The History of Wedding Toast Etiquette
The history of wedding toast etiquette dates back as far back as sixth century B.C. Today, many traditions still are followed, though several modern twists have made their way to the table.
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History of the Term
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According to German Toasting Glasses, the term for the wedding "toast" hails from the sixth century B.C. when Greeks and Romans would float a piece of toast on top of the wine bowl to soak up the acidity during celebrations.
Libations
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German Toasting Glasses says Greeks would perform a ritual--called a libation--that involved offering an alcoholic beverage to the gods by standing up and extending the drink toward the sky while saying a prayer. This is much like today's wedding toast tradition, wherein the toaster stands up and extends his drink for the "cheers" after the toast.
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Old-School Tradition
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According to The Emily Post Institute, the host toasts first at all occasions, including the wedding. So, if the bride's father pays for or houses the wedding, he toasts first.
New-School Tradition
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In more modern years, the best man starts off with his toast, followed by the maid of honor's toast, according to The Knot.
Standing
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The Emily Post Institute notes that the toastmaster remains standing during the toast while everyone else sits unless he specifically requests the guests to stand in honor of the happy couple during the champagne toast.
Toasting Thanks
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Regardless of who is toasting, they should remember to thank whomever helped them. Although it's not necessary to individually thank each one of the vendors and friends, toasters should remember to thank those people who hold a special place during that time.
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References
- Photo Credit flûtes de champagne image by Ingrid from Fotolia.com
