Blog: The expert explains below the advantages of employing the services of a Toastmaster/Master of Ceremonies on your Wedding Day.
As a Professional Toastmaster and Master Of Ceremonies, I would like to take this opportunity to outline a little of the history of the profession, the duties we perform, and the advantages of having a Toastmaster at your wedding. I hope that after you read my blog, you will have more confidence in our role and will consider using our services.
There were two pioneers in the profession, Richard ‘Beau’ Nash and William Knight Smith who set the early standards of etiquette and protocol. The Toastmasters ‘Hunting Pink’ jacket was first worn by Knight Smith in the late 1800’s and took its name from the tailor, Mr Pink, who designed the jackets. Beau Nash started his Master of Ceremonies duties in 1705 and commented in his day that “the Master of Ceremonies should be even more splendidly dressed than the guests”.
These standards are still observed in the profession today.
When the Bride and Groom are in the planning stages, and have set the budget for their wedding they often forget to include the professional assistance of a Toastmaster/Master of Ceremonies. They may assume that this service is not within their budget and that is understandable. However, they may not know what services are provided or think that we perform the same role as the best man. I often I hear people say that they don’t need the service just to announce the speeches, or they may have attended a function where the Toastmaster has been lazy and added nothing to the event.
In my experience a Toastmaster can make the day extra special and run more smoothly, but it depends on the professional integrity of the person employed.
When the initial discussion takes place with the Bride and Groom it is important that questions are asked by both parties to ensure that all the requests can be accommodated. A schedule will need to be drawn up for the timings throughout the day and this should be flexible enough to cope with any last minute changes.
You may wish to draw up a list of requirements before choosing a Toastmaster and speaking as a professional, you may find the following points helpful.
· The Toastmaster should be passionate about their role
· They will be able to advise you on customs and wedding etiquette prior to, and during the wedding day
· They should arrive early at the venue to introduce themselves and assist with ushering, seating guests, buttonholes etc
· They should be able to assist any other professionals at the event
· They will be able to assist with the etiquette when drawing up a seating plan
· At the reception they should liaise with caterers to ensure that the food is served on time
Many people still believe that Toastmasters are better suited to larger events but it is my belief that they can be invaluable whatever the size of the guest list. I would expect the Toastmaster to organise the receiving line, announce and escort the Bride and Groom to the top table, announce and conduct the toasts and speeches and announce the first dance for the happy couple. These elements are usually present at most weddings and having a professional on hand can help things run more smoothly. It is possible to strike a balance and not have the rigid formality that some people associate with a Master of Ceremonies, and speaking personally I would want to ensure that the Toastmaster would work within the parameters set by the Bride and Groom, doing as much or as little as they require.
If you do decide to employ the services of a Toastmaster you should ensure that they are willing to work closely with you, down to the smallest detail. They should be affiliated to one of the Toastmasters Organisations and be able to advise you about all the formalities so that you can relax and enjoy your day. Ask them if they cater to all events including weddings as some may specialise in Ladies Nights or Gala Evenings. Do not always be drawn to the best price, look for levels of professionalism and experience by asking questions before considering a booking. You should feel confident that you have employed the right person for that special occasion and can look forward to a fabulous day.
I hope that you have found this a useful insight and if I can be of any further assistance to you, I would be delighted to be of service. You can also see many testimonials on my website, simply view them on the relevant page.
Jonathan Waterman
www.thecompletetoastmaster.co.uk
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