What Does a Toastmaster Actually Do?
The Calm, Professional Master of Ceremonies Behind Every Special Day!
I will keep timings as tight as is comfortable, quietly solve any problems and ensure every guest knows exactly where to be, so that the spotlight stays on your celebration, not the schedule.
How the day progresses
My Arrival at the venue
I will always arrive at the venue at least an hour before the start of the event. This is to be able to meet and liaise with the venue’s staff to go over the timings for the day and to ensure that all arrangements are in place.
I will introduce myself to the photographer/videographer and offer any help and assistance necessary. I will meet and welcome all your families and guests and direct them to the designated rooms, and take any cards or gifts to the allocated place. I will keep your guests well informed of the proceedings throughout the day and answer any queries or questions they may have.
The Civil Ceremony
I will introduce myself to the registrars and enquire as to what they would like me to do during the ceremony. I will escort the happy couple to meet with the registrars before the ceremony. I will see if the Best Man/Ushers need any assistance and, if required, I will supervise or help with the seating arrangements for the service for your guests. Should it be required, I will escort the mothers or family members of the couple to their seats.
Celebration Drinks
After the ceremony, I will arrange for drinks and canapes to be presented to the happy couple and guide your guests to their refreshments. If needed, I will assist the photographer/videographer to organise the group shots. I will announce the confetti and or the bouquet throw.
The Wedding Breakfast
I will show the couple the room before inviting the guests in. If required, I will arrange the receiving line and organise the music to be played as they enter. Once the wedding party are seated, I will announce and escort the couple into the room. This is usually accompanied by a round of applause and cheers.
I will announce the saying of “Grace” or will do it myself if required. I will announce the serving of the meal and pass around the guest book, or the equivalent, and generally be on hand to ensure that everything runs smoothly. On completion of the Wedding Breakfast, I will escort the couple and the top table guests from the room, making sure this is accompanied by another round of applause and cheers.
The Speeches
Before I introduce the speeches, I will check that they have any gifts or flowers to be presented and be on hand to assist. So that your guests are aware, I will inform them five minutes before the speeches are due to start. I will also ensure that there is a microphone on hand, should it be needed, and I will check that the photographer/videographer is set up and ready.
I always confirm the order of speeches and introduce the speaker. At the end of the speeches, I will inform your guests of what is happening next and where they can go until the commencement of the evening reception. Whenever the cake cutting takes place (afternoon or evening), I will arrange, organise and announce the event.
The Evening reception
I will liaise with the venue to see if any help is needed to turn the room around in preparation for the evening reception. I will ensure that everything, including the photographer/videographer, entertainment, etc., is ready for the evening celebrations. I will announce the cutting of the cake, followed by the couple’s first dance, before handing over to the DJ/Band for the evening’s entertainment.
In short, I will be coordinating everything so that all concerned are in the right place at the right time, thus ensuring everything runs smoothly, so that your day is stress-free and is the start of a lifetime of wonderful memories. Be assured, you will be in safe hands with me as your Toastmaster.
A few more points of note
Having a Toastmaster at your wedding means that everything should go like clockwork!
Having someone to look after you for most of the day who is independent of the venue has a massive impact. We can resolve problems before they become one, as we are focused on how the day runs, and we also connect with all the other suppliers to work as a team for the couple. At the end of the day, if everything goes smoothly and everyone is happy! The Toastmaster has done their job!
Most venues offer a master of ceremonies within their packages.
Can you explain the difference between a master of ceremonies and a professional toastmaster, like you?
In most cases, the venue offers a duty manager who takes on the role of “toastmaster” on the day of the wedding. However, do remember that it’s a member of staff employed by the Hotel, their attention and duties may not always be with you, and they will have many other things to think about, for example, a separate bar, restaurant, and rooms to look after.
I have a lot of experience, and my priority is always my couple and their guests. When we have the meeting, we discuss what is most important to the couple on their wedding day, and I will ensure everything runs like clockwork.
Wearing their trademark hunting red tailcoat, a Toastmaster is a very British tradition.
A professionally trained Toastmaster is a key person at any occasion where a degree of formality is required, and will give both you and your guests the confidence that your event is in expert hands and will run smoothly.