When a family member or a close friend asks you to be their wedding emcee this is most definitely an honor but it also places considerable responsibility on your shoulders. After all you have just accepted the request to be the master of ceremonies for the reception. The success of the party is in your hands.

Here is some great practical advice to help you be a success as the wedding mc.

1. Clearly Identify Your Duties As The Wedding MC

The mc is at the helm for ensuring the various events planned for the reception happen in an orderly manner and according to the agreed plan.

The duties of a mc are not set in stone. It very much depends on the type of reception and the role the bride and groom want you to play. You must get together with the couple and agree, in as much detail as possible, the duties you will perform.

2. Put Together A Running Sheet

Planning is vital if you are to make a success of your role. The only way you can stay on top of those nerves is to know exactly what happens when and where and who's involved.

You need to assemble a running sheet that shows, minute by minute, what is to happen when, where and with whom.

And you have to liaise with all the leading contributors to ensure they know what they have to do and when. For example, do all those making a speech or toast know how long they have to speak for?

You really do need to put a lot of hard work in to make the role of wedding mc seem easy and natural.

3. Don't Take Center Stage

Let's be very clear. You are not part of the reception entertainment. You may organize some audience participation games as a means of helping the guests mix and, yes, you can tell a light hearted joke when introducing a particular speaker. However, you are not a stand up comic or a 'star' performer.

A successful mc is unassuming, letting the limelight clearly fall on the bride and groom.