An engagement party is a brilliant way to celebrate your engagement and surround yourself with your family and friends. Whether you choose to have a formal bash at a countryside hotel or an intimate barbecue in your back garden, everyone will be there to celebrate your engagement and talk about your future wedding plans.
As part of the celebrations, it’s common for there to be speeches at an engagement party to thank everyone for coming. It’s also likely that other members of your family, friends and future wedding party will want to say a few words as well, and offer you love and encouragement for the journey you’re about to take.
But what do you say in an engagement party speech? Should it be long? Funny? Lovey-dovey? Who should give a speech and do you have to give one even if you don’t want to?
In this post, we’re going to dive into everything you need to know about how to write the perfect engagement party speech so you can approach your speech with confidence and say exactly the right things.
Traditionally, you should be prepared to give a short speech at your engagement party. This could be one of you or both of you, depending on who feels confident enough to stand up and speak in front of your family and friends.
If someone is hosting the party, such as the father of the bride, then it’s also common for them to thank everyone for coming.
Depending on your guests, anyone else is also more than welcome to say a few words. This could be any of your parents, a member of your wedding party (such as the best man or maid of honour), your siblings or your friends. There are no hard and fast rules at an engagement party, so if anyone would like to wish you well and congratulate you, it should be encouraged.
Do you have to give a speech at your engagement party?
While you don’t have to give a speech at your engagement party, it’s recommended that you do as it’s a way to thank all of your guests for coming. But, this can depend on the type of engagement party you’ve chosen to have. If you’re hosting a formal party with a three-course meal and a DJ and dancing, then your guests will probably expect a speech or two. If you have a games night at home with a few pizzas and drinks, it’ll probably not be expected – but it still can’t hurt to take a moment to thank everyone for being there.
What if you’re too nervous to speak at an engagement party?
If you’re really not happy to give a speech at your engagement party, then there are no rules stating that you have to. There’s always the option to have someone do it on your behalf, such as a parent or your best man.
If you can find the courage to do so, your guests would love it if you could give a very short speech. It doesn’t have to be a 20-minute stand-up routine, just 30 seconds to thank everyone for being there to celebrate with you.
Again, unlike at a wedding, there are no real rules for the right time to give a speech at an engagement party. It all comes down to the type of party you’re throwing. If it’s informal, you might want to give a quick thanks to your guests early in the night once everyone’s arrived. If it’s formal, either right before or right after dinner works best, as everyone is gathered together at the same time.
Is an engagement party speech the same as a wedding speech?
Engagement party speeches and wedding speeches have a lot of similarities, but they’re not exactly the same. Read our article on wedding speech examples to see the sort of thing they include. There are a few subtle differences that mean they’re not exactly interchangeable. These include:
The tone is more relaxed and informal in an engagement party speech. You may not even choose to write a speech, and instead speak from the heart to thank your guests for coming.
Wedding speeches are often a lot more sentimental and emotional.
Unlike a wedding speech, you might not choose to talk about your relationship at all and save that for the wedding. However, if others choose to speak, don’t be surprised if they talk about you a lot.
Engagement party speeches are short, sharp and to the point, whereas wedding speeches can last a comparatively long time.
An engagement party speech can be whatever you want it to be. If you want to tell a few jokes and make things super light-hearted, go for it. If you only want to say a couple of sentences, that’s absolutely fine too.
If other guests decide to speak, you may also find that there’s a range of tones used. The best man will often try to entertain everyone with jokes, while a mum will usually be a little more sentimental.
If you want to give a speech that’s funny but you’re not sure where to start, think about anecdotes you could tell about how the two of you met. Keep humour light and make sure to avoid too many in-jokes. Self-deprecating humour can also be a lot of fun and get big laughs from your guests. Just remember to keep it positive and have a balance of sincerity and appreciation, always bringing it back to how grateful you are that everyone’s there.
Unlike a wedding speech, which could be as long as 10 minutes (or more, depending on the speaker) an engagement party speech is usually far shorter. Generally, you wouldn’t want to speak for more than a couple of minutes so you can save most of what you have to say for the wedding itself. The main point you should get across is how glad you are that your guests could make it to be there to celebrate with you.
What should you include in an engagement party speech?
Depending on who’s giving an engagement party speech, there’s different information you might want to include:
You’re giving a speech at your own engagement party:
Thank everyone for coming and how much it means that they’re there to celebrate with you and your new fiance.
Acknowledge your loved ones and the loved ones of your fiance.
You might want to talk about the proposal and how it felt. Highlight anything funny that might have happened and make a joke out of it.
Reference how you feel about your partner and how you’re excited to take this next step in your relationship together.
Talk about what you have in store for your wedding. If you haven’t secured a date yet, keep this part relatively vague.
Raise your glass and thank your guests again for being there.
You’re giving a speech at someone else’s engagement party:
Introduce yourself and how you know the couple.
Congratulate the couple and how excited and happy you are for them.
Share something personal, such as an anecdote. This is a great opportunity to be funny, but keep things as positive as you can.
Offer compliments about the strength of the couple and how great they are together.
Express your support for the couple and offer to help them should they need it throughout their wedding planning journey.
Acknowledge friends and family, and thank everyone for being there.
Wish the couple luck for the future and raise a toast.
Whether you’re giving a speech at your own engagement party or someone else’s, make sure you keep it light, short and you speak from the heart. Make sure you keep most of your material and best jokes for the wedding itself. After all, the engagement party is a warm-up for the main event!
Tips for writing the perfect engagement party speech
Before you sit down to think about what to say in your engagement party speech, think about these tips:
Don’t forget to let the guests know who you are. There might be some guests you haven’t met which can be quite confusing for them.
Don’t be afraid to be truthful and honest. You might not want to shed a tear in front of people, but it’s about two people falling in love and getting engaged – tears are practically expected.
Don’t outstay your welcome – no one expects an engagement party speech to go on longer than two minutes or so.
Make notes about what you want to say, and learn your speech by heart. That way, it’ll come across as more natural and not like you’re reciting lines.
Practice, practice, practice.
Avoid too many in-jokes. If you have to include one, try to give the rest of your guests some context.
Ready to start writing your engagement party speech but need a little more inspiration to help you get started? Here are a couple of engagement party speech examples you can use as a starting block for your own.
Example 1: the humorous yet heartfelt one (for those who don’t mind public speaking):
Good evening everyone. I’m Jonathan, and on behalf of my beautiful new fiance, Rebecca and I, I’d like to thank you all for coming to our engagement party. We’re so happy you could all be here tonight to celebrate with us. You all get to spend the next few hours in my company, which is a shame for you all, but you can at least be thankful you’re not Rebecca, who now gets to spend the next fifty plus years with me.
For those of you who don’t know, I proposed to Rebecca in Paris, in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower. Yes, cliché, I know, but by that point, I’d eaten so many pastries and cheese that I was thankful to get down on one knee for a rest more than anything.
Rebecca, I just wanted to say that I’m so excited about our future together. You saying yes was one of the greatest moments of my life and I know what we have in store will continuously top it. We’ve already started browsing venues and you’ve already made what will be a long and difficult challenge so much easier by just being yourself. You make me a better person and I can’t wait to undertake this journey together.
Thank you so much, everyone, for being here, it means the world to Rebecca and me. So, I’d like to raise a glass to say you’re all fantastic and we both love you all very much. Cheers!
Example 2: the short and sweet one (for those not fond of public speaking):
I just want to take a moment, on behalf of myself and my new fiance, to thank you all for coming tonight. We really appreciate everyone taking the time to come and celebrate our engagement with us. So I’d just like to raise a glass in appreciation for you all being here tonight. Thank you!
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Have you ever wondered who does the toast at a wedding? Who’s allowed to stand up and share their anecdotes, laughter, and special memories? Who has the honour of raising a glass and toasting to the future of the newlyweds? Well, you’re in the right place, because we’re unraveling the beautiful mystery of wedding speeches.
Wedding speeches can be as customisable as your big day. Of course, there are traditional orders and makers of speeches. But that doesn’t mean you need to stick to those! In this post, we explore who makes different wedding toasts, who can make them in their absence, and some tips on what to include in a wedding toast or speech.
A wedding speech is a tribute or toast made during a wedding reception. Wedding speeches are usually made by the wedding party. For example, the father of the bride, the groom, and the best man. But they can be made by anyone close to the happy couple.
Usually, you’ll be asked to make a wedding speech — you shouldn’t just stand up and make one! Being invited to give a speech at a wedding is an honor, and it marks the significance of your relationship with the couple. It’s a chance to express your love, share memorable stories, and offer your well-wishes for their future together.
Who does a speech at a wedding?
Check out this cheat sheet to see who does a speech at a wedding and in what order
Many people make speeches at weddings. Some are traditional, like the father of the bride, and some are planned but unconventional, like the maid of honour. In this section, we explore who should make different toasts and give you an idea of what to include.
A wedding’s welcome speech is a short address made before any of the other wedding speeches. It usually welcomes the guests to the reception, lets guests know what the order of speeches will be, and how long they can expect the speeches to take. It might also acknowledge the guests’ efforts in coming to the wedding, a thank you for attending the celebration, or a few thoughts on love and commitment.
The first speech at a wedding is usually the father of the bride speech. This speech is usually a mix of pride and nostalgia, and is traditionally made by the father of the bride. But it can also be made by a father-like figure in the bride’s life. More on this later.
The first speech at a wedding is usually designed to welcome everyone to the reception, and sets the tone for the other speeches. It should include an introduction to who you are, some words about love, and a thank you to all the people who made this day possible. For example, the venue staff, caterers, wedding party, and more.
The father of the bride speech is usually performed by the father of the bride. However, depending on the family dynamic or circumstances, the father of the bride speech can also be made by:
The bride’s uncle
The bride’s step-father
The bride’s sibling
A father figure to the bride (for example, a godfather)
There may be many reasons why the father of the bride isn’t able to make a speech on the big day. All that matters is that whoever steps in to deliver the speech does so with love, sincerity, and a deep connection to the bride.
The groom’s speech is traditionally made by the groom. However, if the groom is feeling shy or there’s any reason why the groom can’t make the toast, the groom’s toast can also be made by:
The bride
The father of the groom
The mother of the groom
A trusted family member
The groom’s toast is supposed to be an address on behalf of the happy couple. But if this isn’t possible, the person making the groom’s toast should focus on thanking everyone for their contributions, talking about how special the day has been, and expressing their well-wishes for the future.
The best man’s speech is usually made by the best man. However, if this isn’t possible, or if the groom doesn’t have a best man, the third speech in the order of speeches can be made by:
The maid of honour
The bride
The groomsmen
The groom’s sibling
The best man’s toast is intended to be a funny and light-hearted speech, full of jokes and anecdotes about the groom and stories of adventures over the years. However, it can also be a toast to friendship, to the couple’s love story, or an expression of your well-wishes for their future together.
The maid of honour speech is usually made by the bride’s maid of honour on the big day. But it’s becoming more and more common for brides not to pick a maid of honour. As a result, this speech can be made by:
One of the bridesmaids
The bride
The bride’s sibling
The bride’s mother
The maid of honour speech is a lovely but untraditional wedding speech that usually includes anecdotes about wedding planning, special memories of the bride, and support for the couple’s future. It’s a chance to express gratitude for being a part of the bride’s journey and to share in the joy of her special day.
Wedding toasts are more than just a tradition; they’re moments of genuine emotion, humour, and connection that add depth and warmth to a wedding celebration. Wedding toasts are made by a range of people during the reception. However, the order of speeches and who makes the toasts isn’t set in stone — in fact, they can be as customisable as your wedding day.
All that really matters is that the speeches are filled with love, support, and guidance on the happy couple’s big day. Whether you’re sticking to tradition or shaking things up, you’ll need some handy guidance on what to include in a wedding speech and some handy wedding speech ideas. If you’re stuck on where to start, we have a whole host of wedding speech examples to inspire you.
It cements you as a key figure in a person’s life. After all, they’ll always remember the people who made the effort to speak at their wedding. As a result, you want to honour the couple by doing them justice, as well as delight and entertain everyone in the room.
Think of this as your chance to add an extra bit of sparkle to this extraordinary day. So, take a deep breath, stand up straight, and get ready to make this moment a cherished memory for the newlyweds.
In this post, we explore the best wedding speech ideas for each crucial person in the wedding party. That includes the traditional father of the bride, groom, and best man. We also take a peek at non-traditional wedding speeches like the bride’s speech, bridesmaid’s speech, maid of honour’s speech, and sister of the bride’s speech.
A wedding speech is a speech, toast, or dedication made during a wedding reception. They’re usually made after the wedding breakfast but before the dessert. This not only breaks up the meal nicely but also prevents the guests from getting too hungry!
Wedding speeches can be short, funny, touching, or tear-jerking and usually include anecdotes about the happy couple, some guidance on marriage, quotes about love, and a lot of thank-yous. They’re generally between 5 and 7 minutes long. However, they can be as long as necessary to get your point across.
No matter the length, every wedding speech should start with an introduction and end with a toast to the health and happiness of the newlyweds.
Here are some key elements to include in your wedding speech:
Introduce yourself. Though most people at the wedding will already know you, introducing yourself at the start of a speech is a great way to kick off the proceedings. It can help you feel more confident and set the tone of your speech.
How you met the happy couple. You can then move on to explaining how long you’ve known the newlyweds and how you met them. Are you a sister, brother, an old school friend, or partner in crime?
Loving advice. Even if you’re single, feel free to share your thoughts and advice about love. If you don’t feel confident doing this, consider using some quotes about love, shortening a wedding reading, or even using your favourite song lyrics!
Light teasing. Light teasing is to be expected during a wedding speech. It adds a touch of humour and warmth to the celebration, making everyone feel even closer to the bride and groom. However, it’s important to remember that the key word here is ‘light.’ The goal is to bring smiles, not embarrassment, to the faces of the newlyweds. If you’re not sure whether a joke will land properly, consider running it past the couple first. Alternatively, leave it out and pick another story!
A toast. Every good speech should end with a hearty toast. Raise your glass high, wish the lovebirds well, and drink to their shared future.
If you’re unsure what to include in your wedding speech, we’ve got your back. Check out our guide on wedding toast suggestions to see how your role in the celebrations will impact what you should include.
A light-hearted warning to their new partner. This type of gentle teasing should be reserved for fathers and children who share a similar sense of humour. If that’s you, you could consider warning your child’s new partner about how untidy they are, how messy their hair is in the morning, or any other unique quirks they possess. As long as the ribbing stays good-natured and light-hearted, you’re good to go.
Your pearls of wisdom. As the father of the bride, you’ll no doubt have some salient advice for your child and their new partner on their wedding day. Share what you’ve learned about love, life, and commitment on your journeys around the sun. If you’re at a loss, a poem about love never goes amiss.
Tell them how proud you are. Finally, tell the bride how proud you are of them. Tell them how you always knew they were someone special, how much you love them, and how genuinely lucky their new partner is. Trust us — there won’t be a dry eye in the room!
The groom’s speech traditionally goes second in the order of speeches. The groom’s speech should be an ode to your new partner and a big thank you to everyone who’s helped plan (and finance) your big day. Be sure to include:
A big thank you to everyone. Planning a wedding is no easy task. There’s so much to think about and so much to pay for! Every person sitting with you on your wedding day has played a part in your love story, so thank them for that. Thank your parents for all their support, thank your parent’s parents for welcoming you into their family, thank your friends, your parent’s friends, the guests, and finally, the staff of the venue. After all, without their hard work, this day wouldn’t be possible!
Tell your partner how much they mean to you. You should then turn your attention to your new partner. Tell them how beautiful they look, that you’re the luckiest person alive, and thank them for their support. Don’t be afraid to lay it on thick — everyone will love it!
Mention those who couldn’t make it. There are always people who can’t attend a wedding. Be that because they have other plans or because they’ve passed away, it’s a nice gesture to acknowledge the love and support of those who can’t be there on your big day.
Best man speeches are intended to be upbeat, funny, and memorable. Your role as the best man isn’t just to stand beside the groom on their big day, but also to share in the celebration by delivering a speech that reflects the joy of the occasion. As a result, your speech should include:
Stag-do shenanigans. This is the perfect time to share how drunk the groom was on his stag-do. Maybe share how you had them dress up as a smurf, the games you played, and the morning-after fry-up. Just remember — his family, friends, and work colleagues will all be there. So, if you’re not sure about a joke, give it a miss!
The time the groom told you about their new partner. You were likely one of the first people to hear about the groom’s new relationship. Meet-cutes or stories about when they told you their new partner was ‘the one’ always go down well. Share exactly what they told you when they decided they were going to propose, and watch the smiles light up around the room.
