No matter the occasion, toasting is a global tradition that takes place year-round. Here are some tips to keep in mind…

TOAST-GIVER

Always take time to prepare and write down your toast. Make it fun, brief, and simple. When describing an honoree, speak from the heart, sharing a fun and amusing story in your own words, for no longer than one minute. Conclude by inviting everyone to raise their glass and join you in a toast to the honoree.

It’s always a good idea to take some time to prepare your toast by either memorizing the steps or writing them down to ensure that it turns out perfectly.

Keep it brief, pleasant, and enjoyable. Sharing a funny or heartwarming story in your own words, for no longer than a minute, is best.  Finally, conclude by inviting everyone to raise their glasses in a toast to the person being celebrated.

Never use a piece of flatware and a glass to gain the audience’s attention. Instead, it’s better to inform key individuals in advance and ask them to help you create a quiet environment when the time comes. Then, speak up in a loud and clear voice saying, “May I have your attention, please?” If necessary, repeat the message and look around the room to make sure everyone is listening.

Remember, when toasting, raise your glass to shoulder height and make eye contact. Say “Cheers! or whatever else is a part of the toast, plus his/her name, while gesturing towards the honoree and others, as appropriate. 

TOAST-RECEIVER

As the honoree:

Always remain seated for the entire duration of the toast being proposed to you.

Never raise your glass along with the others when you are being toasted and honored. This makes it appear you are toasting yourself.

Remember you should return a toast of thanks immediately following the one you were given. Whether the toast-giver stood during his/her remarks or remained seated, you must do the same. Do thank the host for hosting the event in your honor; do say a few words about the event for no more than one minute; then conclude by inviting one and all to join you in another round of toasting by saying, “thank you one and all for being here.”

Now have fun viewing this video on Toasting Etiquette, also at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZRoHpPVrUQk.  Sometimes, it’s easier to watch and learn than to read.

Bonus Tip: The clinking of glasses is a popular and fun activity. However, when toasting an honoree, it is not performed. Simply raise your glass to shoulder height before you, and make eye contact with the honoree.

Happy Toasting!