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Tip of the Month for February 2004 |
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The custom of raising ones glass to good health comes from ancient Greece. A sip demonstrated the drink was not poisoned. In the early Christian era, it was believe the devil entered the body through alcoholic drinks and would be warded away by the sound of bells. To ward off the evil spirits, guests would clink their glasses together making a bell like sound. Many countries would say something brief before taking a sip. The brief words would mean in good health, others were associated with a successful battle. The modern word for toast is from the Latin term tostus meaning “parched.” Later the word acquired its modern day meaning, as a sentiment given to honor someone. Today, toasts are given for many
reasons. Here are a few examples: A toast is short and simple. It is given any time after the first glass is poured. When a speech is appropriate, it is reserved for the end of the meal. While toasting may seem celebratory and includes everyone, there is a protocol to who makes the toast and how to receive one. Here are some tips to ensure you are toasting correctly: There are two traditional toasts given by the host. A welcoming toast (before eating). The host rises and welcomes everyone. Everyone drinks to this toast. The host may remain seated if it’s a small group. The second toast to the guest of honor. This toast is offered when the desert course is served. The host rises and proposes a toast to the guest of honor by acknowledging accomplishments, working relationship, or a special occasion. The host and everyone present, except the guest of honor, should drink to this toast. The guest of honor doesn’t drink. A tip for the guest of honor, don’t even pick up your glass when the host is proposing a toast. There is a tendency to drink if you have a glass in your hand. It is considered bad form to drink when the toast is given to you. The guest of honor rises and returns the toast after the other guests have finished drinking the toast. It’s important to respond to a toast. Words should include sincere thanks for the host’s generous and kind words. Then some wonderful things about the host, finishing with, “please join me in a toast to our host, (name).” The guest of honor and everyone present, except the host, should drink to the toast. The host remains seated and doesn’t pick up his or her glass. Protocol: One never drinks a toast to oneself. This is the equivalent of congratulating yourself. Protocol: No person should make a toast to the guest of honor without allowing the host to do so first. Protocol: The guest of honor returns a toast to the host after the host has toasted the guest of honor.
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© 2004 Amy L. Palec |
