Are you gearing up to help your bestie walk down the aisle? Or maybe you’re a sister bestowed with the great honour of being the bride’s right-hand man? Well, first off, congratulations! Being chosen as the maid of honour to the bride is no small feat. It’s a role filled with joy, emotion, and, yes, a touch of nerves too. But fear not, because we’ve got your back!
Writing a wedding speech that resonates with both the bride and the audience can be tricky. It’s about finding the right balance of funny anecdotes, genuine love, and a sprinkle of nostalgic shared memories to write the best maid of honour speech.
In this post, we explore what you should include in your wedding speech, some top tips to consider when writing a great speech, and our top 12 maid of honour speech examples. Let’s dive in!
What is a maid of honour speech?
A maid of honour speech is a beautiful and heartfelt speech made by the maid of honour during a wedding reception. Traditionally, the maid of honour doesn’t make a speech during the wedding reception, just as there isn’t usually a bridesmaid speech. That means you have some flexibility as to where you fit into the overall wedding speech order.
A maid of honour speech should last between 5-7 minutes and should focus on the relationship between you and the bride, how wonderful she is, and the lovely year running up to the wedding.
What should you include in a maid of honour speech?
When writing your maid of honour speech, you might want to consider including the following key elements:
- Lots of love. The bride might be your sister, she might be your neighbour, but she’s definitely your best friend. This is the perfect opportunity to let everyone know exactly what makes her so special. You can tell everyone how funny she is, what a caring person she can be, and all about how you’ve supported each other through life. Let couple know how proud you are of the relationship they’ve built and how honoured you are to be there with them on their special day.
- Wedding planning foibles. It’s likely that you helped the bride with a good portion of the wedding planning. As such, you probably have lots of stories about the trials and tribulations of wedding planning. Share some funny maid of honour speech stories, like how stressed she was about finding the right shape of confetti, or how many samples you tried when trying to design the wedding cupcakes! Make sure any stories you tell are appropriate for her family and acquaintances to hear, and avoid referring to her as a ‘Bridezilla.’ Trust us; it’s not as funny as you think.
- Their love story. Being the bride’s bestie, you probably remember the day the bride met her new spouse. Consider sharing some happy stories from the early days of their relationship, when the bride told you they were the one, or when her partner told you they were going to propose. These stories are always a winner with the audience and bring a heartwarming touch to your speech.
- Your unwavering support. Above anything else, let everyone know how much you love and support the bride’s new marriage and how you’ll continue to be there for her, just as you were before the wedding.
Maid of honour speech structure
The good thing about the maid of honour speech is that it’s untraditional. This means there are no expectations, and you can include whatever you’d like!
However, this open-ended approach can be a little daunting. Try using the below structure to outline your maid of honour speech and help you feel more confident.
Introduction
The first step of any great speech is to introduce yourself to the audience. Let them know who you are, how long you’ve known the bride, and how you met. Express your gratitude for being part of their special day and acknowledge how happy you are to be the maid of honour.
Stories about the bride
You can then move on to some funny stories about your relationship with the bride. Share some light-hearted anecdotes, funny quotes, or special memories that you’ve shared with the bride over the years. This will not only capture the attention of the audience but will set the tone for your speech.
The couple’s love story
You can then move on to some happy memories about how the bride and groom met. You can share their initial impressions of each other, a funny story from their first date, and how their relationship blossomed over the years. Be sure to include any funny or heartwarming anecdotes from the early days of their relationship or when the bride first told you her partner was the one!
The proposal
Telling everyone about the proposal is sure to be a winner. It’s the perfect chance to spill the beans about the ingenious proposal plans or when they finally got down on one knee. Share the part you played by picking out the ring, helping with the surprise, or sneakily standing in the background to take pictures.
Heartfelt advice
Follow up with some heartfelt advice about love and commitment. Feel free to use some popular quotes about love, poetry, readings, or try writing a few vows of your own if you feel it’s appropriate. For example, “I will support you in married life just as I have through single life,” or “I promise to be the coolest auntie to your kids and tell them all about how wild their mum used to be!”
