207-501-2289

office@bouchardentertainment.com

Weddings

Bouchard Entertainment is home to the best wedding DJs in Maine. We are known for hosting unforgettable parties.

Event Lighting

Whether you are looking for uplighting, dance floor lighting, personalized gobo or intelligent lighting, we have you covered!

Photo Booths

It is impossible not to have fun with a photo booth. Smile, laugh, repeat. A photo booth is the perfect addition to every party.

School Dances

Trendy, without the cheese. Our DJs specialize in high-energy DJ productions that are age appropriate and a ton of fun!

GET PRICING

Old Saco Inn Wedding DJ
Photo Credit: Chantal Paradis – Paradis Photography: Maine Wedding Photographer

Money Dances

are a tradition at many weddings. But should you have one at your wedding? This post will help you decide if a money dance is right for you.

We’ll look at the pros and cons of having a money dance and give you some tips on how to make it fun and memorable for all your guests. So, read on to find out more!

What is a Dollar Dance?

The dollar dance, also called the money dance, is a popular wedding tradition in which guests line up to dance with the bride or groom in exchange for a monetary donation. 

The dollar dance is typically done before the dance floor is opened up for everyone, and it can be a fun way for guests to show their support for the new marriage. The dollar dance also gives guests a chance to congratulate the newlyweds and wish them luck in their new life together. 

If you’re planning on having a dollar dance at your wedding, be sure to let your guests know in advance so that they can be prepared to make a donation.

Pros of Having a Money or Dollar Dance

As you’ve seen, the dollar dance is a tradition you’ll often see at weddings. While this may sound like a strange way to raise money, there are actually quite a few pros to having a dollar dance at your wedding. 

  • For one, it gives the newlyweds an opportunity to accept some additional cash for their honeymoon or even to put it into their joint bank account to replenish after all the wedding expenses.
  • Additionally, it provides an opportunity for guests to show their support for the new couple in a tangible way.
  • And finally, it can be a lot of fun!

Cons of Having a Money or Dollar Dance

While it can be a fun way for guests to interact with the newlyweds, there are some potential drawbacks to consider before deciding if a dollar dance is right for your wedding. 

  • One of the primary concerns is that some guests may feel awkward if they aren’t able to give money, especially if they’re already struggling to cover the cost of travel and wedding gifts. This can make the bride and groom feel like they are asking for a free handout. 
  • Additionally, the dollar dance can be a bit chaotic, with guests jostling for position and vying for the attention of the bride and groom.
  • A lot of guests use this time to sneak out of the reception and end the night early to not sit through the endurance of the dance.
  • Lastly, it’s important for the couple to prep the Maid of Honor and Best Man. Typically, these members of the bridal party are responsible for both collecting money from guests and moving the line along. So be sure to let them know the plan in advance!

If you’re considering having a dollar dance at your wedding, be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully to see if it’s right for you.

North Peak Lodge Wedding DJ
Photo Credit: Brittany & Dean Bugaj – Two Adventurous Souls: Maine Wedding Photographers
Photo Credit: Brittany & Dean Bugaj – Two Adventurous Souls: Maine Wedding Photographers

Pros of Having a Money or Dollar Dance

As you’ve seen, the dollar dance is a tradition you’ll often see at weddings. While this may sound like a strange way to raise money, there are actually quite a few pros to having a dollar dance at your wedding. 

  • For one, it gives the newlyweds an opportunity to accept some additional cash for their honeymoon or even to put it into their joint bank account to replenish after all the wedding expenses.
  • Additionally, it provides an opportunity for guests to show their support for the new couple in a tangible way.
  • And finally, it can be a lot of fun!

Cons of Having a Money or Dollar Dance

While it can be a fun way for guests to interact with the newlyweds, there are some potential drawbacks to consider before deciding if a dollar dance is right for your wedding. 

  • One of the primary concerns is that some guests may feel awkward if they aren’t able to give money, especially if they’re already struggling to cover the cost of travel and wedding gifts. This can make the bride and groom feel like they are asking for a free handout. 
  • Additionally, the dollar dance can be a bit chaotic, with guests jostling for position and vying for the attention of the bride and groom.
  • A lot of guests use this time to sneak out of the reception and end the night early to not sit through the endurance of the dance.
  • Lastly, it’s important for the couple to prep the Maid of Honor and Best Man. Typically, these members of the bridal party are responsible for both collecting money from guests and moving the line along. So be sure to let them know the plan in advance!

If you’re considering having a dollar dance at your wedding, be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully to see if it’s right for you.

Black Point Inn Wedding DJ
Photo Credit: Val Bozzi – Val Bozzi Photography: Maine Wedding Photographer

Alternatives to the Money or Dollar Dance

While there are pros to the money or dollar dance, we recommend skipping this tradition because it can be seen as crass or tacky by some guests. 

If you’re looking for a way to honor your heritage or tradition without offending anyone, there are a few alternatives you can try. 

  • One option is to make it clear that you simply aren’t accepting money. You can still have the dance, but not take any cash. There will be some guests who insist on giving you cash and you can provide a place for them to leave it at the gift table.  
  • Take any cash received and donate it to a worthy cause that you and your partner are passionate about. Make it known where the money will be going so your guests feel good about their donations.
  • Another alternative is to have all married guests make their way to the dance floor and simply give the newlyweds wedding advice instead of money. 

Whatever you decide, remember that your wedding day is all about celebrating your love with your closest friends and family. Have you wondered if traditional spotlight dances are for you… or necessary at all?