The Master of the Ceremony

Whether you want a traditional reception, a casual outdoor affair, or a small cocktail party, the key to a relaxing and enjoyable celebration is making sure that someone is organizing and running the show. Entrust this task to someone you're sure can handle the job and enjoy your party!

Who should I choose for my master of ceremonies?

The most popular and best choice for your master of ceremonies is a family member or a close friend. Your master of ceremonies should be someone who knows both the bride and groom as least relatively well and has a substantial knowledge of the family structure of both sides, as well as the wedding party. It's usually best to choose someone who is not included in the wedding party as this will make things confused and overly hectic for that person.

You should also take into account the personality of the master of ceremonies. Think about weddings that you have attended. What qualities did you enjoy or find helpful in the master of ceremonies at those weddings. Your master of ceremonies needs to be

comfortable with the role and incorporates two major strengths: public speaking and organization. Think of someone who can feel comfortable going up to the groom's grandmother he's never met to talk to her about when she would like to make a toast. He or she should also have the time (and be willing to contribute it) to help with planning before the wedding.

Consider asking a couple to share the tasks - often two people who play well off of each other such as a couple or siblings are both amusing and very natural. Some DJ companies will also provide MC services if you give them a detailed list of who speaks when, what announcements need to be made, etc. Make sure you like their personality and the way they speak in public. A good indication is whether they're laid back or loud speakers when you meet with them about DJ'ing your wedding. Even though everyone is different when they're in front of a crowd, they'll likely speak in a similar manner at your wedding.

If you really feel like you're at a loss about who to choose within your circle of family and friends, try checking with your local Toastmasters. There quite a few people who are involved in this organization and will be able to provide you with their services. And if one of your family members or a friend is one of them, it's even better!

Most of all, choose someone who you would like to give the honour to. Entrust this special task to someone who can be relaxed, comfortable and keep the party going so that you and your groom can enjoy the reception.

What is the master of ceremonies responsible for?

The master of ceremonies is traditionally involved in the following events:

• Announcing the entrance. This normally signals the commencement of the reception. The MC will introduce by name the parents of the groom, the parents of the bride, the wedding party and finally the new couple as then enter the room.

• Miscellaneous announcements. This may be done anytime or periodically throughout the reception and may include information about the reception site, such as parking information, location information, etc. or information that guests need to know about the events of the evening - i.e. dessert will be served after the bride and groom's first dance.

• Organizing the toasts. The MC and the best man should collaborate to ensure that the toasts run smoothly and no one is forgotten. Each person should be announced with little or no lull in between toasts.

• From one event to another. Have your MC ensure that your guests are aware of what is happening when. This may mean announcing that dinner will be served momentarily and people should be seated, or that the next dance is the wedding party dance. Your MC should also announce the bouquet and garter toss so that your guests will not miss the action.

• The dramatic departure. While you've had a great evening, at some point you and your groom will want to sneak away to start your romantic and relaxing honeymoon. It's usually best to have your MC announce your departure for the full effect of a warm and celebratory send-off.

Tips for your master of ceremonies...

There are a few things to consider passing along to the person or people you ask to be master of ceremonies:

• Get all the info. This is one of your primary responsibilities. It's your job to know the names (and how to pronounce them) of the wedding party, bride and groom's immediate family, and any other important players in the wedding day.

• Know what's going on. Sit down with the bride and groom before the wedding so that you know how they want their reception to unfold. Perhaps they want to do their first dance as soon as they are announced into the reception, or they want to skip the bouquet and garter toss altogether. Make sure that you are aware of any special touches that the couple may want to include in the celebration. Write down the various events of the evening with general times and try to stick to these outlines. Don't panic if things slow up, find a way to make the reception continue flowing.

• Talk to the right people. However busy the day may be, it's important that you make contact with each person planning to make a toast or say a few words. Let each of them know when they should be ready and how long they have to speak. It's also great to work with the DJ or band to make sure that all your cues are in order.

• Be subtle. As crucial as your role is, people are not there to see you. Keep your comments and stories about the couple short and sentimental. A few tasteful jokes may be needed during the reception in order to fill time between events, but don't use the event as an opportunity to showcase your talents. The best master of ceremonies keeps things running smoothly in an understated and subtle manner.