Generally, the best man acts as the toastmaster, and prepares a list of the order in which each person will make a toast. There is an established protocol which the couple may or may not choose to follow.
Microphones: You may want to check with the hired musicians for the use of their microphone if the rehearsal or reception is in a very large area and people may have a hard time hearing. You might also consider if the sound system will be set up when you need to speak.
Special Considerations: If you, or someone else, will not be able to stand as you deliver your toast, you may want to make special arrangements ahead of time to move to a location where you will be seen by all.
You might follow this order:
- The best man toasts the bride
- The bride toasts the groom
- The groom toasts the bride’s mother
- The bride’s father may toast the groom’s parents
You might follow this order:
- The best man toasts the bride and groom
- The groom toasts the bride and her family
- The two fathers toast the bride and groom
- The bride and groom toast each other
- Don’t be long-winded.
- Stand to give a toast; remain seated to receive one.
- Prepare ahead of time; know what you are going to say.
- Mention those you are toasting by name, your relationship to them, and a thought about this wonderful event.
- Add witty anecdotes wherever possible, if they are in good taste.
- Speak slowly and loudly enough for all guests to hear.
- You may want to avoid consuming alcohol before your toast.
- Don’t forget to cap off the toast with a hearty ending like “Cheers!”