mc introduction speech sample

Master of Ceremony Opening Speech

3 step guide to writing a great master of ceremony opening speech.

Over the last 20 years I’ve had to write an Opening Speech for hundreds of large events where I have been engaged as the MC.

Some have been relatively easy, while others have required many hours of effort and thought.

Rather than reinvent the wheel each time, I now have a 3 Part Formula or Process I always follow. This both saves me time but also ensures that all the elements of a great opening speech are there.

Ingredients of a good Opening Speech

I like to cook when I’m at home and in many ways putting together a great Master of Ceremony opening speech is like cooking a great meal.

Firstly you have to understand what you are trying to make, then the ingredients you are going to use and finally, how you are going to combine them!

We are going to dive in deep into each of those areas but I hope you can see how the metaphor works.

Understanding the outcome you are aiming for, the why, is important because your role as an MC is to help your client achieve their aims for the event. If you are not aware of those aims you could in fact hinder the process with ill considered comments or wrong emphasis. To go back to the planning of your meal, are you making sandwiches and finger food or designing a 5 course sit down banquet?

Secondly, while the ingredients of each opening may sometimes be very similar, often, like a good cook, you can substitute different things. You might change the spice to create a slightly different flavour or double the amount of another ingredient to add more kick or emphasis.

And lastly you can combine those ingredients in different ways. Some elements work better going in early, sometimes just a pinch near the end is all that’s required.

So for a Opening Speech, the 3 Steps are …

• Why is this Happening and What are you trying to Achieve?
• What needs to be Included
• How to put that Together

Preparing a great Master of Ceremony Opening Speech.

It’s unlikely that you are the organiser of the event itself, though this formula is just as useful if you are and are writing your own opening speech.

In most cases as an MC  you will have an organiser, who is then your client. This is the person who has asked you to be the MC. It could be a business owner, CEO, your headmaster, the President of the Association etc. They have specific reasons why this event is taking place and it is your job to ascertain what they are.

In every situation you want to have a briefing session with this person either face to face or over the phone. This Briefing of course will cover your involvement in the whole event, but in this article we will just focus on the Opening.

Pro Tip –  Check out the full list of Briefing Questions on page 102 of the Expert MC Toolkit & Resource Manual .

Part One   –   Reason for the Event

Knowing “why” the event is taking place will get you firmly on the right track to writing a great opening speech!

Is it a Celebration, an Information Night, a Product Launch, Team Building or an Awards Night?

And don’t take a simple answer like “oh, we have it every year” as an answer. Drill in a little deeper. The next question will open it up a bit more.

What are they trying to Achieve?

Building on the “why” question, I usually then ask … “how do you want the audience to Think or Act after the event?” This can be immediately after or when they get back to work etc.

Are they trying to motivate the audience to do something or get them to meet lots of new people. Are they making them more confident about their jobs or are they wanting them to sign up to buy something? Are they gearing up the audience for some hard times ahead?

Theme of the Event!

Is there an actual Theme or Slogan for the Event? We have written about this before but this will give you big clues about what to say and possibly what to wear for the event.

Part 2 –   Details of the Opening Speech

Once you have some of this Big Picture stuff sorted, it’s time to get onto the nitty gritty. Now, sometimes these finer details won’t be known at the time of the briefing, but at least they have been flagged as something you need to know.

Time Available

You obviously need to have a firm idea about the length of time that you are aiming for in an Master of Ceremonies opening speech.

Pro Tip – It’s always good to try and get a longer time allocation than you need or that you will write for. This allows some immediate flex time. If the event starts a little late, and it inevitably will, those extra couple of minutes you asked for may put you back on track.

Are there any official protocols that must be included?

In some countries and with some cultural groups, a Prayer is included at the start of formal proceedings. The National Anthem might also be sung.

Here in Australia many groups have an Acknowledgement of Country at the start of the event, a short few lines recognising the Traditional Owners of the Land.

I use this term to incorporate other things that also must be mentioned in your opening. The more formal an event the more specific you will be.

VIP Guests, Dignitaries etc will probably be mentioned by name in a specific order.

Depending on the type of event, Sponsors my also get a mention here.

Once you know what your client wants or expects, you can then start crafting the opening.

House Keeping

“Housekeeping” is a widely used term that covers all the small bits and pieces of information that may also need to be conveyed to an audience.

Examples are – Where are the Toilets, what is the Wifi Code, what time does the bus leave, etc. I also include in this group – “Please turn your Phones to Silent.”

Now, depending on the type of event it is, you may not need to go through all the House Keeping in your opening speech. I prefer to do it a bit later as I find it dilutes the impact of the opening a bit. In that situation, just mention the Phones before you introduce the first speaker and come back to the Housekeeping after them.

What happens next?

As an MC you should always keep in mind what happens next. So when you are putting together your opening speech you need to be aware of what happens immediately after you finish so you can make the appropriate link. But more importantly, know the appropriate “energy levels.”

For example you might be launching into a facilitated Teambuilding or Networking session, in which case you will be building the energy and fun. Alternatively, you might be introducing someone speaking on a sombre or serious topic that needs focus and respect.

Part 3 – Putting the Opening Speech Together

Now we have the vital information – what we are trying to achieve and what must be included. It’s time for the third part of the formula, putting it all together.

A structure I have found incredibly useful is this …

Closer  /   Link …

This works just as well if you have only 3 minutes or if you have 15. Let’s look at it in more detail.

The Grabber

Getting peoples attention and interest right from the start is vital.

You need to confident and assured in your dress and demeanour and your words need to match.

It’s not a time for chit chat or repartee. Bang, get straight into it!

I’ve attended a couple of sessions with the Patricia Fripp, the British born, now American based speaker coach. (And sister of legendary guitarist Robert Fripp.)

Her advice for speakers is to start with something bold, a phrase or sentence that grabs attention and interest. I think the advice works just as well for MC’s as it does for speakers.

For several events business events I’ve started with …

“Princeton University, 1955.  Professor Albert Einstein is handing out exam papers to his final year students …”

Did that get your attention? Did you want to know what happens next? Of course you do!

That works so much better than “Good Evening Ladies and Gentlemen, my names Timothy Hyde and I will be your MC for the event..”

After the quick story, (that relates totally to the WHY they are having the meeting,) you can then move into the welcome and greeting.

Remember also the Voice of God introduction. This will also grab peoples attention and let them know your name! It also enables you to move into something more meaty at the start.

Pro Tip – The full “Einstein Opener” mentioned above is found on page 33 of your copy of The Expert MC Toolkit & Resource Manual .  The theme of Rapid Change, Innovation, Creative Solutions is perfect for many business type functions.)

Other great Opening Grabbers include

• “What if ………?”
• A statistic or fact.
• “Imagine that ……?”
• A bold statement.
• A Question.

Once you have got the attention of the audience,  you can do an official type welcome and include any Protocol type things you need to cover. VIP’s, Sponsors etc

You now move onto the Big Picture.

This will emphasis the Theme of the Event and Why are you all here.

This sets the context for everything to follow. You may mention a couple of highlights of the program coming up, the Who and the What.

I then like to move from Big Picture to the Personal.

So what I’m saying relates directly to each and every attendee.

Now, what is included here depends once again on what the client wants for the outcome of the event.

Are you motivating and enthusing them?

Are you planting seeds that they will get lots of information?

Do you need to reinforce the benefits of being here?

Are they here to – Network, Set Goals or Relax?

Pro Tip – Plant a seed of Co-operation!

In my Opening speech I always like to plant a seed of co-operation. This is a message that we need to work together to keep the event running on time. That running on time will enable all the Speakers to do their full presentations and if they do, YOU will gain maximum benefit from being here. You are busy people, it’s a packed agenda, we want you to gain a lot from being here and we want to finish on time etc.

I also reinforce this at certain times during the event by thanking them for their help.

Closer /  Link to next activity

Depending on what’s happening next, this is a good moment to either slip in any urgent Housekeeping or close up your opening and introduce the first activity or speaker.

I often would use an appropriate quote or a mention of the Theme again, taking it back to Big Picture.

This 3 Part Process will give you a good basis to start writing stronger Openings.

Part 1 gives you the WHY, the reason for the event and the outcomes you are aiming for.

Part 2 adds the details that must be incorporated.

Part 3 gives you a structure for the opening.

Timothy Hyde

Widely acknowledged as one of Australia's busiest & best MC's and a global authority on the MC Industry, Timothy Hyde shares his expertise and insights into this fascinating Professional Speaking niche via this site and a dynamic YouTube channel. His best selling book The ExpertMC Toolkit and Resource Manual has helped thousands of people worldwide improve their Emcee skills and in many cases, start earning a living by taking on the role.

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Module 11: Speaking to Entertain and for Special Occasions

The master of ceremonies, learning objectives.

• Identify effective ways to introduce an event.
• Demonstrate how to emcee an event.

Introducing an Event

When introducing an event, you have four main goals. These goals are the minimum ground you need to cover in your introduction. How you do so, and whether you do more, will depend on the amount of time you have to speak.

• Make the audience feel welcome and appreciated. Your opening should welcome the audience and thank them for being there.
• Express thanks and appreciations.  You should also recognize anyone who deserves thanks for putting together or hosting the event.
• Explain the goals of the event and/or of the hosting organization(s).  Here’s where your introduction will deepen and expand if you have the time for it. You might tell stories or share data about the impact of the organization whose event it is or talk in more detail about what participants can expect from the event to come.
• Create excitement and anticipation for the event.  Your focus should be on the event that you’re kicking off; stay focused on the future, not the past, and on the event, not yourself.

Some events, especially academic events and some non-profit or political events, begin with an Indigenous Land Acknowledgement . A land acknowledgement or territorial acknowledgement is a formal statement, often spoken at the beginning of a public event, that it is taking place on land originally inhabited by or belonging to indigenous people. To learn more about Indigenous Land Acknowledgement, the Native Governance Center has put together an excellent guide .

Master of Ceremonies

Being the master of ceremonies (often abbreviated as an emcee  or MC ) is a task best dealt with by an experienced speaker. But it is possible to host an event as a beginner and live to tell about it!

Being an emcee will use everything you learned about speaking for special occasions and more. The most important thing to remember is this is more of a marathon than a sprint. You need to keep the energy high and the mood positive throughout the event. So start with being excited, and if you are scared, GREAT! Channel that energy into the excitement you need using the preparation tips below.

Speaker and author Kwesi Millington offers the following seven tips for being a great event emcee: [1]

• Know the Agenda.  The more detailed, the better: you should know what should happen at what time and how long each part should take.
• Keep Your Energy High.  Millington suggests self-talk and music to pump yourself up to bring 100% energy to the event.
• Memorize Your Opening.  Some parts of the event will be impromptu or ad-libbed; your opening, though, should be scripted and rehearsed. The opening sets the tone for the whole event, so it’s important to get it right.
• Learn About the Other Speakers.  Millington suggests learning one fact about each person you’re bringing to the microphone, so that you can personalize your introduction.
• Always Be Communicating.  Even if you’re not on stage, you should be mixing with the crowd and keeping the energy up.
• Interact with the Audience.  The best way to keep the energy high and the mood positive throughout the event is to involve the audience, whether by asking questions or getting them to move around.
• Close with Inspiration.  As you close up the event, try to leave the audience with something to think about, something to lift them up.

How to: Kwesi Millington, How to Emcee an Event

You can view the transcript for “How to be the Perfect Emcee at an Event or Wedding” here (opens in new window) .

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X72gsMtUCUs ↵
• Land Acknowledgement definition. Provided by : Wikipedia. Located at : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Land_acknowledgement . License : CC BY-SA: Attribution-ShareAlike
• How to be the Perfect Emcee at an Event or Wedding. Authored by : Kwesi Millington. Located at : https://youtu.be/X72gsMtUCUs . License : Other . License Terms : Standard YouTube License
• The Master of Ceremonies. Authored by : Patricia Atkinson with Lumen Learning. License : CC BY: Attribution

• Event Emcee

How To Write A Professional Emcee Opening Script In 10 Minutes: The WAVE Framework

Emceeing  .  9 Min. Read . By: Devon Brown

S taring at a blank page, with the clock ticking and your event just around the corner, can feel like standing on the edge of a high dive — terrifying.

This is especially true when you're grappling with how to write an emcee opening script , a task that can seem daunting even to the most experienced speakers.

You know you need to make a splash with your opening words, but the fear of falling flat feels heavy. Welcome to the all-too-familiar world of what I call 'The Opening Script Limbo,' where your best intentions for a powerful speech opener are trapped in feelings of doubt and anxiety.

You're not alone in this. 

The struggle to script an engaging, timely, and effective opening is a common struggle for thousands of emcees and public speakers. 

The weight of creating that perfect start can be overwhelming. 

Get it wrong, and you risk not just a momentary hiccup but a ripple effect that could dampen the entire event — and your confidence as a speaker.

But what if you could turn that apprehension into anticipation?

What if you could transform those nerves into a confident, commanding presence the moment you step up to the microphone? 

Well, that's exactly what my WAVE framework is designed to do. 

It's your lifeline out of 'The Opening Script Limbo.'

With this 4-step framework, you're about to discover a straightforward path to crafting an opening script that not only engages your audience but also makes sure you’re the event emcee everyone remembers!

Better yet, you can use it to write your script in less than 10 minutes!

Here are the 4-steps to writing your next opening script fast.

Step 1: Welcome… The Gateway To Your Introduction

The first step of the W AVE framework is the W elcome. 

Now, let me be clear, this is more than just a greeting; it's your golden opportunity to create a connection with every single person in the room.

Imagine walking into two different events. 

At the first event, you're met with a generic, monotone 'Good evening, everyone' from the emcee. It's bland and forgettable, and you blend into the crowd, feeling more like a ticket number than a valued attendee.

Now, picture the second event.

As you enter, the emcee glows, saying something like, ' Welcome, friends! Whether it’s your first time joining us, or you’re a familiar face in our community, we’re thrilled to have each of you here. Together, we're about to embark on a remarkable journey where you’’ discover…. ’

This time, you feel seen, acknowledged, and part of something special.

That’s the power of a well-scripted welcome.

When you script the welcome for your next event, do:

1. Be Inclusive:  Recognize the diversity of your audience. Whether they are seasoned attendees or first-timers, local guests, or international delegates, make sure each person feels specifically addressed and welcomed.

