Tips for toasting the happy couple
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A beloved wedding tradition
Many special moments unfold during a couple ’ s wedding day . A bride ’ s walk down the aisle , a married couple ’ s first dance together and , of course , the moment couples say “ I do ” are just a few of the many memorable moments to take place during a wedding .
Another memorable moment , and one that couples have little to no control over , is the wedding toast . Toasting is a tradition that some historians trace to ancient Greece , which should give nervous toasters-to-be a little more confidence as the wedding day approaches .
After all , given the lengthy history of toasting , it ’ s likely that millions of people have toasted happy couples over the years . If millions of others can do it , then so can this year ’ s crop of best men , maids of honor and proud parents who will be asked to raise a glass to happy couples . As a couple ’ s big day draws near , those trusted with toasting the newlyweds can consider these tips .
Introduce yourself Unless it ’ s a very intimate affair with only a handful of well-acquainted guests , introduce yourself before beginning your toast . This not only ensures everyone recognizes who you are , but also provides a simple way to begin your comments without feeling a need to impress .
Keep things lighthearted Though it ’ s best to avoid being too informal , a lighthearted toast with a funny anecdote and / or a joke or two can help to maintain the jovial vibe of the reception .
Explain your relationship Maids of honor and best men are often chosen because they have a special relationship with the bride
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As a couple ’ s big day draws near , some guests are trusted with toasting the newlyweds .
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The couple cuts their cake together for their reception after their wedding ceremony . or groom . So it ’ s alright to give a brief explanation of that relationship and explain how much it means to you during the toast .
Toast the couple Even though most people toasting at a wedding have a special connection with just one half of the newly married couple , it ’ s normal to toast the new couple and their happiness before closing your remarks .
If you want to toast each person when delivering your remarks , speak to your counterpart ( i . e ., a maid of honor if you ’ re the best man , or vice versa ) for some special insight .
Keep your toast short Toasts need not be lengthy . In fact , toasts should be on the shorter side so everyone tasked with delivering a toast can do so in a reasonable amount of time .
Avoid winging it Plan your remarks ahead of time , even writing down your toast or at least organizing your ideas before you ’ re handed the microphone . Winging it might seem like an option , but if you speak off-the-cuff you ’ ll likely find yourself rambling and going off course . Planning also allows time to practice your remarks before the big day , which also can help to calm your nerves .
Remember you ’ re among friends If need be , remind yourself before your toast that you ’ re among friends . Speaking to a room full of people you know or are at least familiar with should help you avoid the nervousness that can come with speaking to a room filled with strangers .
Toasts are a beloved wedding tradition . People tasked with toasting the happy couple can follow some simple strategies to stay calm and deliver remarks couples will remember forever .
14 � SOUTH � FEBRUARY ’ 23