How to Be an
Effective Emcee
Glenn Walker
Agenda
The Role of Emcee
Introductions 101
Weddings
Summary
Questions?
The only dumb question
is the one you don’t ask.
E= EMCEE2
The Anatomy of an Emcee
Emcee
Main Entry: 1em·cee
Pronunciation: "em-'sE
Function: noun
Etymology: MC
: MASTER OF CEREMONIES
Source: Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary
Master of Ceremonies
Main Entry: master of ceremonies
1 : a person who determines the forms to
be observed on a public occasion
2 : a person who acts as host at a formal
event
3 : a person who acts as host for a
program of entertainment (as on
television)
Source: Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary
Emcee Responsibilities
Planner
Coach
Host
Planner
Work with event sponsors to determine the
program for the event.
Identify participants and their roles.
Coach
Help the event sponsors with details.
Help the participants to prepare for their
role in the program
Host
Be positive.
Be friendly.
Be prepared!
Types of Events
Weddings
Dinners
Banquets
Shows
The Basics
Plan an agenda appropriate to the event.
Work with the event sponsor to
incorporate their requirements.
Work with identified participants.
Honoring Heads of State
Loyal Toast
Ladiesand Gentlemen, Her Majesty the
Queen
The Queen
Americans Present
To the office of the President of the United
States of America.
Example Dinner Meeting
Call Meeting To Order
Oh Canada
Grace
Dinner
Loyal Toast (after desert, before cigars)
Introduction of guests.
Introduction of Guest Speaker
Guest Speaker
Thank Guest Speaker
Adjournment
Example Banquet
Call To Order
Oh Canada
Grace
Dinner
Loyal Toast
Introduction of Head Table Guests
Messages of Greeting (M.P., M.L.A., Mayor)
Guest Speaker(s)
Special Announcements
Presentations
Adjournment
Material You Need
Program
Introductions of Participants in Program
Filler / Bridging Material
Introductions 101
Glenn Walker, DTM
Overview
A Good Introduction
Things to Avoid
Speakers’ Responsibility
A Good Introduction
Makes a Transition
Sets The Tone
Gives Authority
Answer the Questions
Why this speaker?
Why this topic?
Why this timing?
Keep It Brief
Length should be proportional to the length of
the presentation.
Try the 80-20 rule.
Smooth Transitions
Smoothly transition the
speaker to the lectern.
After the presentation, it
is appropriate to say a
few brief words to
transition from the
speaker to the next item
on the program.
Elements Of An Introduction
Generally
Speaker’s Name
Topic
Credentials / Lead In
Material
Things To Avoid
Never …
Upstage
Reveal Contents
Surprise
Praise
Use Clichés
Wait to name the speaker
Speaker’s Responsibility
Provide information to your
introducer.
Your …
Topic
Background / Credentials
Additional Information
Write your own introduction.
Points To Remember
Answer the Questions.
Keep It Brief.
Smooth Transitions
Avoid the common pitfalls.
Bridging
It’s About Smooth Transitions
Prepare material that can help smooth
transitions from one part of the program to
the next.
Listen to participants and use references
to their presentation to build your bridge.
Humor
Humor Is A Tool
Humorous material is all around us.
Humor can add to the enjoyment of the event.
Avoid questionable material.
If you can, use humorous events you
experienced as part of the event.
Be Careful!
Avoid embarrassing people.
Off color humor may offend people.
Overused jokes could draw a groan rather
than a laugh.
Weddings
Wedding
A special day for two people,
their families and friends.
Wedding Reception Elements
Entry of the Wedding Party Telegrams / Letters
Introduction of Head Table Entertainment
A Blessing Special Presentations
A Meal Bride / Groom Thank You
Introduction of Special Guests Stories told by family / friends
Family Members Dance
Distant Travelers Cutting the Cake
Toasts to Bride / Groom Tossing the Bouquet
Toast given by a family member Send Off
or friend
Fun and Games
Reply for Toast to Bride comes
from groom.
Reply for Toast to Groom comes
from bride
Planning
Programming
Find out what elements to include.
Find out who will be assigned to various roles.
Figure out timing of various elements.
Create a rough draft.
May require several iterations to get it right.
Preparation
Contacting Participants
Couple should make initial contact.
Follow up and ensure participant understands
their role and timing.
Agree on a time to follow up.
Remember that participants will be family and
friends. Many of whom are not professional
speakers. They may need help.
Participation
Be involved!
Go to the rehearsal.
Go to the ceremony.
Go to other events prior to the day.
Set the tone.
Be positive.
Be prepared.
Preparation
Planning Your Part
Introductions
Pronouncing names.
Introducing participants.
Jokes / Stories
Remember, family show!
Fun and Games
Kissing
Emcee Tips
Do Don’t
Attend the ceremony (and any Steal the show.
other events that help you to Use inappropriate humor.
prepare). Incorporate elements into the
Double check head table seating program without the consent of
arrangements. the couple.
Acquaint yourself with the sound
system.
Acquaint yourself with the hotel
staff.
Use appropriate humor.
Have printed copy of the agenda.
Set a friendly tone.
Special Touches
Telling a personal story.
Special entertainment.
Fun & Games
Summary
Many types of events.
Dinners
Banquets
Shows
Weddings
Preparation and Planning is key.