Toasting Etiquette: 6 Tips For Raising Your Glass
December 30, 2010Cheers! As we ring in the new year, it seemed appropriate to share a few toasting tips for 2011.
Cheers! Happy New Year 2011
First tip
The best toasts follow the three B’s of toasting: Begin, Be Brief, and Be Seated. And if you’re the one giving a toast, you’re wise to incorporate a fourth B—Be Prepared
Tip #2: Make it Personal
Speak from the heart when giving a toast. Share a funny anecdote or a personal story that will not only pay homage to the person being honored, but entertain the crowd.
Tip #3: Don’t Rush and Keep Cool
If you’re a little nervous about being “in the spotlight,” take some deep breaths before you begin and then speak slowly. Remember, you’re not auditioning for the school play, you’re sharing a toast. Memorize your toast or use notes as reminders of key points. Rehearse in advance to calm your nerves.
Tip #4: Keep it Short
Keep your remarks brief—less than a minute and a half, and ideally only one minute.
Tip #5: Don’t be Corny
Choose your words carefully, avoid clichés, and deliver a short message filled with goodwill.
Tip #6: A Shoe Won’t Do
Sipping champagne from a shoe is interesting, but best to use a wine goblet, champagne flute or other glass for a toast. And…must I say it? Never drink from a bottle.
“Here’s a toast to the future; a toast to the past; and a toast to our friends, far and near. May the future be pleasant; the past a bright dream; and may our friends remain faithful and dear.” ~ Anonymous
Happy New Year!
photo by: RLHyde
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