The biggest event I’ve hosted had 3000 attendees. Biggest wedding? 1300. Hosting a massive event is a uniquely thrilling experience, but we live in a different world now.
The question for most couples now is whether they still need a host, and the challenge for all emcees is to justify our role and the rates that we charge. Fellow emcees, this is what you should tell your clients: If you have guests, no matter how few, and if you value having an orderly flow with no dull or awkward intervals, then you need an emcee.
I just got to host a reception with 10 guests. Ten! I’m posting about it because it feels like an achievement, and because it feels like a way forward for emcees like myself.
Imagine the level of expectation when you are that one stranger who found himself in the middle of a pamamanhikan. Somehow, you’re supposed to keep everyone entertained while you wait for the couple to arrive. There’s literally nothing else going on, so every little thing you do, everything you say, matters. Anong gagawin mo? Sasayaw? Kakanta? Magic show? That seems ridiculous, out of place, and too self-important for such an intimate setting. For my smallest event, the answer was simple: just be exceedingly charming, well-mannered, and generous to everyone.
Emcees, now is not the time to sit on the sidelines and wait for your cue. Don’t be a stranger, be fully present and treat each guest like he or she is the most important person in the world. Focus on what’s in front of you, on what you can do, and on what matters to the ten people who are now in your care.
Memorize their names before they get there and greet them as they come in. Call them by name, the whole time you’re together. Introduce them to the person across the table.
Be attentive to each person. Does someone look uncomfortable? Like they’re looking for something or want to ask a question? Walk over there and talk to them. Make small talk with each guest. Just 3 minutes with every guest out of ten is already half an hour well- spent.
Want to remind them about good safety habits? Lead by example and practice them yourself. Keep your hands as clean as a surgeon’s. Be comfortable and act natural, even if you can hardly breathe, knowing that they see everything you’re doing. Can’t express yourself with half your face covered? Get used to making big open gestures with your hands. Smize until your cheeks go numb. Bow with the grace of a Nara deer.
No wait-staff because of the limited head count? Wear other hats. Bring the wine to the guests. If they’re shy about opening the bottle, open it yourself.
When it’s time for the program, make sure you’re the person with the most energy, confidence, and enthusiasm—this should be easier with only ten guests, right? While you’re at it, memorize the whole program and lose that piece of paper. Forget what’s next? Do what feels right. Own the program. Speak with conviction, tell stories, overflow with warmth and shine so brightly—but don’t keep any light to yourself—spread it to the couple and back to the guests.
Little things, but they will be noticed and appreciated. And they add up to a unique experience that your guests will never forget.
Small to micro weddings will continue to be the norm. If you’re on the fence about booking an emcee, good hosting is not only possible on a small scale, it’s also, arguably, more essential. If you’re an emcee and you want to continue getting work, now is the time to not only be comfortable hosting intimate events, but to be AMAZING at it.