2. Show Genuine Enthusiasm: Your energy sets the event's energy. A warm, enthusiastic welcome can energize the audience and build anticipation for what's to come. Let your tone convey your excitement about the event and its value to attendees.

3. Create a Sense of Belonging: Use your welcome to foster a community feeling. Phrases like "We're thrilled to have you here," or "We're in this together" can go a long way in making your audience feel like they're part of something special.

Step 2: Appreciation… Show Heart By Acknowledging Those Behind The Event

After your warm welcome, it's time for the 'Show A ppreciation' step of the W A VE framework. This is where you acknowledge those unsung heroes who've worked tirelessly to bring the event to life.

This not only creates a positive atmosphere but also demonstrates your leadership and gratitude, qualities that resonate strongly with both your audience and your event team, right?

When you script the appreciation, do:

Be Specific and Personal: Mention individuals or teams by name, if possible. For example, "A big thank you to our event planner, Jane, and the entire catering team for their exceptional work."

Highlight Their Efforts: Briefly describe what they've done. This helps the audience understand the magnitude of their contributions. "For the past seven months, these incredible people have been planning, organizing, and ensuring everything you see tonight comes together seamlessly."

Encourage Audience Participation : Invite the audience to show their appreciation. A round of applause or a moment of acknowledgment can create a strong sense of community.

Step 3: Visualization… Clarify the Theme/Purpose of The Event and Set the Stage

Now, let's focus on V isualization, the third vital step in the WA V E framework. This is where you bring the event's purpose to the forefront, showing your audience the journey they're about to go on.

More than anything, you’re showing them “ what’s in it for them ”.

No one attends an event just for the sake of it; they come with specific goals in mind, like boosting their revenue or scaling their tech business. 

Your job is to vividly paint a picture of how this event will help them achieve those goals and ignite their enthusiasm for the journey ahead.

When you script the theme discussion, do:

• Be Clear and Concise: Tailor the theme into a straightforward, compelling message. For instance, "Today, we're diving into Strategies to 10x Your Tech Business in 2024' – giving you a roadmap for unprecedented growth and success."
• Relate to the Audience: Connect the theme to your audience's aspirations and business objectives. "You, as tech entrepreneurs and innovators, are here to discover and implement strategies that will catapult your businesses into new heights and successes."
• Build Anticipation: Highlight what they can look forward to throughout the event. "Prepare to learn from industry giants who will unveil their little known secrets you need to instantly drive more leads, customers, and profits into your business, 24/7, like clockwork!”

Step 4: Exit… Transition From Your Opening Speech with Passion and Purpose

The final part of your opening speech is the ' E xit,' a pivotal step in the WAV E framework. This is where you transition from your introduction to introducing your first speaker, with enthusiasm, energy and passion. 

When crafting your exit, do:

• Build the Excitement: Use your closing words to build the audience's anticipation. Imagine ending with a burst of energy, "So, are you pumped up!? Are you ready to discover how to add hundreds more customers to your business in the next 30 days, without spending an extra dollar on advertising?! Give me a “HELL YES!” if you’re ready for that!"
• Introduce with Impact: Seamlessly introduce the next speaker in a way that maintains the momentum. Picture yourself saying, "Because our very first speaker is a true game-changer in the tech industry, and now, they're about to reveal strategies that will skyrocket your business revenue in 2024! Get ready to have your mind blown and your bank account swollen with strategies never revealed before on stage – please welcome…"

This Exit strategy isn't just a mere transition.

It's your job to make sure the audience is on the edge of their seats!

In summary, the WAVE opening speech framework looks like this:

• A ppreciate  
• E xit 

This is the fastest, easiest, and most stress-free way for you to write an opening speech that captivates your audience from the get-go and sets you up as the unforgettable emcee they'll be talking about for years.

And better yet, with WAVE, you can write an opening speech in minutes. 

No more staring at a blank page for hours, no more doubts about hitting the right note; with WAVE you can script a powerful opening speech fast.

But don’t just take my word for it…

Let me show you, with a sample opening speech, using WAVE.

Sample Opening Speech Using The WAVE Framework

Scenario: Imagine you're about to open a tech conference. The auditorium is packed with eager entrepreneurs, investors, and tech enthusiasts. Now you need an opening script to set the stage.

Let’s try that with the WAVE framework:

{W} "Good evening, visionaries, innovators, and trailblazers of the tech world! Welcome to the 2024 Tech Titan Summit, where the brightest minds converge to redefine the future! Whether it's your first time here or you're a seasoned attendee, know that your presence is what transforms this event from ordinary to extraordinary.

{A} I want to take a moment to express my profound gratitude to those who've made this event possible – the tireless team, our dedicated sponsors, and every one of you here today. Your passion and commitment bring this vision to life. Let's give them all a thunderous round of applause!

{V} Now, let’s dive into why we're all here. This isn't just another tech conference; it's a launchpad for exponential growth. The theme for this summit, '10x Your Tech,' is not just a catchy phrase – it's a commitment, a challenge to each of us to push beyond the boundaries, to not just grow, but to multiply our impact, our reach, our revenue! Today, we're not just sharing ideas but sparking a revolution in the tech industry.

{E} So, are you ready to be part of this extraordinary journey? Let's set this stage on fire with our first speaker, a true maverick in tech innovation, someone who’s reshaped the industry as we know it. Get ready to learn exactly how our first speaker has taken her start-up from a humble home office to a global tech empire, growing their revenue from $1 million to $50 million, without any external funding... and how you can do the same… Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome to the stage…"

Is this script perfect? 

No, of course not – but it's highly effective, incredibly engaging, and it took less than 8 minutes to put together. 

This is the power of the WAVE framework. 

It’s designed to help you quickly craft an opening that resonates with your audience's aspirations and sets the tone for a successful event.

Never Get Stuck In “Opening Script Limbo” Again

Say goodbye to the dread of scripting your event's opening. 

No more second-guessing what to say, worrying if it’s good enough, or wondering how to keep your audience captivated.

Not when you have the WAVE framework in your toolkit:

• Welcome: Create a genuine connection right from the start.
• Appreciate : Acknowledge the team and audience, fostering a sense of community.
• Visualize: Set the stage for the event's theme, aligning it with audience goals and aspirations.
• Exit : Seamlessly transition with energy and purpose, leaving the audience desperate for more.

With WAVE, you’ll not only be able to write an opening speech script in minutes, but you’ll write one that has your audience engaged from the first word, and your event organizers begging you to be their host again!

Take Your Public Speaking to the Next Level

Just mastered the art of the WAVE Framework and you’re confident with writing an emcee opening script like a pro? 

Now, step up your entire public speaking game with the world’s #1 course on public speaking

"Be Awesome On Stage: The Masterclass "  

This course is your golden ticket to becoming a public speaking pro, boosting your confidence, and engaging any audience with ease.  It contains everything I’ve learned in becoming the world’s #1 emcee .

And it’s guaranteed to help you overcome any stage fright   and absolutely crush it the next time you have to speak or present in public.

Read Next:   12 Benefits of Public Speaking for Professional & Personal Life

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Devon Brown  (“Duh-Von” not “Dev-in”) is a speaker, author, entrepreneur, former hip-hop dancer, and World's #1 Event Emcee. Once described as a sort-of ‘MC Hammer meets Tony Robbins’; his style is 50% education, 50% entertainment, and 100% must-experience. Be sure to connect with Devon on social media.

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Chapter 15: how to emcee an event, introduce speakers, and present awards.

You have been accepted as a leader in your company or your community. You have been asked to serve as a program chair for a dinner or master of ceremonies (otherwise known as MC, or emcee) for a more lavish event. It's quite an honor. It means you are known by the audience and respected by the people putting the event together. If you do it well, you are admired anew and you grow in stature within your company and with all those in attendance.

Your First Responsibility - To Open the Event

Your first responsibility is, of course, to open the event, to welcome everyone. Usually you will do this from a platform or a stage. How you do it creates the climate for the meeting. You either lift the audience and build anticipation, or you bore them and create apathy. As such, you are the catalyst. You carry the audience on your shoulders. At this point, they are a clean slate. You are the artist who determines what is painted there.

Many years ago, there was a great speaker named Percy Whiting. He would always greet the audience by asking in a booming, microphone-aided voice, "Can you hear me in the back over there?" while pointing to the far right corner. A few brave members of the audience in that corner would shout back, "Yes, we can hear you!"

Percy would then turn and gesture to the far left corner while booming, "Can you hear me in the back over there?" The answer would come back, "Yes we can!" Then Percy would say at the same high volume level and with his arms outstretched, "Well, then, let's begin!"

You Are the Focal Point

Here's what Percy Whiting accomplished by opening in that way:

He became the focal point. All side conversations ceased. He got everyone's attention and brought the group to order.

He achieved audience interaction. Members of the audience actually spoke out loud. Amazing!

He created excitement. The anticipation level started off on a high.

That was what he wanted to accomplish. That was his purpose. Yet it all seemed so natural as far as the audience was concerned. It was fun, and it stirred everyone to attention.

Identify Key People in the Group

In the crowd, of course, will be significant people within your organization. They need to be recognized for any number of reasons - if nothing else, they have marquee value with the audience, and their noted attendance will lend prestige to the event. Let's use an example. We'll assume that you are the program chairman for a fund-raising event for your local YMCA. There are seven hundred people present. Once you have opened the session and welcomed those in attendance, you need to give ample recognition to the officers, the directors, and the people who were responsible for putting the event together.

Do it individually for the key people. Decide with them beforehand if they will stand when their names are mentioned. Make sure you know how to pronounce their names. If you muff an important name, you're a dead man - or woman. And it feels bad, too. If there is a difficult name, ask its owner how it's pronounced. Then say it back to them at least three times. Then write it phonetically in your notes. Then say it five times to yourself before your moment of truth.

Provide the Common Bond

Next, tell the audience "why we are all here." This critical opening statement tells the crowd why your prominent panel of speakers is taking the time to be present and offers a connecting common thread that brings the speakers and the entire audience together. You need to find this thread, state it, and connect everyone.

An Example of an Opening

We are here tonight because the "Y" is, in some way, important to each of us. Certainly many of us use the Y regularly as an adult fitness facility. And it's the best and most affordable one in town. But that's not where the great Y legacy comes from. It comes from what it has done for kids. Probably 75 percent of you folks in this room can remember a time when you were a kid and the Y made a positive difference in your life. And though the Y has programs for every age group, kids are what we are all about. The Y has no equal for providing programs for the development of kids from toddlers through the teen years.

I'd like to share a quote about kids from one of our great presidents, Theodore Roosevelt. He said: "Every kid has inside him an aching void for excitement. If we don't fill it with something that is exciting, interesting, and good for him, he will fill it with something that is exciting, interesting, and which isn't good for him." The Y has been supplying that excitement in a way that's good for kids since it began in 1850. But it can't do it without the help and support of people like you. Thank you for being here.

Why It Works

Now imagine yourself in the audience hearing what you just said. It's pretty good, isn't it? There had to be a beginning. The session had to be opened. The audience needed to be connected to one another and to the event. And you just did it. You've given the event a common denominator and a perspective. Everyone present is now "tuned in."

The very next thing you should do is give the audience an overview of the agenda. Tell them what to expect. Include an indication of how long the program will be. Now your listeners are comfortable. They know the parameters. They will settle in.

Your Second Responsibility - To Introduce the Speakers

The next step is to get on with the program. Usually that means you introduce the first speaker. Is there a right way to introduce a speaker? You bet there is, and it begins with an understanding of your responsibility as the go-between, the connecter of the audience to the speaker.

It's similar to when you're hosting a party at your home and you have guests who don't know one another. You feel an obligation to introduce them, to tell each of them something about the other, so that they will discover areas of common interest. You want to connect them so that they can interact better. Once you have accomplished that, the party becomes lively, the guests will talk more freely.

The same thing holds for the talk of introduction, though you should go into a bit more detail, since the dialogue that takes place at a party will be missing.

The word "introduce" comes from the Latin words intro , which means inside, and ducerem which means to lead. When we introduce a speaker properly, we lead the audience inside the speaker's world so that the audience is intrigued by the topic, impressed by the speaker's accomplishments, and excited to be present.

How to Organize an Introduction

Is there a simple way to organize such a talk? Of course there is. We call it the TEAS format. It was created by Charlie Wend, a cofounder of Communisync, and has helped thousands of "introducers" perform this function flawlessly.

Here's how it works:

T � Title of the speaker's talk; why it's important to this audience.

E �Experience and Educational background of the speaker

A �Anecdote about the speaker that:

Reveals a human interest dimension of the speaker and / or

Dramatizes the importance of the speaker's subject

S �Speaker's name

Try to hold the speaker's name until last, even when the audience knows who the speaker is. It keeps the introduction cleaner and adds a sense of drama and a lift to the end of your intro.

To do this exceptionally, your first job is to interview the speaker and gather the necessary background information. You may have to work harder to get the anecdote. Sometimes the speaker is shy or "can't think of one." In that case, ask him or her for the name of a friend and phone that person to get the anecdote. Even if you encounter roadblocks, persist. It's worth it.

A Simple Luncheon Intro

J. Walter Thompson (JWT) was hosting a luncheon for the Ford Motor Company, its biggest account, to celebrate a new advertising campaign.

The luncheon would take place in the JWT executive dining area. About seventy people would be present, half Ford people, half JWT.

The JWT management supervisor, Glen Fortinberry, wanted the event to be special. He wanted a speaker who would appeal to this sports-oriented audience. So he arranged for Frank Gifford, the former all-pro Giants flankerback, to be a speaker. He also asked Charlie Wend to introduce Frank.

Gathering Information

The first thing Charlie did was to call the New York Giants' office. He talked to Ray Walsh, the general manager, and told him that he was going to introduce Frank and that he wanted to tell the story of the great catch Frank made against the Steelers toward the end of his career, at Yankee Stadium.

Ray Walsh said, "I'll never forget that catch. We [the Giants] were in the race for the Eastern Divisional Championship of the NFL. We were tied. We had to beat the Steelers to get to the championship game. We were in the fourth quarter. It was third down with fourteen yards to go for a first. We were on our own forty-yard line. The quarterback was Y. A. Tittle. Gifford lined up left and ran a crossing pattern.

