Day #10: Must-Have Announcements at Your Wedding Reception

From June Hoffman and Erik Michaels of Megasound

Much of your reception is planned out ahead of time and only a few select people will know what is going on at any given time. Announcements are important so that your guests know “what” is going on and if they have to participate in an activity. Your MC or DJ should review the announcements that you want to include at your wedding reception. Make sure that your DJ has the correct pronunciation of all names (ahead of time) for the introductions.

The Introduction – This should at least be the bride and groom (as the reception is in their honor). Many couples like to include wedding party members, ushers, any flower girls, and ring bearers. Occasionally, the parents of the bride and groom are introduced (prior to the wedding party and generally they simply stand up where they are seated). One couple even asked that we introduce as a special honor, four sets of grandparents in attendance (as all were still living and still married to their respective spouse).

Prayer/Blessing/Welcome (before dinner) – The prayer or blessing can be done by your pastor or minister (if they are attending the reception) or even a parent or grandparent. A “welcome” is generally given by the parent(s) hosting the reception (in most cases, the bride's parents are the hosts). A "welcome" can also be done immediately prior to the toasts.


Dinner – Your MC (or DJ) should discuss ahead of time (with the banquet manager or caterer) the order of “how” dinner will run at your reception. A dinner announcement is generally made so that all guests know how they will receive their meal (whether the meal is served plated or buffet style). Many full-service caterers have a well-defined dinner plan that works best for their facilities and will make your dinner run smooth and orderly.

Toasts – Whether you are having a full champagne toast or some variation (with signature drinks or no alcohol), drinks should be poured before the toast. Generally, the Best Man leads the toasts to the new bride and groom and then is followed by the Maid/Matron of Honor. Your MC should introduce those individuals you want to perform a toast. Toasts should be short (no more than five minutes each) and tasteful. If allowed to run unchecked, toasts can get out of control and cut into your reception time. If you have a lot of people who have prepared toasts, consider having the toasts after the salad and rolls are served, but before the start of dinner.

Cake Cutting – The cake cutting is the transition from meal time to celebration time. Many of your guests will want to take photos so your MC should include this announcement.

Traditions – Things like your first dance, wedding party dance, bouquet and garter throws should all be announced as well. This allows your guests to be aware of the fact that, "We are now doing "X," come on up and join us!" You will want your guests to be an integral part of your festivities so that they don't get bored and want to leave. One of the MC's jobs is to keep your guests having fun so that they will stay to celebrate with you. This is also why having an "I-pod" wedding doesn't work very well. Having announcements and someone to "run the show" is just as important as having music at your reception!

Closing – Signaling the end of your reception, the closing lets your guests know that it's time for the last dance and for them to congratulate the bride and groom before leaving.

For more ideas on must-have announcements, please feel free to contact us!


Happy Planning!!