Everything You Need to Know About Wedding MCs

What is a Wedding MC?

A wedding MC, or Master of Ceremonies, is responsible for hosting and guiding guests through your reception. Above all, their job is to keep things running smoothly. As they’re often the first person guests hear from after being seated, a wedding MC also plays an important role in creating the overall mood of your reception.

What Do They Do?

Your wedding MC should keep your reception on schedule, announcing all the important events such as your arrival at the wedding breakfast, the cutting of the cake, and your first dance. They should also introduce any speeches, making sure everyone who speaks is properly acknowledged. (Of course, this is based on the assumption you’re including these things in your day – read Wedding Traditions – Ditch or Keep? for more on this).

A good MC will put your guests at ease and add a personal touch, perhaps using funny anecdotes and interactive elements like games and other activities to keep people entertained.

The role has a lot of value. By introducing speakers and providing closure after each speech, they give your event structure. Your friends and family will be able to relax, safe in the knowledge that your wedding MC will tell them where they need to be and when. Their presence also frees you from having to think about any logistics. If you’re working with a wedding planner, your MC could easily be their main point of contact. Finally, if you decide against hiring a professional Master of Ceremonies, it’s another role you can give to someone who’s excited to be involved in your wedding.

How to Choose the Right Person for the Job

A good wedding MC is naturally charming, charismatic, and at ease speaking in front of a crowd. As I said previously, adding a personal touch makes a big difference, so it’s a good idea to choose someone who knows you both well.

How to be a Good Wedding MC

If you’re reading this because you’ve been asked to MC a wedding, here are some tips to help you be the best Master of Ceremonies you can be…

1. Ask the couple how they want their wedding reception to feel so you can pitch your patter accordingly. Are they trying to create a laidback vibe or do they want something more traditional and formal?
2. Discuss their vision for the wedding speeches. Do they have a particular running order in mind? Do they want an open mic or not? What names or titles should you use to introduce each speaker?
3. Check how the couple would like to be announced. Don’t assume a surname is being taken and remember to use professional titles like ‘doctor’ where applicable.
4. Study the order of the day or event timeline. Note down important things you need to remember and familiarise yourself with key members of the wedding party. If there’s a wedding planner involved, introduce yourself early on. They should be able to help you stay on track.
   
   
   
   
5. Give the audio-visual equipment a quick test when you arrive and make sure you’re comfortable with how everything works.
6. Keep alcohol consumption to a minimum until you’ve fulfilled your duties.
7. Check in with speakers before introducing them and make sure they know they’re about to be called to speak.
8. Before key events such as the cutting of the cake or the couple’s first dance, scan the room to ensure the most important members of the wedding party have arrived. Nobody wants their mum to miss a moment she’s been looking forward to!
9. The pace and mood of the evening is largely down to you, so when it’s your turn to speak, keep it brief with a light-hearted, personal feel. Finally, don’t forget to relax and have fun! Your attitude will set the tone for everyone else.

Plan Your Wedding with Benessamy

Benessamy can help you plan a wedding that feels right for you, in the UK or overseas. We bring a calm efficiency to everything we do, and our Full Wedding Planning service includes a venue search and supplier recommendations. Learn more here or get in touch to arrange a consultation.

In the meantime, you’ll find more advice and inspiration for your wedding party via the links below:

• Everything You Need to Know About Being a Bridesmaid
• Top Tips for Your Best Man (From a Wedding Planner)
• Everything You Need to Know About Being an Usher

Val x

Photography: Royal Media Weddings featuring Wedding MC and Host Mr Ceo