Emma's answers to Female toastmaster

Question

I've been asked to be Master of Ceremonies for my friend's wedding. What does this role entail?

Answer

The origins of proposing a 'toast' at celebrations dates back to the 17th century, and a toastmaster (also known as a master of ceremonies or guardian of etiquette) has been a traditional fixture at Royal and formal social events for centuries.

Today, most weddings are formal occasions and during the wedding reception require someone to co-ordinate, direct and announce the ceremonial procedings such as the receiving line, speeches and cake cutting ceremony.

The toastmaster, whether professional or amateur, is responsible for keeping the reception running effortlessly and to time, ensuring that events happen in the right order. A toastmaster will liaise with the bridal party, the venue staff and the catering staff to ensure that everything happens when it is supposed to. Managing these elements will result in a seamless feel to the celebration.

As well as time keeping, the toastmaster introduces guests to their hosts at the start of the receiving line, and announces meals, speeches, toasts and cake cutting. They may also help guests to find their seats for the wedding breakfast. Having someone with responsibility for these elements of the reception will ensure that the event runs smoothly, eliminating pauses where the bridal party and guests aren't sure what's happening or what to do next.

Daytime wedding receptions normally have a specified end time, so that the room layout can be rearranged for the evening celebrations. A toastmaster will keep events moving so that evening guests will not feel as if they are walking into the end of a previous party. The presence of an unbiased, authoritative third party could also be of assistance if there is a fear of arguments or bad feeling between guests. A quiet word in the ear of a loud or disruptive guest can do much to diffuse a potentially explosive situation.

Many bridal parties feel that a toastmaster removes some responsibility from their already burdened shoulders. People already nervous about making a speech do not have to contend with announcing the order of the day to the guests as well, meaning that the bridal party can relax and enjoy the celebrations, safe in the knowledge that someone has an eye on the clock, the formalities and the guests.

Emma x