How to Include Parents in a Wedding Toast

Preparing a wedding toast that honors your parents can be a daunting task for even the most seasoned speaker. Consider these ideas to help take off some of the strain so you can make your big day extra special for Mom and Dad.

Instructions

1. Set the tone. Start by deciding if you want to go for a heartfelt homage or a quip-filled crowd pleaser. While wedding guests usually enjoy funny anecdotes, your parents will also appreciate tender childhood memories.

2. Think back on your childhood. Make a list of memories that involve your parents. Once you've come up with a handful of your favorites, narrow them down to the ones you think your parents and guests would enjoy hearing the most. Go for stories that will tie in with each other, but remember to keep them on the shorter side. Use transitions such as, "... but that was nothing compared to...", "which is why I am fortunate..." or "... despite all this...".

3. Consult the experts. Check out websites for fresh toast ideas that will impress even the most seasoned wedding guest.

4. Enlist in help from those around you. Ask your siblings, friends or family members for suggestions. Oftentimes you will find someone who has the "perfect" idea that she saw at another wedding. Give them your ideas as well. Getting their honest feedback with help you gauge how well the toast will be received. What you might find hilarious, your parents my fight embarrassing or offensive.

5. Be creative. One idea that has become popular is a "through the years" photo montage set to music. Use tunes that correspond to photo groups, such as age, vacations, school and birthdays. The photos can be projected onto a screen or a wall, using a photo proctor, which many banquet facilities can provide. This type of toast may be more appropriate to show at the Rehearsal Dinner than at the wedding reception.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep your audience in mind. While the youngsters may get a kick out of a good bar story, Grandma and Grandpa may not.

• Avoid mentioning anything negative. This isn't the time for rehashing bad memories.