How to Be an Amazing Wedding MC (Tips, Scripts & Secrets for a Flawless Reception)
- Jordan Vassallo Celebrant
- Jun 19
- 4 min read
So you’ve been asked to be the MC at a wedding?Or maybe you’re a celebrant looking to offer the full experience and step behind the mic once the ceremony’s done? Either way, welcome to the real afterparty — because being the MC is not just about making announcements. It's about hosting the night with warmth, confidence, and Style
Let’s break down what it takes to be an unforgettable wedding Master of Ceremonies — the kind guests rave about, not cringe about.
🎤 1. Know the Role — You're Not a Comedian, You're a Conductor
You are the voice of the reception.Your job is to keep the energy up, the run sheet tight, and the couple relaxed.
That means:
Welcoming guests
Introducing speakers
Announcing meals, dances, cake cutting, and more
Working with the venue for Food service times
Gently herding tipsy uncles and time-blind bridal parties
Keeping the vibe alive (without stealing the spotlight)
You are not there to do a stand-up routine. Unless you are, in fact, a stand-up comedian — in which case, maybe pull it back just a smidge.
🗒️ 2. Prep Like a Pro (Run Sheet, Please!)
Before the big day, make sure you have:
The full run sheet (timings, speakers, special moments)
A list of names (and how to pronounce them — always ask)
Any “surprise” elements or traditions you need to be aware of
A Plan B for tech hiccups or timing delays
If you’re not part of the wedding planning team, meet with the couple or coordinator beforehand to align on tone, key moments, and any sensitive topics to avoid.
You are the glue that holds the evening together — be across it.
🎙️ 3. Script Your Key Moments
You don’t need to write everything down, but for your intros, transitions and toasts, a few well-prepared lines will help smooth out the nerves and keep things flowing.
✅ Open strong. Something like:
“Good evening everyone! My name’s Jordan, and tonight I have the honour of being your MC — Master of Celebration, Coordination… and the Occasional Dad Joke.”
✅ Introduce each speech with heart:
“Next we have someone who is very dear tot he couple. …”
✅ Keep transitions short and warm. No need to say “For those who don’t know me…” — they will, soon enough.
🎧 4. Read the Room and Ride the Wave
A great MC knows when to:
Lean into the emotion of a heartfelt speech
Add a joke to lift the room
Get guests seated quickly (before the risotto cools)
Pause the action to let a moment land
It’s all about tone and tempo. You are the human version of a Spotify playlist — smooth, responsive, and never on shuffle.
🎤 5. Use the Mic Like a Master
Please. Don’t tap the mic or blow into it. Ever.
🎤 Hold it just below your mouth — not too close, not waving around.🔈 Speak clearly and slowly. Wedding venues are echoey.📶 If using a lapel mic — clip it high and test it before you go live.
And when a guest comes up for a speech, guide them! Say:
“Here’s the mic — hold it like an ice cream cone you don’t want to share.”
👔 6. Look the Part
You’re going to be in a lot of photos — and videos — and possibly a highlight reel. So dress accordingly.
Match the vibe of the wedding (black tie? beach casual?)
Avoid loud colours or wild prints unless the brief says “Vegas”
Comfort is key — you’ll be standing, pacing, mic-handling and dancing (if you’re doing it right)
🕺 7. Keep It Fun, Not Forced
The best MCs make it feel effortless. They’re warm, inclusive, and they know when to get the party started — and when to pull it back.
Quick wins:
Don’t joke at anyone’s expense... unless thats the brief
Keep speeches moving if they go too long
Watch for guests zoning out (or zoning in on the open bar)
Be kind, not cringe. You’re the host, not the headline act.
🗂️ Bonus: Don’t Forget the Details
✅ Confirm meal timings with the venue
✅ Know where the bathrooms are
✅ Be across any name changes, special mentions or cultural rituals
✅ Have a copy of the speech list and toast order
✅ Stay sober until the couple hits the dance floor — then, party on
Final Thoughts: You’re Not Just the MC — You’re the Vibe Setter
If you’ve been asked to MC a wedding, it means someone trusts you with one of the biggest nights of their life. That’s no small gig — it’s a huge honour.
So prep, polish, and own that mic like the fabulous human you are.And if you’re a celebrant who’s thinking of offering MC services?Even better. You’ve already earned their trust at the ceremony — now carry that confidence all the way to the last dance.
Jordan Vassallo
#1 Male Celebrant in Australia | As seen on Married at First Sight
👉 Let’s Chat
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