Writer: Agbona Odunayo Mcpraise ( Mceepraise )


A birthday party.

When you are engaged to be the Master of Ceremonies for such an occasion, you may be tempted to under-prepare but that would be a mistake. Take a party as seriously as you would a conference. Remember, you are there to do an excellent job. Here is what to do so you do not mess up.

Before The Day

Have a meeting with the organizers. That could mean a telephone conversation, WhatsApp or email exchanges, or a face-to-face encounter. Ask lots of questions like the following:

How many guests have been invited?

What kind entertainment has been planned? (Band? DJ? Comedian?)

Is there a dress code? (All white? Fancy dress?)

How long is the event expected to last?

Answers to these and other questions will give you a flavor of what is being planned. Go on to ask for a draft program of the event.



You may encounter some resistance from the organizer who may be wondering why you need a program when the party is just a small event with friends and family turning up to eat, drink and make merry. Respond by telling the organizer that the program will not be printed out for guests but will serve as a guide for you to keep the event running on time

If there is no program, offer to draw one up. A simple template you can use is below:



Adult Birthday Programme of Event



1.Arrival of guests

2. Introduction of the MC

3. Entrance of the celebrant

4. Opening prayers

5. Word play and content talks by the MC signalling the introductory speech

5. Profile of the Celebrant

7. Video testimonies.(VIRTUAL)

8. Tributes/ Testimonies: ( He touched my life.)

9.. Charge. ( A brief sermon) *Optional*

10.. Cutting of the Cake.

11.. Toast to the Celebrant.

12.. Celebrant and spouse's dance.

13.. Prayers for the celebrant.

14. Vote of thanks. ( Celebrant)

15. Benediction( Pastor ............)



The section titled ‘Optional Speeches’ is reserved for relatives or family members who would like to say a few congratulatory words to the birthday celebrant. Make sure you have a brief profile of the person who will be talking so you can tell your audience what connection they have with the celebrant (Did they go to school together? Business partners? Family friends?)

On The Day

Get to the venue at least an hour ahead of time. Let the organizers know you have arrived early. That will be one less thing for them to worry about. Introduce yourself to all the service providers – caterer, ushers, waiters, DJ, band.

It is advisable to be on friendly terms with the DJ. Why? For starters, you need him in order to test your microphone because you will be using his public address system. In addition, you need him to lower the music whenever you turn on your microphone. And on top of all that, it is just easier to work with people when you have a cordial relationship with them.