Tips to the Perfect Wedding Toast

Did you know that public speaking is one of the biggest fears among Americans? Well, we don't actually know that for sure, but doesn't it seem that way? Over the past 12 years, we at Elite Entertainment of Florida know that when the time comes for your loved ones to give the all important wedding toast, we have seen the good, bad and ugly! It's a good thing we come together to create some essential tips for preparing and executing the perfect wedding toast! 

1. Plan & Practice: Have you ever heard "practice makes perfect"? Well, this is the most important step when preparing your wedding toast. Although you don't want the toast to sound "rehearsed", it is always good to write out the main points you want to talk about. This will allow you to stay on track but not sound like you are reading word-for-word.
2. Keep it Short & Balanced: Have you ever been to a wedding and listened to a toast that goes on for 20 minutes? Well, we have! Although your guests understand it's a time to say a few nice words about the bride and groom, the toast really should be no more then five minutes. It will give you enough time for an:
• Introduction: Welcome everyone and talk about how you know the bride AND groom
• Short Story: This is a great time to bring in a quick little story about the bride/groom. Maybe it's how you met or something that gives people an idea of what kind of relationship you have. It can be funny, fun, inspirational, or just about anything else. 
• When 2 Become 1: Yes, snagging a Spice Girls song title may be a bit over board but this is the time when you talk about the couple. Talk about the nice things they bring out in each other or how when they are together, they make the world a better place.... you get the idea. 
• The Toast: Always remember to finish with a nice toast. I will talk more about this in tip number four.
3.  Keep It Clean: Whatever you do, remember you are at a formal event with people of all ages. No one needs to hear the things you and your buddies did in college. Please keep your toast PG and remember, if you aren't sure if it's appropriate, it's most likely not. 
4. Remember to Finish with the Toast: There is nothing that makes us go "Dohh" more then someone who gives an amazing speech but then forget's to toast the bride and groom! This is why planning and practicing is essential to a toast. Always finish your tast with something similar to "Please raise your glasses and help me congratulate the bride and groom as they start their journey together as husband and wife". Again, this is just an example. I'm sure you can be a little more creative than that!

Having the honor and privilege of giving the toast at a wedding deserves your thought and planning. This is your moment to start the evening off right. IF you remember the tips above, we know you will be more confident and look like a pro! If you have any questions or would like more help, please contact us and we at Elite Entertainment of Florida will be happy to assist you!