Most of the
time, this blog is aimed at the couples getting married. This time, we’re
putting the focus a little off center: to the people making the wedding toasts.
Nothing says “YouTube viral hit” like an awful, embarrassing wedding toast, but
that’s probably not the gift you want to give to the two people getting
married. So, how do you survive the wedding toast, be memorable and not offend
anyone in the audience?
Don’t overdo the liquid courage. Sure,
if public speaking terrifies you, you might need a little something before you
stand up in front of a crowd. But if you give the toast completely intoxicated,
you will embarrass yourself as well as everyone else. Wait till after the
speeches to belly up to the bar.
Write it down. Unless you’re a
fantastic off-the-cuff speaker, plan out what you’re going to say ahead of
time. It’s okay to read from a card, but try not to read it word-for-word. Look
up at the happy couple as you mention their names, or out towards the guests if
you’re talking about family or friends in attendance. It will look and feel
more natural.
Practice. Stand in front of a mirror
and say the speech out loud. Sure, you think you’ll sound silly, but it will
help you make sure there are no tricky words or tongue twisters you didn’t plan
on. Practice in front of someone else, too. Let them give you feedback.
Keep it:
- Brief: no more than five minutes
- Positive: make sure it’s appropriate for ages 2-102
- Simple: unless you’re an actor, comedian or singer, keeping to the standard speech format is your best bet. Leave the line dancing, rapping and over-the-top theatrics to the professionals.
Be yourself. Are you naturally funny?
Then tell the funny stories and make the jokes –keep ‘em clean! But if you’re
not, don’t force yourself into a role you’re not comfortable with. It’s okay to
give a short and sweet toast if that’s how you feel.
The bottom
line is you want your toast to be memorable… for the right reasons. With a
little planning ahead, it will be.
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