Best Man's Toast

Ah, the best man's toast. They can be absolutely lovely -- so moving that there's not a dry eye in the house. They can also be excruciating to sit through, especially if the best man has had one too many glasses of champagne punch. If you're worried that your man's best man will give a toast that falls into the latter camp, pass this best man's toast how-to onto him.

First off, the most beautiful sentiment you can express is the positive change you've seen in the couple since they met. If you're having trouble coming up with the right words, ask yourself how the groom has grown and evolved since meeting his future wife. How has he changed overall since you first met him? If you were kids together, choose an anecdote from your youth to share.

When you think about adding humor, remember that everyone has a different idea about what's funny and what isn't. Keep in mind that you are speaking to a wide demographic and some people will take what you say very seriously. It's best to always remain proper and gracious. Don't share any embarrassing stories or talk about sex.

But be yourself. Don't look for a very formal script from a book if you aren't a formal person. Make sure your toast sounds like you. There are lots of ways to personalize your toast to keep the audience engaged.

Above all, remember to keep your toast very, very short. When you're done toasting, thank the audience for coming even though you aren't the host. Being the best man, you had a vested interest in your good friend's wedding turning out perfectly, so you're well within your rights to do so.

(By the way, if the maid-of-honor is giving a toast, these guidelines will apply to her as well!)


Click to read more about giving the perfect toast

Bridesmaids Gift Suggestions

Shopping for bridesmaids gifts and groomsmen gifts can be one of the most harrowing parts of wedding planning. Why? Because it's usually left until the very last minute and there are a lot of expectations attached to what would otherwise be a perfectly ordinary present. To make the whole process less stressful, give yourself plenty of time to shop for bridesmaids gifts and think about what your bridesmaids would really like. Don't worry about what the bridal magazines say you should get!

Still stymied? We have some tips that will help you pick out the best bridesmaids gifts:

Don't worry about price, i.e., do not be concerned that what you're buying costs too much (if you can afford it) or costs too little. An expensive bridesmaids gift does not necessarily mean a great one! You do not need to prove your love to your bridesmaids by getting them something that cost you a lot of money -- you should buy them something that shows that you care.

One idea is to get your bridesmaids some stationary. Stationary is not expensive, but is something that is useful and everyone can use. Another idea is getting each bridesmaid their wedding day jewelry. If you are really tight on cash, you can always write them a personal thank you note. Just remember that you do not need to buy the love of your bridesmaids with your gift.

Remember to keep it tasteful if you do go the 'thank you card' route. Those cards that say "Maybe next time it will be you, but probably not" or "You don't look good in white anyway" get old real fast. And steer clear of gag bridesmaid gifts unless you know for sure that your bridesmaids will really appreciate it.

The bridesmaid gift is part of your wedding and you want it to be tasteful and appropriate to the occasion. Remember, however, that each of your bridesmaids is an individual, and they may not appreciate the same things. One might love a gag gift, while another would much rather have a heartfelt thank you.


Click to shop for the perfect bridesmaids gifts or beautiful bridal jewelry