Wedding Speeches

Q: Should speeches be done before or after dinner is served at the reception? I have heard both.

A: I have seen both scenarios played out as well. To be honest with you, it's completely up to you to select when you'd like to begin the speeches. You could safely do it either way. However, my experience as a consultant has taught me that it is more beneficial to have the speeches done after dinner has been served. The reason for this is simple: when people have had something to eat and drink they tend to be more patient and generally more pleasant. They will be more willing to sit through a series of speeches when their stomachs are full and they can casually sip on a beverage. Chances are your guests will have experienced quite a bit before dinner...getting ready, travelling to the ceremony, sitting through the ceremony, travelling to the reception, waiting through cocktail hour, finding their seats, etc. This way, the speeches act as a form of entertainment. This will also be more beneficial for the speakers, as they will have the undivided attention of the guests, rather than having to deal with guests that are fidgety and hungry. In addition to this, if the speeches are given after the completion of dinner, the last speaker can assist by announcing the first dance of the bride and groom, or by announcing the opening of the dance floor. It will make for a smooth transition from the formal aspect of the wedding to the more casual party. Try to arrange it so that there is no clearing of dishes during the time that the speeches take place. There is nothing more annoying than having people clanking dishes when someone is trying to speak.