If you are planning a wedding or just thinking about getting married, then without a doubt this is an exciting time in your life. Right from the very beginning, there seems so much to do and such a lot to organize. True. It can be stressful if you let it get to you, but it needn’t be. In days gone by, a wedding was something the father of the bride saw has his natural role and made all the arrangements. In modern times the bride has taken over, and, from start to finish, project manages everything down to the smallest detail.

 There is so much information and ideas to choose from on the internet; surely they cannot fail to be inspired into planning a fabulous wedding. So why does everyone get so stressed out?

It’s called the ‘unknown factor’. Events beyond your control.

The big day is planned and perfectly prepared on paper, but you ask yourself; will it all go according to the plan on the day?

That is where the Toastmaster’s skill comes in.

A Toastmaster’s organizational skills are put to the test at weddings. Your friendly red coated toastmaster makes all the difference to your big day. His or hers delicate tact and specialized knowledge of procedure, allow them to take control of the proceedings, thus allowing everyone to relax and enjoy the occasion.

The Professional Toastmaster has been part of the British banqueting scene for more years than can be remembered. The Toastmasters presence has long added style and professionalism to every big occasion. Their red coat is recognized the whole world over as the symbol of authority and in the last twenty years, their presence at weddings have become an expected necessity.

First impressions are everything, and from the moment he or she greets your family and guests as they arrive, the Toastmaster is setting a high standard for the day, allowing it to gently unfold before your very eyes. Helping with the group photographs is only the start of the proceedings; as the guests then gather to be introduced to the receiving line: all being announced in a friendly but sincere manner befitting such an occasion. Next, the grand entrance of the Bride and Bridegroom, announced to such acclaim that’s richly deserved. If grace is required it can be said or announced for others to say. The formal ceremonial cutting of the cake symbolizes the love, affection and shared future of the happy couple and will be announced suitably as such; inviting guests to take photographs.

Then the speeches.

Speeches are, or can be, the most nerve racking moment in people’s lives. Even the professional speakers suffer with their nerves before a well rehearsed speech. What chance does an amateur have, speaking in public for the first time at a wedding?

A Toastmaster will help calm their nerves. Either, by helping to write the speech, or by guiding the speakers through the process of preparing and delivering a speech. A good Toastmaster will offer that service and be delighted to assist in any way he or she can.

Use us; we have all the experience, so why not tap into it?

Once the wedding breakfast is coming to a close the banqueting staff will start to pour the champagne or toasting wine provided. This is the cue that speeches are near. Then the announcements start. First the Father of the Bride or nominated speaker. His toast will be to the Bride and Bridegroom. Then, follows a response from the Bridegroom who will toast the Bridesmaids. Finally, the best man who replies on behalf of the bridesmaids and, if he wishes, can also toast the Bride and bridegroom.

Depending on individual requirements, the Toastmaster will then announce the Bride and Bridegrooms departure from the banqueting suite to the same acclaim they received on arrival. The formalities are now over and the party begins.

I hope that gives you an insight into the importance of hiring a professional Toastmaster for your big day. We have become an accepted part of a wedding, being the implementer of all you’re hard work and planning. Taking into consideration the overall cost of a wedding, a Toastmasters fee is small in comparison. Generally, you can expect to pay around £350.00 for a professionally trained toastmaster

Eric Gill is a Member of the National Association of Toastmasters, Affiliated to the Toastmaster General Council and a Honorary Fellow of the Executive Guild of Toastmasters and Town Criers