The most important thing to remember is that all wedding toasts should not be offensive to either the bride’s family or the groom’s family. Something that may be funny to one family may seem to be offensive and in poor taste to another family. Therefore it is good etiquette to make certain that the toasts are tasteful to both families. The speaker should also think about how formal the reception is. If the reception is very formal and black tie, the toast should be formal. A reception at a local bar or restaurant may be the proper place for more humorous stories. Be sure that the bride and groom prior to the wedding to be sure of what they are expecting as far as wedding toasts.

So who is the first to speak at a wedding reception? At a traditional reception, the best man usually goes first. Etiquette suggests that for a best man toast, he should tell a few stories about the bride and groom. Remember, this needs to be clean so that no one is offended by the toast. The best man should say a thank you to the parents of the bride and groom for helping them get to this special day. This is a special day for the bride so the bride should be toasted by the best man at the end of his speech. After the best man gives a toast, proper wedding etiquette calls for the groom to go next. The groom should thank both sets of parents, the guests, his bride, and the bridesmaids. The groom should comment on the beauty of the bridesmaids and thank them for all of their help. When the groom toasts his bride, he may want to include the story of how they met with a little humor and sweet teasing. Appropriate etiquette would never have the groom tease the bride so that she is embarrassed or talk about the bridesmaids so much that he makes his new bride jealous. Lastly, the bride’s father should say a few words. Etiquette suggests that he welcome the guests to the celebration. He can talk about the memories he has of his daughter before he gives a toast to the happy couple. He then announces that the festivities can now commence. Light teasing is acceptable but again, it should never embarrass the bride.

So, you’ve decided to get married on the beach, surrounded by crashing waves, warm sand, and blue sky. Your wedding invitations should reflect this theme, and whether you go for funand informal or elegant and sophisticated, you can incorporate your wedding colors and style into your wedding stationery.

When you’re choosing beach wedding invitations, the style of the invites should match the tone of your ceremony and reception. If you’re having a casual brunch or afternoon cocktail party near the water, you may want to pick an informal card such as a sunglasses-shaped postcard or bright turquoise invitation. However, if your ceremony will be at sunset by candlelight, you will want to let your guests know that the setting is a little more formal. In this case, opt for a soft pastel color or small nautically-themed graphic instead. Make sure you give your guests an idea of what they should wear to the wedding, as people are often unsure about whether they should come in Bermuda shorts or a suit to your nuptials. Beach wedding invitations should include as much information as possible about the wedding location and proceedings. Research accommodation rates for your guests, and offer a low end and high end hotel choice to fit any budget. If the resort or hotel offers tours or activities, give guests that information as well. Some couples choose not to receive gifts for a beach wedding, as guests are often traveling a long way to attend the celebration. If you don’t want to have gifts at your wedding, let your guests know by word of mouth through family before the wedding takes place. Never include gift information on your invitations, as this is considered poor taste.