Arriving at a wedding and being greeted by a toastmaster is a guaranteed way to brighten my day, especially when it’s the brilliant Stefan, aka The Tall Toastmaster. From a photographer’s point of view, having a Toastmaster means I know the day will run to time, I’ll have someone ready to organise confetti, announce groups and round everyone up for a whole group shot, but of course there’s a lot more to the job than that, and Stefan has kindly answered some questions on why a Toastmaster is an important part of the day!
How long have you been a Wedding Toastmaster?
I’ve been a Toastmaster for 11 years, starting out in 2012.
How did you get into the industry?
While I was working in the hotel trade, I bumped into many Toastmasters at the weddings I ran. I used to manage the Annual Christmas Luncheon for The Northern Guild of Toastmasters each year at one hotel. The members suggested that if I ever wanted a career change, they thought I would make it as a Toastmaster. So in 2012, I did. 11 years on I‘m a full member and was recognized as one of the North West’s top Toastmasters, winning ‘Best Toastmaster 2019/20/21/22’ in the County Brides’ awards.
How does a Toastmaster work on a wedding day?
Having a Toastmaster at your wedding means that everything should go like clockwork! Having someone to look after you for the day who is independent of the venue has a massive impact. We can resolve problems before they become one. We focus on how the day runs and connect with all the other suppliers to work as a team. At the end of the day if everything goes smoothly and everyone is happy! The Toastmaster has done their job!
Some Toastmaster duties include..
• Welcoming guests to the venue • Making sure the groomsmen are present and dressed correctly (ties and buttonholes!)• Coordinate with the venue and suppliers making sure everyone is on the same page • Look after the bride and groom and their guests throughout the day • Assist the photographer with group shoots • Make any announcements that are required • Announce the couple into the room • Look after the top table during the meal service • Introduce speeches, cake cutting, and the first dance • Be part of the day and make the guests feel relaxed and have a good time • Be the problem solver!
Your best tip for couples?
The biggest tip I can give to my couples is to enjoy their day and don’t let anything spoil it, we will sort it!
Do you have a favourite venue to work at?
I don’t really have a favourite venue, as I work at so many amazing ones! I always say it’s the guests that make the day!
How far in advance should couples be booking a Toastmaster?
Couples book me 12/18 months in advance as I get booked up quickly!
Why should couples choose to have a Toastmaster at their wedding?
Having a Toastmaster on their wedding day means they have their very own PA! Their role is to make things happen the way the couple has planned. If anything needs to be changed on the day, on the spot the toastmaster can make quick decisions to make things happen for the better and leave the wedding/ function party free of any worry or concerns. If any one of the suppliers or team from the venue need help then the Toastmasters step in. We give the couple peace of mind that they have one person overseeing what’s happening, so they don’t have to worry about anything apart from enjoying their big day.
What is your favourite part of the day?
Making people happy! Walking away knowing you have done the best you can to make their day fantastic.
You can find more wedding planning advice and tips on my blog here…
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