How to Give a Good Toast: Cheat Sheet

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Don't enjoy giving toasts? Struggling to find the right words and struggling to deliver them eloquently? This cheat sheet will help you compose and deliver a heartfelt toast for any occasion: Birthday, Party, Wedding. Stop feeling embarrassed, let's get down to business.

cheat sheet for a beautiful toast

✖ What Not to Say in Your Toast and Replacement Options:

  • "I'm not good at giving toasts" - replace with "I'm a bit nervous, please don't interrupt me."
  • "I agree with everything that's been said" - replace with "This is the beginning of your new year, a new phase of life."
  • "On this solemn, significant day..." - replace with "Thank you for inviting me to celebrate this event with you."
  • "Wishing Happiness and Health" - too cliché, read on for tips on crafting an original toast

✓ WHAT TO TALK ABOUT IN YOUR TOAST

Compose a toast using the following prompts of your choice:

1. Start with a congratulatory phrase:

  • "Happy Birthday, buddy"
  • "Congratulations on your Wedding, Emma and Harry"
  • "Welcome to your new home, my friend"
  • "Cheers to your Ruby Wedding Anniversary, grandma and grandpa"

2. If you share common memories, use that advantage:

  • "We met in 1991 in the 1st grade, sat at the same desk, I copied from you..."
  • "I learned about your strong character during our ascent of Everest"
  • "Remember how I convinced you to enter that cafe, and there you met your future wife"
  • "I remember you always dreamed of having your own business..."

3. Highlight admirable character traits:

  • "I've always been amazed by your determination, which has led you to achieve such heights"
  • "I love your optimism. In any difficult situation, you find the positives and encourage the rest of us"
  • "I admire your boundless energy for life. You're like a charging station for all of us"
  • "Your achievements in sports deserve special respect"

4. Thank the guest of honor for something:

  • "Thank you for extending a helping hand to me in difficult times"
  • "Grateful to you for your care and support"
  • "Thank you for believing in me when everyone else doubted"
  • "Thank you for teaching me not to get upset over trivial matters, and I happily follow your example"

5. Offer your support, count on me if:

  • "You're feeling down and want to talk to someone"
  • "You're in a cheerful mood and want to celebrate"
  • "You need any kind of help"
  • "If you're passing by, you're always welcome to visit"

6. Try to connect your wish with your gift:

  • "Wishing you relaxation and always finding time for yourself - here's a spa salon voucher for you"
  • "Wishing you relaxation and vibrant experiences - here's a ticket to the water park"
  • "May you stay warm and cozy this winter - here's a merino wool sweater"

7. If you have feelings - express them:

  • "I love you very much..."
  • "Sending you a tight hug"
  • "Sending kisses to both cheeks"

Final Tips

  1. Don't hesitate to prepare the structure of your toast in advance. Think about what you want to wish, what memories connect you with the hosts of the event, and what points you would like to highlight separately.

  2. Don't give lengthy toasts, don't bore the guests. An exception could be a memorable life story that connects you with the guest of honor.

  3. Don't retell toasts from the internet, especially Georgian toasts, and especially if you're not of Caucasian nationality. Such "performances" often appear awkward.

  4. Always stand while giving a toast. It's proper etiquette. You'll be visible to all guests, and accordingly, it will help capture their attention. And standing up - your voice will sound more clear and confident.

  5. Add jokes to your toast only if you're confident in your wit and delivery.

  6. Don't read congratulations from cards, especially if they're generic and faceless verses. It's better to say a couple of sentences from the heart. But if you've written a poem yourself - then go for it!