Toast to the couple
The final step should be a toast to the happy couple. Raise your glass and invite your audience to do the same, and toast to the health, love, and happiness of the new couple. Be sure to introduce them by their new shared name and take a sip from the glass. Cheers!
Top tips for delivering the best maid of honour speech
Be mindful of the audience
Remember, there will be lots of family and old friends in the audience, so it’s important to be mindful of the types of stories you tell. Err on the side of mildly embarrassing, and make sure any anecdotes are family-appropriate!
There are no expectations!
The best thing about a maid of honour speech is that there are no expectations; There’s no rigid script to follow. Instead, it’s your chance to let your personality shine, and your unique relationship with the bride take centre stage. This freedom means you can craft a speech that’s as genuine and heartwarming as your relationship with your bestie, so make it count.
Practice, practice, practice
Practice will perfect your timing, hone your speech delivery, and increase your confidence when making your speech. Stand before a mirror, share your speech with a close friend, or even record yourself to capture your progress. Embrace each rehearsal as an opportunity to smooth out any rough edges and enhance your storytelling. You’ll be glad you did when the big day rolls around.
Top 12 maid of honour speech examples
If you’re looking for some inspiration, check out our top 12 examples of the best maid of honour speech ideas! Use them as templates for your own speech and personalise them with your own unique examples and anecdotes.
A lot of maid of honour speech examples will refer to a bride and groom, but you can simply change the references to your daughter’s partner and the appropriate pronouns if you’re attending an LGBTQ+ wedding.
Example 1: Lifelong friend maid of honour speech
Introduction: Hello, everyone. Welcome to the wedding of [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]. You may have seen me earlier in the church—I was the one standing next to the bride bawling my eyes out. Yes, thank you. I’m glad you all saw it! My name is [your name], and I’m the very proud maid of honour.
Stories about the bride: Now, I know a maid of honour speech isn’t very traditional, but our girl [Bride’s name] isn’t very traditional. I should know—we’ve been friends since we were 3! From the moment we met in nursery, bonding over crayons and our mutual love of ‘The Tiger Who Came To Tea’, I knew she was going to be a special person in my life. Little did I know she’d grow into one of the most special people I’ve ever met. But that’s [Bride’s name] all over—full of surprises!
[Bride’s name] has always had this way of making people feel at home, whether that’s in her childhood bedroom with those questionable boy band posters, or in her grown-up home where she’s perfected the art of a cuppa and a chat. She’s the friend who remembers the little things, who shows up no matter what, and who somehow makes even the most mundane moments—like a Tesco run—feel like an adventure.
The couple’s love story: And that’s why I know [Groom’s name] is the luckiest man in the world. Because he’s married someone who brings magic into the everyday. When [Bride’s name] met [Groom’s name], I could see something shift in her. Now, don’t get me wrong—she’s always been the life and soul of any room, but with [Groom’s name], it was different. There was this lightness about her, a twinkle in her eye that wasn’t just from one of our late-night prosecco-fuelled chats. It was the kind of sparkle that only comes from finding your person.
The proposal: And I’m very proud to say, I was able to play a part in the proposal! [Bride’s name] doesn’t know this, but I actually knew about the engagement 6 months before it happened. I’m the one who slipped [Groom’s name] the ring size, helped him plan the perfect moment, and decorated the house ready for them to come home to! And I managed to keep it a secret! I was this close to cracking so many times, but seeing the joy and surprise on her face when [Groom’s name] finally popped the question made it all worth it.
Heartfelt advice: Now, I’m not married, and I don’t pretend to know loads about love. But, what I do know is this—love is about finding someone who sees you for who you truly are, and loves you not despite your quirks, but because of them. Who still thinks you’re beautiful even when your hair is greasy and you’ve fallen asleep spooning your 3am kebab again. [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name], somehow, you’ve found that in each other, and it’s such a joy to witness.
Toast to the couple: So, let’s raise a glass to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]. Here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and being legally bound to your best mate forever! Cheers.
