Can you share a sample speech?
We do not circulate sample speeches, but we'd be happy to connect you with referrals — some of whom have shared Toastimonials here. You can also check out press coverage of The Toastess in The Huffington Post and from Over the Moon, the go-to wedding blog started by a longtime managing editor of Vogue.com.
How much do you charge?
You can choose your service here, based on what you need. Rates vary between seasons and service levels, with hourly pricing for Bronze and package pricing for Silver and Gold. (Our lowest-cost option is a group speechwriting workshop with The Toastess, held once a month.) Contact us here for more information, and we'll help you find the best fit.
How long does each speech take?
The process generally takes 6-8 hours start to finish, but can vary based on what you need. (Bronze depends on how the speech looks when we receive it; Silver and Gold depend on what you have in mind.)
What if I just need a “light edit”? Or a “really short” toast?
We typically need a minimum of 3-4 hours to be helpful to our clients and provide them with meaningful notes or edits. That includes a phone consultation to ensure we understand your vision and can fill in the blanks on missing pieces. Even a “really short” toast can take many hours of work—there is little difference between a 2-minute and 5-minute speech—so we charge the same rate regardless of length.
How much lead time do you need?
Please reach out at least 1 month in advance. We'll return the speech 1.5 weeks prior to the event, allowing for time to revise, if needed, or memorize.
(On a tighter timeline? We'll do our best to accommodate. Speeches booked in the under-one-month window are subject to a rush fee equal to one hour of work.)
What if a friend or loved one finds out that you helped me?
The best part about The Toastess: it's ghostwriting, so no one needs to know. We take client confidentiality seriously and do not release any information or publish Toastimonials without permission.
How do I pay?
Venmo or Zelle. For Bronze (hourly pricing), we require payment for the first hour of work before we begin writing. For Silver and Gold (package pricing), we require half the payment before we begin writing. And for speeches booked in the under-one-month window, we require full payment upfront.
Do you offer other writing or editing services, outside of toasts?
In between the soliloquies, we consult on resumes, cover letters and school applications, both independently and through private companies. We’ve also written nominations for clients hoping to win awards and be accepted into exclusive programs and members-only clubs (success!). Let us know how we can help.
I'm nowhere near you. Can you still help me?
Absolutely. Our services are available globally, and we are able to connect by email, phone or video via Zoom/FaceTime.
What's the best way for me (or a friend) to get in touch?
Email us at Alexandra@thetoastess.com, or fill out the contact form here.
You’re fully booked, and I’m really in a bind. What else can I do?
Check out our expert tips for mastering the toast on Over the Moon, and more of our advice in The Huffington Post.
Are you hiring?
We are expanding our fabulous stable of writers. Are you a creative thinker with a sharp sense of humor? The friend people always turn to for help finding the words? Let’s chat! Reach out to Alexandra@thetoastess.com.
Can I hire you to join me at my event? I could wear an earpiece, or you could be my human teleprompter.
Our pleasure. Will accept payment in vanilla buttercream cupcakes.
Will you repair my toaster or kettle?
So glad you asked! Sadly, the answer is no. If you’ve had a cookware casualty, perhaps you’re looking for Toastess.com.