[Maritime Q-Scout]

I've been the MC of more weddings that I can count.

Here's my strategy:

1. Talk to the bride and groom about what they want. Find out who's giving toasts, what info people will need to know (bathrooms, where the gifts go, any housekeeping items).

2. Your job is essentially the host of a late night talk show. You have an opening monologue (the welcome, housekeeping), then you intro everyone giving speeches and keep the night flowing.

3. The centre of attention is the bride and groom. You can be funny, you can do a skit, but keep it on the shorter side, and always with the attention on the happy couple (or on the next speaker).

4. Don't forget the closing/transition into the dance portion of the evening. Be sure to thank everyone for coming, and welcome the band/DJ and hand off the rest of the duties to them (if that's what the plan is).

There have been a few threads in the past about this, but tomorrow I'll do my best to put together a post with hints and tips.