Have you been tasked with delivering the perfect wedding speech? Whether you’re the best man, maid of honour, or a close family member, crafting that perfect wedding speech can be both an honour, and a daunting task. To ensure your speech hits all the right notes and leaves a lasting impression on the happy couple, here are 10 top tips to guide you through the process…
1. Take time to prepare.
The perfect wedding speech can’t be composed overnight! Ensure you set aside ample time to jot down your ideas, organise your thoughts, plan the structure, and rehearse your delivery. Preparation is key to delivering a polished and heartfelt speech. Failing to prepare is preparing to fail!
2. If you struggle, ask for help – reach out to other people who know the couple well
When you are sitting alone staring at a piece of blank paper, writing the perfect wedding speech can seem overwhelming and at times…impossible! Don’t be afraid to reach out for assistance if you are struggling to start composing. Get together with a group of people close to the happy couple, brainstorm as a collective and the ideas will flow. Feel productivity coursing through your veins as you gain that relieving inspiration. You are guaranteed to create a speech which truly reflects the couple’s personalities and relationship when you collaborate.
3. Keep it short and sweet.
One commonly asked question is, how long should my speech be? You should aim for a speech that is no more than a couple of minutes long, keep it concise and to the point, ensuring that you capture the attention of your audience for its entirety. There’s nothing worse than anticipating the end of an unbearably long speech…
4. Introduce Yourself.
What better way to start your speech than by introducing yourself? The perfect wedding speech starts with an introduction of yourself, highlighting how you know the couple. This will give context to the listening guests, helping to set the scene and enable all to understand the connection behind shared anecdotes and remarks.
5. Talk about both partners.
Whilst you may have a stronger connection to one half of the happy couple, it is vital that you include anecdotes and sentiments that celebrate both. You should share stories that highlight their individual qualities, their journey as a couple, and the reasons why they are perfect for each other. If you are struggling to think of what to say about the other half, first think back to the day you met, any encounters you have had subsequently and stories you have been told by their partner.
6. Share anecdotes, infusing humour.
The best speeches always have humour injected throughout them. The best way to do this is by sharing light-hearted anecdotes that involve the couple. Consider talking about milestones the newlyweds have shared, for example: recounting when they first met, when they first got together, anniversaries, their engagement, and the run up to the wedding. Laughter is a great way to engage your audience and is sure to create a warm, memorable atmosphere.
7. Leave out embaraassing stories.
Although the temptation to share embarrassing stories may manifest itself, this is strongly advised against. Whilst humor is encouraged, avoid anecdotes that may make the couple feel uncomfortable or offend their guests…remember that weddings have a wide array of people attending from all walks of life. The safer option is to keep your anecdotes light-hearted and respectful.
8. Use props if you can…
If appropriate, consider incorporating props into your speech to add visual interest and enhance your storytelling. Whether it’s a musical instrument, a photo album, or a meaningful keepsake, props can help bring your perfect wedding speech to life and make it more memorable. Ensure this has personal relevance to the couple and will be appreciated by both parties.
9. Give thanks to the hosts and anyone who contributed to the wedding.
As your speech comes to an end, remember to give thanks to the hosts and all that have played a part in making this special day happen. This may include: the couple’s parents, planners, suppliers, the venue, and anyone else who has contributed to the wedding.
10. Raise a toast to the couple.
To conclude, ask all attendees to raise a toast to the newlyweds. Offer your heartfelt congratulations and well wishes for the future, inviting the guests to join you in celebrating their love and happiness in the future. You can now return to your seat, proud that you have given the perfect wedding speech.
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