Monday, June 30, 2008

Welcome!

It is traditional to begin the reception with a welcome from the host of the wedding.  In most cases, this is the father of the bride or father of the groom.  Be mindful that a welcome is not a toast, the toast is given by the best man.

Here are a few tips to make the welcome speech picture perfect.

1.  The bride and groom should stand with the father at the top of the dance floor.  It is a great photo and a show of respect.  The mother should stand with the father and may also speak if she wishes.

2.  The welcome should include a few key points:
*Welcome to the wedding and gratitude for guests making the journey
*Acknowledge any guests celebrating an anniversary or birthday on the wedding or if Father's Day or Mother's Day is the following day
*Mention any grandparents who are in attendance
*Mention the groom and how happy you are to have him as part of the family
*Mention the bride and share a growing-up memory
*Acknowledge the groom's family and welcome them as part of your extended family
*Acknowledge and commend the wedding planning efforts of the bride's mother and/or bride
*Introduce the next speaker: either the best man or the person giving the dinner blessing.

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