Example 2: Childhood friend maid of honour speech
Introduction: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome. Welcome to the wedding of the year—the marriage of [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]. My name is [your name], and I’m the very proud, very excited maid of honour!
Stories about the bride: It’s been such a blessing to be beside you during this exciting process. I know just how much this day has meant to you. Right from when we were little girls, you were wandering around, pillowcase on your head, pretending to be a bride while I was forced to be your flower girl, the vicar, or some other random supporting character in our never-ending make-believe wedding ceremonies. Honestly, I’m pretty sure I performed more weddings than the local vicar back then!
But look at us now: the day has finally arrived for you to don a real wedding dress—with no pillowcase in sight—and for me to stand by your side, just as we’ve always imagined.
The couple’s love story: [Groom’s name], I hope you know what you’ve got yourself into here. When you marry [Bride’s name], you’re essentially marrying the lot of us. If you think it’s just the two of you, oh, bless your heart! Our little troop is now your little troop. But I promise, we’re mostly harmless—especially once we’ve had our morning cuppa.
The proposal: But, of course, you know that from the proposal. We all had to be involved, right down to [Bride’s name]’s little dog! The look on [Bride’s name]’s face when she realised what was happening was absolutely priceless—equal parts shock, excitement, and a tiny bit of concern for what the dog might have swallowed. But [Groom’s name], you handled it like a champ, which tells me everything I need to know about how you’ll manage whatever adventures life throws at you two.
Heartfelt advice: So now that the ring’s firmly on [Bride’s name]’s finger (and not down the dog’s throat!), you’re embarking on the biggest adventure of all—marriage. Truth be told, no one knows what the future holds, but here’s what I do know: the best relationships are built on laughter, compromise, and knowing that whatever life throws at you, it’s going to be ok, because you have each other.
Toast to the couple: So, if everyone would kindly raise their glasses (or mugs—no judgement here!), I’d like to propose a toast to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]: may you continue to be the ultimate power couple, leaning on each other’s strengths, laughing off each other’s weaknesses, and always making space for one more in your ever-growing, slightly bonkers troop (me!).
Example 3: Adventurous maid of honour speech
Introduction: Hello, everyone! Are you all having fun? My name is [your name] and I’m here to take the place of the traditional best man speech with a way more fun maid of honour speech!
Stories about the bride: Now, those of you who know [Bride’s name] know that she’s the ultimate travel buddy. Whether it’s roughing it in Australia or pure luxury in Palma, she’s a pro at planning the perfect trip that always fits the vibe. I remember when we decided on a last-minute trip to Barcelona—well, I say last-minute, but [Bride’s name] had it all mapped out on a colour-coded spreadsheet for about a month beforehand. Flights, accommodation, best tapas spots, and the cheeky rooftop bars—she’d sorted the lot before I’d even thought to book the time off work! But, that’s just who she is: the ultimate planner, making sure everything is perfect for everyone else. Is it any shock that this wedding is so beautiful?
The couple’s love story: [Groom’s name], you’re a lucky man. Not only have you found someone who’ll organise a trip down to the tiniest detail, but you’ve also snagged someone who’ll make every step of the journey feel like an adventure. And let’s be honest, there’s no one better to get lost with in a new city than [Bride’s name], because she’ll probably have three different maps and a back-up plan for the back-up plan tucked away in her handbag anyway!
Heartfelt advice: If you want my advice, go with it. Go with every crazy, wonderful plan she brings to the table. There will be days when plans change or situations don’t go the way you thought, but trust me, half the joy are the moments you never saw coming. Embrace every twist, every detour, and every spontaneous pit stop, because those are the moments that build a life filled with stories worth telling.
Toast to the couple: Now, if everyone would join me in raising a glass, let’s toast to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]: may your marriage be the greatest adventure of all. May you keep exploring, keep laughing, and keep leaning on each other—whether you’re halfway round the world or just snuggled up on the sofa. Here’s to a lifetime of perfectly ruined plans, exciting spontaneity, and the best travel companion anyone could ask for. Cheers!