The adventures you’ve shared. Share some of your favourite memories from your adventures with the groom. You’ve no doubt shared a whole host of unforgettable experiences, so share those with your invited guests. Again —- keep it clean, keep it appropriate.
The bride’s speech is an untraditional but beautiful wedding speech. There’s no better feeling than taking a few minutes on your big day to share your love for your new partner and how grateful you are for everyone’s love and support throughout the process.
Because the bride’s speech is untraditional, there are no expectations! However, we recommend you include:
A toast to yourself! Wedding planning is hard. But, you’ve made it to the other side, and now you get to enjoy your big day! Raise a toast to yourself for all your hard work, planning efforts, and dedication. Your commitment to creating a beautiful and memorable wedding day is truly commendable, and it deserves to be celebrated. Cheers to you; you did it!
Thank the hidden supporters. There are a lot of hidden supporters who go into wedding prep. For example, your hairdresser, your make-up artist, your florist, your wedding planner, and many more. Thank their efforts in making you look and feel so beautiful and all the support and guidance they’ve given you along the way.
A personal story from wedding planning. There are lots of ‘behind the scenes’ moments of wedding planning that will never get the recognition they deserve. But, this is your chance! Time to share what your ‘plan B’ was in case of rain, the outfit you almost chose, or any unexpected mishaps that turned into cherished memories.
As the maid of honour, your speech should be heartfelt, personal, and reflective of your relationship with the bride. Consider including:
The couple’s love story. You’re in the fortunate position of having been able to witness the happy couple’s love story. You’ve probably been there since the very beginning, knew every detail about the proposal before it even happened, and went to every bridal fitting. Share this with the guests! They’ll want to know every detail about how the bride knew their partner was the one. Tell them about the first-date jitters, the third-date butterflies, or when they told you they’d met the one.
Meaningful lyrics. Share the bride’s favourite meaningful song lyrics as part of your speech. Not only will this act as a fun inside joke between the two of you, but it will beautifully capture the essence of the couple’s relationship.
The proposal. The proposal story is always a crowd-pleaser. You probably had the inside scoop on what was happening, so share the part you played when the question was popped. Now that the big day has arrived, you can spill the beans on the sneaky communications, how the ring size was discovered, and how they told you the news.
Bridesmaid speech ideas
Another non-traditional wedding speech, a bridesmaid’s speech could include the following:
Compliments for the bride. If you’re not sure what to include, complimenting the bride will always go down well. Compliment their choice of outfit, tell them how radiant they were walking down the aisle, or even talk about how fun the hen-do was. There are a ton of options for wedding day compliments, all of which will add warmth and love to your speech.
Support and well-wishes. If you’re at the wedding, you’ve probably already been a big support and source of guidance throughout the couple’s relationship. However, your candid advice, guidance, and dreams for their future on their big day will be well-received and can bulk out the body of your speech.
The getting-ready process. Getting ready for a wedding is one of the best parts of the day. Share all the funny stories of overflowing prosecco, eyelashes that wouldn’t stick, and the special moment you first saw the bride in their outfit.
Sister of the bride speech ideas
The sister of the bride’s speech could also be a maid of honour speech. However, it doesn’t have to be.
Instead, focus on the sister of the bride’s speech as being a loving and nostalgic toast from the bride’s oldest friend. You could include:
Stories from their childhood. You’re in the unique position of having been present during the bride’s childhood. As a result, you’ll have plenty of embarrassing stories and happy memories to share on your sister’s big day. For example, you could tell the guests about their My Little Pony obsession, how much they loved custard, or even a heartwarming memory from their first day at school. Whatever stories you decide to share, make sure they’re full of love and peppered with nostalgia.
Sibling rivalry or teasing. A hint of sibling rivalry is to be expected in a sister of the bride speech. Share how you’re the oldest, were always the tallest, and yet they beat you down this aisle!
Heartfelt admiration. Alternatively, if you’re the younger sister, flip the narrative and explain how you’ve always looked up to your big sister, and you hope to be as happy as she is one day.
Wedding speeches are a beautiful and much-anticipated part of the big day. Being asked to make a speech or wedding toast is a big honour, and you should take it as your opportunity to sing the praises of the happy couple. After all, they’ve trusted you with part of the biggest day of their lives!
The bottom line on wedding speeches is that they should be fun, engaging, and heartfelt. Your words should reflect the love, joy, and uniqueness of the couple, as well as the special relationship you share. It’s your chance to contribute to their big day, make the audience laugh or shed a tear, and leave a lasting impression on this wonderful occasion.
So, whether you’re a traditional speech maker like the best man, or non-traditional like the sister of the bride, remember to stand up straight, smile, and always end with a toast. If you’re not sure where to start, we have a whole host of wedding speech examples to inspire you. Plus, you can find everything you need to know about wedding speech length, wedding speech order, and speech delivery tips through our handy blog posts.
If writing a wedding speech wasn’t stressful enough, now you’ve been asked to make it funny!
Writing a genuinely entertaining wedding speech can be tough. If you get it right, it will leave guests in fits of giggles and ensure your speech is a memorable highlight of the big day. But if you get it wrong, you might be left with crickets chirping and awkward glances all around.
Though writing a funny wedding speech can feel like a daunting task, we’re here to reassure you that all it takes is the right structure, a few well-timed jokes, and a lot of love to write a funny wedding speech!
So, whether you’re the father of the bride, groom, best man, maid of honour, or a non-traditional speech-maker, we’re here to guide you in crafting a funny wedding speech that strikes the perfect balance between humour and sentiment. Read on to learn the structure and some top tips.
A funny wedding speech is a speech given during a wedding reception with the intention of making the guests laugh. To make your wedding speech funny, you can include jokes, anecdotes about the newlyweds, funny quotes or poems, or even use light-hearted teasing. Remember, any teasing should always be in good faith and with the express permission of the couple.
The best thing about funny wedding speeches is that they’re generally short – it can be difficult to write a long wedding speech with good comedic timing. Plus, a short wedding speech tends to hold the audience’s attention better and leave a lasting impression. Try to keep a funny wedding speech between 3-5 minutes long and focus on the quality of stories over the quantity of stories.
The first step of any good wedding speech should always be an introduction. Standing up and letting everyone know who you are and your role in the wedding will help you feel more confident and open up the speech in a professional way.
You might also consider explaining your relationship to the couple while slipping in a joke or two. For example:
“Hey, everyone. My name is Sophie, the bride’s much, much younger sister”.
“Hi guys, thanks for joining us here today. I’m Jack, the best man and worst influence here today!”
Remember, any jokes should always be tasteful and appropriate for the guests. If you’re unsure, run the jokes you’re considering telling past the couple first to get their approval. This way, you can change your speech accordingly before the big day, and no one will be offended!
Tasteful jokes and one-liners
You can then move on to including some funny jokes and one-liners into your speech. These can be related to love, marriage, or even your relationship to the couple. Humour should be light-hearted, which means no making fun of anything personal or crossing any boundaries.
Pay close attention to your comedic timing, as well as allow time in between the jokes for people to laugh. Otherwise, they might miss the next joke, which could derail your speech!
Funny anecdotes
You should then move on to sharing a funny story about the newlyweds. You’re in the unique position of being a pivotal person in their life. As a result, you’ll have a ton of funny stories or entertaining anecdotes to draw upon. This is your chance to highlight the couple’s true personality and show them the moments that have defined your relationship.
Sentimental memories
Once the laughs have come to a natural end, it’s time to close the speech with some special and sentimental memories that you’ve shared with the couple. For example, the first time you met your bestie’s new partner, a story about how the couple met and the role you played, or even a heartwarming story from their wedding planning.
Whatever you choose to share, it should be a loving and sentimental moment that naturally follows the laughter and highlights how special this day is.
Toast
No good speech is complete without a toast. The final step of your speech-making should be to raise your glass of fizz high, make one final wish or blessing to the couple, and ask the guests to join you in a toast.
Top tips for writing a funny wedding speech
If you’re not sure, then don’t say it
Knowing your audience is a crucial part of writing a funny wedding speech. Consider what types of jokes are appropriate for your guests. For example, are there a lot of elderly family members attending, or is it a service bound by religion? If so, you may want to omit the more risqué or edgy humour.
Remember, if you’re not sure whether a joke will land as intended, it’s better not to say it.
Practice makes perfect
Practicing your speech ahead of the big day will help you feel more confident and prepared. Try practicing in front of a mirror, with a trusted friend, or even by recording yourself to watch back. Though this may feel uncomfortable, it’s a great way to work on comedic timing and understand how your speech will come across to audiences.
Consider your role in the wedding
The role you play in the wedding will change the nature of your speech. For example:
Funnymaid of honour speeches usually include stories about wedding planning, hen-do shenanigans, and stories about the bride.
Funny bridesmaid speeches will also include hen-do tales and stories about the bride. However, they will probably place less emphasis on wedding planning as bridesmaids aren’t usually involved in that.
Funny best man speeches might include light-hearted teasing, stag-do stories, or any anecdotes from how you met the groom.
Funny father of the bride speeches are a great opportunity to let the groom know exactly what he’s in for! For example, how untidy the bride is, how moody she is in the morning, or any other quirks.
Have a backup plan
If things start going wrong or the jokes aren’t landing the way you expected, it’s a good idea to have a backup plan. This could mean writing a second short, non-funny speech to fall back on in case your first speech goes pear-shaped.
The bottom line on funny wedding speeches
Writing a funny wedding speech is no simple task. You need to consider comedic timing, the appropriateness of jokes, the length of the speech, and your relationship to the bride or groom. But when done right, funny wedding speeches are a fantastic way to add joy and laughter to the celebration while celebrating the couple’s love. If well-executed, they can become a special and memorable part of the big day. That’s why being well-prepared is essential.
However, writing a funny wedding speech isn’t just about making people laugh. It’s also about highlighting the special relationship you share with the couple, having fun, and reminding the guests about the little quirks that make everyone love the newlyweds so much.
If you’re struggling with where to start, we have a ton of examples of fun and interesting wedding speeches, including the traditional groom’s speech or best man’s speech, plus guidance on writing a short speech if you’re looking to keep it brief. There’s no time like the present, so get started on writing your funny wedding speech today!
Wedding speeches are surely the highlight of the wedding reception. They have the power to make a room roar with laughter or bring a tear to every eye.
However, crafting the perfect beginning and ending to your wedding speech can be tricky. The opening is your first impression, and you want it to be memorable for all the right reasons. On the flip side, nailing the conclusion to a speech means guests will remember it for years to come. Nervous about getting it right? Don’t be. We’ve got your back.
In this post, we discuss the ins and outs of how to start and end a wedding speech. We talk about what you could use to kick off your wedding day toasts and how to end a wedding speech in a genuine and memorable way. Ready to start? Let’s dive in.
A wedding speech, also known as a wedding toast, is a heartfelt dedication to the newlyweds on their big day. Wedding speeches usually follow a specific speech order, and are traditionally made by the father of the bride, the groom, and the best man. However, as it’s your big day, you can ask anyone you’d like to make a speech and have them in any order you prefer!
The wedding speeches usually last around half an hour during the wedding reception. This happens after the main course has been eaten but before dessert is served. Guests usually have a glass of prosecco, champagne, or a non-alcoholic fizzy drink to toast the happy couple.
The opening of your wedding speech or toast will engage your audience, set the tone for what’s to come, and create an emotional connection between you and the audience. But it can also be the hardest part to write as there’s a lot of pressure to get it right.
But don’t let that overwhelm you! Remember that your opening should reflect your genuine feelings for the couple and your joy to participate in their special day. Speak from the heart, and you won’t go far wrong. If you’re still feeling unsure about how to open your wedding speech, check out our guidance on great wedding speech openings.
Introduce yourself
Introducing yourself to the guests is the standard and accepted way to start a speech. It lets everyone know who you are, your relationship to the couple, and sets the stage for the rest of your speech.
It may feel silly to introduce yourself, especially if a lot of people there know who you are. However, it’s a great way to start a speech and will help you feel more confident, so even if the groom is your brother and you’ve known the bride forever, let everyone know who you are and your role in the big day by introducing yourself.
Start with a quote or compliment
If you’re feeling stuck about where to go next, a quote about love, a compliment to the beautiful bride, or a comment on the gorgeous venue are all solid options. A well-chosen quote can add depth and wisdom to your speech, while a sincere compliment will bring a smile to the bride’s face or show your appreciation for all the work that went into planning the wedding. Either way, these opening elements will set a positive tone for your speech and make the audience more receptive to your words.
Use a funny story or anecdote
If you’re feeling confident, a funny story or anecdote about your relationship to the bride or groom is a great way to open your speech. It not only adds a touch of humour and light-heartedness to the atmosphere, but also instantly connects you with the audience through shared laughter.
But remember that humor can be a double-edged sword, so be sure to keep it light, respectful, and in good taste. The goal is to make the audience smile, not cringe. If your joke is a little risqué, consider running it past the bride or groom first to ensure they’re okay with it.
Say thank you to everyone present
If all else fails, say thank you to everyone present. Thank you to the couple for inviting you to their special day, thank you to the venue staff who have worked so hard to make it all possible, and thank you to everyone else for coming. Everyone likes it when their contributions and efforts are acknowledged, so thanking the wedding party and staff and guests is a fool-proof speech opener.
Often, the only part of a speech the guests remember is the beginning and end. You’ve nailed the opening, and now it’s time to wrap up on a positive note. Try using the below tips to help you craft a memorable conclusion to your wedding toast.
Recap your key messages
A great way to round up your wedding speech is to recap the message from the body of your speech. This reinforces the central point you wanted to convey and leaves a lasting impression.
For example, if your speech was all about how perfect the happy couple is for each other, consider rounding off with, “We can all see how happy [couples’ names] make each other, and if I find a love that’s half as perfect as theirs, I’ll be a lucky, lucky person.”
This reiteration brings your speech full circle and highlights the love and happiness that radiates from the newlyweds. This will leave a heartfelt and enduring message to share with everyone.
Share your advice and thoughts
You could also round off your speech by giving your thoughts on love and marriage and any advice you may have for the newlyweds. If you aren’t in a position to offer any advice, a quote about love, a wedding reading, or a line from a song are also great ways to end your speech.
This approach not only imparts wisdom and reflection, but also serves as a thoughtful and fitting conclusion to your wedding speech.
End on a positive note
As with any part of a wedding speech, end on a positive note. This could be a final blessing, one last thank you, or even a warm smile. You’ve done the hard part; all that’s left is to seal the speech with a final dose of love and warmth.
Cheers to the couple
The best part of any speech— it’s time to raise your glasses of fizz to the sky and toast the happy couple. Invite the rest of your guests to join you in a toast to the happy couple’s good fortune and good health. Cheers!
Wedding speeches can be tricky to get right, and the beginning and end of a speech are arguably the hardest parts to nail. But with careful planning, heartfelt sentiments, and hearty cheers at the end, you can create a wedding speech that not only engages your audience, but also leaves a lasting impact on the newlyweds and their special day.
Remember, you can never go far wrong with a friendly introduction, plenty of thank-yous, a quick quote about love, and ending with a big smile and a toast. These simple elements will go a long way in creating a wedding speech that truly shines.
If you’re still sitting there wondering how to start your own wedding speech, or how to end it, we’ve got plenty of fabulous wedding speech examples right here on Bridebook. We have brilliant examples of father of the bride, groom, best man and maid of honour speeches that will knock your socks off!
Making a speech at a wedding reception is your opportunity to tell all the guests how happy you are for the newlyweds. It’s your time to thank the guests, share your thoughts about love, and celebrate this fabulous union.
But imagine you’re halfway through writing the wedding speech, and you’re told to “keep it short.” “Lots of people are making speeches,” they say. Or even, “We’d rather get to the puddings!” Now, suddenly, you need to condense your witty, tear-jerking 7-minute speech into a short 3 minutes! How do you cut down a wedding speech where everything feels important?
Crafting a short wedding speech that packs a punch can be challenging. However, with some handy examples, expert guidance, and a lot of love, you’ll quickly find yourself writing a speech for a wedding that’s both short and memorable. Read on to learn the benefits of a short wedding speech, some examples of short wedding speeches, and the key elements you absolutely need to include.
Wedding speeches are generally between 5-7 minutes long. However, they can be as long or as short as necessary. If there are a lot of speeches to make or the couple have specifically requested that the speeches be kept short, you should aim to wrap up your speech up in 2-4 minutes.
