Questions to ask a Filipino wedding host or emcee

A great Filipino wedding host keeps the room warm and the timeline calm while honoring parents, sponsors, and guests across ages. Use this guide to interview emcees with intention so speeches land clearly, traditions feel respected, and your program finishes on time.

What to ask before booking

• Are you comfortable hosting in both Tagalog and English and switching smoothly when guests include balikbayans or non Filipino friends
• How would you describe your tone upbeat and playful or calm and classic Can we watch a full reception sample not just a highlight reel
• Which Filipino customs have you hosted before acknowledging parents and principal sponsors introducing the entourage optional money dance integrating a prayer and bilingual toasts
• How many events do you take in one day and what arrival lead time do you require for soundcheck and run through
• What is your backup plan if you get sick who is your substitute and can we meet them in advance
• What is included in your fee program length overtime and travel

When shortlisting, look for hosts who cue segments with finesse so table releases, toasts, and first dances flow without stalling dinner.

Style and language fit

• What words or phrases do you use to introduce sponsors and parents How do you balance honorifics with a modern tone
• Can you adapt humor for multi generation crowds and avoid jokes that punch down
• Will you gather correct name pronunciations ahead of time and accept a do not say list for sensitive topics
• Can you prepare short Tagalog or English versions of key announcements for elders and international guests

Program and pacing

• How do you keep energy while avoiding rush Do you give two minute warnings before transitions
• Where do you place speeches between courses and how do you prevent long monologues
• How do you release tables for buffet without clogging aisles
• If we run late what do you trim first and what moments do you protect first dance parent dances thank you toast
  For bigger pacing strategy, pair your plan with ideas from a day flow that ends on time without rushing.

Tech and teamwork

• What microphones do you prefer and do you bring a backup set or spare batteries
• Will you attend soundcheck and coordinate cue sheets with the DJ or band and the lights team
• Do you use hand signals or cue cards with the coordinator during dinner service
  Collaborate with production partners who keep audio clear and lighting warm so your host is always heard without shouting. If you are weighing budget choices, skim this guide on where to invest across tech and hosting.

Traditions and respect

• How do you acknowledge ninong and ninang without crowding the front tables
• Can you explain traditions to non Filipino guests in a welcoming way
• Are you comfortable leading a simple grace before meals if requested and keeping the tone respectful

Logistics and professionalism

• What do you wear and will you adapt to our dress code
• What time do you arrive and where do you prefer to set up
• How do you handle vendor meals breaks and restroom cues without leaving the mic unmanned
  Loop your lead coordinator early; many planning teams excel at cueing hosts kindly and on time.

Red flags to watch

• No full length sample or references
• Talks over toasts or focuses on games instead of your moments
• Refuses to collaborate with the coordinator or tech team
• Uses risky humor or ignores pronunciation guides

Sample questions you can copy and paste

• Can you host bilingually and switch mid sentence when needed
• What three moments do you always protect even if we are running late
• How will you introduce our parents and sponsors
• Will you lead short speeches between courses and keep them to two minutes each
• What is your plan if a microphone fails mid toast
• How do you coordinate with our DJ band and lighting tech
• What attire will you wear and do you bring a spare outfit in case of rain or spills

Wrap with intention

Choose a host who respects family, speaks clearly, and keeps the room moving. With a realistic run sheet, calm cues, and the right tech, your reception lands all the feelings without scramble. For the bigger picture on pacing, service, and room energy, end with the pillar on reception ideas that honor tradition and wow your guests.