It is a common fallacy that the Professional Toastmaster only represents pomp and formality. His essential duties are to ensure that, on behalf of his clients the entire function is conducted to their wishes in an orderly and smooth manner.

The Toastmaster works at a wide range of events, such as State and Civic Occasions, Civil partnerships, Corporate events, Dinner dances, banquets, gala nights, sporting events and awards ceremonies. Weddings, Rotarians and Round Table events, charity fundraisers, reunions, garden parties and Masonic Ladies’ Festivals.

Remember on many of these occasions there is no dress rehearsal don’t leave your special day or event to chance.

• Long before the date of your function or festivities, I will meet you and if necessary advise on matters of etiquette and protocol.
• From the moment you have retained me I become YOUR TOASTMASTER, we build up a relationship and you can contact me when ever you wish.
• If it is not a venue I have worked at before I visit and become familiar with your venue and be ready to direct people safely to emergency exits, cloak rooms, toilets etc.
• On the day, I liaise with the photographers, caterers, bands, discos and cabaret.
• I will ensure that your Guests are received, welcomed, if required announced and directed for aperitif's etc.
• When you are ready I will announce dinner and encourage your guests to their respective tables.
• I will then set the tone of the evening, by joyously announcing your entrance to dinner, which will include a rapturous applause.
• I will then ensure that toasts and speeches are presented at the appropriate times.
• I will announce and help you with traditional ceremonial activities (cutting the cake, passing the port, the quaich, the loving cup, sheva brochot etc.
• I will ensure that presents and presentations are carried out smoothly and that gifts are placed in safety.
• I will assist with your raffle or auction. (not ticket sales)
• I will take much pressure off the hosts by handling awkward situations diplomatically and generally helping them to enjoy the occasion they have paid for.
• The need for such a service should not be underestimated as you put together your plans.

 

These are just a few of the many and varied duties of a Toastmaster.

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The Benefits of a Professional Toastmaster

Takes away the responsibilities of running the event/day

Oversees arrival of guests, organises a receiving line

Advises on etiquette, procedure, planning and protocol

Someone to control the events and avoid any pitfalls

Takes care of receipt of gifts

Makes arrangements for the entrance of the guest/s of honour

Announces guests, grace and speeches and presentations

Supports and liaises with Banqueting Manager/s and caterers at event ( A must)

Takes charge of cake cutting and wine taking

Ensures entertainers run to schedule

Recognises the role of the chauffeurs and the photographer

Supervises and announces the departure of the Bride and Bridegroom or closing of the event.