Maid of honor wedding toasts
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Accepting the prestigious title of Maid of Honor for a loved one's wedding means that you have certain tasks, obligations and duties to the bride, as well as the couple. One of those duties is to offer a toast or speech during the wedding reception. Prepare your wedding toast ahead of time to deliver your words in an organized, confident manner.
History
Historically, women rarely spoke or delivered speeches during weddings. The mothers did speak in some cultures, however, the bride and her attendants did not. Maid of Honor toasts and speeches became commonplace during the 20th century. They aren't required, although your bride may expect or request you to offer one.
Significance
Maid of Honor toasts exist solely to offer well wishes and congratulations to the newlyweds. Heartfelt, sincere toasts tend to come across better than forced or false words. All eyes and ears, especially those of the bride, will be on you as you deliver your toast.
Types
Wedding toasts by the Maid of Honor can be sentimental, witty or both. Although it may be nice to mix in a bit of both, stay true to yourself. If you aren't a comedian by nature and it doesn't feel "right" to try to solicit laughs, then don't. On the other hand, if the bride loves you for your sense of humor, feel free to crack a few jokes.
Speeches and toasts are basically the same thing, except speeches are a bit longer than toasts. They both serve the same basic purpose of wishing the couple well.
Time Frame
Maid of Honor toasts typically last for one to three minutes. Include a beginning, which consists of an opening line, introduction and thanking the bride, groom, their families and all of the guests. Offer a middle- relay how you met the bride, how long you've known her, how the couple met, how she knew he was "the one" or another sentiment such as that. The ending should be the toast where you actually wish the couple a happy married life, tons of kids, or whatever you genuinely wish for them.
Speeches, however, typically last for five to 10 minutes and include more in-depth stories or memories in the middle section. The beginning and end follow the same basic outline as a toast.
Considerations
Opening your toast with a quote or strong statement will get the attention of everyone--and keep it. Guests usually really do want to hear what you have to say, so relax and take a deep breath before you begin. Your hands may shake and your palms may be sweaty, but no one will notice that- they will only remember your words.
Preparation
Write out your toast ahead of time and practice it in front of a mirror and a live audience if possible. Memorize the toast, as it seems more sincere than if you read it. Keep a written copy of the speech on small cards to refer to in case you forget it due to nerves.
Warnings
Avoid discussing past parties, drinking binges and boyfriends. Don't bring up anything adult- or bedroom-oriented. Remember, the couple's parents, grandparents and everyone else they love will likely be in attendance. Focus on the couple and their relationship.
Save your drinking for after the toasts. The last thing you want to do is deliver a sloppy, drunk toast that you will regret the next day.
Tags: Maid Honor, Honor toasts, Maid Honor toasts, your toast, ahead timeSource: www.ehow.com
