Who to Dance With Next Dear Fran: I know my fiancé and I are the first ones to dance at our reception, but who do we dance with next? Does it really make any difference? I am also curious about the money dance. Does it appear we are just asking for money if we have that dance? Is it a special dance to one song, or do people pin money on me all
evening? Judy C. Dear Judy: Traditionally the bride and groom have the first dance together, as their favorite song is played. As the second song begins, the father of the bride dances with his daughter, as the groom asks his mother to dance. The father of the groom then dances with the bride, as the groom dances with the mother of his bride. Attendants can then join in, followed by the guests. You asked if it "really makes any difference?" Only
when you are trying to follow suite with tradition. Always remember this... "This is your wedding and you can choose to follow as many or as few traditions as you like." Just because you choose to do it differently than stated in a book somewhere, does not make it wrong or right. It simply makes it "your wedding, your way!" And that is how it should be anyway!!! Concerning the money dance, be sure to see our page on "Wedding Traditions around the
World." The custom of pinning money to the gown of the bride is centuries old in Poland. It was once done to help the young couple set up housekeeping and gave them money to begin their new life together. Today, it is more popularly known as the "money dance" and money may be pinned on both the bride and groom in payment for dancing with them. The money dance usually begins with an announcement from the musician or disc jockey, and lasts through two
or three dances, depending on the number of guests and those still waiting their turn to dance with the bride or groom. And in answer to your question as to whether or not it appears you are asking for money... absolutely not. It is a fun custom and guests come prepared to dance and pin money on you. Don't disappoint them. One final note about the money dance. Be sure you bring safety pins to the reception just for this occasion. It is also proper
for the bride to carry a small satin bag during the money dance, rather than have the money pinned to her gown. It is simply a matter of preference. Sincerely, Fran | 