Though this might sound challenging, remember that the impact of your speech isn’t related to its length— it’s better to speak from the heart for 3 minutes than it is to waffle on for 15! Keep the spotlight on the newlyweds, stay upbeat, and always finish with a celebratory toast to the couple on their big day.
There are plenty of benefits to keeping a speech for a wedding short and sweet. These include:
Minimises stress. Lengthy speeches can be nerve-wracking, especially in front of a large audience. Keeping the speeches short minimises the time you have to stand up and say your piece. Plus, shorter speeches are easier to memorise and easier to present.
Keeps guests engaged. Short speeches are more likely to capture guests’ attention and ensure a good flow to the order of speeches. Guests may get bored listening to three 10-minute speeches. However, six 5-minute speeches will feel more dynamic and keep guests engaged.
Encourages thoughtful content. Asking the wedding party to keep their speeches short encourages them to think about what they’re including in their speech and be selective in their storytelling.
Leaves more time for other speakers. The main benefit of short wedding speeches is that they leave plenty of time for other speakers. Generally, thefather of the bride, groom, and best manmake speeches during the reception. However, keeping these speeches short means that groomsmen, bridesmaids, the maid of honour, and the bride can also make speeches at the reception.
Key elements of short wedding speeches
Use this template to keep your speech simple and concise
The easiest way to keep a wedding speech short is to focus on a few key elements. We recommend you stick to the following:
Introduce yourself
A warm and engaging introduction is a great way to open a wedding speech. Let the guests know your name, your relationship to the newlyweds, and how honoured you feel to be making a speech on their big day.
Thank everyone for coming
In a typical wedding speech, you would take time to thank the people who contributed to organising the big day. For example, the couple’s family, the wedding party, the guests, and even the venue staff. However, in a time crunch, focus on saying one big thank you to everyone and acknowledging their collective efforts in making this day possible.
Address the happy couple
You should then speak directly to the happy couple. You could share how you first met the newlyweds, a funny story about wedding planning, or a touching moment that made you realise the depth of their love for each other. These stories are always a crowd-pleaser, and as a friend of the newlyweds, you’re in a unique position to share these special moments. Plus, this section will set the stage for the next portion of your speech.
Share a hope or wish for the future
Sharing a hope or wish for the couple’s future is a touching way to share your love and support on their big day. You could wish them a lifetime of love and happiness, share a quote about love, a short poem or song lyric, or even say you hope they enjoy the honeymoon! Any positive and loving sentiment that resonates with the couple will be a perfect way to wrap up your speech.
Toast
And finally, a toast! Invite the other guests to raise their glass of bubbles to a lifetime of love and happiness. Greet the couple by their names, raise your glass high, and then take a sip to conclude a short but sweet wedding speech.
If you’re looking for a little inspiration to guide you on your way, check out the short wedding speech examples below, which you can adapt use as templates to guide your writing. Feel free to personalise them with your own unique stories and anecdotes, and adjust the pronouns for an LGBTQ+ wedding.
“Hello, everyone, I’m [your name], the luckiest groom on the planet. Thank you all for being here, sharing in our joy today. I remember when [partner’s name] and I met, it was like fate had a plan. From that day forward, my life became brighter. May our love continue to grow, and may our adventures never end. Here’s to [partner’s name], my forever love and other half. And here’s to a lifetime of laughter, love and endless happiness. Cheers!”
“Hi, everyone, I’m [your name], and I’m the bride who can’t stop smiling. Thank you all for being here and making this day so fabulous. I’ll never forget the moment [partner’s name] walked into my life. He’s brought endless love and laughter. May our love story continue to be this beautiful adventure. Here’s to us and a lifetime of happiness. To [partner’s name], my love and my best friend, and to a future filled with fun, love and endless joy. Cheers!”
“Ladies and gentlemen, I’m [your name], and today I have the honour of being the father of the bride. Thank you all for coming and sharing in this special day. Seeing [bride’s name] and [groom’s name] together, I know their love is stronger than ever. May your journey together be filled with love, laughter and countless beautiful moments. To [bride’s name] and [groom’s name], may your love continue to grow, and your days be filled with happiness. Cheers!”
“Hey, everyone, I’m [your name], the best man and the guy who’s seen it all. Thank you all for being here to celebrate with [groom’s name] and [bride’s name]. I’ve seen [groom’s name] and [bride’s name] go from ‘I do’ to ‘We will.’ It’s been a wild ride! May your love be as enduring as [groom’s name]’s jokes and as beautiful as [bride’s name]’s smile. To [groom’s name] and [bride’s name], here’s to a lifetime of love, adventure and unforgettable memories. Cheers!”
“Hello, everyone, I’m [your name], the maid of honour and [bride’s name]’s partner in crime. Thank you for joining us today to celebrate [bride’s name] and [groom’s name]’s love. I’ve watched [bride’s name] and [groom’s name] turn ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. May your love story be filled with as much joy as today and as many adventures as you can dream. To [bride’s name] and [groom’s name], may your love shine brighter with each passing day. Cheers!”
“Ladies and gentlemen, I’m [your name], [bride’s name]’s proud mother. Thank you for being here to celebrate this special day with us. Seeing [bride’s name] and [groom’s name] together fills my heart with joy. Their love is a treasure. May the journey [bride’s name] and [groom’s name] embark upon be filled with love, laughter and countless cherished moments. To [bride’s name] and [groom’s name], may your love story be a source of inspiration for us all. Cheers!”
Short wedding speeches balance sharing a sincere or witty message during the wedding reception and effective time management. Though it can be tricky to condense everything you want to say into a short 3-5 minutes, this challenge can produce speeches that are poignant, memorable, and filled with genuine emotion (and likely a dash of humour and wit as well!).
Instead of focusing on everything you’d like to say, we encourage you to stick to the basics — introduce yourself, broadly thank everyone for their contributions, tell the newlyweds how happy you are for them, and wrap up with well-wishes and a toast.
A wedding speech doesn’t have to be long to be great, and it’s better to keep your speech brief and memorable than to risk losing the guests’ attention. This is true whether you’re going for a sweet and sentimental touch, or want something funny and entertaining.
But if you’re still struggling with where to start, we’ve got plenty of brilliant wedding speech examples to inspire you, from the traditional groom’s speech to the slightly less conventional mother of the bride speech. You’ll be writing a short wedding speech that packs a punch in no time!
When your fiance gets down on one knee and asks you the question, which finger do you present them with so they can give you your gorgeous new ring? Or if you’re the one proposing, how do you know which is the right finger? The last thing you want to do at that moment is place the ring on the wrong one.
When it comes to which finger is the right one for an engagement ring, there are actually a lot of questions that surround it. Why is that finger on that hand commonly used in some countries but not others? Why is it usually that finger? Do you have to wear the wedding ring on the same finger as the engagement ring or can they be worn separately?
The great thing is, just like your marriage itself, there are no set rules when it comes to your engagement ring. But there are traditions you might want to stick to. So how do you know what’s right for you?
In this post, we’re going to take a look at everything to do with wearing an engagement ring. We’ll go over the history, which countries traditionally wear an engagement ring on different hands and what you can do if you’re just not that into wearing a wedding ring.
The ring finger is the name given to the finger where you would traditionally wear your wedding and/or engagement ring, which is the finger beside your little finger on your left hand (in the UK). So commonly are rings worn on this finger that it has been named with this in mind. There’s even evidence of hieroglyphics wearing a ring on this finger to symbolise love and marriage.
In ancient times, it was believed that this finger had a vein that ran directly to the heart. That way, when both halves of a couple wear a ring it forever connects the two hearts. While we know a lot more about the human body these days, this wedding tradition is easily the one that has withstood the tests of time the longest.
In the UK, it’s traditional to wear an engagement ring on the left hand. This is the same as the wedding ring once you and your partner get married. That being said, which hand you traditionally wear an engagement ring on can vary depending on where you are in the world.
Which countries wear an engagement ring on their left hand?
Countries where people wear wedding and engagement rings on their left hand include:
UK
USA
Austria
France
Germany
Sweden
Czech Republic
Romania
Portugal
Turkey
Ireland
Which countries wear an engagement ring on their right hand?
Countries where people wear wedding and engagement rings on their right hand include:
Spain
Russia
Switzerland
Greece
India
Norway
Denmark
Colombia
Bulgaria
Belgium
Poland
Which is the right finger to wear an engagement ring on?
As we’ve already covered, the right finger to wear your engagement ring on is the ring finger on either your left or right hand (depending on where you live). But, the right finger for you is something else entirely.
Yes, you can wear your engagement ring on any finger you choose – you might even want to wear it on your thumb if that’s something that appeals to you. Wearing a ring on the ring finger has been a tradition since ancient Greek and Roman times, but traditions aren’t for everyone – if that includes you, then just wear your ring on any finger you like.
Do you wear your engagement ring on the same hand and finger as your wedding ring?
Many people choose to wear their engagement ring on the same hand and finger as their wedding ring, but again, whether you choose to do this or not is entirely up to you. There are plenty of variations you can go for, such as:
Wear your engagement ring and wedding ring on the same finger
Wear your engagement ring and wedding ring on the same hand but on different fingers
Wear your engagement ring on the ring finger of your left hand and wedding ring on the ring finger of your right hand (or vice versa)
You might even choose to wear both rings on different hands and on different fingers. Whatever you feel comfortable with and makes you happy is exactly the combination you should go for.
Can you wear your engagement ring and wedding ring every day?
Many couples choose to wear their wedding rings and engagement rings every day as it helps them feel close to their partner even when they’re apart.
Couples spend an average of £1,000 on their wedding rings and £1,978 on an engagement ring. This is often more than enough to ensure a high-quality metal, such as platinum or gold, which is super durable and can withstand lots of wear and tear. Over time your rings will suffer minor scuffs and scrapes – unfortunately, it’s unavoidable with any type of jewellery you might wear. If this is a concern, you might not want to wear them constantly, but for many, it’s worth it to ensure they always have that close connection to their spouse.
One thing some couples do is take off their rings when they get home and store them somewhere safe until they’re ready to leave the house again. This can slow some of the wear and tear – just make sure you always keep your rings in the same spot so you don’t have a moment of panic when you forget where you put them.
If you have a promise ring, should you wear this alongside your engagement ring and wedding ring? There are two common options for couples who have promise rings:
Switch the promise ring for the engagement ring
Wear each ring on the same finger
Wear the promise ring on a different finger
There’s nothing wrong with wearing all three rings on the same finger, but if you have too many rings (especially if they’re thick or have larger stones) you may find it gets a little crowded. It’s not exactly comfortable if you have a ring too close to the knuckle, so whatever you choose to do make sure you can bend your finger and it’s not too restrictive.
Can you wear your engagement ring and wedding ring on different fingers?
Yes, however you like to wear your engagement ring and wedding ring is entirely up to you. While the tradition is to wear them together on the ring finger, that doesn’t mean it’s something you have to stick to. Wearing a ring is hugely personal, and what it represents is between you and your partner. So what if someone looks at your hand and doesn’t realise you’re married or engaged just because you wear your rings on different fingers? You do you and don’t let anyone else influence your decision.
Which ring goes on first, the engagement ring or the wedding ring?
Traditionally, once you’re married you would wear your wedding ring first, then your engagement ring. That way, your wedding ring is closer to your heart.
But, just like with every tradition we’ve covered in this article, it’s not something you should feel obliged to stick to.
Do you have to wear an engagement ring or wedding ring to get married?
No, there’s no kind of law that states you have to wear a ring when you’re married. It’s a symbolic gesture that shows your love and commitment to one another. But, if you don’t like to wear rings, you don’t have the budget or you’re not a fan of jewellery in general, it’s absolutely fine if you choose not to wear a wedding or engagement ring at all.
If you’re not sure you want to wear a ring, read our post on wedding ring alternatives for a little inspiration.
To make sure your wedding and engagement rings are the right size and fit comfortably on your finger, it’s important to get the finger you intend to wear your ring on measured. This has to be done accurately if you want to prevent your ring from being too tight or, even worse, slipping off and getting lost.
There are several ways you can measure your ring finger:
Wrap a piece of string or tape around your finger and mark where it meets with a pen, which you can then measure with a ruler.
You can buy a ring sizer for around £5 from Amazon.
Your local jewellery store can do this for you.
Use a printable ring sizer.
What do jewellery experts say about which finger to wear your engagement ring and wedding ring on?
When it comes to choosing the finger for your engagement ring and wedding ring, we spoke to Ruby McGonigle from Lebrusan Studio, a leading London-based ethical jewellery designer. Ruby recommends the following flexible approach:
“Your sentimental rings don’t need to mirror your partner’s in metal or design, nor do they need to be worn on your left ring finger. Many European nations – including Norway, Germany, Denmark, Latvia, Poland and Spain – look to the right hand as the ideal spot for the engagement ring and wedding band. This is because it’s used for oaths and vows, inherently symbolising honour and trust.
Though many people enjoy wearing their engagement rings and wedding bands together on the same finger in a unique stack, there’s no rule that states this is a must. Your engagement ring, wedding band and commitment rings are precious pieces of jewellery, and if you don’t fancy forcing them to share space then the freedom is yours to wear them however and whenever you like! For practical reasons, some opt only to wear their engagement ring on special occasions. Others might wish to secure it a special everyday spot over on the right ring finger once the wedding band comes along. Some might not wear their rings on their fingers at all, but instead hang them with pride on a necklace.
All in all, just like your unique love story, the choice is all yours.”
Plan your dream wedding with Bridebook
Getting engaged is such a romantic and exciting time, with so many things to think about, plan, and choose. Sign up to Bridebook today to use our free wedding planning tools and use our expert knowledge to answer all your questions.
There’s no bond like the one you share with your sister. She’s been there for you at every step of your journey. She watched all your fashion faux pas, helped you mend your broken heart, and knows exactly how to deal with your quirky habits. She’d naturally want you to take centre stage on her big day by making a heartwarming speech.
But planning a funny wedding speech for your sister is no simple task. How do you strike the right balance between nostalgic memories and funny stories while still keeping your audience engaged? But don’t stress — we’ve got you! In this post, we explore how to write a funny wedding speech for your sister, including 5 top tips for nailing the delivery!
A wedding speech for a sister’s wedding is a speech made during your sister’s wedding reception. It can be a funny maid of honour speech, a brother to sister wedding speech, an entertaining sister-of-the-bride speech, or even a best man’s speech!
As the sister of the bride or groom, you’re in the special position of having known the bride or groom your entire life. This means you’ll have a ton of unique stories, memories, and humorous anecdotes to share with the guests. Although non-traditional, crafting a light-hearted wedding speech for your sister will be a happy and memorable part of the wedding reception, so it’s important you get it right.
The speech should last anywhere between 5-7 minutes and be a balance of well-meaning humour, nostalgia, and well-wishes for the health and happiness of the newlyweds.
How to write a funny speech for a sister’s wedding
If you’re looking to write a funny sister of the bride or maid of honour speech, or a speech for a brother’s wedding from a sister, we’ve got you covered. Check out the below structure for some inspiration and guidance.
Greet your audience
Open your speech by greeting the guests. Introduce yourself to friends, family, and the newlyweds. As the sister of the bride or groom, most people there will probably already know who you are. But a solid introduction is a great way to open the speech, add a sense of occasion, and immediately capture everyone’s attention.
Set the tone
It’s important to set the tone early with a wedding speech. Once you’ve made your introductions, open up with a joke, a short reading, quotes about love, or a light-hearted anecdote about your sister. Getting your jokes in early will not only warm up the audience but also make you feel more confident as you continue the rest of your speech.
Funny stories and anecdotes
You should then share some fun stories and anecdotes about your sister. These can be hilarious, heartwarming, and even a little embarrassing if you feel it’s appropriate! Just be careful not to embarrass her too much. This is a wedding, not a comedy show. Be sure to keep all stories and jokes in good humour, and if you’re not sure, it’s always best to run the story by the couple before sharing it with the audience.
Playful teasing
Incorporate good-natured teasing that brings smiles to people’s faces without crossing any boundaries. Focus on endearing quirks, harmless foibles, or memorable mishaps you have shared. For example, warning your sister’s new partner about their messy ways, terrible cooking, or how long they take to get ready are all standard and acceptable jests to share in front of guests.
Relatable experiences
Most people in the audience will be able to relate to the experience of growing up with a sister (or sibling). They’ll remember the late-night conversations, midnight feasts, or navigating the challenges of big family Christmases! These shared memories and experiences will inspire laughter, understanding, and a sense of nostalgia that will connect everyone in the room.
