Toasting with Grace; The Art of Raising a Glass Properly

Toasting Etiquette - With Peerless Etiquette

Toasting is a timeless tradition—equal parts ceremony, celebration, and sentiment. Whether at a wedding reception, a corporate gala, or an intimate dinner party, the way one gives or receives a toast speaks volumes about their social intelligence and refinement. At Peerless Etiquette, we believe that knowing how to navigate this elegant ritual is a hallmark of both confidence and class.

The History and Heart of Toasting

Toasts have long served as verbal expressions of goodwill, appreciation, and hope. Originating from ancient communal feasts, they once included dipping charred bread into wine to improve the taste—hence the term “toast.” Today, toasts are moments to honor others, express unity, or mark meaningful transitions.

But like any social grace, a toast well done is not accidental—it is intentional, thoughtful, and impeccably delivered.

The Proper Way to Propose a Toast

1. Know Your Moment Wait for a natural pause during the event—often after the main course has been served, or just before dessert. Rise slowly, make gentle eye contact, and signal your intention with a soft clearing of the throat or a subtle clinking of your glass.

2. Stand When Giving a ToastStanding commands attention and shows respect to the person or people being honored. If the setting is highly informal, standing may not be necessary, but it is always safe in formal gatherings.

3. Keep it Sincere, Short, and Sweet A perfect toast is 1-2 minutes long. Speak clearly and from the heart. Avoid inside jokes, offensive humor, or anything overly personal. Aim for inclusive, gracious language that lifts the room.

4. Use Names and Titles Thoughtfully Refer to the honorees by name and title if appropriate and acknowledge anyone of significance in the room. Acknowledgment is elegance.

5. Raise, Sip, and Sit When you finish your toast, raise your glass slightly toward the person or audience, take a small sip (never gulp), and sit down quietly without fanfare.

   
   

How to Be Toasted with Grace

1. Remain Seated and Composed When being toasted, it’s proper to stay seated and resist the urge to toast back immediately.

2. No Sipping for the Honoree Traditionally, the person being toasted does not sip their drink—this is a subtle sign of humility and appreciation.

3. Acknowledge with a Gracious Nod or Smile A warm smile or gentle nod of appreciation is appropriate during the toast. When it's finished, stand to express thanks if the setting calls for it, and consider giving a brief reply toast if timing allows.

   
   

Champagne or Not?

While champagne is the traditional toasting beverage, any drink—alcoholic or not—can be used. The key is participation, not the contents of your glass. Sparkling water or juice is perfectly acceptable.

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Side Note from Mrs. Benjamin

Founder & Director of Peerless Etiquette

"Toasting is not about grandstanding—it’s about connection. Whether you're celebrating a milestone or honoring a guest, your words should uplift and unify. Here are three key takeaways to keep close:*

1. Be intentional, not impulsive.

2. Honor others with grace and humility.

3. Remember: elegance is in the details.

With every toast, you have an opportunity to leave a lasting impression. Make it a memorable one.

Warm regards,

Mrs. Zakiyyah Shakir-Benjamin

Founder, Peerless Etiquette