The toast part

Make sure that everyone's glasses are filled before you propose a toast. Usually, the wait staff will want to know when the toasts are going to be made so they can make sure that the glasses are full. Don't freak out if it doesn't work out so well. Stuff always happens at weddings.

Know before you go

Do you know exactly during which part of the reception the toasts will take place? If you're in the dark, you're more likely to get a sudden onset of jitters. The person that you should bug to find out is the mc.

On presentation

The best man presenting the toast in this video has the task down pat. Check out this video, then keep reading:

Start with a strong voice. You probably do not have everyone's attention and will not until you take command of the situation. You're a man, after all. Leave the weakness at your seat. Do not start the toast until you have everyone's attention.

Face the audience that you are speaking to, and make eye contact. If you're going to freak out if you make eye contact, then avoid that by making it seem like you are making eye contact. How do you do that? Gaze just above everyone's head.

Speak slowly - even slower than you think you should be speaking. Nerves have a tendency to make people speak a mile a minute.

Take a quiet, but big deep breath before beginning. That extra oxygen is going to calm you down. Know that once you start speaking, if you've practiced, it's all going to be fine.

Avoid having too much to drink before the speech. Despite the potential for alcohol to give you liquid courage, you're more likely to say something stupid and memorable for all the wrong reasons.

Above all else (everything except for practicing), have fun. It's a once in a lifetime chance to speak fondly about your best buddy. Good luck!

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