A Penny Wedding

Scottish Country Dance Instruction

1- 8 1s cross RH and cast (2s step up); 1s dance ½ Fig of 8 (1L up round 2s, 1M down round 3s). 213
9-16 1s turn ¾ RH and cast left round 1st corner to 2nd place opposite sides; 1s ¾ turn RH and cast left round 3rd corner place to 2nd place own side while
2s and 3s cast right to next corner place and dance ½ LH across, cast right to next corner place (original places) and dance ½ LH across to face diagonally out. (3)1(2)
17-24 1s turn ¾ LH and cast right round 2nd corner to 2nd place opposite sides; 1s ¾ turn LH and cast left round 4th corner place to 2nd place own side while
2s and 3s cast right to next corner place and dance ½ LH across, face diagonally out and cast right to next corner place and dance ½ LH back to end on sides. 213
25-32 2s+1s+3s circle 6H ½ round to left, pull back LSh and chase clockwise back to own sides. 213

(MINICRIB. Dance crib compiled by Charles Upton, Deeside Caledonian Society, and his successors)

Dance Information

In this custom, guests contribute money to the couple to assist with the costs associated with the wedding ceremony and festivities. The funds collected are often presented to the bride and groom in a symbolic container, such as a decorated box or bag. The tradition serves as a practical means of financial support for the newlyweds, allowing the community to share in the financial burden of the wedding expenses.

This practice was particularly prevalent in rural communities and among lower-income families, ensuring that weddings remained affordable for all involved parties. The term "Penny Wedding" reflects the small monetary contributions made by guests, emphasizing the collective effort to support the newly married couple.