Example 4: Nostalgic maid of honour speech
Introduction: Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for being here today. My name is [your name] and I’m the Bride’s bestie. Well, in fact, I’m more than that, I’m her childhood bestie. We’ve been glued at the hip since we were about 4, and I genuinely can’t recall a time in my life when she wasn’t right there, making everything brighter.
Stories about the bride: Growing up with [Bride’s name] was a never-ending series of sleepovers, secret handshakes, and endless giggles. If you needed a shoulder to cry on, a partner in crime for midnight snacks, or just someone to belt out cheesy pop songs with, she was your girl. I’ve lost count of the number of times we got into trouble for staying up way past our bedtime, plotting our futures and daydreaming about the amazing things we’d do one day.
The couple’s love story: I know one of [Bride’s name]’s dreams was always to get married. And now, standing here today, I just can’t believe that day has finally come. Here you both are, proving that dreams come true! I’m not at all surprised [Groom’s name] fell for you. Who wouldn’t fall for the girl who can light up a room just by walking into it, who cares so fiercely about the people she loves, and who always seems to know exactly when you need a good laugh or a comforting chat?
I’ve watched the two of you grow together from that very first ‘spark’ to now, and it’s been a privilege to witness. You balance each other so beautifully—[Groom’s name] bringing his calm and steady presence, and [Bride’s name] bringing her trademark sunshine and sparkle. It’s like you were made for each other, and I have no doubt that this is the start of a lifetime of shared dreams, cosy movie nights, and inside jokes only you two will ever understand.
Toast to the couple: So, to my best friend, my partner in crime since day one. Thank you for letting me be a part of this wonderful journey. I couldn’t be more proud—or more emotional! And to [Groom’s name], thank you for loving her the way she truly deserves.
To Mr and Mrs [Surname]. Cheers!
Example 5: University pals maid of honour speech
Introduction: Friends, family, people who claim to know the bride and groom but are really just here for the cake—welcome. Welcome to the happiest day of [Groom’s name]’s life, because he’s marrying the legend that is [Bride’s name].
Stories about the bride: Now, I met [Bride’s name] when we were both at Exeter. We met during freshers, initially during a foam party in Tiger Tiger where she let me borrow her eyebrow pencil, and then rekindled our friendship in the subsequent netball social the next night. After that, we were just completely inseparable. Whether it was being handcuffed together during a netball social (don’t ask) or bonding over our mutual love of cheesy chips at 2am, we’ve gone through the ups and downs of uni life side by side.
And let’s be honest, we’ve all been there—dragging ourselves to lectures on three hours’ sleep because we got carried away at Revs the night before, or attempting to nurse a next-level hangover with a questionable bacon bap from the campus café. But throughout all of that, [Bride’s name] was the one person who could make the madness feel like the absolute best time of our lives.
The couple’s love story: Or so I thought. Until, of course, my darling girl proved me wrong by meeting [Groom’s name]. Turns out, there was a life beyond post-lecture pints and flailing attempts at student cooking. [Groom’s name] strolled in, armed with charm, a great sense of humour, and—crucially—the ability to keep up with [Bride’s name] on a big night out. Suddenly, our dear [Bride’s name] was no longer just conquering netball tournaments and last-minute essay deadlines—she was also head-over-heels, tagging you along on all our shenanigans. And to be fair, [Groom’s name], you slotted right in.
The proposal: I always knew you two were going to last. But, this really got real when [Groom’s name] told me he was going to propose. He confided in me, practically buzzing with nerves and excitement, and let me tell you, I couldn’t have been prouder. From the moment he told me, I was 100% behind this plan—because if anyone deserves that perfect rom-com proposal, it’s our [Bride’s name].
Heartfelt advice: And now, as you take this next step together, I’d like to offer a little bit of advice. I don’t pretend to be an expert in love ([Bride’s name] will attest to that!), but what I do know is that it’s not about what you say—but how you say it. It’s not about what you do—but why you do it. It’s about the small moments that often go unnoticed, and the intention behind every smile, every hug, and every little cup of tea you make each other in the morning. Sure, grand gestures are lovely—but it’s the quiet acts of kindness, patience, and understanding that will carry you through the good times and the bad.
