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| The Basics of a Good Wedding
Toast |
| by Christine McFall of Celebrations
Bridal |
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 Making
a toast at a wedding reception would seem to be a relatively
simple task. But for the person giving the toast, as well as
wedding professionals and others involved in the wedding, it
can cause a great deal of anxiety. My most memorable toast disaster
was given by an inebriated best man who rambled on about the
injustices of life and used numerous obscenities. Needless to
say, the bride and groom and their guests will always remember
this toast - but for all the wrong reasons.
With a little preparation, the toast can be painless as well
as memorable.
Here are a few tips for giving
a good toast and minimizing the anxiety
Preparation - Find out who will
be making the toast. Ask the bride and groom to choose the person
or persons that are special to them to offer a toast. Sometimes
they haven’t given enough thought to the toast or to who
will handle the task. The toastmaster is usually the best man,
but other members of the wedding party and family may also offer
toasts. One couple I worked with two years ago had several toasts
offered at their reception. The first toast was given by the
best man, then the microphone was passed among the guests. Several
toasts were given by family members and friends. It only lasted
about ten minutes but added to the intimacy of the evening.
This sharing of memories and good wishes was an unforgettable
part of the reception and served as an appropriate beginning
to the couple’s new life together.
Review - Speak
with the person who will be offering the toast at the reception.
Usually the wedding planner will see him or her the evening
before at the rehearsal. Review the toast with them. Be prepared
to offer suggestions. Although the toast shouldn't be read,
it is best to have an outline on a small index card so they
can refer to it during the reception.
Personalization - Including
a family or cultural tradition, if appropriate, can be a nice
touch. Examples of this would be the use of a family toasting
goblet or asking the family patriarch to offer a few words of
wisdom.
Resources -
Short poems, wishes, and blessings
are all great sources of inspiration.
So what makes a good toast? Remember
the essential elements: brevity, a little humor, personalization,
and, above all, sincerity. |
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