Traditional Marriage Toasts
Your wedding reception will be filled with toasts to you and your groom. The happiest day of your life can be tainted by one ill-spoken phrase from a joking best man or an intoxicated relative. To avoid an embarrassing situation, make sure each person in your wedding party knows that you want the speeches kept tasteful, and inform your master of ceremonies and DJ that only certain people are entitled to make public addresses.
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Traditional Order
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While it is not set in stone who toasts when, it is traditional for the father of the bride to give the first toast, especially when the father of the bride is the one paying for the wedding. The father should welcome all of the guests and address his daughter. His toast should be followed by the groom toasting his bride and then the best man's speech to the couple.
Modern Toasts
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Modern traditional toasts can now include a toast from the maid of honor, father of the groom and the bride, as well as toasts from the father of the bride, groom and best man. Typically, toasts will be given from the best man to the groom, from the maid of honor to the bride, from the father of the groom to the bride, from the father of the bride to the groom, from the bride and finally from the groom, according to GroomGroove.
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Themes
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Each traditional marriage toast follows a theme. Traditionally, toasts should be kept impersonal and incorporate both families, with an exception for the maid of honor and best man. The maid of honor's speech is directed to the bride, and the best man's is directed to the groom. Each can recount funny tales or stories from the bride's and groom's past. However, stories that could upset the bride or any guests should not be included, and everything should be kept suitable for children and elderly to hear. The maid of honor and best man are responsible for passing on messages to the couple from guests who could not attend or individuals not invited. The father of the bride's toast should be one of welcoming. His toast should not only welcome the guests to the couple's reception but also welcome his new son-in-law to his family.
Champagne or Wine
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Customarily, wedding toasts are given with a glass of champagne or wine. If the wedding is an alcohol-free wedding, you can toast with a glass of flat or sparkling water instead. While you are toasting, stand and hold the glass at chest level. Near the end of your toast, extend your glass toward the bride and groom and give your salutation. Once you have finished your toast, it is customary to take a sip and then take your seat.
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References
- Photo Credit wedding image by Mat Hayward from Fotolia.com