Toast to the couple: So here we are, on the biggest day of your lives—no sticky dance floors in sight, but I’m sure we can re-create the mayhem if we try hard enough at the reception! To my uni pal, who’s now found her perfect match: thank you for all the unforgettable memories, the endless nights out, the hungover brunches, and the countless hours we spent laughing at absolutely nothing. I’m sure marriage will bring its own brand of chaos, but if anyone can handle it, it’s you two. To Mr and Mrs [Surname]!
Example 6: Soul sisters maid of honour speech
Introduction: Hello, everyone. I know, I know—another speech! But I promise, I’ll keep it short. Not just for your benefit, but because I’m not convinced I’ll be able to get through this without crying. Because, you see, [Bride’s name] is so much more than just a friend to me. I know a lot of you know that I’ve struggled with my mental health, and [Bride’s name] has been the light at the end of my tunnel in so many situations. Today, I’d like to pay tribute to this angel, and pass the baton to [Groom’s name], the luckiest man in the world.
Stories about the bride: [Bride’s name] is one of those rare souls who never stops believing in you, even when you can’t believe in yourself. She’s the friend who will show up in her pyjamas—arms full of chocolate, DVDs, and tissues—if you so much as hint at having a bad day. She’s the one who laughs with you at the most ridiculous things, and cries with you when life feels overwhelming. Our friendship has spanned dance parties in our pyjamas, late-night heart-to-hearts, and countless cups of tea (and some decidedly questionable cocktails back in the day). She’s been my anchor, my confidante, and my biggest cheerleader through it all.
That’s why seeing [Bride’s name] standing here today, looking radiant and bursting with love, makes my heart feel like it could burst too.
The couple’s love story: [Groom’s name], you really are the luckiest man alive. From the moment we met, I knew there was something different about you. I know it’s natural to be suspicious of your friend’s boyfriends, but I never had that feeling with you. From the get-go, I just knew you were the real deal. You made [Bride’s name] laugh in that throw-her-head-back kind of way, listened to her ramblings about her day, and genuinely cherished every little quirk that makes her who she is. I saw that. I really saw it.
As I pass the baton of “official protector and cheerleader” from me to you, I do so knowing our girl is in the very best hands. You two bring out the best in each other, and I can’t wait to watch your story unfold, safe in the knowledge that your love is built on kindness, respect, and that unmistakable spark that makes you both beam every time you lock eyes.
Toast to the couple: And so, everyone, please raise your glasses with me. Here’s to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]: may your marriage be filled with endless moments of laughter, honest conversations, and an unwavering belief in each other—even when life gets tough. Thank you for letting me witness such a beautiful love story. I couldn’t be happier, or prouder. To Mr and Mrs [Surname]!
Example 7: Sister from another Mister maid of honour speech
Introduction: Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, welcome, welcome. Welcome to the best day of Mr and Mrs [Surname]’s life! For those of you who don’t know me, my name is [your name], and I’m the maid of honour!
Stories about the bride: Now, I know a lot of you already know this. But, [Bride’s name] and I have been friends since we were tiny babies, and that’s because our dads were best friends. We were raised basically as siblings, and I can’t imagine life without her. We’ve shared everything, from clothes to secrets and even chicken pox! Remember when we topped and tailed the same bed with big mittens on our hands so we couldn’t scratch?
But that’s just how it’s always been with [Bride’s name] and me: sharing everything, from our biggest joys to our itchiest miseries. We were practically sisters then, and we still are now—only with fewer mittens and slightly fewer spots.
The couple’s love story: But, all good things must come to an end, and when one door closes, another opens. [Groom’s name], I couldn’t be happier to welcome you into our big, extended family. From the moment I met you, I knew you’d fit right in. You saw the silly side of her that I’d known for years, and you brought out this beautiful glow in her that I’d never seen before. It was like watching my best friend—my sister—find a missing piece she didn’t even know was gone. You two just work. You click. It’s like you’ve always known each other, and it makes my heart swell with joy (and maybe just a touch of healthy jealousy, I won’t lie!).
