Wedding Gazette

I Need a Wedding Toast Primer!

Advice from Parsley Adams, Wedding Sage

Dear Parsley,

I'm lost when it comes to all those toasts at the reception. Who should be saying what, and to whom?

Thanks, Chawnsa

Dear Chawnsa,

Traditionally, this is how wedding toasts should go:

• Toast to the Bride: Made by best man, friend, or relative.
• Toast to Bride and Groom: Same as above. Today, this is the toast that takes precedence over toast to the bride, the latter of which is not done.
• Groom's Response: Just a few words to his bride, thanks to the first toaster, thanks to both sets of parents, and a toast to the bridesmaids.
• Best Man's Response: He thanks the groom on behalf of the bridesmaids.
• Other: Perhaps an usher or very close friend has a few words to say.
• Toast by Father of the Bride: On behalf of his wife and himself, he thanks all for attending and indicates it's time to begin the festivities.

Happy toasting! Parsley Adams