Toasts

To the Happy Couple

* Introduce yourself at the beginning of the toast. Many of the guests won't know  you or your relationship to the newlyweds.  
* Thank the guests to break the ice. Be sure to thank the hosts as well. Traditionally, the hosts are the bride’s parents. Then thank the bride and groom's parents, the traditional hosts.
* Keep things light, but appropriate (every wedding has kids in attendance). A jovial toast is a good way to keep the festive mood. People will enjoy it and the message of how honoured you feel to be part of the big day will  come across to the bride and groom as well.
* Add an anecdote. Share a funny story about the bride or groom. Add a light-hearted anecdote that illustrates your relationship  and how much the couple means to you. Just make sure the anecdote is appropriate for everyone in the audience.
* Raise a glass after the toast, not before. Don’t drink excessively before it’s time for your toast, or you’ll risk being the talk of the reception for all the wrong reasons.