"Joe Walton, the tight end, was supposed to clear the area for Frank but was held up at the line of scrimmage. So Frank ran his pattern with two defenders on him. Y. A. was being rushed hard, but he held the ball as long as he could. He finally threw it out of desperation, and he threw it long. There was no way Frank could get to it ... but he did. He dove, caught it with his fingertips, and tucked it in as he rolled on the ground. It was a first down. We went on to score, and we won the Divisional Championship. Frank's catch was the turning point."

Charlie took notes and was overjoyed because he knew he had a good anecdote! He also had prepared the other parts of the TEAS format.

No Secrets: Tell the Speaker What You'll Say

On the day of the luncheon, Charlie met with Frank Gifford and told him what he was going to say while introducing him. Not a bad idea. There's nothing worse than spouting some facts in your introduction and then having the speaker walk to the lectern and disclaim the truth of what you just said.

Let's look at the format for the talk of introduction as it applied to Charlie's intro of Frank Gifford. It follows the TEAS plan.

Topic: "What it means to be a professional"

Charlie stated why that topic was important to this audience of Ford people: "Skill and professionalism separate the great ones from the not-so-greats in professional football; the same is true when creating great Ford advertising."

Experience and Education: Charlie provided facts about Gifford's professional background:

Graduate of USC, where he was All-American

NFL career 1952 to 1964

Starred on both offense and defense during 1953 season

All-NFL four years

Seven Pro Bowls

Pro Bowl selection in three different positions, as defensive back, halfback, and flanker

Original team of broadcasters on Monday Night Football

Covered the Olympics and other special events for ABC

Anecdote: Charlie told the story of Frank's catch against the Steelers. He made the point that the catch represented the epitome of professionalism.

Speaker's Name: Charlie simply said, "Ladies and gentlemen, I am happy to present our speaker today . . . (pause) . . . Frank Gifford."

Charlie had a little rubber football with him on the lectern, and as Frank walked to the lectern, Charlie tossed him the little football, which Frank caught and tossed back to him. Nice touch. Luckily, Frank caught the little football.

Frank Gifford's Transition

Frank's opening remarks went something like this: "Thank you, Charlie, for the nice introduction. Actually, I'm not the one who deserves the credit for that play. Y. A. held his ground back there, looking death in the eye as two defensive linemen roared at him. After he threw the ball, he was almost annihilated by those tacklers. Any other quarterback would have thrown the ball away to avoid being hit so hard, and I wouldn't have had the chance to catch it.

"After the play, I congratulated Y. A. for holding the ball that long and then getting it to me. And he said, ‘I wish I had thrown it to Del Shofner [a faster receiver] instead of you, Frank. Del would have been wide open, five yards in front of those defenders. It would have been an easy play, and I wouldn't have been hit by those linemen.'"

A Great Introduction Is Enjoyed By All

That was Frank's transition into his talk. He was so self-effacing the audience loved him before he even started his prepared remarks. That's what a good anecdote can do for a speaker. It provides an opportunity for the speaker to gracefully transition from the introduction into his talk. But it's not just the speaker who benefits, the audience does, too. The entire affair rises to a new level if the introductions are done well.

After the luncheon was over, Frank sought Charlie out, thanked him again, and said, "Would you follow me around and introduce me whenever I speak?"

The Key, Of Course, Is the Anecdote

If you can get a good anecdote, the speaker is "launched" with the audience. Charlie once introduced Ted Sorensen, a former speechwriter for President Kennedy, at one of those JWT events. Sorensen was a brilliant man who looked rather studious. In the introduction, Charlie said, (deliberately holding Ted's name until the end of the intro):

"Last week this man pitched a shut out and knocked in the winning run for his team in a slow pitch softball game in Central Park. And even after those heroics, he was much more elated by the team victory than by his own contributions. It shows what a team player this man is."

Notice how the story humanized Ted Sorensen. The audience could identify with him just a little bit more.

Sometimes it's difficult to get the necessary information, try though we might. We think we can get the material on the spot, and so we let it go until we have nowhere to turn for help. But we shouldn't excuse ourselves. Remember, a speaker cannot be as effective with a weak introduction. He cannot do it alone. You are there for a purpose. You are there to help make the event more meaningful, more enjoyable, than it could be without you.

Sometimes the Setting Is Difficult

For many years I lived with my wife and family in Old Greenwich, Connecticut. One day in May, the organizer of the local Memorial Day parade asked me:

"Kevin, would you be willing to serve as the grand marshal of the parade? If you say ‘yes,' here's what's involved:

"You would be part of the great parade, riding in the elevated back seat of the grand marshal's car as the parade weaves its way through town. Alongside of you would be our guest celebrity and featured speaker, Fred Furmark (not his real name), of TV fame. The parade will start at Todd's Point and work its way all the way down Sound Beach Avenue, ending at Memorial Rock.

"You and Fred will wave to the crowd during this journey. They will line the streets on both sides and be hanging off the train trestle bridge as you go under it. At Memorial Rock in Binney Park, you will introduce Fred. He will give his Memorial Day talk, and the parade will be over."

The whole thing sounded exciting to me, so I said, "Sure. I'll do it."

I knew how to do an introduction. It meant I'd have to get some information about the speaker, but I could get that from him as we inched our way along in the parade.

The Memorial Day Parade

Memorial Day came, and it wasn't long before I found myself in the back of the car with Fred Furmark on Shore Road in Old Greenwich, behind marching bands, baton twirlers, Veterans of American Wars, American Legion members, Girl Scouts, Daughters of the American Revolution, the Fire Department, local officials, and just about any other organized group that wanted to walk or march from Todd's Point to Memorial Rock.

Fred and I were in the middle of all that. I told him I would be introducing him and asked him to tell me about his background. He said, "I've lived in this town for twenty years and they all know me here."

We were sitting high in the grand marshal's car, waving to the left, to the right, overhead. Wherever there were people waving, we waved back. It was fun. But I had a job to do. I needed information from my fellow "waver," and I was a little bit nervous about whether I was going to get it.

Interviewing the Speaker

So I said, "Fred, what is the topic of the talk you are going to give?"

He waved to the people standing in front of Sterling Watts's hardware store, and said, "I'm going to talk about patriotism."

I said: "I need a title for your talk."

Fred said, "How about ‘What freedom means today'?"

I said, "I like it if you do."

At this point someone from the crowd yelled, "How are you doing, Fred?"

Fred answered, "I'm doing fine. I love being here with all of you."

We returned to our dialogue, still smiling, still waving. I said, "Could you tell me something about your background, your schooling?"

Fred said, "Why do you want to know about that?"

So I said, "I have to introduce you. I have to tell the people about you."

Fred said, "They all know me. I've lived in this town for twenty years."

I said, "Fred, please help me. I've got to introduce you, and I need some info on you. Would you help me?"

Little by little, Fred answered my questions and gave me what I needed. He never missed a wave. He smiled indefatigably. And a lot of the people did know him. I was really impressed with this fine man, but I sure struggled in getting enough information. I've changed a few details, but here is the outline of my introduction:

Topic: "What freedom means today"

Experience and education:

Graduated from Fordham University

Worked for his father as a law clerk for two years

Went into broadcasting. Played Batman on radio for ten years

Hosted Deal and Cash In

Hosted Winner Gets All

Hosted Make a Million

Has hosted The Truth Will Set You Free for the last eight years

Is considered the first game-show superstar

Has had more exposure on daytime TV than any other TV personality

Anecdote: "Fred is a family man, with five children, four girls and a boy. Despite his fame and the demands on his time, the job he loves the most is that of superintendent of a Sunday school in our town of Greenwich. His deeply religious core shows itself when he bids adieu to both his Sunday school class and to the participants who perform on his show by saying, ‘Good-bye, and may God be with you.'"

Speaker's Name: "Ladies and gentlemen, our celebrity Memorial Day speaker . . . (pause) . . . Fred Furmark."

Always announce the name with a rise of intonation and a burst of volume. The speaker's name is the culmination of your talk. If you have held the name until the end, the speaker will rise and walk toward you with outstretched hand as the audience applauds.

Keep It Short, Then Step Out of the Spotlight

You might wonder how long the talk of introduction should be. The answer is - it should be short. Not longer than sixty seconds. Your job is to sell the speaker to the audience, enhance his or her stature, tickle the audience's fancy, build their anticipation, and excite them about the speaker. All of that, but no more, in sixty seconds.

You are not the speaker. Don't be confused by that. You are there to prepare the way for the speaker, not compete with him or her. And, for heaven's sake, don't show off your knowledge about the speaker's subject. Here is an old speaker's lament:

Nothing makes me madder Than when the introducer's patter Is my subject matter

Your Third Responsibility - Presenting Awards

If you are program chair inside your company or organization, you will either present awards or direct others to do so. This is a special time. The award winners love it. The audience loves it. There are two scenarios to be dealt with; one is when you have a series of awards or acknowledgments, and the other is when you are presenting the coveted top awards.

Examples of a Series of Awards

Members of a team who worked together

People who reached new sales "highs"

Top producers in different categories

People who helped make an event successful

Those who made quota

Extraordinary accomplishment

When you are delivering an award, make sure you clearly state what the accomplishment was. Dramatize it. Make it sound important. Be enthusiastic. Be happy. Be upbeat. Be impressed.

Hold the name until last. Announce it with gusto. Smile at each recipient. Shake their hands. Show how delighted you are. Remember that your speech - what you say and how you say it - is a massive part of the award. You create the aura. You create the magnitude. You create the sense of triumph. If you do it well, the award winners will revel in their moment. Potential recipients will be motivated to strive for the same recognition in the future. The audience will be impressed. The event will be a success. And you will be responsible for that success.

Make Sure You Pronounce the Names Correctly

The best way to sidestep this common error is to practice pronouncing the names. The best time to botch a name is in private. There are no penalty points for that, but if you do it out loud to the audience, that's the one thing they will remember - and they will think you're a jerk. That's not fair, but that's the way it is. As Dale Carnegie once said, "Remember, a man's name is, to him, the sweetest and most important sound in any language."

Don't ever lose sight of the fact that these people are being singled out for recognition. It's a marvelous moment, each time - for them. If you are bored with it, or it comes off as dull or perfunctory, you have failed. You lose personal stature with all those present. So, keep your enthusiasm at a high level from beginning to end, no matter how long and drawn-out the ceremony may become. Even if it sometimes seems to you that you are going on forever, remember that it is the first time and the only time for each person being recognized.

The Coveted Top Awards

Ideally there should be but one of these, just as there is only one Congressional Medal of Honor. But it's easy to make a case for two. Is there an absolute limit to how many top awards there can be? Yes. The outside limit is three. Beyond that, there is no exclusivity. The value is tarnished.

In many companies, the top award gets its name from some event in the company's history. Let me give you an example. At Communisync, the top honor you can receive is the Jack Sloan Broken Pick Award.

The Story Behind the Broken Pick Award

Jack Sloan joined Communisync as a salesman and worked for the company for eight years. He was marvelously successful because he worked hard and he worked smart. The vice president of sales, Ted Fuller, was so impressed with his work ethic that he used Jack as an example at one of our sales meetings saying, "You never have to wonder where Jack is. If you can't find him in the office, it's because he's at a client somewhere, breaking his pick (as in digging a hole with a pickax), trying to make a sale."

And so was born the Broken Pick Award. It goes to the person who best demonstrates that they "went the extra mile," "broke their pick," to make the sale. The award, given once a year, is a plaque with the broken pickax symbol on it. It's the apex, the epitome of recognition. You might think a broken pick isn't too glamorous. But that's where tradition and company culture come in.

When presenting a coveted top award, do so with much excitement and joy. Show that you are thrilled to be a part of this great moment and to be sharing it with everyone in the room. Follow these five simple steps:

Tell the story and the philosophy of the award.

Lay out the success record and accomplishments of the recipient.

Explain how the accomplishments demonstrate the philosophy.

Hold the name until last even though they know who it is.

Say the name with gusto.

Key Learnings for How to Emcee a Meeting, Introduce a Speaker, and Present Awards

Consider yourself honored if you are asked to be a program chair. It's a showcase for you. It will do more for your stature and visibility in your company than six months of normal work.

Use the TEAS formula when introducing a speaker. It's simple and it works. The introduction will be livelier and the speaker better launched.

Make sure you get a good anecdote; it makes your introduction special. It also sets up the speaker, and the audience loves it.

Hold the name for last when you introduce a speaker or present an award. It helps build anticipation. The audience will applaud more enthusiastically.

Punch the name with gusto when you announce the speaker or the award winner's name.

Use the person's name ten or fifteen times in the course of the introduction. This strips all drama from the ending.

Talk too long. You are the preface, not the book.

Try to steal the show by being a comedian or by seeking undue attention. Not your job. There's a place in heaven for a good emcee. Most comedians never get there.

Westside Toastmasters on Meetup

Master of ceremonies script + Emcee tips

Published by admin on december 10, 2019 december 10, 2019, top tips for emcee scripts.

For the past year I have been emcee of an event called “F*ckup Nights” in Odense, Denmark. The event has a very naughty name, so it needs a cheeky, energetic emcee, with a sharp, witty script .

The idea behind the night is to share stories of business failures, the screw ups, the mistakes, and the losses. As Emcee, it’s my job to make sure that people feel comfortable sharing their stories, and that the audience responds well to tales of failure.

In this article I want to take you through step-by-step what it takes to put together my Master of Ceremonies script.

Master of Ceremonies script writing tip #1

Create a framework.

When working on a Master of Ceremonies script for a reoccurring event, I want to make sure my script is based around a strong framework that I can reuse each time.

This script framework cuts down on preparation time, allows the audience to know what to expect, and speeds things up for the event organisers.

A typical Master of Ceremonies script framework for a business event will look like this:

Please take your seats, as we will soon begin. Welcome and introduction. House rules. Introduction to the sponsors. Audience engagement and how to behave. Introduce speaker #1 Q and A for Speaker #1 Introduce Speaker #2 Q and A for Speaker #2 Introduce the break. Return from the break with audience engagement. Introduce Speaker #3 Q and A for Speaker #3 Final summery. Invitation to the next event. Final audience engagement and goodbye.

Each one of the lines above becomes a headline in my Master of Ceremonies script. That headline then gets written on the top of a cue card, and I know exactly how to write my script each time.

Master of Ceremonies script writing tip #2

Script the behaviour.

