Weddings of Most Cultures

There are many traditions associated with wedding celebrations, and I will be pleased to discuss them with you. I can advise you on tradition and etiquette, procedure and timing, speeches and toasts, and the special touches that will enhance your special day. I will prepare an outline plan as you want it to be, and from this point on you will receive full support, answering any questions and addressing any matters that might arise. More… 

I am mindful that tact and discretion are called for when considering the requirements and wishes of the modern family, including same-sex, LGBTQ+ and mixed-faith couples, and couples with children or divorced parents. It’s your wedding, your day, your way, so you don’t have to do anything you don’t want to; you can pick and choose the traditions that work for you. Contact me for a no-obligation chat about your wedding.

Family Celebrations

As your Master of Ceremonies I will ensure the smooth running of your family celebration; for example, significant birthdays, wedding anniversaries and renewal of wedding vows. I am sometimes told that the celebration will be informal, so I can, if required, put aside the traditional Toastmasters’ livery and wear less formal attire; you will still receive the same professional service.

I could provide some entertainment that can be played at tables after the meal, for example a fun quiz tailored to suit your guests. I could also introduce you to professional entertainers, such as musicians, magicians or caricaturists. Contact me for a no-obligation chat about your family celebration.

B’nei Mitzvah

A Bar/Bat Mitzvah is an important milestone in the Jewish lifecycle, and you will want to celebrate this simcha with family and friends. As a Jewish Toastmaster, I can help with all the ritual and tradition expected on such an occasion, and ensure that all guests have an enjoyable time. If you wish, I will organise and present the ‘Ceremony of the Thirteen Candles’, a wonderful way for the Bar/Bat Mitzvah to acknowledge and honour the important people in their lives. Contact me for a no-obligation chat about your Bar/Bat Mitzvah. 

Masonic Festivals

A Masonic festival is the social highlight of the year for most Freemasons’ Lodges. It is important that the event proceeds smoothly, with consideration for all those involved, to ensure that everyone present, whether Freemason or guest, can fully enjoy their evening together. My experience as Master of Ceremonies (and on the square) will prove invaluable in guiding the President and his Lady, or the President and her Gentleman, in all aspects of the event. Contact me for a no-obligation chat about your Masonic festival.

Civic and Corporate Events

There is a wide variety of formal functions at which a Toastmaster can officiate. It could be at the Town Hall with the Town or Borough Mayor, or it could be an awards dinner or product launch at a corporate event with guest speakers and entertainers. Whatever the function, whoever is present, I will act as Master of Ceremonies and ensure the occasion runs smoothly in accordance with the appropriate protocols. Contact me for a no-obligation chat about your event.

Charity and Fund Raising

The Annual Ball presents one of the biggest fund-raising opportunities for a charity organisation, but the last thing you need is to worry about how the evening will progress. As Master of Ceremonies, I will liaise with the other suppliers and entertainers, taking advantage of all fund-raising opportunities. I will take care of the raffle presentation and assist as auctioneer, if required, helping to ensure that the raffle and auction are both entertaining and profitable. Contact me for a no-obligation chat about your event.

Quiz Evenings

You might be organising a social event for many different reasons: a night out for the office, a different way to engage with clients, a product launch with important guests, entertainment at a conference, a Christmas party, or a charity fundraiser. Whatever the occasion, I can devise and present an entertaining quiz for you, providing the answer and score sheets. The quiz will be tailored to suit your requirements and guests, but above all, the quiz will be entertaining and fun. Contact me for a no-obligation chat about your quiz.

John Ashmele FGPT
Fellow of the Guild of Professional Toastmasters
Graduate of the Professional Toastmasters’ Academy
m: 07710 400412       e: john@ashmele.co.uk