We all know with so much planning that goes into a wedding, often times the wedding toast can turn into a last minute afterthought. And, although there really are no set rules in today’s wedding world, there are still a few traditions that still hold true when it comes to nuptial toasts. So, to help you get ahead of the toasting etiquette and ensure everything goes smoothly, Bridal Spectacular has a few tips to keep in mind:

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At the Engagement Party

This is the perfect opportunity for the father of the bride to announce your engagement. If the groom’s parents are in attendance as well, it is also a nice touch for his father to also give a toast. As the bride and groom, it is up to you whether or not you would like to say a few words during this time.

During The Rehearsal Dinner

The rehearsal dinner is the time where most of the toasts are given so you don’t have to take up too much time during your actual wedding. To begin, the host typically gives the first toast, which is generally the groom’s father. The first toast often occurs during the main course of the dinner and is commonly followed by a return toast from the father of the bride. Others who generally make toasts during the dinner are the mothers of the bride and groom, maid of honor, best man, members of the bridal party, and any other family members or friends who would like to say a few words. Unlike the wedding, the rehearsal dinner toasts are generally longer speeches revealing all of those embarrassing childhood stories!

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The Grand Finale, the Wedding Reception!

Those selected to give a toast at the wedding reception are chosen bride and groom. Knowing in advance who will be speaking and in which order is a good idea, so all the speakers can be well prepared. At a sit-down dinner, the toast generally takes place as soon as everyone is seated. At a cocktail reception, it is customarily made after the couple enters the reception.

There are some weddings where the best man gives the first toast followed by the maid of honor. Another option, is the fathers of the bride and groom begin followed by the best man, maid of honor and perhaps the mothers of the bride and groom. Since most people had an opportunity to give a toast at the rehearsal dinner, the wedding toasts should be fairly brief lasting no more than 1-2 minutes. And remember, as the bride and groom you should give a toast to your guests thanking them for being there on your special day!

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Tips for a Successful Las Vegas Wedding Toast

Regardless of when a toast is given (at the engagement party, rehearsal dinner, wedding reception or some other occasion), here are a few tips to ensure your toast is a success:

  • The speaker should ask for everyone’s attention before they begin and use a microphone if available to ensure everyone can hear. When finished with a toast, raise your champagne glass toward the couple
  • Prepare your speech ahead of time and remember they should never be longer than a couple minutes, especially during the wedding reception
  • Toasts should be heart-felt, sincere, short and sweet
  • Funny is ok, but make sure you toast the couple, not roast them
  • Always make the speeches about the couple, never about yourself or about others
  • For the parents of the bride and groom, always welcome your new son or daughter into your family. It will mean the world to them
  • For the bride and groom, always thank your guests, family and friends for celebrating your special day with you
  • Lastly, enjoy yourself!

For more wedding planning tips and information, be sure to visit Bridal Spectacular. Good luck and cheers to you!