include event planning services, he also recognizes the potential risks of disrupting the existing ecosystem and the delicate balance of relationships with wedding planners. As a result, he decided to focus solely on his expertise: DJ entertainment. Embracing his niche, Oak City Entertainment continues to thrive by delivering exceptional DJ services that cater to the unique preferences of couples on their special day.

Crafting Memorable Experiences

During the Casual Nonsense podcast, Dylan also shared insights into his approach to DJing at weddings. He recognizes that most couples prefer to hear classic hits rather than the latest music trends. By starting the night with a wide variety of songs, he caters to different age groups and gradually transitions to more recent hits as the evening progresses. This dedication to creating memorable experiences showcases the professionalism and understanding of his clients’ needs.

Dylans Personal Journey

Beyond his entrepreneurial ventures, the podcast episode also sheds light on Dylan’s personal life and his passion for hockey. He shared his experiences as a player and coach, discussing the growing popularity of the sport in North Carolina and the unique dedication of hockey fans in the region. His participation in a rigorous program called “75 Hard,” which involves consistent physical tasks and mental challenges, highlighted his determination to improve his performance on the ice. Through discipline and the unwavering support of his family, Dylan emerged from the program with increased stamina, energy, and strength.

What Now

Since the airing of this episode of Casual Nonsense, Dylan has started his own podcast called The Dad Bod Brigade. His show mainly focuses on family dynamics and raising strong resilient children. Dylan meets with a new guest on each episode to talk about their journey. As a side note, I was able to appear as a guest on his show. If you the chance, please give his show a listen.

Conclusion

Dylan Huddock’s story serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs, highlighting the importance of adapting to market demands, maintaining strong relationships, and staying true to one’s craft. Oak City Entertainment’s success amidst the uncertainties of the wedding industry is a testament to that resilience and business acumen. Moreover, his commitment to personal growth, both physically and mentally, demonstrates the power of discipline and a supportive network. As Dylan continues to navigate the ever-changing landscape of the entertainment industry, his journey serves as a reminder that facing challenges head-on and embracing one’s passions can lead to fulfilling accomplishments and personal growth.