When is the proper time for a best man to give his toast?

Question

Is it after the meal or during or before?

Answer 1

It is usually given close to the end [or middle end] of the meal.
This might sound familiar because usually the groom asks everyone to raise their champagne to toast the bride and groom at the end of his speech.

Look for a time when you notice the guests have finished about 2/3 to 1/4 of the meal, and/or when you notice the general sound of the room either greatly increasing in noise or greatly decreasing in noise [I only say this because it might mean the guests are getting restless and it might be a good time to jump in].

Stand up and hit your knife against the champagne flute loudly and ask for everyone's attention, and let them know your name and that you are the best man. Also, you find out if there is a podium you make the speech from of if you stand and make the speech where you are seated.

If you know you are not the only one to make a speech [for example, the bride's and/or groom's parent[s] will also make a toast] then it should be agreed upon who should go first and when [Usually it's the bride's father, then groom's father, then best man or so says an Australian site I just looked up
http://mag.weddingcentral.com.au/weddings/speeches/index.htm].

Best man before bridesmaid is the speech order.

Lastly, as a previous person said, if there is a dj, you should introduce yourself to him/her and let him know to watch when you stand up, so he/she will turn down/off the music.

Best of luck!!!


Note: google "bestman speeches" or "wedding" and you might find some very helpful tips.

E.g.

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&client=firefox-a&rls=org.mozilla%3Aen-GB%3Aofficial&q=wedding+the+best+man%27s+toast&btnG=Search

Answer 2

The toast is generally given either just before the meal or just after the meal before the first dance. If you're unsure, ask the DJ or someone from the band. They're generally the ones who sort of steer the events of the evening. Otherwise, ask the bride and groom when they would like you to do it.

Answer 3

If you give the toast before the meal, you will have everyone's attention and be able to catch them when they all have champagne. Also, if they haven't been served a meal yet, it is quieter and people will be drawn to the speaker without distraction.