Weddings are full of joyful traditions, and one of the most memorable moments for guests and couples alike is the wedding toast. These heartfelt speeches bring laughter, tears, and connection as friends and family share their well-wishes for the happy couple. But who exactly is expected to give a toast at a wedding?

Whether you’re planning your own big day or you’ve been asked to speak, this guide will walk you through the traditional (and modern) expectations for wedding toasts, when they happen, and some etiquette tips to keep in mind.

Traditional Wedding Toast Roles

Here are the people who most commonly give toasts at weddings, and when during the event you can expect to hear them:

1. The Best Man

The best man’s toast is arguably the most anticipated speech of the evening. Typically humorous and heartfelt, this toast often includes personal stories about the groom, their friendship, and a warm welcome to the bride. It’s usually delivered during the reception, after dinner is served.

2. The Maid or Matron of Honor

Following the best man, the maid of honor often gives a speech filled with love and admiration for the bride. These toasts might reflect on childhood memories, their friendship, or offer wisdom and blessings for the couple’s future. Like the best man, she usually speaks at the reception.

3. The Couple Themselves

Many modern couples choose to make a toast at their wedding to thank their guests, express appreciation to their families and bridal party, and share their excitement about the future. This toast can happen near the end of dinner or before the dancing begins.

Additional Toasts (Optional)

While the above roles are the most common, some weddings include a few additional toasts, especially if the celebration is more formal or if the couple wants to include more voices in the celebration.

4. Parents of the Couple

Often, one or both sets of parents will give a toast. This may happen at the rehearsal dinner (more on that below), but occasionally at the reception, especially if the parents are hosting the event. These speeches typically welcome guests and express their love and support for the newlyweds.

5. The Officiant or Close Family Friend

Sometimes, a beloved family member or the officiant may kick off the reception with a toast or blessing. This adds a personal and spiritual touch, especially in religious or cultural weddings.

Rehearsal Dinner Toasts

Many families now reserve speeches for the rehearsal dinner, which has a more relaxed and intimate vibe. This is a great opportunity for:

• Parents or stepparents of the bride and groom
• Siblings who aren’t in the bridal party
• Friends who want to share a story without being on the official toast schedule
• The couple themselves to share their excitement before the big day

Toasting Etiquette Tips

Whether you’re giving a toast or organizing who will speak, keep these etiquette tips in mind:

• Keep it short and sweet – Aim for 2–3 minutes max.
• Practice ahead of time – A few rehearsals will help keep nerves in check.
• Keep it clean – Avoid inappropriate stories or inside jokes that could alienate guests.
• Focus on the couple – Your toast should celebrate their love story, not just your relationship with them.
• Use note cards if needed – It’s better to glance at a few key points than to wing it and forget something meaningful.

Final Thoughts

While there are traditions around who gives wedding toasts, your day should reflect your personalities and relationships. If you’re not close with your maid of honor or your best man isn’t a public speaker, feel free to adjust who speaks and when. It’s your celebration, after all!

Whether it’s a room full of speeches or just a few short toasts, this heartfelt tradition is a beautiful way to honor your journey and all the people who helped get you to the altar.

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