As the Master of Ceremonies, or emcee, the audience looks to you to see how to behave. At an event that is cheeky, raucous, and humorous, like Fuckup Nights, I like to tell the audience directly how to behave.

I instruct them to laugh, cheer, tease, have fun, drink, relax, swear, and embrace the failure in all its glory.

If you want your audience to behave a certain way, make sure it is in your emcee script. Don’t just tell them where the toilets are, tell them when they can pee and when they cant. The Master of Ceremonies can keep order, but he can also create chaos, and sometimes fun and chaos is needed. The emcee has to make sure everyone has a good time. He’s not a policeman.

Master of Ceremonies script writing tip #3

Script the introductions.

A good Master of Ceremonies should have a personal connection to everybody who he invites on to the stage. Do your research and script out exactly how you will introduce each speaker, but make sure that you know them well enough that the introduction is true and correct.

Remember, you are not just introducing the person by their achievements, you are getting the audience ready to listen to a new voice. You are pointing out what they may find funny, fascinating, or engaging about the speaker.

Master of Ceremonies script writing tip #4

Don’t script the q and a beforehand. do it during the talk.

In my Master of Ceremonies script I always leave space in my notes to jot down 2 questions for the speaker. (Just in case the audience don’t have any questions of their own).

I never script these questions in advance, because a speaker can easily change the content of their talk. Instead, I listen intently to the talk, and jot down any ideas for questions while that speaker is still on stage. This shows I have a direct connection to the speaker, and not just some canned response.

I have seen some terrible Master of Ceremonies who have pre-planned questions, and they ask them earnestly, despite the fact that the speaker already covered the questions in their talk. It makes the Master of Ceremonies look stupid.

Master of Ceremonies script writing tip #5

Script for connection, not accuracy..

A good Master of Ceremonies will strive to build a live connection with the audience.

A bad Master of Ceremonies will follow a script word-for-word for accuracy.

While accuracy is important, it should not come above connection. That means that if your emcee script is complicated, filled with lots of difficult, technical details, your emcee may spend most of the time looking at their notes or script down in their hands.

It’s so much better to be a Master of Ceremonies that can look away from the script, into the audiences eyes, and feel the energy of the room.

An audience will forgive a mistake or two, if they fall in love with you first.

Master of Ceremonies script writing tip #6

Script for the newcomers and the old-hands..

When I work on my scripts, I try to balance out introducing the newcomers, who are coming to the event for the first time, with the needs of the old-hands who may have been to several previous events.

By blending new script elements with familiar script elements it can feel fresh.

Throughout my Master of Ceremonies script, I will plan for audience engagements and activations. Getting them to do something. Interact. Ask a question. Change seats. Do something. Don’t do something. Whatever the case may be. Having moments like this in my script allows me to bring together both groups of people into one.

Consider scripting a moment where old-hands show the newcomers a secret handshake, signal, call-and-response or other hidden behaviour. Now the newcomers know the behaviour, they no longer feel like newcomers, they are “in the gang” and ready to feel part of the crowed.

Master of Ceremonies script writing tip #7

Script your house rules the same every time..

Rules and instructions should be given with authority and consistency. Even if the rules are a little bit disruptive. I always make sure the wording of the house rules, and the order they appear in my script, is exactly the same every time.

Much like an airline safety instruction that is the same no matter what, keep your rules consistent. This will give you the authority to guide the audience through a pleasant experience.

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Supercompetent Speaking: The Emcee’s Introduction

Take charge from the beginning. Write the emcee’s introduction to your presentation yourself, provide it well before the event, and ask that it be read verbatim.

In many speaking situations, your client or a Master of Ceremonies (MC but written emcee) will introduce you before you take the stage. The emcee’s introduction is crucial, because it sets up your first comments. When properly handled, it can act as a launching pad for a great presentation; if flubbed, it’s like an anchor, dragging you down and forcing you to spend precious time repairing the emcee’s damage. Needless to say, you’ll want to maintain tight control over your introduction.

While you can’t keep a determined or incompetent introducer from doing a bad job, if you keep the following tips in mind, you’ll maximize the likelihood of success—for both of you.

1. Never let an introducer wing it. Your introduction must create a powerful, positive first impression. Therefore, unless the introducer is a very close friend, who is intimately familiar with your work, don’t let the person deliver an off-the-cuff intro to your presentation. All it takes is a few wrong words or ad-libbed stories to take the wind out of your sails. Provide a fully scripted introduction and request that it be read word for word. Don’t just provide an outline for the emcee to flesh out herself, or she may end up stretching it so far it takes up part of your speaking time.

2. Consider the content carefully. The introduction should quickly let the audience know why you are qualified to speak on this topic, while grabbing their attention and getting them interested in your topic. Keep it brief and to the point—less than 150 words. It should take less than a minute to present. It usually includes:

• Who you are (your name and what makes you a credible expert)
• Some funny factoid about you to connect on a human level
• Your twitter handle if they are tweeting
• The title of your topic (what you’ll speak about)
• A quick audience pitch (why the content is important—and most importantly—why they should care)

3. Send your introduction in advance. Be sure your introducer has your introduction in hand at least a week before your presentation. (But bring a copy with you to the presentation, just in case.) Encourage your introducer to practice it in advance and ask for any questions. Request that it be read in an enthusiastic, upbeat way. Provide a pronunciation guide for your name or any words that might cause confusion. Ask the introducer to call you with any pronunciation questions before your speech.

A good emcee will read your introduction as written and immediately hand the stage over to you. So take charge from the beginning. Write the introduction yourself, have it read verbatim, provide it well before the event, and you should be good to launch into your excellent presentation.

Laura Stack, MBA, CSP, is an expert in productivity. For more than 20 years, Stack has worked with business leaders to execute more efficiently, boost performance, and accelerate results in the workplace. Her company, The Productivity Pro, Inc., provides productivity workshops around the globe to help attendees achieve Maximum Results in Minimum Time. Stack is the bestselling author of six books, with more than 20 foreign editions, published by Random House, Wiley, and Berrett-Koehler, including her newest work, “ Execution IS the Strategy” (March 2014). An expert in the field of performance and workplace issues, Stack has been featured on the CBS Early Show, CNN , the Wall Street Journal, and The New York Times . Connect via her website , Facebook , or Twitter .

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Wedding Officiant Help Desk

Tips and Scripts for the Wedding Emcee and Officiant

How to Perform the Wedding MC Speech at a Reception

As a wedding mc, one of your most important tasks is delivering a smooth, engaging, and memorable wedding mc speech at a reception. The MC’s speech sets the tone for the rest of the celebration and keeps the reception events flowing smoothly. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about performing the perfect MC speech, from preparation to expert delivery.

What is the Wedding MC Speech at a Reception?

The master of ceremonies gives the wedding MC speech – typically someone chosen by the couple – and occurs early in the wedding reception, right after the couple is introduced.

The main purpose of the MC speech is to welcome guests, provide key information, and set expectations for how the reception will flow. This includes highlighting and building excitement for important events like the first dance, parent dances, cake cutting, toasts, bouquet toss, garter removal, and more.

The MC speech also serves to introduce, recognize, and thank members of the wedding party and immediate family. Special mentions of close friends and traveled guests are also common.

Additionally, a good MC will use the speech to thank key vendors and service providers who helped make the day possible. This includes photographers, videographers, DJs, caterers, wedding planners, transportation providers and more.

Finally, the speech should set a celebratory, upbeat tone and atmosphere for the reception. The MC speech sets the vibe and pace for the whole event, so it should be lively, personable, humorous, and heartfelt.

Why the Wedding MC Speech is Crucial

As you can see, the MC’s speech plays a critical role in kicking off the reception successfully. It provides key information guests need to know to enjoy themselves at the wedding fully. The speech also formally transitions the reception from cocktails to dinner and dancing.

Without the MC’s proper welcome and introduction, guests would be confused about what’s happening next and who the key people are. Vendors would also not receive the recognition they deserve for their hard work.

So, while brief, the MC speech essentially “sets the stage” for the rest of the celebration and prevents disorder and confusion. Delivering this speech professionally and flawlessly is a key part of succeeding as a wedding MC.

When is the Wedding MC Speech Given at the Reception?

The wedding MC speech is one of the very first items on the reception agenda. Here is a typical order of events:

• Guests arrive for cocktail hour
• A wedding party is announced at the reception
• The bride and groom are announced at the reception
• The wedding mc gives a welcome speech
• The couple has the first dance
• Parent dances and special dances
• Dinner is served
• Toasts from the bridal party, family, friends
• Couple cuts cake
• Bouquet and garter toss (sometimes)
• Open dancing and other reception events

So, as you can see, the MC’s speech kicks off the reception shortly after the couple enters. It precedes the first dances and dinner service.

Check out this How to Emcee a Wedding guide for a detailed reception timeline and emcee tips.

What Should You Say During the Wedding MC Speech?

While the exact wedding MC speech will vary based on the couple’s wishes and your flair, here are some key elements to include:

Welcome and Opening Comments

• Greet guests enthusiastically and welcome them to the wedding
• Thank them sincerely for being there to celebrate the couple’s big day
• Recognize any special guests who have traveled far or mean a lot to the couple
• Thank the couple, by name, for inviting you to emcee their wedding
• Get guests excited for the celebration ahead!

Housekeeping and Event Flow Details

Inform guests of reception details like:

• Location of restrooms
• Bar details
• Dietary restrictions menu cards
• Coat check area
• Transportation plan
• No smoking policy
• Other venue rules and policies

Provide an overview of the reception timeline and flow of events. Highlight key moments coming up that you want guests to anticipate.

Formally Introduce the Wedding Party

• Announce and introduce the wedding party members by name as they enter the reception. Share their relationship with the couple.
• Recognize immediate family members – the couple’s parents, grandparents, siblings, etc.
• Share any special honors or roles family members had in the wedding, like in the processional.

Highlight Upcoming Important Events and Dances

• Build energy and anticipation for the couple’s first dance shortly after your speech.
• Mention any parent dances, anniversary dances, or special cultural dances taking place.
• Remind guests to remain in their seats for toasts coming up after dinner.
• Note any fun late-night activities like the bouquet or garter toss.

Thank Vendors, Venues, and Service Providers

Recognize and thank vital vendors and service providers by name. These may include:

• Bar service
• Photographer
• Videographer
• Wedding planner
• Transportation provider
• Venue staff

Compliment their stellar work makes the wedding day memorable and flawless for the couple.

Well Wishes for the Couple

• Close out the speech with heartfelt good wishes and congratulations for the newlyweds and their future together.
• Thank guests sincerely for being there to witness and celebrate the couple’s love and new union

How to Write an Excellent Wedding MC Speech

Writing a lively, flawless, and memorable MC speech takes effort and planning. Here are some Tips on Writing Your Wedding Speech :

Get Input from the Couple

• Ask how they’d like you to approach the speech and specific events or people they want to be highlighted or thanked.
• Incorporate any special wedding details they request you to mention.
• Honor any formal traditions important to their families.
• Discuss the tone they want you to set – funny, romantic, formal, etc.

Use Humor and Personal Touches

• Add tasteful humor whenever possible – funny stories about the couple, light-hearted jokes, or amusing anecdotes to liven up the speech.
• Share endearing, positive remarks about the couple’s relationship and personalities.
• But avoid inside jokes or overly personal stories guests may not understand.

Keep it Brief

• Your speech should be 5-7 minutes maximum.
• Guests will quickly lose interest in a long, rambling speech.
• Touch briefly on key highlights vs. giving lengthy remarks.

Write Out the Full Wedding MC Speech

• Even if you’ll memorize parts, write out the entire speech to perfect your wording.
• Read it aloud multiple times to refine the language.
• Time your speech with a stopwatch.

Practice Frequently

• Practice your speech frequently, especially in the days leading up to the wedding.
• If possible, practice at the reception venue to get comfortable with the space.
• Work on smooth delivery without reading straight from your notes.

Time it Perfectly

• Use a stopwatch to keep within your 5-7 minute target.
• But allow some extra time for laughter, applause, or delays.
• Better to be slightly under than over time.

How to Deliver a Polished, Lively Wedding MC Speech

With a well-written speech in hand, the actual delivery is next. Here are tips for executing a flawless MC speech :

Use a Microphone

• Work with the DJ or coordinator to prepare a handheld or lapel mic.
• Ensure the mic is turned on and properly positioned before starting your speech!

Speak Slowly and Clearly

• Adrenaline can speed up your talking, so consciously speak s-l-o-w-l-y.
• Enunciate each word fully and clearly.

Make Eye Contact and Smile

• Scan the room and make eye contact with various guests as you speak.
• Smile warmly and speak conversationally, not formally.

Use Body Language and Movement

• Use natural hand gestures and body movements. Avoid rigidity.
• Step away from the mic for laughs and applause, then return to it.

Project Enthusiasm

• You set the tone for the event, so project contagious excitement and passion.
• This energizes guests and gets them ready to celebrate.

Pause for Reactions in your Wedding MC Speech

• After sharing a funny story or introducing the couple, pause briefly for laughs, cheers, and applause from guests.

Be Flexible

• Roll with any unexpected delays or timing issues smoothly.
• If you blank on a name or detail, improvise and move on.
• This is a joyous occasion, so let your humor and charm shine through.
• Smile, personalize remarks, and share your positive energy.

If you prepare thoroughly and rehearse effectively, your delivery will come across as polished, professional, and effortless. For step-by-step guidance, check out our Master of Ceremonies Wedding Script . You got this!

Special Thanks

Photographer: James Day Celebrant: Bendooley Wedding MC

Wedding MC Speech Help

Related posts:

• How to Perform the First Dance Introduction as MC
• How to Perform the Wedding Guard of Honour as MC

How to Give a Wedding Speech

• What Does a Wedding MC Do?
• How To MC A Wedding
• What NOT to Do as the Wedding Master of Ceremonies
• How to Perform the Wedding MC Welcome Speech

How To Be The Best Emcee at a Wedding

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3 Best Opening Lines To Start Your Emcee Gig With

The hardest part of being on stage is starting any speech with confidence. First impressions are the most important, and if you don’t have the right opening line, everything is destined to fall apart.

Key Takeaways

Opening any speech can be a true challenge. But regardless of how daunting it may seem, you can never underestimate the importance of doing it right.

