The Dollar Dance

One reception event that I have not spent much time talking about is the time-honored tradition of the dollar dance. Also called the Apron Dance or the Money Dance, this is a common (but not requisite) event at wedding receptions in which guests are given the chance to briefly dance with the bride and groom and give them small cash handouts as a wish of good will for their future.
Not every bride wants to include this event and indeed it’s not for everyone. Some couples fear that-since it occurs later in the reception-it might draw guests away early and for some it just doesn’t fit with the tone of their reception. But for those who are interested in the tradition, it’s a great way to get face-time with guests who you might otherwise not have much opportunity to meet with. And of course (from a practical standpoint), it’s a good way to take in a couple dollars after the hefty cost of a wedding (or the impending cost of a honeymoon).
If you and your fiance are interested in a dollar dance, here are a couple helpful hints from us…
- Timing is Key
Some couples keep the Dollar Dance out specifically because they’re apprehensive about guests leaving. The dance tends to happen later in the reception and sometimes guests will use the distraction to make a quiet getaway. To avoid this, simply put it in as early as you can after the initial reception events. Usually the best time for it is shortly after the bouquet toss. Just leave at least an hour between the dance and the end of the reception and you should be fine.
- Put Some Thought Into the Collection Vessel
Think about what you want your guests to put the money in. Some brides will carry a large purse on their wrist (or give it to the maid of honor to hold and collect with). We’ve also seen baskets and bowls. Some people like to use sentimental objects to hold the money. It’s all up to you.
- Coordinate with the Bridal Party
This is especially important when you have a lot of guests. Get a groomsman and a bridesmaid to facilitate the line of people waiting to dance with the bride and groom. Guests usually get somewhere between 15-30 seconds to dance with the guests of honor before it’s the next-in-line’s turn.
-What Song to Use…
We’ve seen people do both fast and slow songs. A lot of people like to choose songs that are relevant to the money-giving spirit of the dance. If you’re interested in pursuing that theme, some of our suggestions would be…
Money, Money, Money- ABBA
With a Little Help From My Friends- The Beatles
Material Girl- Madonna
Take the Money and Run- Steve Miller Band
She Works Hard for the Money- Donna Summers
But the money-theme of the song isn’t a requirement. The most important thing is that couples choose music they’re comfortable dancing to, since they will be dancing quite a lot, with quite a few people.
Seward Park Tech is a boutique DJ and Lighting company providing services for Weddings, Corporate Events and all types of Special Celebrations. For additional information or suggestions about Wedding songs or trends in the Wedding field in general, please visit our website, where you will find dozens of articles written by our staff of expert authors.

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