Wedding Wonders: Tips for Toasts (Part 3 of 3)

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May 18, 2009 by Amanda | Comments (0)

Spring is in the air, and wedding season is in full bloom! A close friend’s impending nuptials can be an emotional, invigorating and often stressful experience for her bridesmaids. We asked around about wedding stressors and found women believe ‘toasts’ to be the most daunting girlfriend duty.

Petrified of public speaking? Read our tips below!

1. Write your toast with ample time in advance to prepare — at least two weeks.

2. To get the creative juices flowing begin by writing down 10 memories you share. Anything goes at this point. You can edit later.

3. Watch wedding toasts on Youtube. Notice the formulas developing and know that it is ok to stick with them! Your toast will be personalized by content.

4. Pick up the pen again! First, write an introduction that clarifies who you are, and what your relationship is to the bride. Next think compliments and congratulations. Quickly describe the bride’s unique personality traits, and follow by drafting a humorous or touching friendship story that exemplifies her special qualities. Recount the way you were introduced to her husband to be. Address what makes them a good match. End by relaying a genuine hope you have for their future.

5. Record yourself reading the written toast on your video camera or computer. Then record yourself again speaking from memory. Playback the second version and write a transcript of your words. This will be your final draft. This version will feel less scripted and more comfortable and conversational.

6. The day of, remember to eat, breath, and keep alcohol consumption to a minimum.

7. Make steady eye contact with the bride as you deliver the toast. You are speaking to her first and foremost.

8. Let the emotions flow! Trying to hold back tears will make your toast look and feel stilted.

9. Reward yourself afterward with the large margarita you’ve been eyeing or the second piece of cake you have been coveting.

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