Here are four things you need on your side when you OPEN your speech so you can truly reel in your listeners!

• O – Originality
• P – Purpose
• E – Engagement
• N – Narrative

I’ve been a corporate emcee for a while, and I’ve learned plenty of tricks about crafting the best opening lines. The first few seconds of any speech are of the utmost importance , and I can help you maximize your potential!

Below, I’ll let you in on three of the best opening lines for any emcee, as well as tips and tricks to make your introduction that much better!

See Related:  5 Objectives A Corporate Emcee Can Help You Accomplish At Your Next Corporate Event

#1. Is The Opening Line Really That Important?

Giving a speech is not for the faint of heart. It’s a challenging task that can be very demanding, even for the best of us!

As a corporate emcee, I’ve had plenty of practice delivering opening lines. And one of the best parts is seeing the audience change from apprehensive strangers to a sea of trusty listeners!

But something I’ve noticed is that some speakers don’t realize the true importance of an opening line. And that’s one of the first mistakes you can make as a master of ceremonies . 

First impressions really matter . It’s something we’re all familiar with, and this fact is even backed by science .

The Real Reason Why First Impressions Matter

The importance of first impressions is due to something known as the primacy effect .

The primacy effect is the tendency of people to remember things in a sequence and recall the first thing most vividly. For example, if you’re given a list of items, you’re more likely to remember the first item on the list above all else.

The same goes for your audience. The first things you say to them will stick in their mind! And you don’t want to leave them remembering something bad . 

The Perfect Time To Grab Your Audience’s Attention

The first seconds of your speech are critical for more reasons than one.

As I said before, the first moments of your speech will determine a lot. It’s truly the first impression you make to your audience .

But that’s not the only reason why it’s so critical. It’s also the most instrumental moment of your speech for grabbing your audience’s attention.

If you don’t seize your listeners right away, they’ll quickly fade away. And especially in today’s age, attention spans are getting shorter than ever .

Because people are constantly tethered to their phones and social media, it’s harder to get and keep their attention.

That’s why those first few moments are nearly the only chance to you have to reel in your audience. So don’t let them slip away!

More Than An Attention-Grabbing Moment

Yes, you need to primarily focus on captivating your listeners with your introduction . But you still need to do more than that.

It’s up to you to persuade your audience that you’re worth listening to. You have the reigns on stage, and you need to be assertive in your speaking.

It’s your first chance to earn your audience’s trust . If you want your listeners to actually pay attention to what you’re saying, you need to ensure they have faith in your words .

#2. The Elements Of Great Opening Lines

Understanding the importance of your opener is only one part of crafting a great speech. 

If you don’t understand why those first few moments matter so much, you won’t treat them as delicately as you should.

But now, it’s time to really dive into the meat and potatoes of a fantastic opening line. You still need to comprehend what it takes to make your first impression truly magical and captivating!

I’ll use the acronym OPEN to break down the four essential elements of any speech opening.

Let’s get into it!

O riginality

Delving into what makes a speech stand out can be a long and tedious process.

First off, it’s important to understand that each speech is unique, and there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all opener. 

Before anything else, you need to analyze your audience to understand how you should craft your opening line. Using fill-in-the-blanks or clichés is definitely not the way to go.

And that brings me to my first point.

Originality is the foundation of any great opening line. Without it, your speech is destined to be labeled as dull, boring, or bland.

You need to stand out! And the best way to do so is by being authentic and genuine.

This means you should make sure to avoid clichés or generic openings that the audience may have heard before. You don’t want the first thing they think when you start talking is, “Hm… this sounds a bit too familiar!”

Instead, think creatively and find a unique angle or perspective. That’ll not only elevate your speech, but it’ll ensure your opener is strong and captivating.

A great way to stay original is by using a surprising statistic, an intriguing quote, or a captivating story.

If it challenges common assumptions or stimulates curiosity, you’re off to a great start.

Even if the opening line of your keynote speech is completely original and catches your audience pleasantly off-guard, that’s not always enough to establish a fantastic opener.

In addition to originality, your opener needs to have a purpose . Clearly articulating the purpose of your speech is crucial for setting the stage and generating interest.

A clearly defined purpose will help keep your listeners intrigued beyond the first few lines.

Then, they’ll be interested to hear more of your speech!

You’ll need to let the audience know the specific goal of your presentation in a fun and enticing way . Are you informing them about a groundbreaking discovery? Or are you perhaps entertaining them with an engaging story?

Clearly communicate the relevance and significance of your topic to the audience, and highlight why it matters . If the audience doesn’t feel like the purpose applies to them, then there’s no point in continuing.

Defining the purpose is half the battle, and the other half is applying it to your listeners!

Clearly communicating the purpose of your speech helps the audience understand the value of listening and even creates anticipation for what is to come.

E ngagement

As I said before, it’s important to grab your audience’s attention right away. You only have a few seconds to make a great first impression and gain your listener’s trust.

If you fail, your entire speech might as well be for nothing!

The key to keeping and maintaining the interest of your listeners is by prioritizing engagement .

Audience engagement is the key to hosting a successful event. Not only do you need it in your opener, but you need it throughout your entire act.

It’s up to you as the keynote speaker to find interactive ways to involve the audience and make them active participants. As a corporate emcee , I have plenty of tricks up my sleeves to keep my crowd always engaged and interacting.

And they’re probably the most critical tools in my emcee toolbelt!

Make sure your speech is engaging in and of itself. Ask thought-provoking questions that get your listeners to think and reflect. Use rhetoric to encourage them to think about the topic from a new perspective.

Feel free to also use plenty of dynamic activities and interactive elements to get them even more engaged.

You can never have too much!

As a speaker, you likely use stories to get your point across. After all, storytelling is one of the oldest and most effective forms of communication, and it shouldn’t go unnoticed!

Humans are naturally drawn to stories, so leveraging the power of narrative in your speech introduction can be highly effective. It’s a great way to both engage and entice your listeners.

If you want to deliver a great opener, you should use stories. Try sharing a compelling personal story that relates to your topic. Or tell a relatable anecdote that captures the essence of your speech.

When it comes down to it, don’t overthink it . If it’s a great story, your listeners are sure to bite!

Through storytelling, you can tap into the audience’s emotions, making them more receptive and connected to your message.

It’s truly one of the best ways to make your opening lines captivating.

Bonus: 9 Company Outing Ideas With A Corporate Emcee To Celebrate Spring

#3. Three Example Opening Lines To Help You Start Strong

Great opening lines are the foundation of any great speech. This point in your act is the most critical, and you can’t sit idly by and expect something fantastic to happen on its own!

With the information I’ve given you so far, you’re on your way to crafting a unique, interesting, and engaging opener . But if you need a bit more assistance, keep reading!

Sometimes, the best way to learn something is by seeing a great example. You can understand the theory, but seeing something put into practice can elevate your understanding in a new way.

So, let’s dive into the three best opening line ideas for your upcoming speech.

#1. – Use A Quote

Something that has all the elements of a fantastic opener is a quote . It’s a great way to bring in a dash of familiarity and authority to a speech.

Here’s an example from Steve Jobs: “Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be trapped by dogma – which is living with the results of other people’s thinking.”

This line is incredible as it adds amazing credibility and power to the speech.

#2. – Tell A Story

Storytelling is perhaps one of the best ways to open any speech. Not only can you open the evening with it, but you can use stories throughout your time on stage as well.

Personal stories not only make you more personable, but they help your audience connect to you on another level . It’s like a true bonding experience!

#3. – Use A Fact

If you want to make your introduction truly pop, a great way to do so is by involving the facts . No one can safely shy away from statistics!

Plus, opening with facts shows your audience that you’ve done your research and you’re a true authority figure on the subject. It can even transform a boring speech topic into something more intriguing and interesting.

Wrapping Up

Delivering a killer speech opening can be a challenging task. But as long as you know how to craft the right opener for your audience, there’s nothing you can’t do!

Keep Reading:  How To Analyze An Audience: 8 Tips From A Corporate Emcee

Adam Christing  has been called “The Tom Brady of emcees.” He has hosted more than 1,000  company meetings ,  special events ,  gala celebrations , and more. He is the  author of several books  and founder of  CleanComedians.com .   For more event tips, follow Adam Christing on  Instagram ,  Facebook ,  Pinterest ,  LinkedIn , and  YouTube .

Recent Blog Posts:

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How to Be a Good Master of Ceremonies

Last Updated: April 4, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Stefanie Chu-Leong and by wikiHow staff writer, Luke Smith, MFA . Stefanie Chu-Leong is the Owner and Senior Event Planner for Stellify Events, an event management business based in the San Francisco Bay Area and California Central Valley. Stefanie has over 15 years of event planning experience and specializes in large-scale events and special occasions. She has a BA in Marketing from San Francisco State University. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 1,504,334 times.

A master of ceremonies (also known as an MC or emcee) is the official host for a staged event, performance, or party. Normally, a good master of ceremonies introduces speakers, makes announcements, and engages with the audience to keep the ceremony agenda flowing as smoothly as possible. While being a master of ceremonies might seem like a daunting task, there are a few ways you can nail your responsibility as MC, and radiate confidence and charisma to keep the ceremony entertaining for all. We’ll show you how to both prepare for and execute your role as the perfect MC.

Things You Should Know

• Research the event’s purpose and special guests, and plan your schedule and any remarks you’ll deliver well beforehand.
• Dress a little nicer than the indicated dress code, which will help you to stand out and better represent the organization hosting the event.
• Introduce each guest, lead the audience in applause, and transition between speakers by commenting on the prior presentation and interacting with attendees.
• Stay loose and calm by taking deep breaths and speaking slowly, and embrace any hiccups that might occur, rather than acting out in response.

Study the event itinerary and who’s attending.

• If possible, meet with the people organizing the event and go over the planned structure and itinerary of the event in detail.
• Knowing what’s going on at any given moment, what should be talked about and what is coming next is key to being a successful MC.

Confirm your responsibilities with the organizers.

• Making sure the event stays on-schedule.
• Keeping the audience engaged.
• Introducing speakers and making them feel valued.
• Transitioning between speakers and presentations.
• Serving as a central figure and representative of the organization hosting the event.

Do your research on key event guests.

• Find out if there are any special audience members who should be recognized during the event.
• Make sure you review everyone’s name and title so you know how to say it on stage when the time comes to make their announcement.

Stefanie Chu-Leong

Our Expert Agrees: Do your research and learn all of the details about your speakers that will boost your confidence and make you a better MC. Start by learning everyone's names and how to pronounce them.

Write out a rough script and an approximate schedule.

• Take into consideration the time it takes to get on and off the stage, make introductions for guests, and speeches or thank yous from guest members.
• Create small notecards to keep yourself on task, or have an outline projected throughout the event for you to follow.
• It may be helpful to tell the lead organizer of the event that, as MC, you’re only going to answer to one person in charge in the case of complications. This will reduce misunderstandings during the event. [5] X Research source

Tailor your stage presence to the event.

• Remember to smile. Smiling reinforces the fun and lighthearted ambiance of the event, and makes you appear to be an enthusiastic MC.
• Keep in mind that as the MC, you are not the center of the show. You’re there to make others feel like they’re the stars of the show.

Dress a little nicer than you need to.

• Coordinate your outfit colors with the colors of the company of the organization in order to tie your presence more completely to the occasion.
• If possible, find out what color the stage and set dressings are, and choose an outfit that complements rather than clashes with those colors. For example, a red dress will blend in too much with red curtains, but a black dress will help you stand out.

Keep your composure on and off stage.

• Continuing on if you mess up . Roll with the punches and continue on if you make a mistake. If you continue without acknowledging the slip-up, the audience will most likely forget your misstep.
• Finding a spot to look at while talking . Looking at the individual audience members might make you more nervous while speaking. Instead, try looking over the heads of the audience members to reduce intimidating one on one eye contact.
• Slowing down your speech . Talking too quickly can lead to mispronunciations and stuttering, which can affect people understanding you. Take your time, and pause slightly in between sentences, and take a deep breath away from the microphone if you need to.

Welcome the audience and thank them for coming.

• For example, you might say something like, “To all of our Packer fan dairy farmers who traveled all the way from Wisconsin to celebrate this anniversary with us, a warm welcome.”
• “I'm so pleased and humbled at the incredible turnout. It means so much to the company, and to the speakers today, that you all took time out of your day to hear what we have to say.”

Let your audience know who the speakers are.

• To keep the event running on time, discreetly notify a speaker if they are past their assigned time. Give them a note or some kind of visual cue, such as spinning a finger pointing upward to try and communicate to “wrap it up.”
• “Our next guest earned her doctorate in zoology from Columbia, where she made significant strides in advancing the study of primate behavior in the wild. Please join me in welcoming Jane Smith.”

Transition smoothly between speakers.

• If you find yourself in an awkward spot, try asking your audience yes-or-no questions. This keeps your audience engaged and focused, while reinforcing your command as MC.
• If the event is a few hours long, it’s helpful to occasionally give a short summary of the performances and presentations that have occurred during breaks in the action, and hint at or forecast what’s coming up next.

Roll with mistakes and adapt to the unexpected.

• Remember that it’s not your job to reprimand someone, it’s your job to keep things running smoothly in spite of something going wrong. An MC with a negative attitude can derail an event.
• “I’m told our next guest is running a bit late, but will be here momentarily. In the meantime, let’s give a round of applause to the foundation, for organizing this conference…”
• “Pardon my shouting, but the microphone is taking a little break! We’ll skip to the video presentation while we wait for it to get back to work.”

Bid your audience farewell.

• In addition, encourage the audience members to take action by being present for the next gathering, donating money, or continuing to pioneer in a certain field. Whatever it may be, encourage the audience to participate.
• “This evening we had the pleasure of hearing an impressive roster of experts speak on the work they’ve poured years of their lives into. I invite everyone here to support their work with a donation, or get involved yourself by volunteering.”

