There are differing reports about the origin of the wedding toast but there is agreement that a piece of toasted bread was put into the glass of wine. We can all agree, though, that writing and delivering a great one can be a challenge.
Is there a difference between a toast and a speech? Most definitely! There are some geographic differences but generally, a toast is a couple of minutes and is a statement of well wishes to the couple. It may contain a quote or scripture, heartfelt expression of feelings about the couple and concludes with an invitation for guests to clink glasses and drink to the couple’s health.
A speech…oh, the speeches! As a wedding planner, I’ve heard cringe worthy speeches, embarrassing ones, some that had my sides splitting from laughter, and those that made me cry. Nostalgia is fine as long as the content isn’t just understood by the toaster and the couple. Other tips for those asked to speak include –
- Brevity is appreciated by guests
- Minimize alcohol intake until you have delivered your wishes
- Contain what you will say to an index card size
- Practice a few times ahead of the wedding day
- If asked to provide a toast and you are nervous, consider a joint toast.
- Never, ever say something that could embarrass the couple
Traditionally, when the bride’s parents paid for the wedding, the father of the bride gave the first toast, welcoming the guests as the host. The Best Man was last. Today, nearly anything goes. The couple often wants to thank their guests. Your planner can help keep the number of toasts manageable and will give the toasters a few minutes heads up before they are expected to speak. On a couple of occasions, I have encouraged the couple to move up the toasts in the timeline after seeing the alcohol consumption in some of the toasters. After half a dozen cocktails, the couple probably won’t appreciate what comes out! For the same reason, open mic can be risky, especially late in the night.
Celebration Boulevard can make suggestions to help the nervous toasters with some alternatives. Lots of options so just give us a call!
