The Speeches are traditionally done after the meal, although many bridal couples prefer to get them out of the way before any of the other activities begin. A good Master of Ceremonies is needed. He needs to be familiar with the timing of events, and have a fairly assertive personality.
The traditional manner of handling the speeches and toasts is as follows:
First toast is the bride’s father, who toasts the bride and groom. The speech should include a welcome to all guests from the bridal parents, favourable comments about both families, something nice about the new son-in-law, and a flattering anecdote about the bride.
Second the groom will respond by thanking bride’s parents for their help in the organizing of the wedding, thank his own parents, something nice about his new bride, and toast the bridesmaids.
The best man then will respond on behalf of the bridesmaids. He will read any telegrams, emails, etc. Will talk about the groom, and then propose a toast to the parents of the bride.
The father of the bride once again takes the floor in response. He toasts the groom’s parents.
Father of the groom then officially wishes the couple well.
The MC then closes the speech section off by thanking speakers, and announcing either the beginning of the meal, or the opening of the dance floor.
See to it that all the speakers understand that their speech needs to be concise and to the point. Ask the MC or best man to make sure that jokes are tasteful and not gratuitous. A speech should be like a woman’s dress: long enough to cover all the important points, but short enough to keep one interested!