But truly, [Groom’s name], welcome to the madness. And let me tell you—now that you’re in, there’s no turning back!
The proposal: Thing is, I don’t need to tell you that. After you asked her dad for permission to propose, you then asked my dad, and then me, so I know you know the score! And if that doesn’t show your dedication, [Groom’s name], I don’t know what does!
Toast to the couple: With that being said, if everyone would please raise a glass with me: here’s to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]. May your marriage be filled with the warmth of family, the comfort of old memories, and the thrill of making new ones. And may your home be every bit as full of laughter, love, and slightly ridiculous stories, as ours has always been.
Cheers to you both—and welcome to the madness!
Example 8: Actual sisters maid of honour speech
Introduction: Friends, family… people I’ve never met before, welcome. Welcome to the happiest day of my baby sister’s life. So rarely in life do you get the opportunity to be a maid of honour, and even less so do you get the chance to watch your little sister grow from a cheeky, wide-eyed toddler into this stunning, confident bride before our very eyes. Yet here we are—on the day she’s dreamt about since she was prancing around in Mum’s high heels, insisting that they fitted perfectly (they really didn’t!).
Stories about the bride: Growing up with [Bride’s name] was an adventure from day one. Whether we were sneaking downstairs at 6am to watch cartoons, sharing a room and fighting over who got the top bunk, or competing over who could devour the last chocolate biscuit (guilty!), she was always my built-in playmate, partner-in-crime, and best friend. She’s the one person who knows every embarrassing story from my teenage years and still wants to be seen with me in public. That’s true love, if you ask me!
The couple’s love story: Or, so I thought. Until I met [Grooms’ name], and then I saw what true love was. When I saw the way he looked at her—like she was the most important person in the world—I realised I’d been completely outdone in the ‘loving [Bride’s name]’ department.
[Groom’s name], you slotted right into our bonkers family as though you’d always been part of it, and for that, we’ll be forever grateful. You embrace her quirks, celebrate her achievements (big or small), and you’ve even learned how to survive her occasional hangry moods. (Still need tips on how you do that).
The proposal: [Groom’s name] also really proved how well he knows [Bride’s name] with that proposal. He pulled out all the stops—got the timing right, picked the perfect spot, and even managed to incorporate her favourite flowers and special song. Honestly, I’m still in awe of how he pulled it all off without her cottoning on. It was like something straight out of a rom-com—only better, because it was real, it was them.
And now, here we all are, witnessing a moment that’s been in the making ever since my sister was toddling around the living room insisting she’d marry a prince one day. [Groom’s name] might not have a crown (yet), but he does have the heart of gold our girl deserves—and that’s more than good enough for me.
Toast to the couple: Now, if everyone would kindly raise their glasses with me. Here’s to the bride and groom: may your marriage be as full of laughter as our childhood was, as warm as the home we grew up in, and as boundless as the love that’s brought you together today.
[Groom’s name] I hope you enjoy growing old with her as much as I enjoyed growing up with her. Cheers!
Example 9: Dancing queens maid of honour speech
Introduction: Goodness me, doesn’t time fly? It feels like only yesterday that [Bride’s name] and I were living it up in ballet class, learning all the skills that turned us into the dance floor terrors we are today. For those of you who don’t know me, my name is [your name], and I’ve known the bride since we were in our very first tutus!
Stories about the bride: Now, what can I tell you about [Bride’s name]? Well, she knows how to cut a rug, that’s for sure! Back when we were kiddies in the dance studio, I quickly learnt three things about [Bride’s name]: she’s got boundless energy, a laugh that can be heard from the back row, and a determined streak like no other. Seriously, that girl would practise her pirouettes until she was positively dizzy—though I’m convinced half the time she just liked spinning until she fell over. But, that’s my girl [Bride’s name], a determination that doesn’t quit.
