What is the money dance at a wedding?
In many cultures, a money dance, also known as a dollar dance or apron dance, is a popular tradition and part of the order of dances at a wedding reception. There are several ways to handle the money dance—guests paying to dance with the couple, for example—but they all end with the couple being given cash.
What is a dollar dance?
The dollar dance actually has roots in a few different cultural traditions. In Nigeria it's called the money spray, in Greece tossing money at the couple is part of a dance called kalamatiano (afterwards the money is collected and given to the band), and in Poland it's tradition to pin money to the bride's dress at the reception.
Is the dollar dance a good idea for a bride-to-be?
As a bride-to-be, you’re probably going to quite like the sound of this one. Even if it’s not something that’s strictly speaking part of your own culture, it could be a lot of fun. The dollar dance, or money dance as it is known elsewhere in the world, is an event held at many wedding receptions.
Why is the dollar dance so controversial?
The dollar or money dance is one of those wedding traditions that's polarizing, especially on our Etiquette board. Here's why dollar dances are controversial: In places where the dollar dance isn't the norm it can seem like a public way of asking for a cash gift.
How long should the dollar dance last?
We suggest trying to keep the dance to a 10-minute maximum. This should allow for three to four songs tops.
How do you do a money dance at a wedding?
0:031:26How to Have a Dollar Dance at a Wedding - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThings that sometimes happen in a wedding. And sometimes don't. So it's not out of the blue whereMoreThings that sometimes happen in a wedding. And sometimes don't. So it's not out of the blue where your guests at your wedding might be like what's going on but at the same time discuss it with your 2b
What can I use instead of dollar dance?
More videos on YouTubeCash to cake. Take up a collection to determine who will get cake to the face! ... Team rivalry bucket. ... Ball and chain. ... Buffet line auction. ... Bartending. ... Kidnapping the bride. ... Dollar dash. ... Selfie dance.
What countries do the money dance at a wedding?
Traditional weddings in Greece, Nigeria, Poland, and even the United States, all have a form of dollar dance at their wedding receptions. The general concept is that male guests pay to dance with the bride; and female guests do the same to dance with the groom. This money is then saved for the couple's honeymoon.
What is the point of a dollar dance?
What is a dollar dance? A wedding dollar dance is a dance that is preformed by the bride and groom at the reception. Traditionally, it's purpose is to give the couple extra money to spend on their honeymoon. It is more prevalent in some families than others.
Do they still do the dollar dance at weddings?
Their descendants, called Cajuns, still live in Louisiana and a Cajun wedding usually includes the money dance. Traditionally guests pinned money on the bride's veil to dance with her.
Can you not do a first dance at a wedding?
You can choose to forego the first dance for a number of reasons, but that doesn't mean there can't still be a special moment to mark the start of your marriage. First dance alternatives are a beautiful way to take the pressure off without removing the sentiment behind the tradition.
What to do if you dont want to dance at your wedding?
Discover some ideas on how to keep your wedding guests entertained:Cocktail Reception. Instead of having a full dinner, consider making your reception a cocktail party with plenty of appetizers. ... Campfire. ... Lawn Games. ... Strike a Pose. ... Game Night. ... Sing it Out. ... Live Performance. ... Casino Night.More items...
Is first dance necessary?
The simple answer here is no, you do not need a first dance at your wedding. Year after year, first dances are gradually becoming less common so choosing to skip this typically traditional part of a wedding day is not an odd occurrence in today's wedding world.
Where did the dollar dance come from?
Poland. The money dance may have originated in Poland around the beginning of the 20th century. The dance takes place some time after the first dance, often once guests have had a chance to have a few drinks. The best man or MC or the disc jockey announces the event.
How many dollar dance songs do I need?
The goal is to keep the dollar dance to about 2 songs.
What is the meaning of wedding garter?
What Is the Wedding Garter Tradition? The wedding garter tradition dates back centuries but has shifted over time. The basic idea is that having a piece of the bride's outfit brings good luck for wedding guests, so the newlyweds will offer a small token (AKA, the garter) to their guests to appease them.
What is the dollar dance called?
In Nigeria it's called the money spray, in Greece tossing money at the couple is part of a dance called kalamatiano (afterwards the money is collected and given to the band), ...
What is the purpose of a dollar dance?
The symbolism behind dollar dances varies, but typically the money is a gesture to help the couple get started in their new lives together. Generally, it's an upbeat and interactive part of the reception involving music, dancing and bills of money being tossed at or handed to the couple.
