Audio Visual Equipment Hire in Tyne and Wear

NorthStar Audio Visual is an audiovisual effects company based in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne. In addition to providing the equipment for hire, NorthStar can also provide basic training for using the equipment on the day as well as professional technicians to operate the equipment if required for the event. Equipment includes PA systems, microphones, lighting, special effects, DJ equipment, dance floors, stages, projectors, and screens.

What do you need to know from an organiser in order to provide a comprehensive quote?

To provide a quotation for an event, we require the date and location at which the event is taking place. If there is a venue already confirmed then this is often very helpful as we have worked at many of the most popular venues in the area and have a good knowledge of the various event spaces and what equipment is most suitable. Other helpful information would include the type of event they are planning and the estimated number of guests or delegates are expected to attend.

What advice would you give to a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?

It is important to check the type of equipment that will be used at the event. This can vary greatly from provider to provider. High-quality audiovisual equipment adds a great deal of polish and professionalism to an event. Cutting edge, industry standard equipment from leading manufacturers ensures the best possible quality and reliability. Also, check for reviews and testimonials from previous customers. Finally, it is always worth checking equipment is PAT tested and covered by public liability insurance. This may be an essential requirement of the venue.

Please tell us a little bit about how and why you started the business.

I previously ran an audiovisual retail store for almost 10 years. Part of this business involved the hire of AV equipment for events. I found this aspect of the business very exciting and rewarding and I continued to develop a wider range of products and services in this area. In January 2015 I decided to open a new company specialising solely in providing a high-quality AV service for events and venues and NorthStar AV was born.

Please tell us about a booking you've had through Add to Event, how did it go? Would you recommend us to others?

We have been very happy with the bookings that we have received through Add to Event. It is a neat and effective platform both for those planning an event and the service provider. I would certainly recommend it to others and have mentioned it to contacts in the industry.

One event which stands out in the memory was a wedding at a hotel in Northumberland last year. We provided a large sound and lighting system for the evening reception. We kept in contact with the client regularly via Add to Event in the run-up to the big day to ensure all went smoothly. They were extremely happy with the service provided and left a very nice review.