A toast to the happy couple
PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) -- Here's a toast to the happy couple.
It's not to test the drinks for poison -- a reason the practice
started among the Greeks in the 6th century B.C. -- but to salute
the stars of the day, according to etiquette expert Jacqueline
Whitmore.
"It is an art, because its effectiveness depends on intuition,
timing, and a well-articulated message," she says.
Whitmore, founder of the Protocol School of Palm Beach, says to
remember the three Bs as you raise your glass: "Begin, be brief, and be seated."
It may seem obvious, but don't forget the toast is to recognize the
people you're toasting, she says. Be as eloquent and creative as you
please. But be brief, keeping your tribute to just a few sentences.
End on a positive note and sit down, giving the bride and groom an
opportunity to respond.
And, she cautions, don't confuse a toast with a "roast."
Some other toast points from Whitmore:
- There are usually two traditional toasts. One is offered at the
beginning of the wedding
meal, to welcome everyone, and the other is
proposed to the wedding couple at the
beginning of the dessert
course.
-
It's acceptable but not necessary to clink glasses as you raise the
toast. Simply raising
your glass -- a practice of many cultures --
is fine.
- Never tap the side of your glass with a utensil to get attention
or quiet the chatter of guests.
For all you know, it may be a piece
of fine crystal you're endangering.
- The father of the bride or the best man takes precedence in
offering the first toast. And
after the toast is made, the couple
should rise and respond with their own toast.
- The couple should never drink a toast to themselves.
- And never refuse to participate in a toast, even if you're a teetotaller. It's perfectly
acceptable to toast with a non-alcoholic
beverage.
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