Why are dollar dances so controversial?
Here's why dollar dances are controversial: In places where the dollar dance isn't the norm it can seem like a public way of asking for a cash gift. On the other hand, in some circles it's not just acceptable, but encouraged for the couples to do the dollar dance. Like almost every tradition, what might seem rude to one couple may be totally ...
Is it a good idea to do a dollar dance?
If the dollar dance isn't the norm in your community or culture it's not a good idea to adopt this tradition as a creative way to encourage guests to give you money. If you want cash instead of gifts, just put a few items on your registry for those who prefer to give traditional gifts and others will likely opt to give cash instead.
What is the dollar dance?
So the Dollar Dance is where male guests pay to briefly dance with the bride. Of course, all things being very much equal these days, the female guests pay to dance with the groom! There’s nobody needs to feel left out!
Are there any alternatives to the dollar dance?
If you aren’t convinced that your family will be “down for the dance,” but you want to incorporate something fun into your wedding proceedings, try something a little bit more creative. Why not have a mass dance off! Invite everyone up onto the dance floor and encourage them to give you a blessing.
What music should you choose for your dollar dance?
Anything goes really. It’s entirely up to you. In reality, you won’t get to spend that much time with each of your guests. So there’s no point going for anything too sentimental as chances are they won’t be twirling you around for long enough to even hear the words.
Making a contribution
Finally, how about taking the dollar dance tradition and turning that into an opportunity to say thank your guests for their time in sharing your special day.
Funny dollar dance songs (that reference money in some way)
This is where you will find a good dollar dance song if you want to keep it more light-hearted and fun. Most of these songs reference money or making money in some way. Have fun with it!
Traditional money dance songs (slow dollar dance songs)
For couples who just want a nice song to dance to, we have some great music choices for you:
Country dollar dance songs
If you are having a country or rustic-themed wedding, you might want to consider one of these country songs for the dollar dance:
Upbeat and unique songs for the money dance
For couples who are looking to do something non-traditional, play one or two of these fun upbeat dance songs. Get your guests out on the dance floor showing off their best dance moves during the dollar dance. This will definitely be great for wedding photos and video.
What is the money dance?
In many cultures, a money dance, also known as a dollar dance or apron dance, is a popular tradition and part of the order of dances at a wedding reception. There are several ways to handle the money dance—guests paying to dance with the couple, for example—but they all end with the couple being given cash.
What is the wedding reception dance called?
7. Anniversary Dance. The anniversary dance, also known as the bouquet dance , is a sweet tradition that some couples choose to include in their wedding reception. All of the couples in the room are invited to the dance floor, as a slow, romantic song is played.
What is the bride's bouquet toss and garter dance?
Bouquet Toss and Garter Toss & Dance. Traditionally, the bride tosses her bouquet to the single ladies in the room , and the groom removes and tosses the bride's garter to a crowd of single men. After this takes place, the "winners" are expected to dance together.
What is the Jewish wedding hora?
Hora (for Jewish Couples) At Jewish weddings, the hora, a lively circle dance, may directly follow the first dance to start the reception off on a lively, joyful note. It can also start after dinner to kick off the main dancing portion of the event.
What is the most popular wedding reception activity?
Dancing is one of the most popular wedding reception activities, and there are certain traditional wedding dances—like the newlyweds' first dance, parent dances, and more—that make the celebration even more meaningful.
What is the dance floor at a wedding reception?
1. The Married Couple's and Wedding Party's Grand Entrance. While this may not technically be a dance, the grand entrance is still an important dance floor moment during the wedding reception. As cocktail hour comes to a close, the wedding party members, including bridesmaids, groomsmen, best man, maid of honor, matron of honor, bridesmen, ...
When do parents dance at a wedding?
Parent dances, such as the father-daughter dance and mother-son dance, may take place at several points during the wedding reception, depending on the order of dances you wish to follow. Sometimes, parent dances occur immediately after the first dance. Other times, these dances will take place toward the end of dinner, after the toasts, ...
Preparing For The Dancefloor
With the Filipino diaspora all over the world, it’s now more common to see foreign currencies pinned during the money dance. (Credit: J. Layno Photography & VIdeography, FilipinoTimes.net)
Taking The Money Dance A Step Up
A natural concern for brides and grooms about the money dance is how to preserve their wedding gown and barong amid all the pins. (Credit: Weddings in the Philippines.com)
