Is Toasting at a Wedding, Really About Bread?

From Erik Michaels and June Hoffman of Megasound

Toasting is a tradition which comes to us from the ancient French custom of placing bread in the bottom of a glass. Historically, a person who is good at toasting would drink all of the beverage to get to the "toast" at the bottom of the glass. Of course, today we propose toasts to all sorts of things; not just wedding couples. Toasts come with all sorts of legends, just like other traditions and rituals. One such legend has it that when a bride and groom drink their beverage for their toast, whoever finishes their drink first will rule the family.


While many people prefer to come up with their own original toast, there are prepared toasts which can also be used. A good practice for toasts is to focus on positive aspects although we have definitely heard our fair share of embarrassing stories over the years. Some of these stories can actually be quite hilarious; however, it is still a good idea to keep the stories in good taste.

We, at Megasound, have assisted many wedding party members and parents as well as brides and grooms with how to prepare and present wedding toasts. To learn more about our MC skills and how we help with fun and meaningful toasting, just give us a call at 260-484-2460. "Cheers to YOU!!"

Day #23: Get the Tips for Wedding Toasting

From June Hoffman and Erik Michaels of Megasound

Presenting a toast at a wedding reception is an honor and a privilege for a best man or maid or matron of honor. We wanted to share some of the key points for preparing and presenting a wedding toast. We even included some things “not” to do/use in a toast.

Toast and Speech Basics:

1. Keep it brief (3-5 minutes)
2. Keep it simple
3. Keep it decent
4. Make it entertaining
5. Keep it meaningful
6. Keep the sentiment from the heart

Preparing Your Toast:

1. Start writing at least two to three weeks prior to the wedding.
2. Make notes—polish and remove anything irrelevant keeping in mind the 5 minute time limit.
3. Personalize
4. Practice/rehearse ahead of time


When giving a Wedding Toast or Speech:

1. Try to memorize what you want to say or have note cards with key points
2. Use a microphone if available and be aware of your distance from the microphone.
3. Speak so that the back of the room can hear you.

4. Speak clearly and look around at guests

5. Remember to breath

6. Remember to toast the Bride and Groom

7. Use words that are natural for you

The “DO-NOTS” of Toasting:

1. Do not apologize for not being a natural public speaker

2. Do not use vulgarities or risqué stories

3. Do not over-indulge in alcohol prior to the toast

4. Do not monopolize the toast time (especially if there are multiple people presenting toasts).

5. Do not reference previous “exes” or marriages

If you need assistance in writing or preparing your toast or just need some additional tips for presenting a wedding toast or speech, call Megasound. We are happy to assist you.