Parent Dances at the Reception

14th July, 2010. By Raylene Boots

I guess I am a traditionalist at heart - I think that the Father Daughter and Mother Son Dance is something that should be included in all wedding receptions. But I can tell you from experience that it can feel kind of awkward out there, turning a circle slowly, with your baby in a tuxedo. What do you say? Should you say anything? Did you even wonder about these things when your son/daughter announced “I am getting married”? As a bride, I don’t remember those feelings; but as the mother of the groom, I did.

I loved the song that I chose to dance with my son, but I had seen countless weddings and given years of thought to what I would choose. Not everyone has this experience, so let me give you some tips to consider. Your choice will reflect your personality as well as set the tone for your reception, so give it some thought.

Traditional – this brings to mind slow, sentimental songs. Examples are What A Wonderful World; Through the Years; Song for My Son; you get the idea. Google it and you can find hundreds of suggestions.

For sentimental, nothing beats when Heather P. married Brian M. in 2005. Mark Walzer, the DJ, played an old home movie on the big screen behind Heather and her father as they danced. The home movie showed Heather as a little girl singing with her dad on his knee. There was literally not a dry eye in the house, including the videographers.

Upbeat – I have seen some of the most fun parent dances to My Guy, My Girl, or songs like these. If you can swing dance, that is always entertaining. As always, listen to the ALL words before you make your choice – you don’t want an inappropriate surprise in the middle of the lyrics.

Off-beat – Listen to American Pie (dads love to sing along to this) and picture your parent dance – it can be a lot of fun, I have seen it. I found the coolest website with non-traditional ideas for weddings, check it out – www.offbeatbride.com. They do a great job suggesting unique ideas.

No matter what style fits you, remember this - the parent dances provide you a chance to have a personal moment with your mom or dad on one of the most important days of your life, during an otherwise very busy time – make the time for both of you. And have fun with it!

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