How to Give a Speech at a Wedding

So, you've been asked to give a wedding speech? That's awesome! It means someone thinks you're pretty great. It's a chance to show your love for the happy couple. But, let's be real, it can also be scary. Don't sweat it! This guide will give you simple tips to nail it.

What's the Point of a Wedding Speech?

It's more than just filling time. A good wedding speech celebrates the couple. You share fun memories. You wish them happiness. The goal? Touch hearts and make people smile. Most important: keep the focus on the couple.

Who Gives These Things Anyway?

Usually, you'll hear from these folks:

• The Bride's Dad: He'll say welcome, brag on his daughter, and welcome the groom.
• The Groom: He'll thank the bride's parents, give props to his own folks, and gush about his bride. He'll also toast the bridesmaids.
• The Best Man: He tells a funny (but nice!) story about the groom and wishes the couple well. He'll toast the happy couple.

But hey, times are changing! Now you might hear from the Maid of Honor, Moms, or even close friends. If you get asked, it's a big deal. Take it seriously and have fun!

Getting Ready: From "Uh Oh" to "I Got This!"

Don't wait until the last minute! Trust me. Good speeches take time.

1. Time to Think!

Start with some ideas. What comes to mind when you think about the couple?

• How did you meet them?
• Got a favorite memory?
• What do you admire about them?
• What's special about their love?
• What do you hope for them?

Write down everything. Even little stuff. It'll help, I promise.

2. Make a Plan

A speech with a plan is easier to follow. Here’s a simple way to set it up:

1. Say Hi: Tell everyone who you are and how you know the couple. Thank the people who made the wedding happen.
2. Tell a Story: Share something fun or sweet about the bride/groom. Say nice things about them, both as people and as a couple.
3. Be Yourself: Add some jokes and show your personality. Let your love for the couple shine through.
4. Wish Them Well: Say you hope they have a lifetime of happiness.
5. Raise a Glass: Toast the happy couple!

3. Write It Down!

Okay, you have ideas and a plan. Time to write! Here's how:

• Keep it Short: Aim for 3-5 minutes. Seriously. People will thank you.
• Be Real: Talk from the heart. Share what you truly feel.
• Use Humor Wisely: A little joke is good. But avoid stuff only you understand. And never say anything mean or embarrassing!
• Tell a Story: Stories are awesome. Pick one that's fun, relevant, and okay for everyone to hear.
• Stay Positive: This is a happy day! Keep it upbeat. No sad stories or old flames.
• Practice! Practice! Practice! Do it in front of a mirror. Ask a friend to listen. Get comfortable.

4. Speech Ideas for Different People

Dad of the Bride:

1. Say thanks for coming.
2. Brag about your daughter (just a little!).
3. Tell a sweet story from when she was little.
4. Welcome the groom.
5. Give some marriage advice.
6. Toast the couple.

Groom:

1. Thank the bride's parents.
2. Thank your own parents too!
3. Say how much you love your bride.
4. Thank the wedding party.
5. Say you're excited for the future.
6. Toast the bridesmaids.

Best Man:

1. Thank the groom for picking you.
2. Tell a funny (but nice!) story about him.
3. Say nice things about the bride and how happy she makes him.
4. Wish them well.
5. Toast the couple!

Time to Shine! Delivering Your Speech

How you say it matters just as much as what you say.

1. Be Confident

Even if you're shaking inside, try to look confident. Stand up straight. Look at people. Speak clearly. Take a deep breath. You got this!

2. Don't Rush!

Talk at a normal speed. Don't race through it. Pauses are good. They let people think about what you're saying. And they give you time to breathe.

3. Use Your Hands (a Little)

Use your hands a bit to make points. But don't fidget or pace. Stand tall. Look at different people in the room.

4. Connect with People

Smile! Look at the couple. Look at the guests. Let your personality show. Make a connection.

5. To Memorize or Not?

Memorizing the whole thing is great, but not needed. Use notes, but don't just read them. Practice enough so you can talk naturally.

6. Nerves Are Normal!

Feeling nervous? Totally okay! Here's what to do:

• Practice! The more you do it, the easier it gets.
• Imagine it going well.
• Breathe deeply.
• Remember why you're doing this: to celebrate the couple!

Wedding Speech Rules

It's important to be polite. Being respectful will make your speech even better.

1. Keep it Clean!

No bad words. No rude jokes. No embarrassing stories. Remember, there might be kids there!

2. Be Respectful

Be nice to everyone. Don't say mean things about anyone or anything. This is about love and happiness!

3. Avoid Touchy Subjects

Weddings aren't the time to talk about politics, religion, or old relationships. Keep it light and fun.

4. Watch the Clock!

Stick to your time. Don't go on and on. People will get bored.

5. Say Thanks

Thank the people who planned the wedding (usually the bride's parents). And thank them for letting you speak.

Things to Avoid

Knowing what not to do is important. Here are some common mistakes:

• Reading straight from your notes: Sounds boring and fake.
• Using jokes only you get: Keep it simple.
• Drinking too much beforehand: Bad idea. You might say something stupid.
• Talking about exes: HUGE mistake. Never do this.
• Making it all about you: Focus on the couple!
• Being unprepared: "Winging it" is a recipe for disaster.

Get Better at Speaking!

Not a natural speaker? No problem! You can learn to be better.

1. Take a Class

A public speaking class can teach you tricks to calm your nerves and speak well.

2. Join a Club

Toastmasters is a group that helps people practice speaking. It's a safe and supportive place to learn.

3. Practice a Lot!

The more you speak in front of people, the easier it gets. Volunteer to speak up at meetings. Give presentations at work.

4. Ask for Help

Ask friends or family to watch you practice. Get their feedback. Use their tips to improve.

Make It Great!

Giving a wedding speech is a chance to celebrate love and wish the couple well. Follow these tips, and you'll do great. Be yourself. Speak from the heart. Focus on the happy couple. With some practice, you can give a speech they'll remember forever! Remember: good speeches are about manners, good communication, and speaking confidently. Good luck! And congrats to the happy couple!