wikiHow to Give a Toast

A toast is a small speech given in honor of somebody. Toasts are often done at the end of a meal, after everybody finishes eating.

Steps

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    Stand up in a prominent place in the room. Get everybody's attention.
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    Wait a moment for everyone in the room to stop talking.
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    Hold your glass at about waist level in front of you while you give your speech.
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    Begin by saying, "I would like to propose a toast..."
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    As you speak, look at the person being honored every once in a while.
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    To conclude your toast, raise your glass to eye level.
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    Have all of your guests (except for the person being toasted) rise and fill their glasses.
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    Say a sentence wishing the person being honored a good future. For example, "May his/her success continue."
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    End with "To..." and then say the name to the individual being toasted.
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    The guests may repeat your last phrase.
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    Everyone takes a drink and sits down.

Tips

  • Make sure that your tone and content are appropriate for your audience.
  • This is an opportunity to say kind words.
  • Speak slowly and clearly and keep what you say brief and heartfelt.
  • The speech should be four or five sentences, lasting less than a minute.

Sources and Citations

  • Michael Powell, 101 Things You Should Know How to Do, some excerpt used.

Article Info

Categories: Public Speaking