How to Craft a Heartfelt Wedding Toast

As a member of the wedding party, you've been asked to offer a toast at the reception. Though you are honored, you don't really know where to start. Don't panic. I've got you.

First of all, speak from the heart. However, you will want to have something prepared. Speaking from the heart doesn't mean a lack of preparation and practice. That will help calm your nerves too. Also, keep your speech five minutes to seven minutes. Trying to think of clever things to say on the spot rarely works out well, regardless of your public speaking experience.

One more general comment. Don't try to be funny. Certain stories are naturally funny and authentic. That being said; Playful teasing is allowed.

When it is time, have the DJ to announce, "Ladies and Gentlemen, please turn your attention to

the head table. Members of the wedding party have something important to say".

• Turn on the microphone and wait until you get the crowd's attention.

• Introduce yourself and thank the couple for asking you to be a part of their special day.

• Thank the guests for attending and supporting the couple.

• Share a funny or touching story about the couple.

• Mention what makes their relationship special.

• Invite everyone to raise their glasses and toast to the couple.

• End with "a wish" for a Joyful life together.

Feel free to have notes with you. Memorizing a speech just adds more stress. Remember.

Practice. Practice. Practice. Finally, realize you don't have to be the star of the show. You are there to highlight the wedding couple and their commitment to each other.

Vows that Wow

If you really want to personalize your ceremony, consider writing some personal vows. You don't have to tell your whole love story. When you work with the right officiant, that will not be necessary. Your entire ceremony will be personalized. Yet, sharing vows from the heart can take the ceremony to the next level.

That being said, I know it's hard to get started. So, let me give you some hints.

First of all, vows don't need to be any longer than 2-3 minutes.

I suggest that you focus on what exactly you are promising. Feel free to get personal. Think about what you are willing to share, tolerate, and adore. Don't try to be funny, but if your fiance

does something you have to tolerate like their allegiance to a certain sports team, goofy dancing,

their love for Hallmark movies, include that.

You can also create personal vows, allowing the listed prompts to structure your thinking.

• From the first time you______

• Before that, I believed __________.

• Now, _________.

• I can't wait_________.

• Therefore, as your ______ I promise______ .

• I choose you, today and forevermore.

Some other phrases that might inspire you.

• I've never been sure about much, but being loved by you feels like being able to breathe deeply for the first time....like every breath before you wasn't big enough.

• Marrying you is the one thing in my life that has made perfect sense when nothing else did.

• Thank you for accepting me, even when I struggled to accept myself.

• You brought color to parts of my life that I thought were chronically gray.

• If tomorrow isn't promised, I can live with peace, knowing that I got to publically profess my love for you today.

• I promise to love you through every celebration and every moment of grief.

• I promise to speak and to listen, to give and to receive, to ask questions and respond honestly even when it is hard.

  
  

  Start jotting down ideas about a month in advance. You'll be surprised what from your heart will surface. Remember. Your guests will appreciate the genuine emotion behind your words, making the ceremony even more memorable.

Go Big and Go Bow

Have you heard?  In 2024, bows are everywhere.  They are the latest trend in bridal embellishment.  Look for them on waistlines, shoulders, even bridal combs.  This year a bow can "tie together" your bridal aesthetic. Some brides are even replacing their veils with bows.  How do you decide to incorporate them into your 2024 look?

When considering a veil or bow to complement your dress, consider the style of your gown. Veils remain a timeless classic and come in varied lengths from fingertip to floor-sweeping.  Bow are on-trend and add whimsy, opting for one if you're wearing and illusion back or off-the-shoulder neckline.  Focus on your personality and vision for the aesthetic of your special day.

Veils offer versatility.  You can easily switch between a casual cathedral length for photos to a more dramatic long train for your first dance. Bows demand attention as a focal accent, perfect if you want a splash of color, ribbon or intricate details.  Experiment trying on both to see how each makes you feel. Your attitude is key. Choose the accessory that lifts your spirit.