Purpose of Wedding Toasts

Traditionally, the purpose of the wedding toast is to wish the newlyweds good luck in their marriage and to drink to their good health and fortune. There are other reasons for giving a wedding toast as well, with some purposes being less obvious than others.

The Link

A wedding toast typically takes place between the official wedding ceremony and the reception, with the purpose of serving as the link between the two. The toast often begins the official celebration of the event.

Sentiments

The wedding toast offers the opportunity for the speech-giver, usually the best man, to express his feelings about and happiness for the newlyweds.

Superstition

It is an old belief that the ringing of a bell or the clinking of glasses prior to a wedding toast serves to "cast away evil spirits" from the marriage.

Gratitude

Often, the person giving a later wedding toast--often the bride and/or groom--will use the toast to thank their parents, or to thank the guests and the wedding party for attending and taking part.

Religious Message

If the newlyweds and their families are religious, the wedding toast might include a reading from the Bible, and the speech-giver may use the toast as an opportunity to talk about God's blessing and plan for the bride and groom.

References

• Wedding Speech Digest