Well-wishes for the happy couple
Start wrapping up your speech by sharing how happy you are for the newlyweds, your wishes for their future, and how proud you are of your sister for taking this next step. Thank her new partner for all the love and support they’ve shown your sister over the years, and welcome them wholeheartedly into your family.
Wrap up with a toast
The final part of your speech should be a toast to the bride and groom. Wrap up by asking the guests to raise their glasses, share your final wishes for the new couple, and toast to their new shared name. Cheers!
Once you’ve written your speech, take a moment to step back and review it with fresh eyes. You should set your speech aside for at least a day, if not longer. This way, you can come back to it with a fresh perspective and a clear mind. When you revisit your speech after a little break, you’ll be better able to spot any areas that might need refining, whether it’s the flow, wording, or even the overall tone.
Practice makes perfect
Practice, practice, practice your speech to make sure you feel confident and well-prepared. You can practice in front of the mirror, or even record yourself and watch it back. The benefit of doing this is that you’ll be able to see what the guests will see on the day and critique your delivery.
Don’t overdo it
While sharing funny stories and happy memories during a wedding speech is important, be careful not to overdo it. Think of anecdotes and jokes as the spice in a delicious dish you’re cooking. You should flavour the speech with these tales, but not overwhelm it with any one spice. Make sense?
Take it for a test drive
Consider testing out your speech on a trusted friend or family member. This way, they’ll be able to give you constructive criticism in the moment to help you improve your speech. Plus, practicing in front of a person will give a flavour of what it’s like to present your speech to a live audience. This will help you feel more confident and prepared when the actual time comes.
Live feedback can be incredibly valuable, whether it’s a suggestion to tweak the pacing, a reminder to project your voice, or a gentle nudge to pause for laughter. Practicing in front of someone who can provide honest, constructive criticism lets you iron out any rough edges and refine your delivery.
Be mindful of body language
Be mindful of body language as you practice and deliver your speech. Non-verbal cues can enhance your message and help connect you with your audience. So, stand up straight, make eye contact with your audience, take prompts from your cue card (but don’t keep your eyes glued to them), and make facial expressions as you speak. These small changes to your delivery can help colour your speech and make it feel more animated.
Writing a funny wedding speech for your sister’s wedding can be tricky. It’s all about finding the balance between funny stories, special memories, and just a hint of teasing! However, with the right guidance and plenty of love, you can craft a funny wedding speech that will make your sister’s special day all the more memorable.
If you’re feeling nervous, following a structure like the one above can help you start writing your speech. Often, getting started is the hardest part, so once you’ve got your structure down, you can focus on filling it with stories of your childhood, personal memories, and jokes about how messy your sister can be!
So, stand up straight, with shoulders back, and smile! This speech will undoubtedly be a memorable and entertaining part of your sister’s big day. We know you’ll make her proud. If you’re still feeling nervous, let Bridebook be your guide – we’ve got all the tips and tricks you need to craft the very best wedding speech.
The wedding speeches are a traditional and much-anticipated part of any wedding reception. First comes the father of the bride, then the groom, then the best man, then… it all starts to get a little hazy.
The thing is, there are a number of wedding speeches that need to be made on the big day. Guests can get bored and restless if they last too long. But if they’re not long enough, the speech-makers might feel like they haven’t done the bride or groom justice. So, how to strike the right balance while still captivating the guests?
Don’t worry, we’ve got the answers! Check out our comprehensive guide on how long each wedding speech should last, as well as some handy guidance on what each speech should include.
A wedding speech is a speech made by members of the wedding party during the wedding reception. There’s a traditional order of speeches that most people usually follow. However, it’s your big day, so you can absolutely shake it up if you want.
Traditionally, wedding speeches are made after the main course but before the dessert during the wedding breakfast. This way, your guests will have been amply fed and watered and can take a short break before enjoying some sweet goodies. But you can of course have them after dessert if you’d prefer.
Though you can make the speeches before food is served, this isn’t generally recommended. Your guests may be hungry after sitting through the ceremony!
Generally, wedding speeches should last between 5 and 7 minutes to make sure there’s plenty of time for everyone to make a speech. The ‘wedding speech’ portion of the reception as a a whole should last no more than 40 minutes (to prevent people from getting bored). However, it usually lasts between 20 and 30 minutes.
You can shuffle around wedding speech lengths to ensure everyone has a fair chance to say their piece. For example, if you only intend to have two or three speeches, you can afford for these speeches to be a little longer. However, if you want to have many wedding party members making a speech, you should consider cutting down the length to make sure the speeches don’t run over.
Pro tip: To keep things fair, divide the total time you’re hoping to spend on speeches by the number of people you’ve asked to make speeches. For example, if you’re hoping to spend 30 minutes on speeches, and there are five speeches to make, this would bring each speech up to a maximum of 5.5 minutes with a 30-second break in between.
Wedding Speech Lengths: Quick Reference Guide
If you’re in a rush, check out the below quick reference guide to see how long your wedding speech should ideally be. Otherwise, read on for the full breakdown, and be sure to save this infographic for future use.
Use this quick reference guide to work out your ideal speech length
The father of the bride’s speech is traditionally the longest speech in the order of speeches. It’s usually the first speech made during the wedding reception and is a beloved and much-anticipated part of the bride’s big day.
The father of the bride’s speech should last between 7 and 9 minutes (and ideally no more than 12, to prevent the order of speeches from becoming too lengthy.) These speeches generally include:
A thank you to everyone involved in putting together the big day (don’t forget the staff working at the reception)
An ode to your little girl and what makes her so special
The groom’s speech can be a little longer than the best man’s speech. It should last between 6 and 8 minutes, but no longer than 10 for the guests’ sake.
It’s usually second in the order of speeches and should be positioned as a thank-you note to all the people who have supported your relationship and wedding planning. As a basic structure, we recommend the following general structure:
Introduce yourself and your new bride (a guaranteed cheer!)
Thank the groomsmen, best man, bridesmaids, and maid of honour for their continued love and support throughout your wedding planning
The ideal length for a best man speech is around 5 minutes. However, it can be a little longer or a little shorter, depending on your personal preferences and the overall speech order.
The best man’s speech is usually the third in the order of speeches. It should include things such as:
Although untraditional, the maid of honour speech can be a beautiful part of the wedding reception. It should be on the shorter side, like the best man’s speech, and last between 4 and 6 minutes.
The beauty of a maid of honour speech is that there are no expectations, so it can take any structure you’d like! However, it’s a good idea to include:
As with the maid of honour speech, a bridesmaid’s speech is untraditional, so there are no expectations on how long the speech should be or what it should include. We recommend keeping the speech to around 5 minutes long (less if you’d like multiple bridesmaids to make a speech).
Having a bridesmaid’s speech after the maid of honour speech may be nice way to keep things flowing. We suggest that you consider the following structure:
The mother of the groom speech is another untraditional wedding speech, but it’s a wonderful opportunity for a mother to express her love, support, and well-wishes for her son and his new partner. This speech should last between 3 and 5 minutes and, if you’re otherwise sticking to tradition, it will most likely be one of the last speeches made at the reception (though this isn’t a hard and fast rule).
A mother of the groom speech has no set structure. But we recommend including:
A welcome to the family for the new bride
Your happiness that the groom has found someone so special
Fond memories of the groom’s childhood
Heartfelt advice
A final, celebratory toast
The bottom line on speech length
Speeches are an important and traditional part of the wedding reception. They’re the perfect opportunity for the wedding party and other loved ones to share their thoughts and feelings with the newlyweds.
As we’ve explored above, when it comes to speech length, the key is to stick to to between 5 and 7 minutes to ensure everyone has a fair chance to say their thank-yous and give their advice. This will also keep this part of the wedding fresh and interesting for your guests and help hold their attention.
We’ve got plenty of great tips, tricks, and wedding speech structures to help you get started if you’re unsure about what to include. And, to see how long your wedding speech should be in practice, check out our wedding speech examples.
They’re your best friend; you’ve been through thick and thin, through hell and high water, and now they’re standing on the precipice of the rest of their life. You’ll obviously be by their side on the big day, but now they’ve asked you to make a speech! Feeling nervous? Don’t worry – it’s natural!
A best friend’s speech is quite traditional if it takes the form of a best man speech or maid of honour speech for best friend or sister. But you don’t have to be the best man or maid of honour to make this speech. All that matters is making the speech as unique and special as the bond you share.
In this post, we look at how to write a killer best friend’s wedding speech that’s funny and engaging, but also heartfelt and loving overall. We cover what you should include in your best friend’s wedding speech, a best friend’s speech structure, and the most important things to consider when writing your speech.
A best friend’s speech is a speech made by the best friend of the bride or groom during the wedding reception. It may be a funny maid of honour speech, a sincere best man’s speech, or even a sentimental tribute from a close friend who’s stood by the newlyweds throughout their relationship. Either way, the ‘best friend getting married’ speech is a beautiful and memorable part of any wedding reception.
A traditional wedding speech is usually between 5-7 minutes long and includes your favourite memories of the bride or groom, your honest advice, and maybe even a few light-hearted jabs at the bride or groom. A best friend’s speech can fit anywhere into the order of wedding speeches. Themaid of honour speech can similarly fit flexibly into the order of speeches as it’s untraditional. By contrast, a best man’s speech traditionally comes after the groom’s speech (though there’s no pressure to stick to this structure if you don’t want to).
What should you include in a best friend’s speech?
Heartfelt advice. A best friend’s wedding speech is the perfect time to reflect on your own experiences and extend some tender advice to the newlyweds. You don’t need to be an expert in relationships or marriage to give them a few pointers on their new life together; you just need a heart full of love and advice on communication, compromise, and how the couple can grow together.
Fun anecdotes about the bride or groom. The best friend’s speech is the perfect opportunity to give an insight into the bride or groom’s personality, quirks, and special skills. Whether it’s an anecdote about how you met or a funny story about the adventures you’ve shared over the years, these fun tales will add a personal touch to your speech and ensure the audience hangs on your every word.
Your hopes for their future. Expressing your hopes and dreams for the couple’s future is a heartwarming and memorable part of any best friend’s speech. You can talk about how much you’ve enjoyed watching their love story unfold, how you envision their time together, and wish them a lifetime of love, joy, and adventures.
A playful and celebratory toast. As you wrap up your speech, raise a toast to the happy couple. Don’t be afraid to make it fun, playful, and even cheeky! Incorporate a touch of humour by adding a memorable inside joke that resonates with the couple to the end of your toast.
Best friend’s speech structure
Introduction
The first step of your speech should be introducing yourself to those who don’t know you. You should then explain your relationship to the bride or groom and express your gratitude for being asked to be part of their special day.
Acknowledge your best friend
You should then specifically acknowledge your best friend. Tell them how much they mean to you and how grateful you are to have them by your side. You can then move on to let the guests know what makes your bestie so unique and how proud you are of them for taking the next step in life.
Share a funny story
You should then move on to sharing a funny story or light-hearted anecdote about your friend over the years. Remember that their direct family, work colleagues, and neighbours may be in the audience, so make sure it’s a story that your best friend would be happy for them to hear! If you’re unsure, consider running it past them first.
Loving advice
You can then offer your advice to the newlyweds as they begin their new journey together. Draw from your own experiences and share meaningful advice on love, commitment, and friendship. Reflect on the lessons you’ve learned in your friendships, relationships, and life in general. If you’re unsure what advice you could offer, you can always switch this out for some love quotes, a tender poem, or some examples of wedding vows.
Toast
You should then end your speech with a toast to the happy couple. Raise your glass high, invite the guests you join you in a toast, and greet the couple by their names. End with a big smile and take a seat. That’s it!
Best friend’s speech template
To help you navigate the complete breakdown of your speech, it can be helpful to have a visual guide to refer to. Check out our handy infographic below:
Use this best friend speech template to guide your writing
Top tips for delivering a killer best friend’s speech
It’s important to find out where the bride and groom would like you to fit into the overall wedding speech order. The best man’s speech typically happens after the groom’s speech, but it doesn’t have to! On the other hand, the maid of honour’s speech can fit however you’d like into the overall wedding speech order. Clarify with the bride and groom when they feel your speech should come.
Nail the delivery
Shoulders back, chin up, and speak directly to the audience. Presenting your best friend at the wedding can be nerve-wracking, but you need to remember that the audience all know and love the bride and groom, and ultimately you’re here to praise them! If you’re still nervous, check out our post on nailing your wedding speech delivery skills to help you feel more confident.
Take inspiration
If you’re unsure how to begin your speech or what to include, don’t be afraid to take inspiration from wedding readings or love quotes. Often, the most challenging part of writing your speech is the beginning, and these short stories and poems can give you a jumping-off point for your own speech.
Don’t panic
It can be scary to stand up in front of a big crowd and make your speech. The most important thing is not to panic. Make sure you practice beforehand, familiarise yourself with the overall speech order, and take a deep breath before you stand up to make your speech. Remember, even the most seasoned speakers experience jitters; it’s all part of the excitement that comes with being part of the big day.
Being asked to make a best friend’s wedding speech is an honour. It’s a true testament to you and your bestie’s bond, and as you stand before the happy couple, remember that you’re not just giving a speech – you’re a key part of the biggest celebration of their life!
Your words will become a part of their journey that they’ll remember forever, and your only goal should be to do them justice on their big day. Balance light-hearted stories and jokes with kind and caring words about the special bond you share.
So, embrace the nerves, channel your love, and speak from the heart to deliver a brilliant best friend’s wedding speech. For more expert advice and top tips on all things wedding-related, sign up to Bridebook today.
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 10 maid of honour speech examples. Let’s dive in!
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
Use this maid of honour speech template to guide your writing
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
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.
If you’re looking for some inspiration, check out our top 10 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.
Speech Example 1: The Lifelong Friend
Introduction: “Hello, everyone! For those of you who don’t know me, I’m [your name], and I’ve had the absolute privilege of being [bride’s name]’s partner-in-crime since primary school. Today, I have the honour of standing by her side as her maid of honour.”
Stories about the bride: “From building pillow forts to surviving our teenage years, [bride’s name] has been my partner in every adventure. I remember the time we tried to bake a cake from scratch and ended up with a kitchen covered in flour – and yes, our masterpiece was inedible!”
The couple’s love story: “Watching [bride’s name] and [partner’s name] fall in love has been nothing short of magical. From their first awkward hello to the moment they realised they were meant for each other, their journey has been a testament to true love.”
The proposal: “And then there was the proposal – let me tell you, I’ve never seen [bride’s name] so shocked in her life! [Partner’s name] had orchestrated this amazing surprise, complete with twinkling fairy lights and her favourite song playing in the background.”
Heartfelt advice: “As you both embark on this beautiful journey, remember that love is not just about the grand gestures, but also about the little things – like making each other laugh when life gets tough or sharing late-night ice cream runs.”
Toast to the couple: “So, here’s to [bride’s name] and [partner’s name], a love story that deserves all the happiness in the world. May your days be filled with laughter, your hearts forever intertwined, and your adventures together never-ending. Cheers!”
Speech Example 2: The Dynamic Duo
Introduction: “Hey there, everyone! I’m [your name], and I’ve had the incredible privilege of being [bride’s name]’s best friend since college. Today, as her maid of honour, I couldn’t be more excited to celebrate this beautiful journey with her.”
Stories about the bride: “From surviving all-night study sessions with gallons of coffee to our impromptu road trips that ended in hilarious mishaps, [bride’s name] has made every moment unforgettable.”
The couple’s love story: “When [bride’s name] introduced me to [partner’s name], I knew there was something special. Their love story has been a whirlwind of laughter, adventures, and stolen glances that have melted my heart.”
The proposal: “And let’s talk about the proposal, shall we? [Partner’s name] pulled out all the stops, arranging a scavenger hunt that led [bride’s name] to their favourite park, where he popped the question under a sky full of twinkling stars.”
Heartfelt advice: “As you journey together, remember that true love means supporting each other’s dreams and creating a partnership built on respect and understanding.”
Toast to the couple: “To [bride’s name] and [partner’s name], the ultimate dynamic duo. May your love continue to be as strong as your friendship, and may your days be filled with endless joy and shared laughter. Cheers!”
Speech Example 3: The Adventure Buddies
Introduction: “Hello, everyone! I’m [your name], and I’ve had the joy of being [bride’s name]’s sister and partner-in-crime in countless escapades. Today, as her maid of honour, I’m beyond excited to stand by her side.”
Stories about the bride: “From spontaneous road trips to conquering our fears together, [bride’s name] has been my adventure buddy. I’ll never forget the time we hiked up a mountain, only to realise we were on the wrong trail!”
