Before considering preparation tips, remember that a good toast is one that is said confidently.
A toast lasts all of 3 minutes if even that long.
Prepare and you'll do fine.
When you give the toast, start off by raising your glass and when you finish your toast, say "cheers," and drink.
Preparation: 1 - Pick a topic.
Your topic should include the part of the birthday boy or girl's personality that you would like to highlight.
Some examples are fun, funny, smart, courageous, friendly, outgoing, honest etc.
The list goes on and on.
When you have a topic, try to say what you are thinking in under 30 seconds.
No rambling.
2 - Find a funny quote.
Google the words "Funny Birthday Quotes," and find a funny birthday quote that fits your theme.
A quote is a great way to start any speech.
Get people laughing and you have their attention.
3 - Choose a short story about the person you are speaking about.
2 minute stories are perfect.
A funny story is usually the best bet, but it depends on what you want to say and how comfortable you are.
If the birthday person is a funny prankster then tell a story about a great prank.
On the other hand, to illustrate "wit," for example, tell a story about how he/she was able to avoid trouble by problem solving.
You get the idea.
People listen to stories.
4 - Practice your toast.
Go to your room and practice.
Some people like to write out their ideas fully, other people prefer outlines.
In either event just make sure that you are comfortable saying what you want to say.
Repetition makes it a lot easier.
The better you have it down in your head the more relaxed you will be.
5 - Remember, keep it short.
The attention span of your crowd is not very long.
Here's your basic outline: Trim the toast to its basic elements.
Here's a funny quote about being smart.
Bill is smart.
Here's a story about how smart Bill is.
Now let's keep drinking and pardon the interruption.
It's really that simple.