Giving the perfect toast

Summary

Michelle Patrick, Corporate Training Coordinator at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, shares essential tips for holiday toasting etiquette. She advises getting guests' attention respectfully, keeping toasts brief and sincere, knowing your audience for appropriate humor, using a cheat sheet if needed, and avoiding intoxication to ensure a memorable and respectful toast.

Takeaways

• 📢 Get Attention: Stand by your chair and raise your glass to get everyone's attention.
• 📝 Keep It Brief: Toasts should be sincere and original, avoiding long stories or roasts.
• 👥 Know Your Audience: Tailor your toast to suit the audience, ensuring humor is tasteful.
• 🗒️ Cheat Sheet Allowed: It's acceptable to have a 3x5 index card with your main ideas.
• 🚫 Don't Be Drunk: Avoid being intoxicated when giving a toast to ensure clarity and respect.
• 🎉 Start Strong: Plan ahead and consider having guests help quiet the crowd for your toast.
• 👂 Be Mindful: Use appropriate methods to get attention, avoiding stomping or excessive noise.
• 🌟 Show Appreciation: Express gratitude for attendees and the love in the room.
• 📅 Timely Reference: Connect the toast to the holiday season and the spirit of togetherness.
• 🥂 End on a High Note: Conclude the toast with well-wishes for the holidays and the new year.

Q & A

What is Michelle Patrick's role at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts?

Michelle Patrick is the corporate training coordinator in the education department at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts.

What type of events does Michelle facilitate?

Michelle facilitates team building events and private coachings.

What is the main topic Michelle is teaching in the script?

Michelle is teaching the dos and don'ts of proper holiday toasting etiquette.

How does Michelle suggest getting the attention of the crowd for a toast?

Michelle suggests standing by your chair and raising your glass as a way to get attention, but advises against stomping, clapping, or raising your voice.

What is the recommended length for a holiday toast according to Michelle?

A toast should be brief, sincere, and original, avoiding long stories or lengthy monologues.

Why is it important to know your audience when giving a toast?

Knowing your audience is essential to ensure that any humor used in the toast is tasteful and appropriate for the occasion.

What does Michelle say about having a cheat sheet for your toast?

While it's best to memorize the main ideas, it's okay to have your entire speech written on a 3x5 index card if needed.

What is Michelle's advice regarding the consumption of alcohol before giving a toast?

Michelle advises against being drunk when giving a toast.

What is the message Michelle conveys at the end of her toast?

Michelle wishes everyone happy holidays and a happy new year from the Denver Center for the Performing Arts.

How does Michelle handle the potential issue of multiple holiday celebrations?

Michelle humorously addresses the issue by suggesting that everyone should pick one holiday to celebrate, referencing the diversity of holidays like Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, and Christmas.

What is the tone of Michelle's toast?

The tone of Michelle's toast is light-hearted and humorous, with a focus on sincerity and brevity.