After you say "I do," it's time to listen to someone else's words. Here, a guide to toasting -- when to speak, how to keep it short and sweet, and what to drink.
Who Speaks
The time for your sorority sisters to do a group song and dance is at the rehearsal dinner -- that's your open-mic night. At the reception, only the VIPs should stand up. The party is larger and the company more diverse, so keep the longer, more personal speeches to the evening before.
The Ideal Order...The host (usually the bride's father or parents) is first up. "The point of this particular address is to welcome the groom's family into theirs, thoughtfully acknowledge any guests who had to travel, and say a few touching words about the newlyweds," says Claudia Hanlin, a Martha Stewart Weddings contributing editor and co-owner of the Wedding Library in New York City. Next, the best man and the maid of honor speak, in that order. "Their words can be more nostalgic, humorous, and lighthearted," she says. After that, one or two other people can approach the microphone. If you have siblings or nonhosting stepparents who'd like to say something, this is the time. Finally, it's the closer's turn. This can be the groom, if he wants to wrap things up with a few sentimental words about his new wife, or the host can come back for a final thank-you (and a "Now, 
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