Lynchburg Living

2010 Hitched

How to Give a Great Toast: Advice from Toastmasters

There is no rule of etiquette about who should give the wedding toast; sometimes parents are too bashful. However, if you were not requested to give a toast you should ask the couple beforehand if you may do so. Here are a few tips:

• Those closest to the couple, such as parents, give toasts first, so ask when you may speak.
• If you can’t memorize it, your toast is too long. A minute or two is enough.
• Say who you are and mention the beautiful ceremony. Include a tasteful story or quote; you can search the Internet for “wedding quotes.” This is a toast, not a roast; do not tell inappropriate stories.
• After the meal and before the music, move to the front of the room and say, “I would like to propose a toast.” Do not tap on the glass. Give the guests a moment to fill their glasses and quiet down.
• Hold your glass at about waist level. Look at the couple to begin, and then look back and forth between the guests and the couple. To finish, raise your glass to about eye level, look at the couple, and say, “To ___ and ___.” The audience may repeat your words (“To ___ and ___”), or they may gently tap glasses with those nearby and say “Cheers.”
• The couple does not drink after the toast. However, commonly the bride and groom stand afterwards. One or the other speaks in response, and then both take a sip of their drink. Simply saying, “Thank you for attending!” or “To our guests!” is sufficient.

It is an honor to give a toast, so make a good effort and practice many times before the event. Enjoy being part of the memorable occasion!