Do Not Overthink
| By Richard ~ August 24th, 2009 ~ Wedding Planning | Comments Off |
Moet et Chandon
The other day I came across an article in the Wall Street Journal that offers some really good advice; there are some things you simply should not overthink.
The article was titled “Hints on not getting burned on your next Champagne toast.” Here is what Benoit Gouez, the chef de cave* at Moët & Chandon, says about it:
The toastmaster “shouldn’t prepare too much, or you lose the spontaneity.” He adds “That means no long-winded speeches read from note cards. A toast should be short enough to be memorized—no longer than a minute—especially if there are others who will follow. You should begin by raising a glass to eye level first staring directly at those you are toasting and then, as you speak, gaze at the other guests.”
Benoit Gouez - Les Maisons de Champgne
You may want to share this with those you have asked to speak, most importantly the best man and maid/matron of honor.
Of course, toasts are not the only things that tend to be overthought. I am often asked how people should walk during the procession. No differently than they do every day. Just relax, smile, and the music will guide the tempo. This is even more true with the recessionals, which are not unlike getting off of an airplane. You will, almost automatically, recess in a graceful manner. It may require making eye contact with the other members of the bridal party as you file into a line, but that’s all good.
If you are both fabulous dancers and want to show your stuff during the first dance, great. But if not, don’t worry about it. Just hold tight, and your feet will work just fine.
The bouquet toss and cake cutting are other elements that will benefit from spontaneity. Remember, the saying is “if it feels right,” not “if you though it through properly”!
*the chef de cave, or winemaker, is the person responsible for producing and ensuring the quality of the Champagne.
