The Society Toastmaster

“I had never fully appreciated the role of a Toastmaster at a wedding until Marina and I got married this year and had John as our Toastmaster…”

“I had always thought that, in their red tailcoats and booming voices, Toastmasters were mostly there to add a bit of grandeur, pomp and ceremony to the occasion, which I thought might not suit the less formal affair we had in mind.  Fair to say that John completely transformed that view; I doubt we could have really enjoyed the day without him.  Even a less formal wedding needs someone to manage things on the day, ensuring everyone and everything is in the right place at the right time.  Gathering guests for the wedding photos is like herding cats, but John could be a cat shepherd!  If you think that you or the best man could ensure that everyone is sat down at wedding breakfast on time for the food, or that everyone is alerted that the cake is just about to be cut, or that guests are fully loaded with confetti and  lined up to shower you; then you are not taking into account what an utterly bamboozling day a wedding can be with so many friends and relatives, who you haven't seen in yonks, vying for your attention.  John takes all that load off your shoulders, marshalling not only guests but liaising with the photographer, the celebrant, the wedding planner and venue management, ensuring everything runs smoothly and your guests have your full attention. 

John was excellent in all of this, which is not only testament to his experience, but to his eye for detail and preparation prior to the wedding.  He took the time to meet us, some months before the big day,  to better understand our plans for the wedding, making excellent suggestions and liaising with all those involved ahead of time.  He was always courteous, good humoured and helpful to everyone.       

We had a wonderful day, in no small part due to John, who we can thoroughly recommend as a toastmaster!”

- Dave and Marina