• The MC will introduce you so it isn’t necessary to restate your name. You can however let everyone know your relationship with the couple. Consider beginning your toast with something simple like, “I am so honored to be speaking at my best friend’s wedding”.

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• Be sure to stand for your toast.

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• Hold the mic close to your mouth at about chin height. If you talk with your hands, use your nondominant hand to hold the mic. Make sure you pronounce each word. And yes, "this thing is on".Plan your toast ahead of time and practice saying it out loud in a mirror or front of a small group of people.

 

• Ask for feedback about pacing and length.

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• Keep it short and sweet. We suggest that you aim for 2-3 minutes, as listeners tend to stay focus for about 2 minutes. It may not seem like long but for proper flow of events keep it heartfelt, but brief.

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• You don't need a PowerPoint or any props. The best toasts are short, sweet, and heartful. If you are planning something over the top, such as a song make sure the videographer is aware so they can capture the moment and the planner is aware so it is added to the timeline.

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• Focus on the couple. The toasts should mention both the bride and the groom, instead of focus on one exclusively.

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• Avoid basic cliché phrases like, “She’s the sweetest”, “They’re the best couple” and “She’s so pretty”. These basic phrases lack the weight to be remembered later. Instead, use specific examples that show how those basic phrases are true.

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• Remember this is a celebration so make it fun by telling a story or anecdote. Share an impactful moment you have had with the couple. Talk about the good times or something sentimental. Invite the audience to get a glimpse of the amazing times you have had together. Jokes are highly encouraged! 

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• Toasts should be fun but family-friendly. Keep it PG. Avoid locker room talk or anything that will make peopleuncomfortable.

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• Avoid talking about the bad times a wedding toast isn’t the place to bring in stressful experiences from the past. This is the happiest night of their life, be sure to focus on the good.

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• Don't bring up exes. Talking about former partners can be really awkward and often unwanted. Weddings are a celebration of the future and are not the time to bring up past relationships. 

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• Relax, this isn’t a competition. Be yourself and let the genuine love you have for the couple pour out. There is no reason to be nervous but if you do get nervous just keep it short and sweet. Don’t attempt to use vernacular you wouldn't normally use or try to sound like someone you’re not. Be authentic! You were invited to speak because they already love you, you don't have to win anyone over.

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• Consider ending your toast on how their new spouse has added to their life. Bring the ending home with a well wish to the couple