Community Q&A

• Your audience follows your lead, so stay enthusiastic and happy to be there. Thanks Helpful 7 Not Helpful 0
• Come prepared, but don't make it sound like you're reading from a script. Thanks Helpful 10 Not Helpful 1

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://mch.co.uk/top-10-tips-from-a-professional-master-of-ceremonies.shtml
• ↑ https://www.toastmasters.org/magazine/articles/when-you-are-the-emcee
• ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/joanmichelson2/2019/10/27/how-to-be-a-great-public-speakertips-from-emceeing-a-gala/?sh=2deddb535fe3
• ↑ http://www.speakernetnews.com/post/emcee.html
• ↑ https://westsidetoastmasters.com/resources/talk_your_way/ch15.html
• ↑ https://www.tsnn.com/blog/master-ceremonies-makes-difference-your-shows-success
• ↑ https://www.stylist.co.uk/weddings/female-master-of-ceremonies-tips-what-to-expect-mc-wedding/262698

About This Article

To be a good master of ceremonies, start by welcoming the audience with a simple opening, such as “Welcome to the Northeast Conference of Famers Meeting.” Next, introduce each speaker, and lead the audience in applause before and after they speak. Additionally, try to say something funny or meaningful about the speaker’s performance to keep the audience engaged between segments. Then, close the program by summarizing the event and thanking the attendees and speakers. For advice on how to prepare ahead of time to be a good master of ceremonies, scroll down! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Wedding Speeches Secrets

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• Wedding Speeches and Wedding Toasts

How To Be A FUN Wedding MC

• Bride’s Guide To A FUN Reception

MC Speeches

Every MC at a wedding wants to know what to say in the MC Speeches .

This is frequently not the case though. In most speeches, the speaker – who could be a father of the bride or mother of the bride or best man, for example, gives a tribute to the bride and groom. (The exception, of course, could be when the best man is also the MC.)

In most cases the Master of Ceremonies plays a different role at the reception because he or she assumes the role of facilitator and co-ordinator.

And because of that role, MC speeches are entirely different.

Usually, they are not one short speech and toast.

Instead, they consist of announcements, introductions of guests, and transitions of events.

The First MC Speech At The Reception

The Master of Ceremonies opens the reception with a Welcome speech.

If you’re the Master of Ceremonies, this is the time when you introduce yourself, outline the events that will take place during the agenda, make any announcements – including where facilities, guest book, and gift table are located – and get the guests prepped for a celebration of the marriage they have just witnessed.

Your Welcome to the guests is the ice breaker – for them to warm up to you and get to know you. After all, you’ll be addressing them throughout the reception.

Your Welcome should be upbeat and humorous if it suits your personality.

The Welcome speech isn’t the only time the MC will address the guests.

The wedding speeches and toasts event is where the Master of Ceremonies will introduce the speakers to the guests.

These introductions are determined by the Order of Wedding Speeches and Toasts.

Each speaker is introduced with a short preamble before he or she begins his or her own tribute.

Creative and fun MC’s don’t just say “The next speaker is…”

Instead, they have done their homework.

They have a concise biography of each speaker so they can make the introduction fun, interesting, and entertaining.

MC Speeches carry over to announcements. The Master of Ceremonies is the “guide” throughout the reception and announces important events including grace, meal time, entertainment, wedding games, the bouquet toss, the garter toss, cake cutting, special events during or after the reception, and the final farewell.

Wedding Speeches Table of Contents MC A Wedding | Order of Wedding Speeches and Toasts

Exceptions To Traditional Speeches

Two exceptions where the Master of Ceremonies would give the traditional wedding speech and toast are the absence of a speaker or by special request from the bride and groom.

Sometimes a speaker is unable to attend the reception in which case the newlyweds will ask the MC to stand in and make either a speech or a toast.

Occasionally, both the bride and groom don’t wish to make a formal speech. In this case, they will ask the MC to thank the guests on their behalf.

Standalone Toasts

As well, there may be occasions when you will be asked to make a stand alone toast instead of the traditional tribute.

The toast to absent friends and family is one you may be asked to give.

Usually this is to honor those who are deceased but were close to either the bride or groom or both of them.

Other toasts could include one to acknowledge someone who has made a major contribution to the planning of the wedding – such as the Mother of the Bride – or a toast to the Queen.

In most cases, your toast begins with a brief preamble that leads straight into the toast.

As you can see, your preparation for MC Speeches is entirely different from preparing a traditional tribute to the newlyweds.

Your focus is on introducing speakers and events. This will require preparing background information on speakers and dignitaries as well as knowing the sequence of events from the agenda.

Your MC Speeches should enhance the reception and make it fun.

In effect, your speeches are transitions – from one speaker to the next or from one event to the next.

When you do the transitions well the reception events flow smoothly.

Conversely, poor transitions interrupt the flow of events and activities and slow down the rhythm and tempo of the reception.

The success or failure of a reception often hinges on the Master of Ceremonies.

And when the bride and groom – or their families – have spent thousands of dollars and hundreds of hours preparing for this special event, it’s essential that the Master of Ceremonies be chosen with care.

Qualities of a Wedding MC

Most receptions that have an MC have someone who is known to the bride and groom rather than a professional Master of Ceremonies.

In some cases this is a budget consideration. In other cases, the bride and groom don’t feel it’s necessary – which generally is true if your MC has the right guidance.

However, it should be remembered that the success or failure of the newlywed’s special day rests primarily with how well the MC organizes the reception and its events.

That’s why it’s important to pick the right person for the job.

Here are several qualities that a Master of Ceremonies should have:

1. Outgoing personality 2. Good organizer 3. Confident 4. Cool under pressure – someone who doesn’t get flustered easily

Factors To Consider When Choosing An MC For A Wedding

1. The size and complexity of the reception

A short, afternoon reception with few events is unlikely to need a separate Master of Ceremonies. In this case, the best man might also play the dual role of MC.

A longer reception with entertainment, games, and traditional events, on the other hand, requires a Master of Ceremonies to ensure things run smoothly. The MC in this case may or may not be the best man.

2. The Length of the Reception

Shorter receptions – or those that are more intimate with fewer guests – won’t require a Master of Ceremonies.

Large receptions with hundreds of guests and that span a number of hours will require an MC.

3. The size of the Bridal Party and the number of Speakers

A wedding with a large bridal party and several speakers will usually require an MC – someone to make introductions and help transition speakers and events.

The Master of Ceremonies will not only help with introducing speakers but can also help in ensuring events move along steadily and take place on time.

4. Whether you want a Master of Ceremonies to introduce your speakers

If you have dignitaries or a large number of speakers – usually more than three – then it’s generally a good idea to have an MC to do the introductions.

Are You A Novice Wedding MC And Don’t Know How To MC A Wedding?

Being asked to MC a wedding reception is a HUGE honor.

But with that honor comes a lot of responsibility.

And if you’ve never been an MC at a wedding before, then you probably don’t know what is involved in preparing for the event.

For example:

1. How to create an agenda and timeline.

2. What to say in your MC Scripts.

3. What types of activities and entertainment to have at the reception.

4. What types of contingencies to plan for in case things go wrong.

5. How to make fun introductions at the Wedding Speeches and Toasts event.

And that’s just the beginning. There’s a lot more you need to know about your duties and responsibilities.

Fortunately, there’s a complete Guide to being a Wedding MC…

Find Out More: Click The Following Link For How To Be A FUN Wedding MC

Click Here To Create A FUN and Memorable Reception For The Bride and Groom Even If You’re A Novice MC!

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Bride Speeches, Best Man Speeches, And More at Wedding Speeches Secrets To Create A Memorable Reception For The Bride and Groom.

Wedding MC? Check out How To Be A FUN Wedding MC and create a FUN and Memorable Reception!

wedding reception activities ideas, games, MC scripts, jokes tips, ideas, duties, checklists, run sheets, agendas, and much more!

Emceeing A Wedding Reception: A Guide

Table of Contents:

A master of ceremonies or wedding emcee makes sure everything goes according to plan and sets the right mood. A good emcee balances the formalities, introduces each segment of the wedding, and injects humor with relatable jokes and stories in between. For their wedding, some couples might decide to hire a qualified and skilled emcee. However, they may also pick a close relative or relative to act in place of one.

Remember to get in touch with Just Married Films for your wedding photography and articlegraphy needs on your big day.

It may be stressful to be given such responsibilities, but with the help of this guide, you’ll be able to ace your role and give the couple and all of the guests a memorable evening if you’re asked to be the couple’s wedding emcee.

What line should you use to introduce yourself at a wedding reception?

Welcome to the most significant day in the lives of (NAME) and (NAME). Promises have taken on a life of their own today, and friends have turned into family. “Today is a holiday, and (NAME) and (NAME) and I are here to celebrate. “We appreciate you being here with us on this special day.”.

Our wedding speech introduction examples will help you get started if you have to give a speech but are unsure of where to start.

To assist you in navigating and enjoying life’s most important moments, we have included products from third parties. Links on this page may lead to purchases for which we receive a commission.

Standing up and speaking at a wedding, whether it’s the groom’s speech, the father of the bride speech, or the eagerly anticipated best man speech, can be quite nerve-wracking. We provide examples of wedding speech introductions as well as instructions on how to start your speech so you can feel confident and get off to a strong start.

When MC-ing a wedding, what should they say?

The function. Declare the arrival of the married couple. Identify the speakers. Tell everyone when the cake will be cut. Declare the wedding waltz. When it’s time for the bridal couple to depart, let the guests know.

A Master of Ceremonies (MC) is crucial in tying everything together and ensuring that your celebration goes off without a hitch. If you’re fortunate, one of your friends or members of your family will know someone who is suitable. The stage is set for a very private reception with an MC who is familiar to you and your guests. It’s possible to share the MC role. It’s a great idea to have a friend and a family member host the event together because it gives everyone in your circle someone to relate to. You should be aware of their responsibilities before selecting your master of ceremonies.

The reception will go smoothly if the master of ceremonies can tie everything together. The emcee will do the following:

In order to ensure that everyone is ready for the next activity—for instance, that the champagne has been poured before the toasts—the Master of Ceremonies, or MC, as it is commonly abbreviated, must communicate with the function coordinator and the reception venue.

What should the wedding emcee say first?

Know and comprehend the wedding couple. Here are nine tips on how to be a memorable wedding emcee. Be aware of the wedding’s schedule. Go over the wedding emcee script again. dot. Do some research on famous names. Work with the wedding vendors to plan and dot. Before the event, try out the microphone(s). adding a unique touch to the speakers’ introduction.

Update: Recently, I’ve been inundated with emails from people asking for suggestions on how to emcee wedding events. After sharing with so many people, I’ve decided to put my ten years of emcee experience into an ebook. You can learn more about it here.

If you’re looking for an experienced wedding emcee in Singapore, you can get in touch with me.

So, a friend or a member of your family has asked you to emcee their wedding. You feel honored that they would approach you, and you begin to question your suitability for the job. Emceeing a wedding for a close friend or relative is a great honor and should not be taken lightly.

What would a typical wedding MC script look like?

“Good evening, everyone, and welcome to the (venue name). My name is ____, and I will serve as your emcee for the reception for the couple will serve as your emcee for the reception for the couple. It would be great if you could please take your seats in the interim while the wedding party arrives, as I’ve been informed. Within a few minutes, I will reply to you.”.

What would be the ideal emcee introduction?

The introduction should immediately engage the audience and pique their interest in your topic by outlining your credentials as a speaker on the subject. less than 150 words, keep it concise and to the point. The presentation shouldn’t go beyond a minute.

Before you take the stage in many speaking situations, your client or a Master of Ceremonies (MC, also written emcee) will give you an introduction. The introduction by the emcee is important because it frames your opening remarks. When handled well, it can serve as the springboard for a fantastic presentation; when handled poorly, it acts as an anchor, pulling you down and requiring you to spend valuable time fixing the emcee’s mistakes. Of course, you’ll want to keep tight reins on your introduction.

The following advice will help you increase the likelihood of success—for both of you—despite the fact that you cannot stop a determined or incompetent introducer from performing poorly.

1. A good introducer should never wing it. Your introduction must make a strong, favorable first impression. Therefore, don’t let the person introduce you unless they are a close friend who is very familiar with your work. A few careless words or improvised stories are all it takes to make you lose enthusiasm. Give a complete scripted introduction and ask that it be read verbatim. Don’t just give the emcee an outline to fill out; otherwise, she might stretch it out so much that it consumes some of your speaking time.

What do you say first as the MC?

Give a brief twenty-second introduction of yourself. Name, hometown, any family you may have, and some sort of affiliation with the crowd are some ideas I have. Tell the audience a similarity you discovered if you met someone in the crowd before the event.

The lights in the audience dim, the audience falls silent, the music slows down, and the first words spoken from the stage by the emcee are _______?

Although each emcee may approach it slightly differently, the introduction will be similar in most cases. It’s crucial to be direct, hospitable, and authentically you.

Because it is, it makes sense. Welcome. Amidst all the other things you could say, this one simple phrase might get lost. When you go to a friend’s house, imagine knocking on the door and being greeted by a friendly face who says, “Welcome.” Welcoming the guests into a story and an environment created for them to hear something and experience something is what every emcee tries to do, whether they realize it or not.

How do I begin a script for an emcee?

Give a brief (20-second) introduction of who you are. My recommendations are name, hometown, any family you may have, and some sort of affiliation with the crowd. Tell the audience something you had in common with the person you met in the crowd before the event.

Although each emcee may approach it slightly differently, the introduction will be similar in most cases. It’s crucial to be straightforward, hospitable, and authentically you.

It is intuitive because it seems to be. Welcome. Despite being so straightforward, it might get lost in the sea of other things you could say. When you go to a friend’s house, imagine knocking on the door and being greeted by a friendly face who says, “Welcome.” Welcoming the guests into a story and an environment created for them to hear something and experience something is what every emcee tries to do, whether they realize it or not.

What does the emcee do at the reception?

The master of ceremonies at a wedding is known as an MC or emcee. This person is in charge of interacting with your guests during the reception, introducing speakers, and generally managing the flow of the occasion.

The master of ceremonies is an emcee or wedding MC. This person is in charge of addressing your guests throughout the reception, introducing speakers, and generally keeping the event on schedule. They are frequently the first person guests hear from after they have settled down at their tables, which plays a big part in establishing the mood for the reception.

This may seem like a difficult task, but the right person can find enjoyment and fun in it. Additionally, if you’re working with a wedding planner or coordinator, you’ll have assistance from them on the big day.

A wedding reception MC can be a great asset.

What are some good wedding speech examples?

All of you are invited to join in on this significant occasion in the lives of the bride and the groom. I implore you to join me in recognizing and celebrating this day and the vows they will be making. Their love and dedication to one another are witnessed and validated by your presence.

