A friend has asked you to MC their wedding reception. You are happy to help, but the idea of remembering every name and announcement can feel bigger than the microphone itself.
A run of show gives each moment a place on the page. It is a working list of what happens, who gives the cue, what you say, and who takes over. Start with the couple’s agreed reception plan and build your own notes around it.
1. Find out what the couple needs from you
Have a short conversation about the tone they want and the moments they would like you to introduce. Ask how they want to be addressed, which people should be acknowledged, and whether there are stories or topics they would prefer you to leave out.
Confirm who is coordinating the reception and who will tell you about changes. Put that name at the top of your sheet. Agreeing one main contact makes it easier to know whose update to follow when several people offer different suggestions.
2. Give every announcement the same structure
Use the same headings for each moment, in the order the couple and event team have agreed. Keep timings as planning references and include the cue you should wait for. That cue might be a nod from the coordinator or confirmation from the DJ.
Avoid filling the sheet with every detail of the event. Your copy should make the next action easy to find when you glance down.
- Moment: what is happening next?
- Time and cue: when is it planned, and who confirms it is ready?
- Your words: the short announcement you have prepared.
- Handover: who speaks, plays music, or takes over next?
3. Write one clear handover at a time
For an introduction, keep the purpose simple: tell guests who they are about to hear from and invite that person to begin. For example: “Please join me in welcoming Alex, who has a few words for the couple.” Adapt the wording and names to the actual plan.
Check names and pronunciations directly with the people involved. Write a pronunciation reminder beside any name you want to rehearse. Mark where you will pause or hand over the microphone so the transition is part of your preparation too.
4. Practice with the page you will use
Read your announcements aloud with your actual notes in hand. A sentence can look natural on a screen and still feel awkward to say. Shorten any line that makes you lose your place, and leave space between moments.
Use a readable type size and put names where your eye can find them quickly. Keep a copy available in the format you expect to use at the reception. If another person is holding a backup, make sure it is the same version.
5. Check in, then take one moment at a time
Before the reception starts, compare your sheet with the coordinator’s current plan. Confirm the microphone handover and the cues with whoever is handling sound. Ask how they will communicate a changed order or a short delay.
If the plan changes, update the next relevant line and check that the people involved know. You do not need to announce every adjustment to the room. Focus on the next agreed moment and give it a clear, warm introduction.
Prepare the names, agree the cues, and keep each handover short. Your run of show gives you room to look up, welcome people, and be present for the celebration.