MC??

The DJ typically acts as the MC. The job is to keep the event moving… so announce cake cutting/release guests to the buffet/announce the bouquet toss/etc. He or she also make sure the mic is ready for toasts.

Thanks Kim! I have been researching this topic for a while and I just cant figure it out. I have a live band performing for the wedding.

I don't know when I have a live band. I have a DJ who is also a DOC, and MC so I am not really sure what you do with a live band.

Me either Jeanette! It was my FH idea....the cost was much higher then a DJ as well.

I have a live band as well (lucky me though they are all our friends and not charging) But for a MC basically they will be the one to announce us coming into the hall, announce speaches, introduce the band, go up to the band and let them know when we need a break to throw flowers, etc.

Basically you give them a list of stuff that needs to be done and when as well as who the speakers are and in what order they are speaking.

Most weddings I've been to the Bride and Groom have a good friend who is the MC. Usually someone who is a good public speaker, has a good sense of humour, etc. Like other posters have mentioned, they keep the evening moving, announcing speakers, dinner, logistics.

We haven't decided if we are using a friend or our DJ (who will do the MC duties if we ask).

In Canada is pretty common to have a friend or family member to act as the MC..

If your cousin is internet savvy then most of the information he needs is out there..

As to 'getting them to say or do', my simplest answer is: as little as possible ;-)

It can be as simple or as complicated as you like (depending on what you want, and on what he is confortable doing)..

At its simplest, your MC needs to:

>bring in the B&G.

>Announce the head table.

>Announce misc stuff (EG: bar is over there.. bathroom is over there, gift opening is here at this time, etc etc etc)

>Announce dinner and grace, (if having buffet, then release the tables).

>herd parents and bridal party back into room for speeches. (remind people to fill their drinks)

>bring people up for the speechs/toasts

>announce cake cutting

>announce misc stuff (video presentation, open mic , etc etc, who gets the table centerpiece, etc etc)

>announce first dance (and other dances unless the band can do this)

>announce garter & bouquet.

Our DJ is our MC

Our wedding planner was also our MC. you really need one to ensure that things run smoothly and that your guests have an idea what is going on.

Thanks for all the information everyone! I appreciate it!

If you are having a live band, chances are that they can help you with emcee duties. Our band is happy to do that.

However, we have found that it's wonderful if the bride also hires a professional emcee or even better, a DJ to spin during the band's breaks AND handle the emcee duties. A good DJ is experienced at managing an event and people without it looking like things are being managed. Most professional wedding bands and DJs work together like peanutbutter and chocolate. Good separately, great together!

It's really nice if Uncle Fred has a good voice and will handle the duties professionally, but using family or friends is very iffy. You never know if they will start telling embarassing stories about the time you were 4 years old and ran down the street naked.

Good luck and best wishes!