The couple’s love story: That’s why I knew that when she met [Groom’s name], it was all over for him. I think it’s safe to say that [Bride’s name] pursued [Groom’s name] the way a leopard pursues a wildebeest! He never stood a chance. But honestly, once you’ve been subjected to [Bride’s name]’s signature combination of charm, relentless dedication, and that million-watt smile, it’s impossible to run. Before we knew it, [Groom’s name] was twirling around the living room with her, fully embracing her impromptu dance parties. A dancing queen in training!
Heartfelt advice: If you want my advice, take her lead. [Bride’s name] has this magical way of turning the mundane into the marvellous—whether it’s a spontaneous Friday night kitchen dance party or a quick boogie down the aisles of Tesco, she’ll keep you dancing magically through life.
Toast to the couple: Now, if everyone would kindly raise their glasses (or strike a pose if you’re feeling fancy): here’s to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]. The new dancing King and Queen of [your town]!
Example 10: Partners in crime maid of honour speech
Introduction: *Tap on the mic* Is this thing on? I’m joking, guys. I heard all your speeches! Welcome, welcome, welcome, everyone, to the best day of [Bride’s name]’s life and the open mic you wish you never attended. My name is [your name] and I have the absolute pleasure of being [Bride’s name]’s partner in crime. Well, I say that—it’s usually me tagging along while she drags me into another one of her brilliant ideas.
Stories about the bride: I’ve lost count of the number of times we’ve ended up in ridiculous predicaments together, whether that’s getting hopelessly lost on a countryside walk (despite the very clear signage), or convincing ourselves that we should try that questionable pub karaoke at 1am. Yet here we are, still in one piece, and now she’s roped in [Groom’s name] to join the fun!
For those who don’t know [Bride’s name], let me give you a quick rundown: she’s the one who’ll tell you, “Oh, it’ll be fine, don’t overthink it,” right before you both climb through a random fence into what turns out to be private property. She’s also the person you want by your side when life gets tough—because no matter how sticky the situation, [Bride’s name] comes armed with laughter, loyalty, and a bag of snacks big enough to feed the entire crew. Seriously, this woman knows how to cheer you up and talk you into an adventure all in the same breath!
The couple’s love story: Then along came [Groom’s name]. I could tell right away that he was the real deal—he kept up with her shenanigans, and still decided to stick around. From sneaking out to watch the sunrise (and realising you’d parked in the wrong car park) to that spontaneous weekend away (where neither of you checked if the hotel had heating—whoops!), you two have formed a formidable team. And I must say, I’m a little jealous—after all these years of being [Bride’s name]’s accomplice, you just stroll in and sweep her off her feet!
The proposal: Having said that, you know how to plan a trick or two, don’t you [Groom’s name]? The proposal was nothing short of spectacular. And what’s more, yours truly got to be involved! I’m sure you’ve all heard the story, but proposing on the very spot where you first met, surrounded by your nearest and dearest, was an absolute stroke of genius. Of course, [Bride’s name] still managed to look gorgeous despite all the frantic flapping and hush-hush whispering going on behind her back. And when she finally realised what was happening—well, I don’t think I’ve ever seen her speechless, but you managed it!
Toast to the couple: Now, if everyone would kindly raise a glass with me. To Mr and Mrs [Surname]. May your lives together be filled with as many spontaneous escapades, hilarious hiccups, and triumphant escapes as your relationship has been so far. And may you always find your way back, even when the signs are very clearly pointing in the opposite direction!
Cheers, my loves!
Example 11: Short and sweet maid of honour speech
Introduction: Hi, everyone. My name is [your name], and I have the great honour of being the maid of honour today! I’m sure you’ll excuse me in keeping this short—I’m not usually one for speeches. But, when your bestie makes the biggest commitment of her life, you have to say a few words, right?
Stories about the bride: [Bride’s name] is my absolute rock, my partner-in-chaos, and the very reason I can’t stay quiet today. We met on the first day of year 7 in French class (seriously, who gives you French as your first lesson of year 7?). We sat next to each other, bonded, and have just been inseparable ever since. She’s the kind of friend who’ll give you her last Jaffa Cake without a second thought—and if you know her, you know that’s true devotion.