The couple’s love story: “Seeing [bride’s name] and [partner’s name] fall in love has been an incredible journey. Their love is like a grand adventure, filled with twists, turns, and the promise of new horizons.”
The proposal: “And then came the proposal – [partner’s name] transformed a quiet night into a dreamy scene from a romance movie, complete with fairy lights and a heartfelt speech that brought tears to [bride’s name]’s eyes.”
Heartfelt advice: “As you navigate the exciting path of marriage, remember that love is an ever-evolving journey. Embrace each new chapter with open hearts and a sense of wonder.”
Toast to the couple: “Here’s to [bride’s name] and [partner’s name], two souls embarking on life’s greatest adventure together. May your love be as thrilling as your explorations, and may your days be filled with joy, laughter, and boundless love. Cheers!”
Speech Example 4: The Childhood Confidante
Introduction: “Hi, everyone! I’m [your name], and I’ve been lucky enough to share every stage of life with [bride’s name] since we were children. As her sister and maid of honour, I’m absolutely honored to be part of this beautiful day.”
Stories about the bride: “From playing dress-up in the attic to having heart-to-heart conversations under the stars, [bride’s name] has been my confidante and best friend since day one.”
The couple’s love story: “Witnessing [bride’s name] and [partner’s name] fall in love has been like watching a favourite movie unfold – full of romance, laughter, and unforgettable moments.”
The proposal: “And then, of course, there was the proposal – a charming surprise at their favourite restaurant, complete with singing waiters and a hidden videographer.”
Heartfelt advice: “As you step into this new chapter, remember that love is built on a foundation of friendship, trust, and shared dreams. Keep your hearts open and your communication strong.”
Toast to the couple: “To [bride’s name] and [partner’s name], a match made in heaven. May your love story continue to be as beautiful and captivating as the journey that brought you together. Cheers!”
Speech Example 5: The Soul Sisters
Introduction: “Hello, everyone! I’m [your name], and if you see a whirlwind of laughter, adventures, and endless support, chances are you’re in the presence of [bride’s name] and me. Today, as her maid of honour, I am over the moon to share in this beautiful moment.”
Stories about the bride: “From singing in the rain to staying up all night solving life’s mysteries, [bride’s name] and I have created a treasure trove of memories. One of my favourites? Our impromptu dance-offs in the living room!”
The couple’s love story: “The way [bride’s name] and [partner’s name] fell in love is something out of a fairy tale. Their story is a testament to fate and the magical connection that brought them together.”
The proposal: “Speaking of magic, the proposal was straight from the heart. [Partner’s name] transformed their back garden into a wonderland, and when he dropped to one knee, even the stars seemed to shine brighter.”
Heartfelt advice: “As you embark on this journey of love, remember that it’s the everyday moments that truly matter. Celebrate each other’s victories, be each other’s shoulder to lean on, and never underestimate the power of a spontaneous dance party!”
Toast to the couple: “To [bride’s name] and [partner’s name], a love story that radiates joy and magic. May your days be filled with endless giggles, late-night conversations, and a love that continues to sparkle. Cheers!”
Speech Example 6: The Laughter Architects
Introduction: “Hey there, lovely people! I’m [your name], the one responsible for countless giggles and side-splitting laughter shared with [bride’s name]. Today, as her maid of honour, I’m beyond thrilled to raise a glass to the love story we’re celebrating.”
Stories about the bride: “From our ‘secret’ language to the unforgettable pranks we’ve pulled, [bride’s name] and I have a laughter-filled journey that keeps getting better. One time, we dressed up as ninjas and accidentally scared the mailman!”
The couple’s love story: “Seeing [bride’s name] and [partner’s name] fall in love has been like witnessing a masterful comedy unfold – with witty banter, funny quirks, and a heartwarming connection that’s pure gold.”
The proposal: “And then came the proposal – a hilarious yet heart-melting scene that had us all in stitches. [Partner’s name] got down on one knee, and [bride’s name] was so shocked that she briefly lost her ability to speak!”
Heartfelt advice: “As you navigate the wonderful world of marriage, remember that laughter truly is the best medicine. Keep finding joy in the little things, and never let go of the hilarious moments that make your love story uniquely yours.”
Toast to the couple: “To [bride’s name] and [partner’s name], the architects of laughter and love. May your days be filled with continuous chuckles, inside jokes, and a bond that only grows stronger with time. Cheers!”
Speech Example 7: The Creative Companions
Introduction: “Hello, everyone! I’m [your name], the lucky one who’s shared a canvas of creativity and countless memorable moments with [bride’s name]. Today, as her maid of honour, I couldn’t be more excited to raise a toast to her love story.”
Stories about the bride: “From painting masterpieces that Picasso would envy to attempting a DIY home improvement project that didn’t quite go as planned, [bride’s name] and I have crafted a world of creativity.”
The couple’s love story: “Watching [bride’s name] and [partner’s name] fall in love has been like witnessing a beautiful masterpiece unfold – with vivid colours of laughter, strokes of affection, and an undeniable chemistry.”
The proposal: “Speaking of creativity, [partner’s name] proposed in a way that perfectly captured their story. He reenacted their first date, complete with the same restaurant and the same song that played during that magical evening.”
Heartfelt advice: “As you step into the realm of marriage, remember that love is a canvas where both of you hold the brushes. Paint it with kindness, patience, and the vibrant colours of trust and understanding.”
Toast to the couple: “To [bride’s name] and [partner’s name], the creators of a love story that’s both imaginative and heartwarming. May your journey be filled with artistic adventures, endless inspiration, and a love that continues to paint your lives with beauty. Cheers!”
Speech Example 8: The Travel Enthusiasts
Introduction: “Hey, everyone! I’m [your name], the crazy friend who has navigated the wild world of adventures with [bride’s name]. Today, as her maid of honour, I’m over the moon to celebrate this incredible journey.”
Stories about the bride: “From getting lost in foreign cities to bonding over bizarre local cuisine, [bride’s name] and I have embarked on some unforgettable journeys. I still can’t believe we accidentally ordered snails!”
The couple’s love story: “Seeing [bride’s name] and [partner’s name] fall in love is like watching a captivating travel documentary – each chapter filled with exciting destinations, new experiences, and a growing sense of unity.”
The proposal: “Speaking of travels, [partner’s name] took [bride’s name] on a surprise trip to their favourite city, where he proposed atop a breathtaking viewpoint. It was a moment as memorable as the stamps on their passports.”
Heartfelt advice: “As you journey through the uncharted waters of marriage, remember that love is an adventure filled with twists and turns. Embrace the unexpected, cherish the beauty of every sunrise, and hold each other’s hand through every storm.”
Toast to the couple: “To [bride’s name] and [partner’s name], the explorers of love and life. May your days be filled with exhilarating discoveries, shared laughter, and a bond that’s as unbreakable as the compass that guides your hearts. Cheers!”
Speech Example 9: The Dance Partners
Introduction: “Hello, everyone! I’m [your name], the one who’s twirled through life’s ups and downs with [bride’s name]. Today, as her proud maid of honour, I’m absolutely thrilled to share a few words about this extraordinary journey.”
Stories about the bride: “From mastering the latest dance crazes to our legendary karaoke duets, [bride’s name] and I have had our fair share of dance parties that could rival any club. Let’s just say, we’ve got moves!”
The couple’s love story: “Watching [bride’s name] and [partner’s name] fall in love has been like witnessing a beautiful dance unfold – each step graceful, each move synchronised, and the chemistry between them undeniable.”
The proposal: “And then came the proposal, a moment choreographed with love. [Partner’s name] swept [bride’s name] off her feet and, just like a perfectly timed dip on the dance floor, he asked the most important question.”
Heartfelt advice: “As you waltz into the realm of marriage, remember that love, like dance, requires trust, communication, and a willingness to follow each other’s lead. May your journey be filled with harmonious steps and synchronised hearts.”
Toast to the couple: “To [bride’s name] and [partner’s name], the dance partners who’ve found their perfect rhythm. May your days be filled with joyful twirls, passionate dips, and a love that dances on forever. Cheers!”
Speech Example 10: The Daring Duo
Introduction: “Hey there, everyone! I’m [your name], the bestie who’s shared countless adventures and endless laughter with [bride’s name]. Today, as her beaming maid of honour, I’m beyond ecstatic to raise a toast to her love story.”
Stories about the bride: “From planning epic pranks to taking spontaneous road trips, [bride’s name] and I have a history of being partners in crime. One time, we decided to bake a cake at 3 AM – and let’s just say, it was a happy disaster!”
The couple’s love story: “Seeing [bride’s name] and [partner’s name] fall in love is like witnessing a heartwarming heist – a perfect blend of planning, excitement, and the sweet reward of finding their soulmate.”
The proposal: “And then came the proposal, a surprise that could rival our most daring escapades. [Partner’s name] orchestrated a scavenger hunt that led [bride’s name] to the place where their journey began – and to a future she couldn’t resist.”
Heartfelt advice: “As you embark on this grand adventure called marriage, remember that love, like a perfect caper, requires teamwork, trust, and the ability to overcome any obstacle together.”
Toast to the couple: “To [bride’s name] and [partner’s name], the partners in crime who have stolen each other’s hearts. May your days be filled with thrilling escapades, shared secrets, and a love that’s as unbreakable as the bond between co-conspirators. Cheers!”
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!
Watching your little girl walk down the aisle is one of the best moments in a mother’s life. It’s a beautiful mix of nostalgia, pride, and joy set against the backdrop of the happiest day of your child’s life. What better way to express your love and happiness than through a heartwarming speech that tells everyone how proud you are?
However, writing the best mother of the bride speech can be tricky. It’s a delicate balance of heartwarming stories, genuine advice, special memories, and just a sprinkle of laughter. But don’t worry — whether you’re a seasoned wordsmith or struggle with public speaking, we’ve got the advice to help you write a brilliant wedding speech.
In this post, we explain our top tips and guidance for writing the best mother of the bride speeches. We include some words of wisdom on how to structure your speech, some top tips for writing a great wedding speech, and our top 10 best mother of the bride speech examples.
A mother of the bride speech is a mother’s speech at a daughter’s wedding. It usually lasts between 5-7 minutes, and its main focus should be thanking your guests for joining you on this special day, and telling everyone how proud you are of your daughter.
Typically, the mother of the bride’s speech is delivered after the father of the bride’s speech and before the groom’s speech. However, as a mother of the bride speech isn’t considered a traditional wedding speech, you can mix up the order of speeches however you want to include your heartfelt message.
What should you include in a mother of the bride speech?
When writing your mother of the bride speech, you might want to consider including the following key elements:
What makes your daughter so special. This is the perfect opportunity to let everyone know exactly what makes your daughter so special. Tell everyone about her amazing qualities, how kind and caring she is, and how proud you are of her. This is also a good opportunity to playfully tease her — maybe by letting her new spouse know how untidy she is, any lighthearted or embarrassing anecdotes, or any of her other quirks. Remember, the point isn’t to embarrass her on her special day. Instead, the stories you pick should highlight the special bond you share and showcase the wonderful person she has grown into.
The bond you share. The relationship between a mother and her daughter is like no other. It’s a unique and beautiful connection that spans a lifetime, filled with love, understanding, and unbreakable support. This speech is the perfect opportunity to share that bond with your guests and let everyone know just how much your daughter means to you. Be sure to let the guests know that she gets it all from you!
Childhood memories. You had the unique privilege of helping raise your daughter, and this is the perfect opportunity to share any special memories that have shaped your journey together. Share with your guests how you felt when she took her first steps versus how it felt to watch her walk down the aisle. Tell them about watching her grow up, the first moment you felt her, or when you met her future spouse. All these stories will evoke feelings of love and nostalgia, making your speech special and memorable.
A toast to the happy couple. The perfect way to round off a mother of the bride speech is to raise a toast. Raise your glass, and invite your guests to toast to the health and happiness of the new couple. Cheers!
Mother of the bride speech structure
If you’re worried about writing your mother of the bride speech, following a clear and logical structure is a good place to start. Try using the following structure to help you feel more confident as you plan your speech.
Introduction
Start off by introducing yourself to the guests and thanking everyone for attending. As the mother of the bride, it’s is likely you will already know most of the guests. However, it adds a nice sense of occasion to the speech and is always a strong starting point.
All about the bride
The second point in your speech should be talking about your wonderful daughter and the relationship that you share. Tell your guests how it feels to see your little girl all grown up, how proud you are of her, and what a beautiful bride she is.
Share some happy memories
You can then move on to share some funny stories about your daughter’s childhood or the time you’ve shared together. These could be light-hearted or emotional, but should always reflect the unique and wonderful relationship you share with your daughter.
Welcome your daughter’s partner
You should then turn your attention to your daughter’s partner and their parents.
Reminisce about the first time you met, highlight their endearing qualities, and thank them for the happiness they brings your daughter. By incorporating your daughter’s partner into your speech, you demonstrate your wholehearted support for the relationship and nurture a strong bond between both families.
Offer guidance and wisdom
Now move on to sharing some pearls of wisdom with the newlyweds.
Feel free to speak from the heart about love, commitment, and their future together, as they embark on this beautiful journey as a married couple. Building a strong family is an essential aspect, and your insights will surely guide and inspire them.
To the happy couple!
Finally, invite your guests to raise their glasses in a toast to the happy couple. Congratulate them on their big day, drink to their health, and wish them a lifetime of love and happiness.
Mother of the bride speech template
To help you navigate the complete breakdown of your speech, it can be helpful to have a visual guide to refer to. Check out our handy infographic below:
Use this mother of the bride speech template to guide your writing
Top tips for delivering the best mother of the bride speech
It’s natural to feel nervous before you present your speech. However, practice makes perfect, and the more times you’re able to rehearse, the more confident you’ll feel. Try practicing in front of a mirror, to trusted friends, or recording yourself on your mobile phone to watch back. You’ll be grateful you did when the nerves kick in. If you’re still feeling anxious, check out our guidance on speech delivery skills.
Mother knows best
You know your daughter better than anyone, so you know what advice she’ll need to support her through married life. You know her dreams, her strengths, and her vulnerabilities, and that insight will continue to be invaluable as she navigates the journey of married life. Offer her your best pearls of wisdom during the speech: you were her guiding light during the early years of her life, and she looks up to you more than anyone — there’s no reason that should change now.
Speak from the heart
In sharing your heartfelt words, remember that this is a moment of celebration and joy. Let your emotions to flow freely as you speak from the heart. Your sincerity and genuine love for your daughter and her new spouse will surely resonate with everyone present.
If you’re really stuck, consider presenting a nice wedding reading, poem, or famous quote about love. Often, poets and creatives can articulate how you’re feeling in a way your own words can’t.
Think about your audience
Each person in attendance holds a special place in either your daughter’s or her new spouse’s life. The guests will likely include grandparents, work colleagues, old friends, neighbours, and more. That’s why it’s important that you consider the audience when writing your speech. Steer clear of any stories that are too embarrassing or paint the bride or groom in a bad light. Keep it positive, upbeat, and warm.
If you’re looking for some inspiration, check out our top 10 examples of great wedding mother of the bride speech ideas, from the short and simple, to the funny and personal. Use them as templates for your own speech and personalise them with your own unique examples and anecdotes.
A lot of mother of the bride 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.
Speech Example 1: The Heartfelt Reminiscence
Introduction: “Hello, everyone! I’m [your name], and I’m so happy to see all of you here today. Your presence makes this day even more special.”
All about the bride: “As I stand before you, I can’t help but reflect on the journey my daughter, [bride’s name] and I have shared. From the moment she took her first steps to this day, where she takes her first steps into marriage, my heart swells with pride and love.”
Share some happy memories: “Oh, the adventures [bride’s name] and I have had! From impromptu dance parties in the living room to our baking escapades that left the kitchen a flour-covered disaster zone. These memories are etched in my heart forever.”
Welcome your daughter’s partner: “And now, I’d like to extend a warm welcome to [partner’s name] and his wonderful parents. From the day I met [partner’s name], I knew he was the perfect match for my daughter. His kindness, humor, and unwavering love have brought immense joy into [bride’s name]’s life.”
Offer guidance and wisdom: “As you both step into this new chapter, always remember to listen with your hearts, communicate openly, and treasure the simple moments that life offers. Your journey together will be filled with ups and downs, but facing them together will only make your bond stronger.”
To the happy couple: “Ladies and gentlemen, let’s raise our glasses to [bride’s name] and [partner’s name]. May your love continue to grow, your days be filled with laughter, and your adventure together be nothing short of extraordinary. Cheers!”
Speech Example 2: The Playful Tribute
Introduction: “Good evening, everyone! I’m [your name], and I want to express my gratitude for joining us on this joyous occasion. Your presence truly warms our hearts.”