The wedding ceremony’s opening words and introduction set the mood for the celebration. It makes a declaration about the event, its significance to the world, and the engaged couple.

We are honored to have you here on this special day, friends and family of the bride and groom.

We are here to marry the bride and groom in order to celebrate their incredibly special love.

How do you craft a cordial welcome speech?

Good morning to everyone! Express your gratitude to the guests for coming by saying something like, “It’s wonderful to see you all here on this sunny day. More casual language might be appropriate for a gathering of close friends and family.

If you have to deliver a welcome speech at a program or event, don’t worry; with the right structure and tone, it’s very simple to write and deliver a welcome speech for just about any occasion. Everything you need to know has been outlined, from your opening remarks to setting the right tone and mastering your closing remarks. This is in your hands!

Use formal language to greet the audience, as this is a formal event. Choose an appropriate salutation, such as “Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Then, say something like, “It is my pleasure to welcome everyone to our lovely venue tonight.” (1).

Use jovial language to greet visitors informally. Good morning to everyone! Express your gratitude to the guests for coming by saying something like, “It’s wonderful to see you all here on this sunny day.” (2).

What does the MC at a wedding say?

The MC gives brief opening remarks before introducing all of the main wedding participants. According to Coombs, “a good wedding MC is organized, accountable, and can take instructions well. It’s not about the MC getting their fifteen minutes of fame; it’s about the bride and groom.”.

In their role as the wedding’s host and emcee, the Master of Ceremonies (MC or emcee) is responsible for making sure that everyone is having fun. An effective wedding MC is more than just a person with strong public speaking skills or a joke or two. They should ensure that everything goes as planned, introduce everyone speaking, and highlight significant moments. We asked Michael Coombs of Michael Coombs Entertainment in Toronto for five things that every wedding MC should be aware of.

1. Be prepared. Have everything written down beforehand, and prepare your speech in advance. Make sure you have a thorough timeline and the right names and information. The MC makes brief opening remarks before introducing each important wedding participant. A good wedding MC is prepared, accountable, and capable of following directions, according to Coombs. It’s not about the MC getting their fifteen minutes of fame; it’s about the bride and groom.”.

2. Working with the vendors to ensure that everyone is aware of what is happening is one of the wedding MC’s key responsibilities. Knowing how the evening will proceed and making sure everyone is prepared for their cues are crucial, he adds. “The MC’s job is to guide the audience and let them know what will happen next. They should make sure that everything is on schedule and that the DJ, photographer, and vendors are given cues to capture important moments.

How do you, as an MC, greet visitors?

“We are happy to extend the warmest welcome possible.” Dear visitors, take a look around you; you have a friendly welcome full of friendship.” dot is honored to be here. I am in awe of the collective knowledge present here as I look around the stage. dot. many thanks. hugely appreciated. dot. jubilant welcome.

The challenge of a welcome speech is to come up with alternative ways to convey your sincerity without using a string of meaningless “same-old, same-old” words and phrases to welcome your guests.

There is also a further query regarding that. Your language choices will depend on whether the event is formal or informal.

How do you write a wedding emcee script?

Welcome to (name) and (name)’s wedding dinner. It’s an honor to serve as your emcee tonight. My name is (the emcee’s name). I want to express my gratitude to each and every one of you on behalf of the couple and their parents for coming to share in this happy occasion as we celebrate the union of (name) and (name). ‘ Cached.

Your wedding will go off without a hitch and with the proper mood and tone set by a master of ceremonies or wedding emcee. A good emcee not only introduces the various parts of the wedding but also balances the formalities and injects humor with relatable jokes and stories. Some couples may opt to hire a skilled and qualified emcee for their wedding. They may, however, elect to substitute a close relative or relative in their place.

Don’t forget to get in touch with Just Married Films if you need wedding photography or articlegraphy for your big day.

How can I perform at a wedding reception as the best MC possible?

Have a plan. 7 suggestions for making your wedding memorable It’s not “Open Mic Night” here. dot. Limit your alcohol intake. A party is taking place; that much is true. dot. Get to know the vendors. dot. Test the microphone. dot. Get out of the way and make a strong opening. dot. Use caution when using humor. dot. Consider Who Your Audience Is.

It is an enormous honor to be asked to officiate at a friend’s or relative’s wedding as master of ceremonies. However, the job also carries a great deal of pressure. Contrary to popular belief, you are not up there to be the center of attention or the designated wedding comedian. As the event’s host, it is your responsibility to ensure that everyone is having a good time and that the proceedings proceed according to schedule. My sister got married last weekend, and I had the honor of being the MC. In the past 20 years, I’ve served as MC four times, and each time I’ve taken on this crucial responsibility, I’ve learned a few important lessons. Here are some suggestions I hope will be useful if you have been asked to be the MC for an upcoming wedding. This is merely one guy’s firsthand knowledge of what works and what doesn’t; it is by no means a comprehensive manual.

‘Open Mic Night’ is not what this is. Keep your improv class for the ad-libs. Before the big day, you should have a very clear idea of the evening’s structure and flow, the correct way to pronounce key terms, and, to a large extent, everything you intend to say that evening. It doesn’t follow that you have to follow the script exactly. There will be those brief, unplanned opportunities where you can add a pertinent comment, a dash of humor, or a hint of emotion. Since you’re good in front of a crowd and probably have some interesting stories to share, the bride and groom chose you to be their MC. However, a wedding is a time-sensitive, emotionally charged event, so you need to have a plan.

If you can, have a conversation about the couple’s preferences and wishes a few days or weeks prior to the wedding. Keep your questions focused because they’re probably distracted by a gazillion other details.

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Five of the Best Speech Opening Lines

Great opening lines to a speech get us curious and can set the direction for a powerful talk.   In those first few seconds you have the chance to gain your audience’s attention, earn their trust, and persuade them you are someone worth listening to.   The best introductions to speeches are a mile away from the standard welcomes and thank yous that set the snoozometer to max. Get it right, and those initial words can captivate the crowd from the off, creating a connection with every individual in the room.   But how do you go about opening your speech with something different and memorable? A great place to start is looking at examples of introductions to successful speeches to see what you can learn from them.   To show you what we mean, we’ve picked some of our favourite opening lines from TED talks, home to some of the best conference speeches in the world. From funny stories to hard-hitting introductions, TED talks show the art of the possible when it comes to getting your speech off to a kick-ass start.   Have a go at guessing the speaker, or the focus of the rest of their talk (hint…we give you the answers later on).  

Do you want to improve your public speaking? Why not view our  Public Speaking Courses !

Guess the Speech: Five of the best speech opening lines

Speech A:  Good morning. How are you? It’s been great, hasn’t it? I’ve been blown away by the whole thing. In fact, I’m leaving.

Speech B:  For a long time, there was me, and my body. Me was composed of stories, of cravings, of strivings, of desires of the future. Me was trying not to be an outcome of my violent past, but the separation that had already occurred between me and my body was a pretty significant outcome. Me was always trying to become something, somebody. Me only existed in the trying. My body was often in the way.

Speech C:  Sadly, in the next 18 minutes when I do our chat, four Americans that are alive will be dead from the food that they eat.

Speech D:  Okay, now I don’t want to alarm anybody in this room, but it’s just come to my attention that the person to your right is a liar. (Laughter) Also, the person to your left is a liar. Also the person sitting in your very seats is a liar. We’re all liars. What I’m going to do today is I’m going to show you what the research says about why we’re all liars, how you can become a liespotter and why you might want to go the extra mile and go from liespotting to truth seeking, and ultimately to trust building.

Speech E:  Imagine a big explosion as you climb through 3,000 ft. Imagine a plane full of smoke. Imagine an engine going clack, clack, clack, clack, clack, clack, clack. It sounds scary. Well I had a unique seat that day. I was sitting in 1D.

Answers: Who delivered these great opening lines?

These examples pack a punch for very different reasons. There’s absolutely no chance of the audience zoning out when the speaker goes straight in with such a powerful start.   So, who gave these speeches, and why are the introductions so good? Time for the big reveal….

A:  Sir Ken Robinson says schools kill creativity

Deceptively simple, the opening lines for this speech set the tone for what has become the most viewed TED talk of all (currently nearly 57 million views). Far from being just ‘throat clearing’, Sir Ken’s funny introduction cleverly paves the way for a talk that will gently but profoundly show us a new way of looking at education. It’s as if we are at a dinner party, being hosted by Sir Ken – he makes us feel comfortable, interested and open all at once. We are not being lectured to (which is always a possibility when education is the subject matter of choice), we want to learn and hear more. Very skilful indeed.

Ginger tip: funny introductions

Using humour in your introduction can be a great way to get your speech off to a flying start – but only if you do it in a way that feels natural. This example shows how you can make people laugh without telling a joke. It’s about finding your own funny and feeling totally comfortable with what you’re saying. If it feels a bit forced to you, it definitely will to your audience. You don’t have to make people roll around on the floor laughing, but light-hearted and amusing anecdotes can add energy and engagement to your talk – which is especially needed if you’re in the dreaded after-lunch slot . Remember, when you open your speech with something funny, you are setting the tone for the rest of your talk – so you’ll need to pepper humour throughout.

Extra Ginger nuggets

How to write a funny speech Funny inspiring speakers talks 

B:  Eve Ensler: Suddenly, my body

As you’d expect from a the writer of the Vagina Monologues, the start of this speech opening was profound, stark in its honesty and inviting. We empathize and want to know more. Unfortunately this speech suffered from a common affliction that writers face; in getting focused on the precise words of the speech (in this instance, Eve Ensler read her speech), we can get disconnected from the full power of the material. Whilst the words were powerful, we would have enjoyed the rest of this speech more if Eve had given herself permission to find the right words in the moment, rather than needing to be perfectly scripted.

Ginger tip: going unscripted

You want it to be perfect. You’re worried about forgetting something vital. You’re scared of doing it wrong. These are common and perfectly understandable reasons why people opt to script their speech and read it word for word. But rather than delivering a foot-perfect performance, you’re more likely to lose the vital connection with the audience. Not to mention risking plunging yourself into the dreaded ‘I’m sorry I’ve lost my place’ scenario. More than anything, people want you to be human and to speak from the heart. It takes confidence to ditch your notes, but with some simple techniques, you can prepare and remember your speech in a way that allows you to deliver a clear, compelling and authentic talk.

How to start a speech with power and confidence How to remember a speech without notes

C:  Jamie Oliver’s TED Wish: Teach every child about food

This is one of our favourite ever TED talks, and it doesn’t pull its punches from the very first line. Jamie Oliver manages to balance preparation (statistics, stories, well-developed ideas) with heart in his TED talk. This speech opening line both makes our jaws drop to the ground in shock at such a statistic and opens our hearts to the human side of the story. Powerful stuff.

Ginger tip: punchy facts

Opening your speech with a hard-hitting fact can quickly add credibility to your talk and demonstrate the scale of an issue. It’s best to keep statistics simple and make them as relevant to the audience as possible, so it feels memorable rather than dry. Resist the urge to stuff the rest of the speech with stats. Try to stick to a few powerful facts and bring them to life with real examples.

Extra Ginger nuggets:

The key to presenting data…is not to present data How to make a powerful point with your speech

D:  Pamela Meyer: How to spot a liar

We love talks that balance humour and connect us to the subject matter in hand – and Pamela Meyer does this perfectly in her TED talk opening line. By bringing a challenge straight to us, in our very seats, Pamela engages us and makes sure the talk is about ‘me’ the audience member. We’re laughing and ready to listen. Great job.

Ginger tip: setting up a problem

Setting up a problem at the start of your speech immediately creates a reason for listening and a direction for your talk. And if you involve the audience in the problem, it’s even more powerful. It doesn’t have to be something completely new, in fact telling us what we already know and explaining why that’s a problem can be a really engaging way to start. Depending on the subject matter, you can frame the problem in different ways – from serious to humorous. And it gives a natural structure to the rest of your talk as you explore how to solve the issue.  

The best way to engage your audience Five methods to master audience interaction

E:  Ric Elias: 3 things I learned while my plane crashed

Wow, what an opening! Who wouldn’t want to know more? Ric Elias showed here how powerful it is to jump straight into a story, with no fussing around with thank yous and throat clearing. Unfortunately after the winning start, the rest of the talk lacked some of the gusto and drama of its opening lines. What can we learn from this? Start with power, but make sure you structure your talk to include a journey that will continue to keep us involved all the way through.

Ginger tip: start with a story

Stories are one of the most effective ways to inspire others. We’re hard wired to connect with stories and your experience of the world is one of the most valuable speaking tools that you possess. Telling a story is a popular way to open a speech because it can quickly build that all-important human connection with your audience. If you have a message that’s personal, or if you’re trying to influence your audience to make a change, a story is a great place to start.

Why is it so important to tell your story? 3 storytelling secrets for public speaking

Creating the best introduction for your speech

We hope these examples of great opening lines demonstrate that you don’t have to conform to the ‘safe’ introductions we’re all used to hearing at corporate conferences. In fact, at Ginger, we dare our speakers to rip up the ‘rulebook’, to be courageous, and to take a different approach to setting the scene. You can find even more tips in our free guide,  The 10 best ways to start your talk .   We’d love to hear your thoughts on these and other examples of great opening lines – so please share your ideas in the comments below.

Beyond introductions

Of course, it’s all very well creating a captivating introduction, but you don’t want the rest of your talk to fall off a cliff edge after you’ve built it up so spectacularly. Maintaining the audience’s attention for the rest of your speech is just as important.   We’ve developed the  TED-style Talk Guidebook  to help you through the process of writing a brilliant speech. Whether you’re crafting a short talk or a keynote, it will help you create a speech that’s as good as a TED talk – so you can wow your audience from the first word to the final thank you.   If you’d like to get hands-on support with becoming a better public speaker, then take a look at our  training courses.  There’s something for every level, from nervous beginners to becoming a leading speaker on the world stage. We’d love to welcome you along.

UK based? Here’s some courses that you might enjoy: 

• Presentation Skills and Essentials
• Leadership and Communications
• TED Talk Presentations

Ginger Leadership Communications

This showcase of inspiring female speakers is part of Ginger’s work with game changing leaders.

