Showing posts with label Father of the Bride. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Father of the Bride. Show all posts

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.