Frequently Asked QuestionsI perform a number of roles: Master of Ceremonies and Comperé Event and Host co-ordinator Conference Facilitator Professional Toastmaster Auctioneer and Charity fundraiser Announcer Event Planner On The Day Wedding Planner On The Day Wedding Coordinator Wedding Planner Protocol and etiquette advisor Celebrant Services and Lots More. A Toastmaster’s unique set of skills sense of timing manages the unexpected leads from the front audible and laudable commands respect and attention of guests absorbs the pressure co-ordinates with hosts, venue, speakers, media, photographers, organisers Q. What is a Toastmaster / Master of Ceremonies? A. Someone who is professionally trained, skilled in the art of people management and communications, who can stage manage and choreograph events, keeps an audience well informed and can bring them to order, introduces guests and speakers in an audible way, keeps to the time schedule, makes and implements decisions, absorbs the pressure from organisers and key guests, works in tandem with other players including photographers, cabaret acts, bands, guest speakers, the venue, catering managers and the media. Q. How much will the event/occasion in question cost you? A. Every Special Occasion, varies in price, depending on the type of occasion, and what your needs are. I will of cater to your exact requirements. Q. Can’t the venue manage the event without my services? A. Not if you want a professionally run event with a Toastmaster and Master of Ceremonies dedicated to the proceedings to keeps it on track, available for your immediate disposal to offer guidance on protocol, not drawn away to attend to hotel housekeeping issues including the demands of the kitchen. A Toastmaster and Master of Ceremonies is professionally trained to make those important announcements , to organise receiving lines and to announce various toasts. Q. Why do we wear red? A. The red tailcoat which is also known as hunting pink originates from hunting and Mr. Pink was the person who designed the garment. Q. Is a toastmaster necessary for your event/occasion? A. In my own personal opinion, if this luxury is within your budget then I would consider it advisable. A Toastmaster will co-ordinate every aspect of the special occasion, ensuring you don’t have to worry about anything.If you don’t want to take the risk of the event descending into chaos. A professional toastmaster ensures the programme runs to time so ensuring the audience/guests are in the right place at the right time, that food is served hot, offers one to one guidance, relieves you of the pressure so that you can sit back and enjoy the day, takes over the burden of liaising with other contributors to the event. Q. What’s the difference between a Toastmaster/Master of Ceremonies and a Hotel Banqueting Manager? A. A Toastmaster/Master of Ceremonies is employed by YOU to professionally manage the event for you. He/she wears the uniform of the National Association of Toastmasters and commands the respect of guests through their experience of officiating at numerous events and functions, manages people control, brings a touch of humour, delivers voice projection, makes and implements decisions. A professional Toastmaster and Master of Ceremonies is skilled in the art of communications, develops a special rapport with audiences and helps to lift the spectacle of the event. A Banqueting manager, meanwhile, is employed by the hotel to act carry out a range of responsibilities including organising drinks, the kitchen, waiting staff. This precludes them from dedicating their time solely for you because of their other responsibilities. Moreover they don’t have the skills, experience or professional aplomb of a Toastmaster to oversee the function. If you are offered a hotel ‘toastmaster’ package be sure you opt to engage your own professional Toastmaster, which of course, I would be delighted if you chose me. This will ensure that your event, with a professional Toastmaster, matches your hopes and aspirations and leaves a lasting impression on the guests. Q. What events do Toastmasters and Master of Ceremonies officiate at? A. Royal occasions, Rotary, Roundtable and Charity functions, Weddings, Religious ceremonies, Awards dinners, Masonic functions, Festivals, Cocktail parties, Conferences and Corporate events, Civic receptions, Banquets, Gala dinners, Fashion shows, Music halls, Sporting Hospitality events, Trade shows and Exhibitions. Burns night, and lots more. Q. What are Receiving lines and toasts? A. A receiving line is often conducted as a way of introducing the guests to dignitaries or the bride and groom. Through his command of the brief and attention to detail, a professional Toastmaster and Master of Ceremonies can use his presentational skills and sense of timing to uplift the occasion. At most events it is usual for the hosts and guests to offer a Loyal Toast to the Queen or to toast guests or absent friends. A professional Toastmaster and Master of Ceremonies, through his experience, knows the protocol and how and when and in which order these should be announced. Q. What training does a professional Toastmaster/Master of Ceremonies have? A. When you engage a professional Toastmaster and Master of Ceremonies who was Trained By The English Toastmasters Association , you know you are getting someone who has undergone extensive training and has reached an acceptable standard and has officiated at numerous events. Please Do not underestimate the hours that a Toastmaster and Master of Ceremonies has put in to command a full understanding of the very broad responsibilities that they are called upon to perform and deliver across a range of diverse events. Q. When do I need to book? A. It is extremely advisable and recommended that you book as soon as possible. As toastmasters provide a very skilled service, there is always a high demand for them. Q. There may be additional announcements to be made during the day. Will you make them? A. Having discussed your requirements and needs in detail before hand, I will be only to pleased to meet all your needs and desires, ensuring all aspects of your Occasion are catered for. Q. Why choose me? A. My Pricing is very competitive.I am young and Very passionate. I can recommend and add lots of extra touches. Above all I am an experienced professional. I’ve got charisma, personality, charm and skills that I will bring subtlety and humour to your event. This will leave a lasting impression on you and your guests. Whatever your decision, may I wish you the very best of luck with your event. |