Here’s one for the groom, best man, father of the bride, and whoever else you’ve asked to say a speech on your Big Day.
Everyone loves a great, heartfelt speech about the newlyweds. But sometimes these things don’t always go as planned. We all know too well about speeches that are way too long and dull. No one wants to be the person who gets in front of a crowd of people and bores them, so…
Some tips to help with the wedding speeches:
- Don’t: Wing it. Unless you’re a master at speaking on the spot and under pressure, we recommend a good amount of preparation before giving your speech to a room full of people. Write things down and practice in front of a mirror. No one wants to hear half of your speech filled with awkward ‘umms’ and ‘uhhhs’ because you’re thinking of it right then and there.
- Do: Add some humour. No one says your speech has to be completely serious. Remember the reception is a celebration and a time to laugh and have fun. Adding some humour is a great way to capture everyone’s attention and make them want to listen to you.
- Do: Tell a good story or two. It’s always good to share a funny story that really explains your relationship with the bride or groom. It’s always nice to hear a little bit about their past, and a funny story from when the couple first started dating is always a crowd pleaser.
- Don’t: Tell their life story. Taking 15 minutes to walk through the timeline of your friendship with the bride/groom is unnecessary and boring. Remember that not everyone understands your inside jokes and telling a bunch of them is kind of annoying. Just keep the insiders on the inside.
- Don’t: Talk about exes. The bride and groom will be uncomfortable, their parents will be uncomfortable, and everyone else will probably think it’s just awkward. Seriously, even if you think it’s funny and no one will care, they will.
- Don’t: Get too drunk! No one wants to see your lovely speech turn into a drunken performance. There’s nothing wrong with having a drink or two to loosen up or calm your nerves, just don’t overdo it, know your limit, and save the heavy drinking for after the speech. Because slurring your words, dropping the mic, and stumbling away isn’t cute or classy.
- Don’t: Talk forever. You will lose everyone’s attention. Keep in mind that what might be interesting for you and the bride and/or groom might not be interesting for everyone else. Keep it simple and sweet. Start by talking about how you know the couple, share a cute or funny story, talk about them falling in love, then finish by wishing them a lifetime of happiness.
- Do: Send a heartfelt wish to the couple. This is the most important part of your speech. Even if it is just a cliché love quote or poem you find on google, be sure to say something that exemplifies the couples’ love for each other and that shows your happiness for them.
Remember to just relax, be yourself, and have fun with it! And there you go. You just gave the speech of a lifetime.
With thanks to Nubian Bride for the advice.
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