THE PERFECT WEDDING SPEECH

If you’re planning to host a reception with your family and friends after your ceremony, it’s likely (though not compulsory) that you’ll include a period where key people in your life, or who have a particular role to play on the day, will make a wedding speech.

Below are some guidelines on what they could say. The key is to keep things reasonably tasteful (no crude jokes or stories) and, unless you’re accomplished at public speaking, keep it short and, importantly, authentic. Write everything down (in dot points if you’re able to ad lib, or in full if you think you might forget to say something important when it’s your turn to speak.) You could either read from your phone or handwrite/type your speech onto palm cards. The more you practise reading  your speech aloud, the better it will flow and be received on the day. If you pause for effect and “read the room”, that will go a long way too.

Each of the following people have important roles to fill on your wedding day. If they plan to give a speech at your reception, here are a few things for them to consider.

 

Best Man

A funny story … this could be one they experienced with the groom, one they’re recounting that involved just the groom, or one that involves others.

A (tasteful) comment about the bride … and how she has been a positive influence on the groom e.g. as a partner, family man and in business etc.

A toast to their future lives together.

 

Maid of Honour

A short story about how/when you met the bride … and the friendship you share.

Things you love about the bride … her personality/other qualities.

A toast to the love the bride and groom share.

 

Father of the Bride

Memories … of the bride and her importance in your life, from birth until today.

Acknowledgement … of the groom and the effect he has had on your daughter’s life.

A toast to the bride and groom’s future.

 

Groom

Thank you … to both families.

Appreciation … of the bride and your feelings of love for her.

A toast to your new wife.

 

Bride

Thank you … to both families.

Appreciation … for the groom and your feelings of love for him.

A toast to your new husband.

 

Remember, less is often more. Don’t feel your speech has to be lengthy. If you are sincere, include some humour and are feeling the love, you will have the perfect mix of light and shade for your wedding speech.

 

 

#131 ~ 30/06/26

© Lindy Cooke Celebrant