1. Enlist (or hire) a great band or DJ early. “Most people won’t remember what they ate, but they will remember the music,” says DJ Maximilian of DJ collective The Wedding Smashers (weddingsmashers.com).

2. “Playlist inspiration can hit at any time, so keep a notepad in your car,” advises DJ Moonie (djmoonie.com), a club and wedding pro.

3. With the right mix of tunes, you can please everyone. “Divide your guest list into demographic categories, then make a list of five or so tracks each group will love,” DJ Max says.

4. But don’t micromanage. “Some of the best receptions happen organically, so leave your band or DJ space to adapt to the mood of the crowd,” says DJ Moonie.

5.Beware too-cool-for-school DJs. “some top DJs don’t treat weddings with the same respect as other jobs,” warns DJ Max. “Present a list of your top songs in person and note their reaction.”

6. Find a band whose repertoire you love. “It’s fine to ask them to learn one or two new songs,” says Josh Nunn of entertainment agency Bulldog (bulldogentertainment.co.uk). “But if you want them to learn a lot, there will be a charge.”

7. Before you book a band, go to their gig! Your reaction to them live is crucial,” Josh adds.

8. If in doubt, go with funk. “It’s upbeat, easy-going and fun,” says Dave Hudge of Not Your Average DJ (notyouraveragedj.co.uk).

9. Choose your first dance wisely. “It can be almost anything, but make sure you put your personality into your choice,” Dave explains.

10. Nail the tempo. “Ask your band to give you their version of your song so you can practice at the right speed.”

11. Don’t neglect your second song. “You need to follow the first dance with a track that will get everyone dancing,” says DJ Max.

12. “Get a great playlist by asking each guest to write their favourite tune on their RSVP,” says DJ Max.

13. Forget the slow jams. “People want a party,” says Dave. “I keep it up-tempo, otherwise people get a drink and lose momentum.”

14. “Play with your venue’s acoustics and set up quieter areas where older guests can enjoy the party without being blasted,” says Dave.

15. “There’s always ‘one more song’ at the end of the night, so pick an encore tune that will bring everyone together,” says DJ Max.

Compiled by Miranda Eason, Cathy Howes and Julia Scirrotto.

For more handy hints on how to keep the party swinging, visit our Music & Entertainment page.