All about the bride: “From the moment [bride’s name] was born, my life gained an extra sparkle. Today, as I see her in that stunning gown, I’m reminded of the little girl who used to twirl around the living room, spreading laughter wherever she went.”
Share some happy memories: “Our journey has been filled with giggles and cherished moments. I’ll never forget the time [bride’s name] decided to give our cat a ‘makeover’ with her art supplies. Let’s just say Whiskers had a colourful personality for a while!”
Welcome your daughter’s partner: “Joining our family today is [partner’s name], a man who has captured [bride’s name]’s heart completely. His sense of humor, his passion for life, and the way he looks at her make me believe in true love all over again.”
Offer guidance and wisdom: “As you both start this new chapter, remember to keep laughing, hold each other close during the tough times, and always communicate openly. Love is an incredible journey, and I have no doubt you two will make it a beautiful one.”
To the happy couple: “Let’s raise our glasses to [bride’s name] and [partner’s name]. May your days be filled with shared dreams, boundless joy, and a love that only grows stronger with each passing year. Cheers!”
Speech Example 3: The Nurturing Supporter
Introduction: “Hello, everyone! I’m delighted to see all your familiar faces gathered here to celebrate this beautiful day. Your presence adds a touch of warmth to this special occasion.”
All about the bride: “Today, as I look at my radiant daughter, [bride’s name], I can’t help but feel a mixture of emotions – pride, joy, and a touch of nostalgia. It feels like just yesterday she was picking wildflowers in the garden.”
Share some happy memories: “From tea parties with stuffed animals to late-night heart-to-hearts, [bride’s name] and I have shared countless precious moments. I’ll always treasure the laughter that echoed through our home.”
Welcome your daughter’s partner: “I want to extend a heartfelt welcome to [partner’s name] and his lovely parents. From the day we met, I could see the love and happiness he brings into [bride’s name]’s life. We are truly blessed to have [partner’s name] as part of our family.”
Offer guidance and wisdom: “As you embark on this beautiful journey of marriage, remember that a strong marriage is built on patience, understanding, and unwavering support. Through life’s twists and turns, always hold each other close.”
To the happy couple: “Ladies and gentlemen, let’s raise our glasses to [bride’s name] and [partner’s name]. May your days be filled with shared dreams, endless laughter, and a love that continues to blossom with each passing day. Cheers!”
Speech Example 4: The Best Friend
Introduction: “Good evening, everyone! I’m [bride’s name]’s mum, and I want to thank you all for joining us in celebrating this wonderful day. Your presence means the world to us.”
All about the bride: “Today is a rainbow of emotions – the little girl I held in my arms is now a stunning bride before us. [Bride’s name], you’ve grown into a remarkable woman, and my heart is bursting with pride.”
Share some happy memories: “As [bride’s name]’s confidante and partner-in-crime, we’ve shared countless laughs, secrets, and even a few late-night snacks. Our bond has always been a very special one.”
Welcome your daughter’s partner: “Joining our family is [partner’s name], a man who has shown us that love is patient, kind, and enduring. His presence has brought immense happiness to [bride’s name]’s life, and we couldn’t be more grateful.”
Offer guidance and wisdom: “Remember that a strong marriage is built on mutual respect, open communication, and a willingness to grow together. Through the highs and lows, you have each other to lean on.”
To the happy couple: “Here’s to [bride’s name] and [partner’s name], two souls who have found their perfect match. May your journey be filled with love, laughter, and countless beautiful moments. Cheers!”
Speech Example 5: The Colourful Adventure
Introduction: “Good evening, everyone! What a joy it is to have you all here to celebrate [bride’s name] and [partner’s name]’s love story. Your presence makes this day even more special.”
All about the bride: “As I stand here today, I see not just a beautiful bride, but a reflection of all the love, care, and nurturing that went into raising [bride’s name]. My heart swells with pride.”
Share some happy memories: “From the finger-painting masterpieces to the ‘secret’ bedtime stories, [bride’s name] has always kept life colourful and imaginative. She has taught me that laughter truly is the best medicine.”
Welcome your daughter’s partner: “Joining us today is [partner’s name], a man whose warm smile and kind heart have stolen [bride’s name]’s heart. From the first moment we met, it was clear that he is a perfect match for our family.”
Offer guidance and wisdom: “In this beautiful journey of marriage, always cherish the little moments, for they are the ones that create a lifetime of memories. And remember, love is an art that you both are mastering together.”
To the happy couple: “Let’s raise our glasses to [bride’s name] and [partner’s name]. May your love story continue to be as vibrant and inspiring as the colours on a canvas. Here’s to a future filled with endless love and happiness. Cheers!”
Speech Example 6: The Proud Mother
Introduction: “Hello, everyone! Your presence today is a true testament to the love and support that surrounds [bride’s name] and [partner’s name]. Thank you for being part of this memorable day.”
All about the bride: “As I look at [bride’s name] today, I am reminded of the incredible journey we’ve shared. She has grown into an amazing woman, and my heart is overflowing with pride.”
Share some happy memories: “From adventurous road trips to late-night movie marathons, [bride’s name] has filled our lives with unforgettable moments. Her laughter has been a constant source of joy.”
Welcome your daughter’s partner: “I want to extend a warm welcome to [partner’s name] and his wonderful family. From the moment we met, it was clear that his love and devotion to [bride’s name] run deep.”
Offer guidance and wisdom: “As you navigate the path of marriage, always remember that open communication, empathy, and a good sense of humour are your strongest allies. Embrace each other’s individuality and grow together.”
To the happy couple: “Let’s raise our glasses to [bride’s name] and [partner’s name]. May your journey be filled with exciting adventures, shared dreams, and a love that only deepens with time. Cheers!”
Speech Example 7: The Poetic Reflection
Introduction: “Greetings, dear friends and family! Today, we gather to celebrate the enchanting union of [bride’s name] and [partner’s name]. Thank you for being part of this magical day.”
All about the bride: “From the moment [bride’s name] was born, I knew I was in for a beautiful adventure. She’s grown into a gorgeous bride, and I feel truly blessed to witness this moment.”
Share some happy memories: “As a child, [bride’s name] had a wild imagination. We would have tea parties with teddy bears and go on imaginary expeditions. She has brought boundless joy into my life.”
Welcome your daughter’s partner: “Today, we not only gain a son-in-law in [partner’s name], but also a dear friend. His presence has brought an extra sprinkle of joy to our lives.”
Offer guidance and wisdom: “In the journey ahead, may you both nurture your love like a delicate flower. Water it with kindness, the sunlight of understanding, and the gentle breeze of laughter.”
To the happy couple: “Let’s raise our glasses to [bride’s name] and [partner’s name]. May your marriage be a fairy tale filled with love, laughter, and countless ‘happily ever afters.’ Cheers!”
Speech Example 8: The Lyrical Musings
Introduction: “Ladies and gentlemen, it warms my heart to see so many beloved faces gathered here. We are here to celebrate the radiant love between [bride’s name] and [partner’s name].”
All about the bride: “In [bride’s name], I found a confidante, a best friend, and a bundle of joy. Today, as I look at her, I’m reminded of the beautiful journey we’ve shared.”
Share some happy memories: “From the impromptu dance parties in the living room to the heartfelt conversations under the stars, [bride’s name] has filled my life with precious moments.”
Welcome your daughter’s partner: “Let’s extend a warm welcome to [partner’s name] and his family. Our hearts have been enriched by his presence, and his love for [bride’s name] shines brightly.”
Offer guidance and wisdom: “As you begin this new chapter, may your love story be a tapestry woven with patience, understanding, and a touch of spontaneity. Embrace each moment.”
To the happy couple: “Let’s raise our glasses to [bride’s name] and [partner’s name]. May your journey be a symphony of love, and may each day be a verse of happiness. Cheers!”
Speech Example 9: The Heartwarming Touch
Introduction: “Hello, everyone! Your presence today fills our hearts with gratitude and joy as we celebrate the union of [bride’s name] and [partner’s name].”
All about the bride: “As I stand before you today, I see a strong, independent woman in [bride’s name]. She makes a remarkable bride, and I couldn’t be prouder.”
Share some happy memories: “From baking mishaps to spontaneous road trips, [bride’s name] has kept our lives full of laughter. Her adventurous spirit has taught me to cherish every moment.”
Welcome your daughter’s partner: “Let’s give a warm welcome to [partner’s name], a man whose love and dedication to [bride’s name] shines brightly. Our family has been enriched by his presence.”
Offer guidance and wisdom: “In the journey of marriage, remember that it’s the small gestures and shared smiles that build a strong foundation. May your love story be a beautiful mosaic.”
To the happy couple: “Let’s raise our glasses to [bride’s name] and [partner’s name]. May your days be filled with simple joys, and may your love grow stronger with each passing year. Cheers!”
Speech Example 10: The Happy Wishes
Introduction: “Good day, dear friends and family! We gather here to celebrate the wonderful union of [bride’s name] and [partner’s name]. Thank you for joining us on this happy occasion.”
All about the bride: “As I look at [bride’s name] today, I’m reminded of the spirited child who filled our home with laughter. She has transformed into a beautiful bride, and my heart bursts with pride.”
Share some happy memories: “From science experiments gone awry to impromptu dance-offs, [bride’s name] has brought endless delight into our lives. Her creativity knows no bounds.”
Welcome your daughter’s partner: “Let’s warmly welcome [partner’s name], a man who stole not only [bride’s name]’s heart, but ours as well. His presence has marked a wonderful new chapter in our lives.”
Offer guidance and wisdom: “As you embark on this journey together, remember that life is a grand adventure. Embrace each challenge as an opportunity, and may your love be the compass.”
To the happy couple: “Here’s to [bride’s name] and [groom’s name], the architects of their own love story. May your journey be filled with laughter, adventure, and a love that defies the ordinary. Cheers!”
The mother of the bride speech is a beautiful, but non-traditional, part of a wedding reception. As such, you have the freedom to make what you want of it without the pressures felt by more traditional speeches (such as the best man’s speech or the father of the bride’s speech.
This is your chance to tell the world how amazing your little girl is and highlight how beautiful she looks on her big day. Speak from the heart, share your favourite childhood memories of your daughter, and offer your advice and guidance to the newlyweds on their happy day.
If you’re still feeling nervous, we can support you in writing a brilliant mother of the bride speech here at Bridebook. Sign up today and learn all about making your mother of the bride speech funny, beautiful, and from the heart.
He’s your best mate. Your partner in crime. You’re brothers in spirit, if not always in blood. And now, you’re his best man. Congratulations!
The honour of being the best man is a true testament to your friendship and the faith the groom puts in you. The best way to pay him back is to write a best man speech that will have everyone in stitches and teary-eyed at the same time.
Writing a best man’s speech might not be easy for everyone. But there’s no need to panic! Whether you were born for the stage or a little more reserved, we’ve got the best man speech ideas and examples to help you get started. Prepare to craft the perfect speech to make your guests laugh, cry, and reminisce on your best friend’s big day.
The best man speech is a speech made by the best man during the wedding reception. It should be about 5 minutes long and include some anecdotes, jokes, and your favourite memories about the groom. These stories should highlight your friendship, adventures, and any lessons you’ve learned together.
The best man’s speech is usually third in the order of speeches: first is the father of the bride’s speech; second is the groom’s speech; and third is the best man’s speech. It can be delivered after the main meal or between courses. This will give guests a break from the monotony of long speeches and capture the attention of everyone present.
Here are some key elements you should consider including in your best man speech:
Thick as thieves. Engage the guests from the get-go with captivating stories about your time with the groom. It’s the perfect time to share your adventures and describe your escapades surrounded by the people who love your groom the most. It’s important to strike the right balance between sharing your craziest moments and not embarrassing the groom too much on their special day!
Share their story. You likely knew the groom before he met his partner bride. Try sharing some stories of how they met, when he decided to propose, or when he told you they were the one. These special, intimate moments will no doubt make the couple smile and pull at the guest’s heartstrings.
A playful roast. Throw in a few light-hearted (and appropriate) jabs at the groom. Keep it clean; keep it playful. The goal is to make everyone laugh, including the groom himself. Balance the teasing with genuine admiration, support, and love, and you won’t go far wrong.
Toast the happy couple. Raise your glass and lead the crowd in a toast to the couple’s future health and happiness. It’s the perfect opportunity to end your speech on a high note and leave everyone feeling uplifted.
Following a clear structure can help you feel more confident when writing a best man’s speech. Try using this structure to get you started:
Introduction
The first part of your speech should be focused on introducing yourself and explaining your relationship to the groom. You’re his best man, but are you also his childhood best friend, partner in crime, brother, or new brother-in-law?
This is your opportunity to build rapport with your audience and share some light-hearted anecdotes about how you met or your journey so far.
Acknowledge the happy couple
Once you’ve introduced yourself, it’s time to shift your focus to the happy couple. This is the perfect opportunity to highlight how beautiful the bride looks and how much you admire her positive qualities. Express how happy you are for the newlyweds, your excitement for their special day, and explain how the bride has positively influenced the groom’s life.
Stories and anecdotes
The next portion of your speech should be concerned with sharing your favourite stories about the groom. These stories could showcase his character, quirks, and any memorable moments you’ve shared.
Balance your jokes with sincerity, ensuring the stories reflect the groom’s best qualities, highlight your friendship, and don’t embarrass him too much in front of his new family!
Reflect on your friendship
This portion of your speech should talk about how you’ve supported one another through the trials of life. You should discuss how you met, the lessons you’ve learned together, and how much your friendship means to you.
Although these types of speech may not come naturally to all, today is a sentimental day and the perfect opportunity to express your gratitude for their friendship over all these years.
Closing and toast
Now is the time to close your speech and raise a toast to the happy couple. Thank all the guests for attending, express gratitude to the couple’s parents, and end on a heartfelt note before raising your glass to the happy couple. Cheers, you did it!
Best man speech template
To help you navigate the complete breakdown of your speech, it can be helpful to have a visual guide to refer to. Check out our handy infographic below:
Don’t stress. It’s natural to feel nervous when making a speech in front of a large group. However, keep in mind that you couldn’t ask for a better audience! The guests will have already listened to two speeches, are expecting yours, and are likely to have met you before. Take deep breaths, speak slowly and clearly, and maintain eye contact with the audience. Remember, everyone is there to support you, and the couple will appreciate your efforts regardless.
Respect boundaries. Avoid sensitive or controversial topics that could offend or upset anyone in attendance. Some light-hearted roasting is appropriate, but stay away from any stories that may embarrass the couple or make them uncomfortable. If in doubt, check with the groom what stories he’s happy for you to use and disclose beforehand. This way, you can make sure he’s comfortable with the stories you’ll share while keeping your speech’s content a secret.
Practice makes perfect. As with anything – practice makes perfect! Rehearse your speech multiple times before the big day. Try practising in front of a mirror, to trusted friends, or even record yourself making the speech to watch back. This will help you feel more comfortable, ensure a smooth delivery, and help you remember the key points you want to cover. If you’re still feeling anxious, check out our speech delivery skills to help you prepare for your best man’s speech.
Toasting etiquette. This may be one of the first times you’re instigating a toast, so it’s important to have proper toasting etiquette. When raising a toast, ensure your glass is filled with the drink of your choice beforehand. This is traditionally champagne. However, prosecco or a non-alcoholic fizzy drink is also acceptable. Make eye contact with the couple and raise your glass towards them. Encourage others to join in by signalling or making a simple gesture.
If you’re looking for some inspiration, check out our top 12 examples of great best man wedding speech ideas, from the short and simple, to the funny and personal!
A lot of traditional best man speeches and examples will refer to a bride and groom, but you can simply change the references to the groom’s partner and the appropriate pronouns if you’re attending an LGBTQ+ wedding.
Example 1: Classic best man speech
Introduction: Hello, hello, hello everyone. Is everyone having a good time? My name is [Your Name] and I have the incredible privilege of being [Groom’s Name]’s best man.
Reflect on your friendship: Now, let’s start by saying, being [Groom’s Name]’s best man is no small honour— it’s huge. I mean, out of all the people he knows, all the people he could have chosen to stand up here and speak… he picked me. Which either means I’m the most qualified, or the least likely to tell his more embarrassing stories. Sorry to disappoint, mate!
[Groom’s Name] and I go way back. We met when we were 5, and from the very beginning, I knew he was someone special. Mainly because he beat me at Mario Kart and never let me forget it. But in all seriousness, growing up together has been one of the greatest gifts of my life.