Introduction Speech

Discover the art of crafting compelling introduction speeches through our comprehensive guide. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned speaker, our step-by-step approach simplifies the process. Explore a rich collection of speech examples , tailored to inspire and improve your public speaking skills. Master the nuances of delivering impactful introductions that captivate your audience, using our expertly curated speech examples as your roadmap to success.

Download Introduction Speech Buncle

A speech can be of any form and used for various functions. It can be a thank-you speech to show one’s gratitude or even an introduction speech to introduce a person (even oneself), product, company, or the like. In these examples, let’s look at different speech examples that seek to introduce.

Introduction Speech Example

Free Download

Introduction Speech for Students

Introduction Speech for School

Self-Introduction Sample

Size: 143 KB

Short Introduction Speech

Size: 110 KB

Introduction Speech for Employee

Size: 47 KB

What to Include in an Introduction Speech

An introduction speech may also work as a welcome speech . You introduce yourself to an audience and provide the audience with the gist of a meeting or program. This would include providing recognition to significant individuals or even starting a brief discussion on a topic.

But of course, this would solely depend on what you’re trying to introduce. You can also use various speech templates for you to know what other information may be included in your speech.

How to Write a Introduction Speech?

In writing an introduction speech, it’s wise to familiarize the flow of a program.

Think about what your goal is and how you could attain it. You need to be able to capture the attention and interest of your listeners. If you’re giving a speech to introduce the president of your company, be sure to make it grand. Share significant details that are sure to receive a wow factor from the audience as an introduction speech can also be an informative speech . Keep in mind that it’s always best to start with an outline or draft so it will be easier for you to edit.

Introduction Speech for Chairman

Size: 281 KB

waalc.org.au

Size: 13 KB

Formal Introduction Sample

Size: 223 KB

Tips on Writing an Introduction Speech

1. Keep it short. When you try to self introduction speech   to a person you just met, you don’t tell them paragraphs of information that aren’t even relevant. You would want to entice an audience, not bore them out. You don’t need to make it lengthy for it to be good. A few wise words and a touch of class will be enough for your listeners.

2. Make an outline. Introductions are meant to give an audience a quick run through of what they must know. Create a speech outline that will state the purpose of your speech and provide a preview of main ideas that are to be discussed. This is sure to give your audience a reason to listen.

3. Create an icebreaker. Speeches can be quite awkward, especially since they’re usually made formal. Craft a speech that will leave a good impact. Allow others to feel comfortable with the environment they are in and allow them to feel valued. You may also see orientation speech examples & samples

4. Read it out loud. The thing is, some things sound better in our heads than being said aloud. It’s possible that your speech in pdf may contain words that don’t sound good together or that it might give a different interpretation on a matter.

How to Conclude an Introduction Speech

Just as an essay can be conclude speech in different ways, an introduction speech may end in various ways.

You can close it in a challenging, congratulatory, suggestive or even inviting matter. It’s best to keep it as brief as possible to let your listeners know that you’re ending your speech in word . All you need to make sure of is that you don’t abruptly end your speech, leaving your audience hanging.

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Wedding Party Introductions: How-To Guide With 25 Examples

• by Marisa Jenkins
• November 1, 2023

One of the most exciting parts of a wedding is the reception that follows. Although cultures worldwide vary in how they carry out the wedding reception, one aspect remains universal — it is a night filled with dancing and entertainment. The typical reception begins with the introduction of the wedding party.

As its name suggests, a wedding party introduction is the beginning of a reception wherein each member of the wedding party is presented to the guests. Their names, relationship with the couple, and other important details are summarized and shared in short segments so that the guests can get to know them better.

Wedding party introductions are discussed in detail below, immediately followed by examples of introductions for every member of the wedding party. Ideas to make the introductions more exciting are also listed. Lastly, some tips to keep in mind regarding wedding party introductions are given.

A Guide to Wedding Party Introductions

What are Wedding Party Introductions?

Wedding party introductions occur at the beginning of a wedding reception. As the name of the tradition denotes, every member of the wedding party is given time to shine. Introducing them to the guests is a memorable and effective way of honoring them at your wedding.

Once the wedding ceremony is over, guests would proceed to the reception venue. The bridal party will most likely stay at the ceremony venue to take formal portraits; if that is the case, they might arrive 30 to 60 minutes later than the guests. Before their arrival, the wedding DJ or emcee would have been entertaining the guests with music.

Once the bridal party arrives, the host will be informed. They will line up by the entrance of the venue as the host calls the attention of everyone in the room. Traditionally, they will enter in the same order as they walked down the aisle to minimize confusion among the guests:

• Parents of the groom
• Parents of the bride
• Any children in the wedding party (junior bridesmaids, flower girls, ring bearer, etc.)
• Bridesmaids and groomsmen
• Maid of honor and best man
• Bride and groom

Although this is the recommended order, couples have the freedom to edit it according to their preferences. It may not be a good idea to include children in the grand entrance if the reception is too late, as the children may be too tired. Likewise, they may feel like their parents’ entrance should come just before theirs. They can also add their grandparents, other relatives, ushers, and escorts if necessary.

Organizing Your Wedding Party Introductions

Couples must closely collaborate with the wedding DJ or emcee, as they will be doing the introductions. Give them detailed instructions, such as the order of the entrance, exact pronunciations of every person’s name, the vibe you are going for, and which songs you want to be played as people enter.

The introductions themselves could be as simple as saying the name of the person, their relationship with the couple, and their role in the wedding party. You can include additional details such as a short description of the person, their history with the couple, and so on. Regardless of which you choose, make sure to be consistent — what you do for a groomsman must be the same for a bridesmaid.

If you are unsure of what the best way to introduce your wedding party is, ask them for their input. They may want a very simple introduction, they may want to include a joke that they have thought of, or they may have a specific song in mind for their entrance.

Examples of Wedding Party Introductions

There is no right or wrong way to introduce your wedding party at your reception; simple and straightforward introductions are just as valid as fun and humorous introductions. With that said, here are examples of wedding party introductions with varying lengths, humor, and formality.

For the Parents of the Bride and Groom

• Ladies and gentlemen, let’s put our hands together for the parents of the groom! Mr. August Hugo and Mrs. Samantha Hugo have been married for 30 years and have raised four wonderful children together. They are Larry’s biggest supporters and cannot be prouder of their “Lar-bear.”
• Everyone, let’s welcome the parents of the bride, Mr. and Mrs. McNamara!
• Let us give a warm round of applause to Sherry Lee and Robert Lee, the parents of our lovely bride! Looking absolutely gorgeous in their matching navy-blue ensemble.
• Please welcome our bride’s parents, Manny Suarez and Gina Suarez!
• Coming in next is the groom’s parents, John and Jennifer Forsyth! Everyone, please give Mr. and Mrs. Forsyth a round of applause — it is their love and commitment to each other that gave us this dashing and charming groom here today.
• Next, let’s welcome to the party Mr. Reid, the ever handsome and ever-loving father of Melissa. Melissa says that she would not be who and where she is today if it wasn’t for her father’s dedication and hard work. Let’s hear it for Mr. Reid!
• Mrs. Elsa Miller, the mother of the groom, and Mr. Kyle Miller, the father of the groom.

For the Children in the Wedding Party

• Here comes our adorable flower girl and ring bearer, Julia and Mickey!
• Everyone, let’s give a warm round of applause for our diligent flower girls, Bobbie and Pippa, and ring bearer, Charlie! Without a doubt, they had the hardest role to play today, and they deserve all the cake and sweets we have.
• Let’s welcome June, Clara, and Paul, our lovely flower girls and ring bearers.

For the Bridesmaids and Groomsmen

• Miss Jordyn Singh, cousin of the bride, and Mister Malcolm Dowell, brother of the groom.
• Put your hands together for Karina Lyman and Tom Spiel! They have been friends with the newlyweds since they were in high school.
• Let’s give a warm welcome to Trina Nguyen, one of the lovely bridesmaids who helped make this event possible! Her organizational skills have, according to the bride herself, “saved her life multiple times.”
• Make some noise for Spencer Diaz! One of the groom’s closest buddies, they met during recess time in kindergarten. They have been terrorizing each other’s lives ever since.
• Jimmy Kleinman, friend and amateur repairman of the couple, and Anna Feinstein, sister and full-time cool aunt of the family.

For the Maid of Honor and Best Man

• Let’s put our hands together for Leah Rose Robinson! She is the most amazing and most gorgeous maid of honor to walk the reception venue. Her planning skills made this very event possible. Give it up for Leah!
• Let’s welcome to the party, Max Castillo! He has been the groom’s best friend since diapers and has seen him at his best and worst. Let’s give a warm round of applause for Max!
• The best brother Ivan could have ever asked for and his favorite person to tease and annoy, Leo Karimov. Part-time mom blogger and full-time awesome best friend to Hanna, Alisa Orlova.
• Please welcome Casey Bellevue, Naomi’s maid of honor and ride-or-die, and Mark Anthony Trinidad, Melvin’s best man and biggest hype man.

For the Couple

• It is with immense joy and pride that I introduce to you, Mr. Jonathan Rodriguez and Mrs. Trinity Rodriguez, the newlyweds! Let’s give them a warm round of applause!
• Taking their first steps as newlyweds, please give a round of applause to Roberta and Dianne Wiley! Everyone, raise your glasses in a toast to their love, patience, and strength. To Roberta and Dianne!
• It is an honor to get to introduce the most stunning, fun, and amazing newlyweds I’ve had the pleasure to DJ for, Mr. Noel and Mr. Jonah Hamilton-Ray! A toast to the grooms!
• Ladies, gentlemen, and nonbinary guests, let us all put our hands together and cheer for our newlyweds, Trisha and Kylie!
• Taking their very first entrance as husband and wife, let us all welcome into this beautiful banquet, Angelina and Benedict! Give them your warmest, most genuine applause!
• Their adventure of a lifetime starts here and now. Let’s give it up for Sammy and Cora Fletcher-Carlson!

Make Your Wedding Party Introductions More Exciting

In a traditional grand entrance, the wedding party walks individually or by pair to their seats after being introduced. While this is ideal for formal receptions, you may want something more fun and entertaining for yours. Here are some themes or ideas you can incorporate into your reception.

Have a Themed Wedding Party Introduction

• NBA-Themed Entrance . If you or your partner is a fan of basketball, you may want to introduce your wedding party similar to how lineups are announced.
• Sports-Themed Entrance . Any sport wherein teams are put in a lineup and introduced to the crowd can work well with your wedding party introduction. This includes football, volleyball, gymnastics, and so on.
• Movie-Themed Entrance . Take an element of a well-known or well-loved film and emulate it in your wedding party introduction. Give some props to your bridal party and choose the perfect music to set the tone.
• School Spirit . If you and your partner met in high school or university, you can integrate that into your wedding party introduction. Hand out flags, pom poms, and other props in your school colors. If you have the budget, hire your school mascot as well to enliven the audience even more.

Dance, Dance, Dance

Just Let Them Do Their Thing

Outfit Switch

Have each bridesmaid and groomsmen switch attires with each other. During the wedding party introduction, the bridesmaids would enter wearing suits and tuxedos, while the groomsmen would enter wearing cocktail dresses.

Another version of this idea is to have the bridal party change their entire outfits. They can go casual, business attire, and even wear a onesie or pair of pajamas. The logistics of these ideas may prove to be challenging, but their entertainment value may make the effort worth it.

However, keep in mind that not everyone will be receptive to this idea. This is especially true if you have conservative guests that view outfits as strictly gendered or may find other outfits unsuitable for a formal event.

Piggyback Rides

Opposite to the one above, this idea is more time-consuming. However, it will allow each member of your wedding party to have the moment and attention they deserve. You can do this simply by having them walk individually instead of pairing them up, or you can literally use a spotlight that follows the person as they walk.

• Ride-on Vehicles . Get a small car for every pair of bridesmaids and groomsmen, as well as for the children who are part of your wedding party. You can buy them in toy stores or online shops and then resell them after your wedding.
• Big Head Masks . These are cardboard cutouts of their faces, though you can also opt to give them cutouts of your and your partner’s faces. They also work well for other pre-wedding parties , such as bachelor parties and bridal showers.
• Smoke or Snow Machines . These machines can elevate the ambiance of your venue and make the wedding party introduction more unforgettable. However, check with your venue if you are allowed to use such machines.
• Money Gun . Make it rain fake dollar bills with money guns. This idea works best if the grand entrance is choreographed or is a dance-off.
• Musical Instruments . Buy small and fake musical instruments and distribute them to your wedding party. They can imitate playing them as they enter the venue.

Tips to Keep in Mind for Wedding Party Introductions

Heavily Coordinate with Your Wedding Photographer and Videographer

To get breathtaking pictures from your event, your documentation team will set up equipment, such as lighting, multiple cameras, and so on. As a result, there will be areas in the room that will be better captured. With that said, coordinate with the photographers and videographers as to where the bridal party must go before they do what they want to do.

Not having detailed instructions for the wedding party will result in pictures and videos that could be a lot better. The flash might be disorienting, or the angle might be unflattering. This is why you must keep in mind the photographer’s and videographer’s directions.

Music to Play for the Wedding Party Introduction

Typically, the parents’ entrance and the couples’ entrance will be different. Songs used for those entrances are frequently emotional or sentimental. With that said, here are a few general suggestions that you can consider for your wedding reception playlist.

• “All I Do Is Win” by DJ Khaled ft. Ludacris, Rick Ross, T-Pain, Snoop Dogg
• “Eye Of The Tiger” by Survivor
• “Feel This Moment” by Pitbull ft. Christina Aguilera
• “Fire Burning” by Sean Kingston
• “I Gotta Feeling” by The Black Eyed Peas
• “The Final Countdown” by Europe
• “Where Them Girls At” by David Guetta ft. Nicki Minaj, Flo Rida
• “Who Let The Dogs Out” by Baha Men

Whatever songs you choose to include, compile them in a playlist and give them to your wedding DJ before the reception. To be safe, you may also create a list of songs the DJ must not play for the entirety of your reception.

Final Thoughts

Not only do wedding party introductions mark the start of a night-long celebration, but they also allow your guests to become familiar with the important people in your lives. This is a testament to the statement that marriage is not only between two people but two families and an entire community.

Marisa Jenkins

Marisa Jenkins is a wedding planner and event coordinator. Her main goal for WeddingFrontier.com is to simplify the wedding planning process by sharing her years of expertise in the industry.

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