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Role of a toastmaster
Weddings are generally formal occasions and, in addition to ensuring the smooth and efficient running of the reception, a professional toastmaster wearing his ceremonial clothes adds to the pomp and splendour of the occasion. They discreetly go about their duties co-ordinating, directing and announcing the ceremonial procedings with panache, whilst providing confidence and a calming influence on the bridal party.
The professional Toastmaster will organise and run your day exactly how you wish it to be so that the you and your families can really relax and enjoy the day with full confidence in its success.
The professional Toastmaster will organise and run your day exactly how you wish it to be so that the you and your families can really relax and enjoy the day with full confidence in its success.
Speeches
Do think about whether you need a microphone for the speeches. Although the toastmaster maybe used to addressing large gatherings, your best man or father may not be!
Best Man's Speech
- Thank the groom for his toast on behalf of the bridesmaids.
- Comment on the Bride and particularly the Groom. Ensure that any anecdotes are appropriate and won’t cause undue embarrassment to anyone present.
- Read any messages from absent friends.
- Toast the bride and groom.
Groom's Speech
- Thank the Father of the Bride for his toast and thank the guests for their gifts.
- Thank both sets of parents, perhaps presenting the mothers with flowers.
- Compliment the Bride. Thank the best man.
- Thank and toast the bridesmaids and pageboys.
Father of the Bride's Speech
- Thank the guests for attending, particularly those who have travelled a distance.
- Thank everyone who contributed towards the wedding.
- Compliment his daughter and welcome her new husband into the family.
- Toast the Bride and Groom.
Bride's speech
There is little etiquette dictating what the bride does or doesn't say, but it has become fairly common for brides to say a few words, perhaps thanking the guests for their support and thanking the groom's family for making her feel part of the family.
Wedding etiquette and traditions - the receiving line
The formal receiving line offers all of your guests the opportunity to meet and congratulate key members of the bridal party. It can take around 30 seconds to greet each guest, which equates to an hour for the average sized wedding. Serve drinks and canapés and have a quartet or harp playing music while they are waiting, to make it feel like part of the reception rather than a long queue. Once you have fulfilled these pleasantries you can relax, knowing that you have given each of your guests a brief moment of your undivided attention.