Stories and anecdotes: When we were about 10, [Groom’s Name] was absolutely convinced he could teach me how to backflip into a pool. Spoiler alert: he could not. But he stuck by me, encouraging me every time I belly-flopped. And that about sums him up— always cheering others on, even when it’s pointless and a little bit reckless.
Acknowledge the happy couple: As we grew older, I watched [Groom’s Name] become the man he is today. He’s a loyal friend, a generous soul, and now, the luckiest guy in the room. Because let’s be real, [Bride’s Name], you are absolutely stunning, intelligent, and everything a man could hope for. The fact that you’ve chosen to marry him is proof that love is blind, but hey, we’ll take it! Joking aside, you two are perfect together. The way you look at each other, take care of each other, and love each other is a genuine inspiration to everyone here today.
Closing and toast: So, everyone— please will you join me in a toast to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. May your love continue to grow, may your adventures together be endless, and may [Groom’s Name] finally learn how to put his boxers in the washing basket.
To love, laughter, and happily ever after! Cheers!
Example 2: Brother’s best man speech
Introduction: Good evening, everyone! For those of you who don’t know me, my name is [Your Name], and I have the absolute pleasure of being [Groom’s Name]’s brother. And, as tradition dictates, his best man. Now, when I got the call to take on this prestigious role, I was thrilled. But let’s be honest, I probably would have started World War 3 if I hadn’t got it, so…
Stories and anecdotes: Growing up as [Groom’s Name]’s brother has been an experience, to say the least. He was always the one with the big ideas, the wild plans, and, occasionally, the questionable decisions. I remember when we were kids, [Groom’s Name] convinced me that Mum would be absolutely fine with it if we brought home these two fox cubs we found in the garden. I won’t lie, they were pretty difficult to wrangle. I think we lured them into the house with a bit of ham on some string in the end, but it didn’t take long for Mum to figure out what we were up to. Let’s just say, the foxes had a better chance of staying than we did that evening.
That’s [Groom’s Name] for you—always full of schemes, ideas, and a knack for turning an ordinary day into an unforgettable adventure (or complete chaos, as Mum called it).
Reflect on your friendship: But it wasn’t all mischief and madness. [Groom’s Name] has always had a big heart to match those big ideas. Like the time he spent an entire weekend building me a treehouse because I’d been grounded and couldn’t leave the garden—despite the fact it collapsed the moment I climbed into it.
He’s the kind of brother who would go to the ends of the Earth for the people he cares about, even if you’re 80% sure he’s the reason you got grounded in the first place.
Acknowledge the happy couple: Now, let’s talk about [Bride’s Name]. From the moment you came into his life, it was like something shifted in him. Suddenly, this guy who used to leave the milk out and wear socks that didn’t match started showing signs of being… responsible. You’ve clearly had quite an effect on him, and for that, I owe you a massive thank you.
Closing and toast: So, as we raise our glasses tonight, let’s toast to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. Here’s to a lifetime of love, health, and adventures—hopefully without any foxes this time. May your lives be filled with joy, your home always be warm, and your ham always stay on the plate, where it belongs.
Example 3: Childhood best man speech
Introduction: Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, and everyone in between—good evening! My name is [Your Name], and I’m so proud to be here today as [Groom’s Name]’s best man. When [Groom’s Name] asked me to take on this role, I was deeply honoured. But more importantly, I knew this was my golden opportunity to share a few of the greatest hits from our childhood. Get ready, this is going to be fun.
Stories and anecdotes: Growing up with [Groom’s Name] was bonkers. There was always laughter, always chaos, and usually, one of us doing something we definitely shouldn’t have been doing. Take, for example, the time we decided it would be a brilliant idea to turn our bikes into “rocket bikes.” All it took was a couple of fireworks, some duct tape, and absolutely zero adult supervision.
We were convinced we’d invented something revolutionary—right up until the moment the fireworks went off and [Groom’s Name] ended up in the neighbour’s rose bushes. Two ruined bikes and a lot of TCP later, we learnt a valuable lesson: leave rocket science to NASA. But honestly, that was the magic of growing up with [Groom’s Name]. Life was never boring, and there was always a story to tell—even if it involved a bit of pain and a lot of explaining to Mum.
Reflect on your friendship: But for all the wild plans, [Groom’s Name] has always been the guy who’d do anything for the people he loves. He’s got this knack for turning the smallest moments into adventures and making you feel like you’re part of something special. You really are the life and soul, and I’m grateful for every moment of our wacky childhood.
Acknowledge the happy couple: But, of course, all good things must come to an end. Well, almost all good things—because one wild chapter of [Groom’s Name]’s life may be wrapping up, but today marks the beginning of an even better one with [Bride’s Name]. Now, I’ll admit, when I first heard about [Bride’s Name], I was a bit sceptical. Not because of her, but because I thought, “Who in their right mind would willingly sign up for [Groom’s Name]’s shenanigans?” But then I met you, [Bride’s Name], and it all made sense.
You’re kind, funny, and you’ve clearly got the patience of a saint. You not only see the best in [Groom’s Name], but somehow, you’ve managed to make him an even better version of himself. Together, you’re the perfect match, and I couldn’t be happier for you both. No one deserves this as much as you.
Closing and toast: On that note, please charge your glasses to the new Mr and Mrs [Surname]. May your life be filled with love, laughter, and fireworks in all the right places.
Example 4: Twin’s best man speech
Introduction: Good afternoon, everyone. Are you all having a good time? For those of you who don’t know me, my name is [Your Name], and I’m not only the best man, but the Groom’s twin brother.
Stories and anecdotes: Now, if there’s one thing you need to know about being a twin, it’s that it’s a bond unlike any other. Growing up, [Groom’s Name] and I were inseparable. Not by choice, of course—our parents tethered us together with those silly baby reins and dressed us alike until we were old enough to protest. But even after we finally got to pick our own clothes, we were still a team. We’ve shared everything—birthdays, inside jokes, and more than a few questionable decisions.
It probably goes without saying, but [Groom’s name] and I are completely identical. Right down to the freckles on our arms. I know you know where this is going, but Mum, Dad—we have a few confessions.
We swapped places for 5 out of 7 secondary school picture days. Even I don’t know who is who in the Year 10 one.
[Groom’s Name] broke up with my ex for me because I just couldn’t bring myself to do it. I honestly don’t think she noticed.
I took [Groom’s Name]’s driving test for him. To be fair, he’d failed twice already, and I thought, “How hard could it be?” Apparently, harder than I thought, because I failed too.
But, that’s twins for you—always in it together, even when it’s a total disaster.
Reflect on your friendship: But beyond the mischief and the laughs, [Groom’s Name], you’ve always been my rock. We’ve shared every milestone, every challenge, and every triumph. You’ve been my best friend, my sounding board, and the one person I know I can count on, no matter what. Being your twin is the greatest privilege of my life, and I wouldn’t swap it for anything.
Acknowledge the happy couple: And then came [Bride’s Name]. I have to admit, when I first heard about you, [Bride’s Name], I wasn’t sure how anyone could handle [Groom’s Name]. But from the moment I met you, I knew you were perfect for him. You balance him out, keep him on track, and I think you might be the only person who can genuinely tell us apart… or so you say.
You’ve brought out a side of [Groom’s Name] that I’ve never seen before—more thoughtful, more grounded, and, dare I say it, even more in love with life. Together, you’re an unstoppable team, and I couldn’t be happier to welcome you to the family. Though, fair warning: we might still try to rope you into a twin prank or two.
Closing and toast: So, as we raise our glasses, let’s toast to the incredible bond of love, laughter, and partnership. [Bride’s Name], thank you for making my brother the happiest he’s ever been. And [Groom’s Name], here’s to being the best twin, the best friend, and now, the best husband you can be.
Example 5: Nostalgic best man speech
Introduction: Hi everyone, my name is [Your Name], and I’m lucky enough to be standing here today as [Groom’s Name]’s best man. For those of you who don’t know, [Groom’s Name] and I have been best friends since we were just a couple of kids running around in nursery, with scraped knees, a pocket full of Matchbox cars, and far too much energy.
Reflect on your friendship: Looking back, it’s hard to pinpoint the exact moment we became inseparable. Maybe it was the time we teamed up to build the tallest Lego tower the classroom had ever seen… until someone “accidentally” knocked it over (we never liked that girl). Or maybe it was when we discovered a mutual love for hiding from the teachers during nap time, convinced we were rebels. Whatever it was, it started something that’s lasted a lifetime.
Stories and anecdotes: Growing up together meant sharing all the milestones—big and small. I’ll never forget the time we started our first “business” selling conkers to other kids in the playground. We thought we were entrepreneurs, until the headteacher shut us down for “causing a distraction.” We re-grouped, obviously, and started swelling sweets at break time… but I’m pretty sure that’s what got us in internal exclusion, wasn’t it? Sorry if you didn’t know that, [Groom’s Mum’s Name]. We’re all learning things today.
But, the friendship was a lot more than being told off. In fact, [Groom’s Name] was the most sensitive friend I had. He’s the one I knew I could count on, even when things seemed hopeless. Like the time I lost my first football match and was inconsolable. [Groom’s Name] sat with me, telling me stories and insisting that I’d be the next Beckham—even though we both knew I couldn’t score a goal to save my life.
He’s the sort of person who makes you feel like you can do anything, who’s there when you need them most, and who can make you laugh even when you feel like crying. It’s no wonder that he’s found someone as incredible as [Bride’s Name] to share his life with.
Acknowledge the happy couple: [Bride’s Name], from the moment I met you, I knew you were something special. Not because of any big gesture or because you were clearly far too good for him, but because of the way you looked at [Groom’s Name]. It was as if you already saw the best parts of him—the kindness, the loyalty, the big heart that I’ve been lucky enough to know my whole life. You’re everything he could have hoped for and more, and I’m so proud of you both.
Closing and toast: So, as we raise our glasses, I’d like to toast to friendship, to love, and to the memories that shape who we are. [Bride’s Name], thank you for making my oldest friend happier than I’ve ever seen him. And [Groom’s Name], thank you for being the brother I chose all those years ago in nursery. To [Groom’s Name] and [Bride’s Name]!
Example 6: Uni days best man speech
Introduction: Hi everyone, isn’t this an amazing day? For those of you I haven’t met yet, my name is [Your Name], and I have the immense privilege of being [Groom’s Name]’s best man. [Groom’s Name] is undoubtedly the closest thing I have to a brother, so I couldn’t be more thrilled to stand here today and celebrate this incredible moment with him and [Bride’s Name].
Reflect on your friendship: Now, [Groom’s Name] and I go way back, but some of my fondest memories are from our university days. Life was never dull with him around. Like the time he decided we should pull an all-nighter to prepare for exams—by which I mean playing FIFA until sunrise and deciding caffeine would somehow help us “absorb and process” information. Did we re-sit that one once… or was it twice? Twice for you, definitely.
Acknowledge the happy couple: Something you might not know is that I played a small part in introducing [Groom’s Name] to [Bride’s Name]. I say “small,” but it was more like divine intervention. Picture this: a university party, a bit too much liquid courage on both sides, and me, ever the wingman, awkwardly blurting out to [Bride’s Name], “You have to meet my mate, [Groom’s Name]. He’s not bad looking once you’ve had a drink.”
Anyway, we turn around, and he’s casually vomiting into the mop bucket. Not his finest hour. But, somehow, [Bride’s Name] saw past that, and they went for a drink the following week. The rest, as they say, is history.
Stories and anecdotes: From there, things only got better—well, mostly. [Groom’s Name] managed to charm [Bride’s Name] with his unique brand of humour, his questionable dance moves, and his uncanny ability to somehow always lose his wallet when it’s his turn to buy drinks.
We went from being a dynamic duo—Nottingham’s answer to Ant and Dec—to [Bride’s Name] joining the team and upgrading us to a proper trio. And let’s be honest, it’s been all the better for it. [Bride’s Name] brought a touch of class, a lot of patience, and, most importantly, someone who could finally keep [Groom’s Name] in check—because goodness knows, I couldn’t do it on my own!
Closing and toast: So, as we raise our glasses, let’s toast to the real dynamic duo—[Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. Here’s to a lifetime of adventures, of laughter, and of teamwork. [Bride’s Name], thank you for making my best mate the happiest man in the room. And [Groom’s Name], thank you for proving that even mop bucket moments can lead to something extraordinary. Here’s to your next chapter. Down in one?!
Example 7: Epic bromance best man speech
Introduction: Well, well, well… where do I begin? What a day this has been already. For those of you who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], and I’ve had the honour of being [Groom’s Name]’s partner in crime, wingman, and, dare I say it, his second greatest love—after [Bride’s Name], of course.
Stories and anecdotes: I never had a brother, but if I had, I can only hope that he’d have been as brilliant—and as ridiculously infuriating—as [Groom’s Name]. Over the years, we’ve shared everything: laughter, bad decisions, and more than a few late-night kebabs that were definitely a mistake the next morning.
Reflect on your friendship: One of my favourite memories has to be the time we went camping and decided to “live off the land.” For us, this involved trying to forage for berries, getting an upset tummy from drinking dirty lake water, and then calling for a pizza to be delivered directly to the tent. Until you’ve used ‘what3words’ to guide a spotty 17-year-old to your very questionable pop-up tent, you haven’t truly experienced the height of outdoor survival, in my opinion. Bear Grylls doesn’t know what he’s talking about.
And let’s not forget the infamous karaoke night when [Groom’s Name] serenaded the entire pub with his rendition of “Wonderwall.” It was both the worst and best performance I’ve ever seen, and somehow, he convinced the audience to join in. That’s just who he is—charming, unstoppable, and, at times, completely ridiculous. Incidentally, that’s the night he told me he’d met [Bride’s Name].
Acknowledge the happy couple: Now, when I first met her, I knew immediately that things were about to change. [Groom’s Name] had met his match—someone who could keep up with his energy, laugh at his jokes (most of them, anyway), and somehow manage to make him a better version of himself. It wasn’t long before I realised that this wasn’t just a passing romance—this was it.
[Bride’s Name], you’ve not only brought out the best in [Groom’s Name], but you’ve also joined the bromance in the most brilliant way. You’ve made space for our nonsense, even encouraged it at times, and for that, I’m forever grateful. It’s clear to everyone here today that you’re not just his partner—you’re his perfect teammate. I graciously and wholeheartedly pass the torch to you.
Closing and toast: So, as we raise our glasses, let’s toast to the ultimate partnership. To Mr and Mrs [Surname]. Wishing you the world and more—you deserve it.
Example 8: Ride or die best man speech
Introduction: Go easy on me, everyone. I’m not usually one for speeches. For those of you who don’t know me, my name is [Your Name] and I’m [Groom’s Name]’s day one best mate. Our Mums made friends in the hospital because they both had nightmare, awkward babies. Paints a picture, doesn’t it? Anyway, fast forward a few years, and those two awkward babies became inseparable partners-in-crime.
Reflect on your friendship: [Groom’s Name] was the worst influence, and yetthe best friend anyone could ask for. Growing up, if there was trouble to be found, you could bet [Groom’s Name] was leading the charge—with me not far behind, trying to talk him out of it (unsuccessfully, I might add). But the thing about [Groom’s Name] is that no matter how chaotic the situation, he could always get you out of it. He had that gift of the gab, you know? I think the kids now call it ‘rizz’.
Acknowledge the happy couple: I’m pretty sure that’s how he landed [Bride’s Name], in fact. Did you know that this happy couple met at a party where [Groom’s Name] confidently told [Bride’s Name] that he could beat anyone in the room at darts? Now, the problem here was that [Groom’s Name] is absolutely terrible at darts—like, “can’t hit the board to save his life” terrible. But somehow, through sheer charm (and maybe a little strategic sabotage), he managed to turn a humiliating loss into a date with [Bride’s Name].
I want lessons in how you navigated that, by the way, because I think we can all agree—[Bride’s Name] is completely out of his league. What a stunner, and the most beautiful bride we’ve ever seen. But in all seriousness, [Bride’s Name], you’re not just stunning—you’re smart, kind, and, let’s face it, a bit of a miracle worker. You’ve managed to keep [Groom’s Name] grounded, organised, and—most impressively—you’ve got him turning up on time to things. That’s nothing short of magic.
Watching you two together is like watching the perfect double act. [Groom’s Name] brings the chaos, and [Bride’s Name], you bring the calm. Together, you balance each other out in the most brilliant way, and it’s clear to everyone in this room that you’re a team built to last.
Closing and toast: Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, please raise a glass to the newly minted Mr and Mrs. [Surname]. May your life be filled with love, laughter, and genuine friendship. To Mr and Mrs. [Surname]!
