Every wedding needs a cat herder and often, that cat herder is a DJ. No DJ? Assign a willing guest to serve as the MC. In either scenario, this free template for a wedding DJ or MC script will help during the reception. Anything not applicable to your wedding? Skip it.
Want to download this for free? Here’s the Google Doc. You might also get value from my book.
[insert time] — Client enters reception
“I’d like to welcome [specify how you’d like to be introduced].”
Examples of ways clients are introduced:
First names only (e.g. “Luke and Gabriel”)
First and last name(s) (e.g. “John Johnson and Alex Lopez” or “John and Alex Johnson”)
Formal attribution (e.g “Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Hamilton”)
If your MC or DJ doesn’t know how to pronounce your name, offer a pronunciation guide (e.g. “e-liz-a-beth ker-amer”)
[insert time] — Meal service begins (if buffet)
“[insert meal, typically dinner] is now available. We’re going to start with Table 1 and proceed from there.”
Note: If you have table numbers but aren’t going to dismiss numerical (i.e. “Table 1, Table 2, Table 3, etc.”) be sure to note this for your MC or DJ. Perhaps you want a sweetheart table and then Table 9 and Table 3 dismissed (where your VIPs are sitting). Whatever the order, just make sure that the person calling out the tables knows.
[insert time] — Toasts start
“I’d like to invite [insert relationship to the client], [insert name of person presenting toast and, as needed, pronunciation of their name], to the mic.”
If you’re offering an open mic option: “The client would like to invite anyone who wanted to speak to say a few words.”
Note: If you offer an open mic toasting option, I recommend communicating a few parameters to your MC or DJ. Should they cut it off after [insert number] of toasts? Wait a certain number of seconds or minutes before calling it and moving on?
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[insert time] — First dance(s)
SONG: [specify song title and artist]
“I’d like to invite [insert name of relevant person or people] out on the dance floor for their first dance.”
SONG: [specify song title and artist]
“I’d like to invite [Partner 1 and loved one of their choice] out on the dance floor.”
SONG: [specify song title and artist]
“I’d like to invite [Partner 2 and loved one of their choice] out on the dance floor.”
[insert time] — First bite
“I’d like to invite all of our guests to [insert location] for the first bite.”
[insert time] — Bouquet and/or garter toss
“It’s time for the [insert relevant partner] to toss the [relevant item]! All who’d like to participate, please gather at the center of the dance floor.”
[insert time] — Last call
“Heads-up: The bar’s about to close so grab any last drinks!”
[insert time] — Clients’ departure
“I’d like to invite all of our guests to [insert location] to wish the newylweds on their way! [Add any specifics if your guests should pick up a sparkler, bubbles, etc. for the exit]”
Read next: Not Hiring a DJ for Your Wedding? Here’s What to Do, According to a Professional Wedding Planner