The couple’s love story: When she met [Groom’s name], I saw her face light up in a way it never had before. He matched her kindness, took her hand, and promised to make her laugh every single day. From that moment, I knew they were meant to be. [Groom’s name], I couldn’t ask for a better man for her. You’re kind, funny, devoted, and just a little mischievous—perfect for our girl. I couldn’t be prouder to be passing the baton on to you.
Heartfelt advice: I don’t pretend to be an expert on love, but I am an expert on [Bride’s name], and if I can share something with you, it’s this: her favourite flowers are tulips (especially yellow ones); her one and only vice are jaffa cakes; her biggest fear is being alone in the dark; and, most importantly, she thrives on laughter. So, keep the jokes coming and the light switched on, and you’ll be golden!
Toast to the couple: Right, that’s enough out of me. Let’s raise our glasses to our lovely bride and groom. Cheers, you two legends! May this be the start of your greatest adventure yet.
Example 12: LGBTQ+ maid of honour speech
Introduction: Welcome all! Welcome to the happiest day of my best friend’s life. I know, I know— a maid of honour speech isn’t very traditional, but (and I don’t know if you can tell by the rainbow flags) this wedding isn’t very traditional, so I’m sure you’ll excuse me in wanting to stand up here and tell you exactly why [Bride’s name] is so incredibly fabulous.
Stories about the bride: We’ve been through all sorts together—she took me to my first Pride, has picked me up countless times when I couldn’t straighten my own crown, and hosted way too many late-night Netflix marathons when we should have been doing literally anything else. She’s the rainbow in your life when everything else feels grey, there to remind you that there is a place for you in this world, no matter who you love or how you identify. If that’s not proof of how amazing she is, I don’t know what is.
The couple’s love story: And then, along came [Partner’s name], and I knew they were a match made in heaven. They clicked instantly, bonding over a mutual love of Drag Race, bottomless brunches, and the superpower of making each other feel valued and loved, no matter what. Isn’t that the dream? And what made it all the more special was that [Partner’s name] not only embraced [Bride’s name], but loved all of us as part of their entourage too! I mean, how could you not? We are pretty great!
But, in the immortal words of the Spice Girls, “If you wanna be my lover, you gotta get with my friends. Make it last forever, friendship never ends”! And that’s exactly what [Partner’s name] did—threw themselves wholeheartedly into this brilliant, bonkers, bedazzled family of friends. They took us all on, and did so with a smile, a sparkle, and the occasional sassy comeback (which, let’s be honest, is always appreciated).
Heartfelt advice: Now, if I may be so bold as to offer a bit of wisdom on love (and really, who better than a seasoned Netflix marathoner to dispense life advice?). Love is like a good Pride march—it can be loud, unapologetic, and occasionally leave you with a mild hangover. But it’s also about showing up for each other, being unafraid to hold hands in public, and celebrating the unique, colourful spark in each other that the world may not always see. You two have that in spades, and I couldn’t be prouder—or more envious of—the beautiful journey you’re embarking on.
Toast to the couple: So if everyone would kindly raise a glass—because, let’s be honest, we can’t have a wedding speech without a toast—here’s to [Bride’s name] and [Partner’s name]. May you continue to sing (sometimes off-key) in the shower, dance when no one’s watching, and remind the rest of us that real love is worth celebrating every single day.
The bottom line on maid of honour speeches
The maid of honour speech is a beautiful and memorable part of your bestie’s big day. While crafting a great maid of honour speech can be tricky, with careful planning, a few funny stories, and plenty of love, you’ll write a beautiful and heartfelt speech.
Be sure to share plenty of stories about the bride and groom, describe the proposal, and toast to the happy couple. Make sure you consider the audience when sharing any funny stories, let your personality shine through, and get plenty of practice in the run-up to the big day!
If you’re still feeling nervous, we’re here to help you. Sign up to Bridebook today, and let’s dive into the secrets of creating a speech that’s not only funny and beautiful but also straight from the heart. You’ve got this!
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