No matter how many rom-com movies we’ve watched, we’ve all cringed at those disastrous wedding speeches given by the best man or bridesmaid during the reception, followed by an embarrassingly awkward toast. While it may not seem like a big deal, the wedding speech is one of your big day’s most cherished and anticipated moments. Whether you’re the best man, maid of honour, father of the bride, delivering a heartfelt and memorable wedding speech can be both an honour and a challenge. It serves as a reminder that even with the best intentions, it’s important to carefully plan and rehearse a wedding speech to avoid potential pitfalls and ensure a memorable day for all. To help you craft a speech that will leave the guests in tears or joyful cheers, The Wedding Notebook has prepared a step-by-step guide to guide you through the process.
Step 1: Plan and Prepare
First and foremost, you do not want to bore the guests! Remember, brevity is key, so aim for a speech that lasts around five minutes. The first step in writing a wedding speech is to plan and prepare. Start by gathering your thoughts and considering the tone and theme of the speech. Then you decide on the main message or story you want to tell to the guests.
Step 2: Introduce Yourself
Begin your speech by introducing yourself and explaining your relationship with the couple. Share a brief memory that showcases the bond you share with either the bride or groom, or both. This will help establish a connection with the guests and set the stage for the rest of your speech.
Step 3: Share Personal Stories and Memories
The heart of any memorable wedding speech lies in the personal stories and anecdotes you choose to share. Highlight positive and meaningful experiences you have had with the couple, such as how they met, their journey together, or instances that showcase their love and compatibility. Be sure to keep the stories light-hearted, entertaining, and suitable for all guests in the room.
Step 4: Express Genuine Emotion and Sentiments
Weddings are emotional occasions, so it’s important to express genuine emotion and sentiments in your speech. Share your thoughts and feelings about the couple, their relationship, and the significance of the day. Congratulate the newlyweds, express your admiration, and wish them a lifetime of happiness and love. Let your words come from the heart, and remember to speak slowly and clearly.
Step 5: Inject Humor and Light-Heartedness
Adding humour to your speech helps keep guests engaged and entertained. Sprinkle in some well-timed jokes or funny accidents that are appropriate and in good taste. Be mindful of your audience’s sensibilities and avoid anything that could potentially offend or embarrass the couple or their families. The goal is to bring laughter, happy tears and joy to the celebration.
Step 6: Acknowledge and Thank Others
Take a moment to acknowledge and thank anyone who played a significant role in organizing the wedding, including the parents of the couple, the wedding party, and other contributors. Express gratitude for their efforts and support throughout the wedding planning process. This gesture not only shows your appreciation but also helps foster a sense of unity and gratitude among all those present.
Step 7: Raise a Toast
As you reach the conclusion of your speech, it is customary to raise a toast to the newlyweds. Craft a heartfelt and uplifting message that encapsulates your wishes for their future together. Encourage the guests to join you in toasting the couple’s happiness, love, and a lifetime of shared adventures.
Step 8: Practice and Rehearse
We know it seems unnecessary but it is crucial to practice and rehearse your speech! Read it out loud several times to become comfortable with the content and flow. Pay attention to your tone, timing, and body language. Consider recording yourself or rehearsing in front of a mirror to gauge your delivery and make any necessary adjustments and to avoid any fillers during the big day.
Writing a wedding speech can be a delightful experience, allowing you to express your love, admiration, and well-wishes for the couple on their special day. However, if you’re convinced that you can deliver a speech without any writing and practice, it’s crucial to be mindful and consider the potential risks. While spontaneity can have its charm, it’s still important to prepare and rehearse your speech to ensure a smooth and memorable delivery. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to create a heartfelt and engaging wedding speech that will be cherished by the couple and bring joy to all those in attendance.
