Dance, Dance, Dance!
There aren’t many other moments in life that stack up to a couple’s first dance. Having witnessed a number of Bay Area weddings, we’ve seen an array of different cultural and familial traditions – and we can honestly say we love them all! Here’s a quick round up of some of our DJ’s favorites.
The Hora – Mazel Tov!
Nope – not just for bar- and bat-mitzvahs! The Hora is an old Israeli folk dance still used at various Jewish celebrations where guests create a circle formation surrounding the celebratory party as they dance at the center – sometimes from chairs raised to the sky!
Tarantella – Congratulazioni!
Talk about a party starter! Unlike the first three, the newly wed couple really shines here, dancing solo as guests watch. South Italian in origin with an upbeat tempo, and often accompanied by tambourines, this is no traditional first dance slow dance, which is what makes it so much fun.
The Money Dance – Felicitaciones!
AKA the Dollar Dance or Apron Dance
Rooted in an early 20th century Polish wedding tradition, the Money Dance has been globally adopted throughout Ukraine, Yugoslavia, Hungary, Nigeria, Mexico, the U.S, and Philippines. This dance really gets the party started as guests are invited to participate, tucking dollars into a bride’s purse, apron or dress as she dances!
Kalamatiano – Opah!
The Kalamatiano is one of the best-known dances of Greece, now internationally appreciated after being popularized in My Big Fat Greek Wedding. Couples dance together, united by a handkerchief, dancing in steps that occasionally include squats and jumps!
Bhangra – Shadi Mubarak!
Originating from the Punjab region of Pakistan and India, the Bhangra is a community participatory dance. Rich in culture and bright in color, this has quickly become one of our wedding DJ’s favorite genres.
Whether exotic, humorous, professionally choreographed, innovative, or glamorous, they all have a place in the Bay Area’s beautifully diverse landscape! Did we miss your favorite? Give us a shout and let us know! Click here to learn more about our Bay Area wedding DJ and event services.