Proven Hits. There are certain songs that can work magic on any empty dance floor. “You could play the Electric Slide at a funeral and there’d be people that would get up and dance,” says Colaneri. While some brides insist on no group dance songs, Colaneri says that these ultimately are requested by guests during the night so he discusses how the bride wants them handled in advance.

The Top 20. “I do my homework and constantly keep up with the Top 20 current songs,” says Colaneri. He then screens out anything that might be offensive for a wedding or obtains an edited version.

Guest Requests. Throughout the night guests will likely be in the mood for some of their own favorites. A good deejay discusses how to handle requests with the bride in advance, says Colaneri. But listening to the guests’ requests is often a recipe for success—keeping everyone happy and on the dance floor.

Bride and Groom Favorites. While they may not be everyone’s favorite songs, Colaneri finds it important to mix in the bride and groom’s “must plays.” After all, it is their night!