Wedding Speech Advice

You've been asked to say a few words at the wedding, and while finding something to say has never been a problem before, the pressure of having an audience of over 200 guests can leave anyone speechless! For a Best Man, the thought of giving a wedding speech looks something like this:

Wedding + Speech = Nightmare!

But it doesn't have to be like that! Follow these easy steps to writing a wedding speech, and you'll look something like this:

Wedding + Speech = Standing Ovation!

Where to Start

Getting started requires pen, paper, and a little inspiration. But where can you find your inspiration? From the Bride and Groom!

Finding the answers to the following questions about the Bride and Groom will help you find your inspiration, and find out what you really want to include in your speech. Don't hold back here, write down everything that comes to mind...you will have plenty of time to edit the content later.

• How long have you known the Groom? And how did you meet?
• How did the Bride and Groom meet? Were you involved?
• How did the Groom propose to the Bride? And what was her immediate reaction?
• How long have the Bride and Groom been a couple?
• Do they have children?
• What are the Bride and Groom's mutual interests?
• What 5 words come to mind when you think of the Groom? What 5 words come to mind when you think of the Bride?
• What is the funniest thing that happened to the Groom while Bride was present? And vice-versa?
• What is the funniest thing that happened to the Groom (or Bride) while you were present?
• What would you like the future to hold for the Bride and Groom?

Opener

A great toast has a good opening and a good closing, so now that you've got some ideas on paper, let's look at your opener...

The first words are the hardest - and the most memorable - for the guests. Start by introducing yourself, and then keep their attention by saying something interesting right up front. Quotes and humor work well to catch your audience, but if humor isn't your style, don't feel pressured to start now. Remember to stick with something you feel comfortable with.

And if nothing else comes to mind, use the old standby, "Hi I'm [your name] and I'm [Groom's name] Best Man. I don't want to do a lot of talking tonight, but I do have a few important things I need to say."

Middle

After the opening, and before your closing "Congratulations!" take just a moment to reminisce and tell your audience a few little-known tidbits about the Bride and Groom. This is where your answers to the questions above come in.

WARNING! Absolutely no words about ex-girlfriends or past relationships, and don't say anything that will make the Groom look like a slacker, loser, drunk, or druggie. Making too much fun of the Bride and Groom is definitely not allowed.

If you choose to skip the embarrassing recollections in favor of saving face for the Groom, the middle of your speech can include a nice story of how the Bride and Groom met, or even encouraging words of advice for their future together.

If you are still unsure about the content, ask someone you know for his or her feedback. You'll be grateful for the pre-wedding audience.

Closing Toast

What's that last word you want to leave with your audience? Try finishing with a wish or blessing for the happy couple, and a resounding "Cheers!", "Congratulations!", or "To Jane and Joe!" You can also use a one-liner classic toast like "To love, laughter, and happily ever after!"

Don't forget to take a sip, you're done!

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Over 360 speeches, toasts, templates, examples, openers, closers, jokes and quotes to make you sound like a pro. Includes rehearsal secrets, speaking tips and delivery techniques.