Wedding toasts are a lovely tradition where friends and family can congratulate, share their love, and advise the newlyweds on their wedding day. Most of the time, toasts are funny, well planned, and illicit a few tears. Though, every now and then, they get a little awkward and uncomfortable, even with the best intentions. And we get it; finding the right words to say can be challenging, intimidating even. What’s the joke to serious story ratio? Which anecdotes cross the line? How long is too long? Well, funny you ask! We have the answers! This week we’re talking Wedding Toast tips!

Save Your VIPs For The Big Day

More than likely you’ll have a few people wanting to shower you with kind and loving words and you may be tempted to let them, but your reception should only feature your most important guest speeches. The more speeches you have the less charming they’ll be, we promise. If you want to give everyone a chance, have them speak at the rehearsal dinner! It’s a win for them and your guests.

The Couple Should Speak

The couple should always share a few words. It doesn’t have to long and drawn out, just something quick that expresses your love and gratitude.

Short and Sweet

Make sure that speakers know they don’t earn extra brownie points for longest speech. All the sentimental and funny anecdotes should stay around the five minute mark. Special allowances can be made, but choose wisely.

Advanced Notice Is The Best Notice

Speakers should know they’re toasting waaay in advance. Advanced notice will give them time to calm their nerves, rehearse their quippy lines, and self-edit. A last minute speech is a risk that we don’t think you should make.

Set Boundaries

Set boundaries! This is a wedding not a roast or a rauchy bachelor party. Give your toast makers guidelines on what should and shouldn’t be said in front of Nana and PopPop. Thank us later.

Have Fun

Toast can be nerve wracking for the couple and the guests. Everyone’s waiting for the perfect words and perfect story to share, but remember this is a celebration and it should be joyous. Don’t stress yourself or anyone else out trying to reach master orator status. Let your heart do the talking and you’re sure to say just the right thing.

What’s your favorite wedding toast?

TIPS | TOASTS