Weddings are filled with heartfelt moments, but one of the most emotional (and often hilarious) is the toast. Whether you’re planning a grand celebration at one of the best destination weddings or a cozy backyard ceremony, toasts offer a chance for your loved ones to share stories, raise a glass, and celebrate your love in words.
But who exactly should make a toast at your wedding? And how do you plan for it in your wedding reception timeline without derailing dinner or the dance floor?
At White Wave Events, we help couples across the U.S. create memorable, well-organized, and meaningful wedding experiences—from managing your wedding planning list to guiding every speech and sparkle of the day.
Let’s explore who typically gives a toast, how to time them, and what makes each one unforgettable.
1. Who Traditionally Gives a Toast at a Wedding?
Toasts are typically made during the reception, often during dinner or just before the cake-cutting. Here’s a breakdown of the most common speakers:
The Best Man
This is the most anticipated toast of the evening. The best man’s speech is usually humorous, heartfelt, and reflective of his relationship with the groom. He often shares personal stories and ends with a warm wish for the couple.
The Maid/Matron of Honor
Equally important, the maid of honor’s toast often takes a sentimental tone, highlighting the bride’s journey, friendship, and love story with her partner.
Parents of the Couple
Traditionally, the father of the bride gives a welcome toast. However, modern weddings often include the mother of the bride or both parents. The groom’s parents may also speak, especially at smaller or more intimate destination wedding venues.
The Couple Themselves
Some couples choose to toast their guests, thanking them for attending and for their support. This is also a beautiful way to honor absent loved ones and vendors who made the day special.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re working with event management companies, ask your planner to help you coordinate the speech order as part of your official wedding reception timeline.
2. Optional & Creative Toast Givers
Depending on the size and structure of your celebration, you can invite others to speak—just make sure to keep the flow smooth and engaging.
Siblings or Close Friends
If they’re not part of the bridal party, siblings or lifelong friends may offer unique perspectives and heartfelt memories.
Officiant
If your officiant has a personal connection to the couple, they may be asked to offer a blessing or toast during the reception or after the ceremony.
Kids or Flower Girl/Ring Bearer
At more relaxed weddings, a simple toast (or even a wave) from a child in the family can bring joy and laughter.
No matter who’s speaking, make sure they know their time limit (2–3 minutes is ideal) and keep things appropriate for all audiences—especially if you’re working with a dj service to make mixed wedding playlist for smooth transitions.
3. Toast Timing Tips: Keep It Organized and Heartfelt
Timing matters. Nobody wants speeches to interrupt dinner or go on for too long.
When to Schedule Toasts:
- Just after dinner begins (when guests are seated and attentive)
- Before the cake cutting or first dance
- During a champagne pour (to elevate the celebration mood)
How to Prepare:
- Add speakers to your wedding planning list well in advance
- Print programs or coordinate signage so guests know what to expect
- Work with your event coordinator responsibilities team to cue music and microphones for each speaker
💡 Consider pairing your toasts with wedding favors for guests like engraved champagne glasses or personalized cocktail stirrers—great keepsakes that tie the moment together.
Conclusion: Raise a Glass to Thoughtful Planning
Toasts are one of the most cherished moments of any wedding. They bring together humor, heart, and gratitude in ways few other elements can. Whether you’re planning a grand ballroom celebration or an intimate destination of wedding, deciding who speaks—and when—is key to a seamless and emotional event.
At White Wave Events, we’re here to help you make every detail perfect—from coordinating your toasts to choosing wedding ceremony favors that reflect your story. Whether you need support with luxury wedding invitations, help securing your NJ marriage license, or want to plan destination wedding from NJ, we make planning effortless.
🥂 For expert tips, inspiration, and planning support, visit our services page and follow us on Instagram, Facebook. For the latest real wedding highlights and behind-the-scenes planning tips, check out blinq.me.
Let’s help you raise the perfect glass to love, laughter, and happily ever after.