Example 9: Funny best man speech
Introduction: Hello everyone. [Your Name] here, ready to deliver a blinding best man speech. Let’s get the formalities out of the way—I told [Groom’s Name] I wouldn’t sit down until everyone had had a laugh, so you may as well humour me now. [Pause for polite chuckles.] Lovely, thank you!
Stories and anecdotes: I’ve known [Groom’s Name] for 17 years, can you believe it? And in that time, he’s provided me with endless material for this speech. Honestly, I could stand here all night. But let’s keep it clean and simple, shall we? Take, for example, the time he decided he could teach himself to cook during university. One pan, 9 ingredients, no salt, and a smoke alarm later, I was seriously considering calling the fire brigade. And let’s not even get started on his “spaghetti nuggets.”
Equally, there was the time he decided he could master DIY after watching a couple of YouTube videos. Armed with an IKEA flat-pack shelf and far too much confidence, [Groom’s Name] managed to build something that looked like it belonged in the Tate Modern. Impressive, right? Wrong. It was meant to be a Billy Bookcase.
Reflect on your friendship: But that’s the thing about [Groom’s Name]. Even when his plans go sideways—and they often do—he somehow manages to turn it into a laugh. Whether it’s his dodgy karaoke performances, his insistence that he can beat anyone at pool (he can’t), or his legendary “one more pint” philosophy that has led us to some questionable situations, life with him is never boring.
Acknowledge the happy couple: And then along came [Bride’s Name]. Now, I’ll admit, I wasn’t sure how she’d fit into this whirlwind of chaos. But it turns out that she wasn’t just up for the challenge—she embraced it. [Bride’s Name], you’ve brought a whole new dimension to [Groom’s Name]’s life. You’ve somehow managed to make him more organised, more thoughtful, and—dare I say it—almost respectable.
But what’s even more impressive is that you haven’t tried to change him. You love him for exactly who he is—dodgy cooking, wonky shelves, and all. Together, you’ve become the ultimate duo, with [Bride’s Name] providing the calm and the cleverness, and [Groom’s Name] providing… let’s call it the “creative flair.”
Closing and toast: So, let’s raise a glass to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], the perfect team. [Bride’s Name], thank you for making [Groom’s Name] the happiest bloke in the room and for laughing along with all of his antics. And [Groom’s Name], thank you for being the walking punchline we all know and love.
Here’s to a marriage full of love, laughter, and maybe a few more dodgy DIY projects along the way. To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]—cheers!
Example 10: Supportive best man speech
Introduction: Well here we are. The big day has finally arrived, and I hope you’re all enjoying yourselves (I certainly am)! For those of you I haven’t met yet, my name is [Your Name] and I have the honour of being [Groom’s Name]’s best man.
Reflect on your friendship: Now, as best man, my job is to stand up here and tell you all about [Groom’s Name]. And trust me, there’s a lot to tell. We’ve been through thick and thin together—he’s my partner in crime, my go-to for a laugh, and, I’d never say this to his face, but a bit of a legend.
I’ve known [Groom’s Name] for over 15 years, and over that time, he’s proven himself to be one of the most loyal, supportive, and downright entertaining people I’ve ever met. If you’re in need of a helping hand, [Groom’s Name] is your guy. Just don’t ask him for directions—because if our road trips are anything to go by, you’ll end up completely lost (but somehow still having the best time of your life…
Stories and anecdotes: And speaking of adventures, one of my favourite memories has to be the time he decided we should train for a marathon. Now, this was coming from a man whose idea of “training” was walking to the fridge and back. Needless to say, it didn’t end well. Two runs in, he declared we’d earned a “cheat week,” which somehow lasted six months. But that’s [Groom’s Name] for you—big plans, endless enthusiasm, and an uncanny ability to turn even the most mundane moments into something unforgettable.
Acknowledge the happy couple: And then along came [Bride’s Name]. Now, I’ll admit, when I first met her, I thought, “She’s far too clever to fall for [Groom’s Name].” But somehow, he managed it. And honestly, it’s not hard to see why. [Bride’s Name], you’ve brought out a side of [Groom’s Name] that I didn’t know existed—one that’s more thoughtful, more focused, and even a little bit grown-up.
But what’s even more amazing is how well you complement each other. Together, you’ve created a partnership that’s full of laughter, love, and just the right amount of chaos. [Bride’s Name], you’ve joined our little team and made it so much better.
Closing and toast: Ladies and gentlemen—as the final point of my speech, I’ll ask you to join me in a toast. To love, laughter, and being legally bound to your best mate for life. Look after each other…
Example 11: Short and sweet best man speech
Introduction: Hey everyone. My name is [Your Name], and I have the incredible privilege of being [Groom’s Name]’s best man. I’m not one for speeches, and to be honest, I’ve been pretty nervous about making this. But, when your best mate asks you to stand up and say a few words on the biggest day of his life, you don’t say no, do you? So here we are. I’ll keep it short, I promise, because we all know the real highlight is the free bar.
Reflect on your friendship: I’ve known [Groom’s Name] for 9 years, and in that time, we’ve been through it all—dodgy haircuts, questionable life decisions, and more than a few first dates.
Some of those dates, I’m happy to report, were so bad they’re still a running joke between us. But then, thankfully, along came [Bride’s Name], and suddenly, the joke was on me—because for the first time, [Groom’s Name] was dating someone who actually made sense.
Acknowledge the happy couple: When I first met [Bride’s Name], my immediate thought was, “She’s way too good for him.” And, let’s face it, I was right. But somehow, he managed to charm her with his dad jokes, nerdy hobbies, and relentless optimism. It’s clear to everyone here that they’re a perfect match.
[Bride’s Name], you’ve done what I genuinely thought was impossible: you’ve made [Groom’s Name] a better man. He’s more thoughtful, more organised—sort of—and let’s not forget, more punctual. But most importantly, you make him happy, in a way I’ve never seen before. And honestly, that’s all any of us could ever ask for.
Closing and toast: [Bride’s Name], thank you for putting up with him, and [Groom’s Name], thank you for being the best mate I could have asked for. Here’s to the happy couple—cheers!
Example 12: Best man speech for a bride
Introduction: I’m going to try and get through this without crying, but I’m not promising anything. Ladies and gentlemen, my name is [Your Name], and I have the absolute honour of being the Bride’s best man! I know I know—quirky. But our [Bride’s Name] has never been one to follow tradition.
Reflect on your friendship: And honestly, that’s one of the many things I love about her. [Bride’s Name] has always been unapologetically herself—bold, kind, and completely impossible to ignore (not that you’d ever want to). When she asked me to be her best man, I was floored. And not just because I now had to write a speech—but because it reminded me of how lucky I am to have her in my life.
I’ve known [Bride’s Name] for 22 years, and let me tell you, she’s the kind of person who changes your life just by being in it. From the moment we met, she made me feel seen, understood, and accepted in a way that few people ever have. She’s been my biggest cheerleader, my shoulder to cry on, and the first person to tell me when I’m being completely ridiculous (which is always).
Acknowledge the happy couple: And then along came [Groom’s Name]. Now, I’ll admit, I was very protective when I first met him. After all, [Bride’s Name] isn’t just my best friend—she’s family. But within minutes, it was clear he was something special. The way he looked at her, the way he listened to her, and the way he made her laugh—it was obvious that this wasn’t just some fling. This was the real deal.
[Groom’s Name], you’ve not only made [Bride’s Name] happier than I’ve ever seen her, but you’ve also been the person she deserves—kind, supportive, and absolutely smitten with her. And honestly, it’s been such a joy watching the two of you build a life together, full of love, laughter, and far too many shared snacks that you both pretend don’t count.
Closing and toast: So, as we raise our glasses, let’s toast to two of the best people I know. [Bride’s Name], thank you for being the friend and sister I never knew I needed. And [Groom’s Name], thank you for loving her the way she deserves—and for letting me keep her as my partner in crime, even if I have to share her now. To Mr and Mrs. [Surname]!
The best man speech is the perfect opportunity to share stories of your adventures, honour the groom on his big day, and celebrate the newlyweds’ love.
To write a killer speech, throw in a few (respectful) jokes, compliment the groom’s partner, and keep an upbeat pace. These tips will help you strike a balance between comedy and sincerity and ensure that you leave a lasting impression on their wedding day.
Leave plenty of time to write your speech and look up plenty of best man speech examples. Whether you’re the groom’s brother, friend, or new brother-in-law, these top 12 best man speech examples are sure to inspire your writing.
If you’re still feeling stuck, sign up to Bridebook for some top tips, tricks, and inspiration for writing a brilliant Best Man’s speech. Best of luck!
The father of the bride’s speech is the top Daddy duty on your little girl’s big day. It’s a much-anticipated, heartfelt, and tear-jerking speech filled with joy and bittersweet nostalgia.
But writing a great father of the bride speech can be tricky. How do you strike the right balance between wit and sentimentality? How do you keep your audience engaged after a long wedding service? How do you properly capture your love, pride, and hope for their future in one 5-7 minute speech? Don’t stress. We’ve got you covered.
In this post, we’ve captured everything you need to know about writing a heartfelt and funny wedding speech. We break down what you should include, the structure of the wedding speech, a few top tips, and those 12 all-important examples of brilliant father of the bride speeches.
A father of the bride speech is the speech made by the bride’s father during the wedding reception. It should be 5-7 minutes long and end with a heartfelt toast to the new couple.
The father’s wedding speech is a beautiful mix of happy memories, heartfelt advice, and funny anecdotes about the bride. Typically the father of the bride speech welcomes your new son-or daughter-in-law to the family, is an opportunity for a father to reflect on his relationship with his daughter, and offers some words of wisdom to the happy couple as they start this new journey together.
What should you include in a father of the bride speech?
Here are some key elements you should consider including in your father of the bride speech:
All about the bride. Talk about how wonderful your daughter is. Tell her guests about your love for her, her amazing accomplishments, and fabulous qualities. Be sure to let them know she got it all from you!
Welcome the bride’s partner. This is the perfect opportunity to welcome your new son- or daughter-in-law to the family. Share positive thoughts about them, their character, and your hopes for their future together.
Anecdotes and memories. Remember when your daughter came home a little too merry from her first grown-up party? Or the time she went on holiday and didn’t take any knickers? This is the perfect opportunity to share funny, endearing, or slightly embarrassing memories with your daughter. But remember, the point isn’t to make a joke of her on her special day. Any stories you pick should ultimately highlight the special bond you share.
Some pearls of wisdom and advice. Offer some sage words of wisdom to the newlyweds. Draw from your life experience and share insights about love, marriage, and building a strong, lasting relationship.
When structuring your father of the bride speech, following a clear and organised framework can be helpful. Try using this structure to get you started:
Introduction
The first part of your speech should focus on introducing yourself and thanking everyone for attending. Your role is to ensure that everyone feels welcome and appreciated at the reception.
Take a moment to acknowledge and express gratitude to those who have travelled to attend and those who have supported the wedding, whether morally or financially.
The thank yous
You should then move on to thank those who have helped organise the wedding. Give a shout-out to the bridesmaids, the ushers, and other friends and family who have been involved.
It’s also a nice idea to thank the wedding planner (if they used one) and the staff working on the wedding day. They’re as much a part of making the big day happen as everyone else.
This is also a good opportunity to remember any family members who could not attend or are no longer with you. Keep it upbeat, but it’s a nice way to remember those you’ve lost who were a big part of your daughter’s upbringing.
The bride
Now is the time to discuss your special relationship with your daughter. It’s the perfect chance to talk about her childhood, accomplishments, and the little quirks that make her so special. Share any funny stories or special adventures you’ve shared. These anecdotes will add a touch of nostalgia and humor to your speech, creating a heartfelt connection with the audience.
End this portion of the speech with how proud you are of the person she’s become. Talk about her loving relationship with her new partner, and don’t forget to sprinkle in a genuine compliment about how stunning she looks on her wedding day – a moment that will surely make her smile even brighter.
The happy couple
You should then welcome your new son- or daughter-in-law and their parents to your family.
It’s a great time to talk about the groom and your experiences with them. You can reminisce about the first time you met, share funny moments you’ve shared together, or highlight some of their endearing traits. By including the groom in your speech, you’re showing your support and building a bridge of connection between families.
Some words of wisdom
You should then move on to sharing some pearls of wisdom with the newlyweds.
You can draw from your experiences and the lessons you’ve learned along the way. You can talk about love, commitment, their future, and building a strong family.
If it’s more appropriate, some carefully chosen quotes about love and marriage or a nice reading are also great options. Remember to deliver your words with clarity and calmness, whatever path you choose. This is the penultimate part of your speech; you want to round it off well.
The toast
You should then invite everyone to join you in a toast to the happy couple. Raise your glass, and present the couple with their new shared name. Congratulations, you did it!
Father of the bride speech template
To help you navigate the complete breakdown of your speech, it can be helpful to have a visual guide to refer to. Check out our handy infographic below:
Use this father of the bride speech template to guide your writing
Top tips for delivering a brilliant father of the bride speech
Know where you fit into the overall wedding speech order. The father of the bride traditionally gives the first speech at the wedding reception. That means you go before the groom’s speech and are the first family member to address the guest. How you deliver your speech will set the tone for the rest of the reception, so keep it upbeat, funny, and light-hearted.
Don’t panic! Pre-speech jitters are natural. But remember, this is one of the best audiences you could be put in front of. Everyone there knows your daughter or her new partner, and everyone is there to celebrate and have a good time. Embrace the excitement and joy of the moment, and let that energy carry you through your speech.
Let your own personality shine through. This is a unique opportunity to connect with the audience on a personal level using charm and wit. Inject your speech with your personal touch, sharing heartfelt stories, cherished memories, and insights only you can provide. Embrace your authentic self and let your love for your daughter be the guiding light in your words.
Include a few jokes. Humor can lighten the mood, enhance feelings of joy, and engage the audience. Keep the jokes tasteful and relevant to the occasion. Share some light-hearted anecdotes or playful teasing about the bride or groom, keeping it in good spirits. It’s about making the audience smile and creating connections on this special day.
If you’re looking for some inspiration, check out our top 12 examples of great father of the bride speech ideas, from the simple and sentimental to the light-hearted and humorous. And remember that these are just examples. You can use them as templates for your own speech, but it’s important to speak from the heart, and add your own personal touch and unique family anecdotes.
A lot of traditional father of the bride speeches and 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: Classic father of the bride speech
Introduction: Good afternoon, friends, family, and neighbours. I’m delighted to be here today at the wedding of my beautiful little girl, [Bride’s name].
The bride: I don’t need to tell any of you here just how special [Bride’s name] is. If you’re here, you already know. [Bride’s name] is just incredible. She has this magical way of lighting up a room, not just with her smile, but with her warmth, her humour, and that little spark of mischief that’s been keeping me on my toes since she was a kid. She’s so different to her brothers, full of crazy ideas and spirit. But, equally, she’s someone who’s always cared deeply about the people in her life, who’s never been afraid to chase her dreams, and who has this unstoppable determination to make the world a little brighter wherever she goes.
I couldn’t be prouder to be here today in front of you all today, watching my little girl start this incredible new chapter of her life. Seeing her so happy, so confident, and so deeply loved— it’s every parent’s dream come true.
The happy couple: I’d also like to speak to [Groom’s name]. From the moment you came into [Bride’s name]’s life, it was clear you were something special. You didn’t just love her, you understood her. You’ve brought out the best in her, supporting her in everything she does with your steadfast reassurance. You’re kind, patient, and with just enough wit to keep up with her, which is no simple feat. Genuinely, welcome to our family. I wouldn’t want anyone else.
The thank yous: That ended up being a lot more emotional than I expected it to be! But, I mean every word from the bottom of my heart.
Speaking of the bottom of my heart, I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who’s made today so special. To all the friends and family who’ve travelled to be here. It means the world to us to celebrate this incredible day with you. Weddings aren’t just about two people; they’re about the love and support of everyone around them, and looking out at all of you, it’s clear that [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name] have a pretty amazing team in their corner.
Some words of wisdom: As the final point, I’ll tell you what my father told me on my wedding day: Marriage isn’t about big grand gestures, it’s about the small actions you take every day that make their life a little bit brighter. It’s about making them a cup of tea without being asked, sharing a laugh after a long day, and never forgetting to say “I love you”.
The toast: With that in mind, please raise your glasses to the newly minted Mr & Mrs [Surname].
Example 2: Light-hearted father of the bride speech
Introduction: Hello, hello, hello everyone. Friends, family, strangers who’ve wandered in off the street. My name is [your name], and I’m the very proud father of the bride. Now, I say ