Toast at the right time and place

At a banquet, a toast is usually given priority to the host. But if there is no toast, the guest can propose a toast to the host. If one of the hosts makes the first toast, a guest can make the second. On less formal occasions, propose a toast after wine and champagne come up. Toast should also be consistent with the occasion, to avoid self defeating.

Li Hongzhang, Minister of foreign affairs of the Qing Dynasty, paid a visit to the United States and entertained American people in a hotel. Before the opening ceremony, he made some polite remarks according to the Chinese world affairs: "the conditions here are poor, there is nothing delicious to entertain you. I'd like to show my heart." I don't want the owner of the hotel to be angry. He thinks that Li Hongzhang has defamed the reputation of the hotel and has to make a public apology. Li Hongzhang's polite remarks are very common in China, but there is no such custom in the United States. It is reasonable for the boss to be angry.

Sometimes you may be elected to toast without preparation. At this time, you may be very nervous. The best solution is to say how you feel. As the toast is not too long, you can say some simple words to get rid of the predicament according to the situation at that time. If you want to show more demeanour and eloquence, you can also add some memories, praise, and related stories or jokes. Just pay attention to the right time and place. For example, the toast at the wedding should focus on emotion, and the toast to the retired employees should focus on nostalgia. Of course, on most occasions, "wish you the best, happiness and happiness" is always right.