The Wedding Toast Order of Events
The wedding toast is a great opportunity to show love and give a testament to the happy couple. Though this practice is common, there are many different orders of the event, some traditional and some unorthodox. There is no set structure as toasts go, since they generally come from the heart and are inspired the moment. Most wedding toasts occur at two venues, the rehearsal dinner and the reception.
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The Wedding Reception Toast Order
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The father of the bride starts off the wedding reception toasts. He thanks everyone on behalf of his spouse (if accompanied by one) and raises his glass to the happy couple. The toasting continues with the best man and finally the groom. There may also be impromptu well-wishing by a close friends as well. Traditionally an emcee will facilitate the well-wishing after the official toasts. The toast usually occurs during the conclusion of the reception meal and is followed by a bride and groom's first dance as a married couple. After the dance the emcee may offer a final toast to the wedding party and guests
The Rehearsal Dinner Toast Order
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A toast at the rehearsal dinner is less formal than at the reception. There also are more speakers at the dinner. Usually the mother of the groom hosts the event, and is the first to speak. The best man, the maid of honor, groomsmen and bridesmaids all speak after the bride's parents. Close family and friends also have the opportunity to toast the future bride and groom. After dinner, the bride to be and groom offer their own toast to their guests.
The Engagement Party Toast Order
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The engagement party is not usually a toasting event. On occasion the father of the bride will give a toast to either the bride or to the bride and groom. In his toast, the bride's father will formally announce the engagement of his daughter and welcome the guests.
Toast Order: Who Toast's Who
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The groom will usually toast the bride and bridesmaids.
The bride will toast her groom and maid of honor.
The mother of the bride will toast the bride and groom.
The father of the bride will toast the bride and groom and the groom's family.
The father of the groom will toast the bride and groom and the bride's parents.
The maid of honor will toast the bride.
The best man will toast the bride and groom.
Toasting Order for Bachelor or Bachelorette Parties
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There is no customary toast at a bachelor or bachelorette party. If a toast is given it would be appropriate for the maid of honor and the best man to offer a toast at their respective parties.
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