Which wedding can do without an emcee? Only if it’s truly a small family celebration. Is that not your case? Then you need a competent wedding emcee. Exactly that, an emcee, not a “tamada” because I believe the concept of a “tamada” is outdated and meaningless. You want a dignified, modern wedding, a festive evening, not just a collection of speeches and auctions, right? Then read on – this article is for you.

Regardless, the main part of the wedding is the banquet. And the face of the banquet is the emcee. This person (together with you) will create the festive atmosphere. Think about weddings you’ve attended as guests. What do you remember? The bride’s dress – well, roughly speaking. The food – not so much. The emcee – definitely! Guests always remember the emcee! They also remember the overall atmosphere: whether it was fun or boring, whether the wishes were appropriate or long-winded, whether the contests sparked enthusiasm or clumsiness… Yes, all of that is the emcee’s responsibility. The cost of a good wedding emcee (with a DJ and music equipment) in a big city starts at 30,000 rubles during the season (Moscow residents multiply the amount by 1.5). Yes, there are exceptions in the form of “young talents.” But for that, you have to search very carefully and pay close attention to their portfolio.

No more than 10% of emcees have high-quality promo videos that truly showcase their skills. Most promo videos look like this: The emcee does something with the guests to upbeat background music, runs through the hall, speaks into the microphone (without sound), and the guests and the couple laugh (also silently) and show exuberant joy. Dear emcees, if you’re reading this: I’m sorry, but these videos tell potential clients NOTHING! How does your voice sound, your way of speaking (your business card, by the way)? What funny things did you say to the guests? What if it was vulgar? The hint is clear: Look for a reasonable video on the internet or ask the emcee for a normal video where the person showcases their work. With sound. An example from personal experience: I liked a good emcee who was not expensive, mainly because of his “unknown” status. Everything seemed fine: humorous, young. But then the voice… I didn’t like his voice, and that was it. Especially when I imagined having to listen to him all evening.

Actually, the choice is simple. Female emcees are suitable for couples who want to create a romantic and even sentimental atmosphere. You can’t expect surprises from female emcees: they usually conduct traditional weddings without much creativity, but they are beautiful and touching.
Younger than 30. They are usually creative individuals who position themselves as “anti-tamadas.” If the majority of your guests are young and you want to give the wedding energy, not play or entirely forgo traditional customs, then this is the right choice for you. “Solid” men over 40. They are better suited for the role of a tamada in the best sense of the word. Mothers, grandmothers, and aunts adore them. If your guests are mainly relatives and older generations, and the wedding itself is traditional, such an emcee is a perfect fit. They will create a calm atmosphere of a respectable, family celebration. Of course, there are exceptions to this classification (and among the “youngsters,” there are very energetic and creative emcees), but they make up no more than 10%.

Firstly, individuals who are more “famous” charge higher fees for their services due to their “brand.” It’s prestigious and status-enhancing to invite them. Secondly, “stars” are very concerned about their reputation and are not always willing to accommodate the client. Their image is more important to them. Therefore, such emcees often stand out with a certain “coolness” and conduct the wedding quite distantly and without sparks. As they say, it’s not regal. Some may even demand that the event program be adapted to them.
Apologies for the tautology, but they should not be a singer, saxophonist, etc., but an emcee. Do you understand the difference? Singers are specialized in SINGING. Musicians are specialized in PLAYING. Well, that’s how they were trained. But for “all-rounders,” emceeing a wedding is just an extra side job to earn a little more money. But for you, it’s exactly the opposite!

Some couples hire one person for both conducting an outdoor ceremony and the banquet due to cost reasons. Friends, I understand that an outdoor registration is “unofficial” and seemingly doesn’t hold much significance, but it shouldn’t be made an obvious farce! It turns out that this person has registered you (performed a SECRET act!) and is now doing funny competitions with the guests. Imagine if the officiant did that – first the signatures, then entertaining people. Strange? Your guests would find it at least incomprehensible. Do you want to save on the officiant? Do it the way it’s sometimes done at American weddings: the officiant is a family friend. Completely free and very touching.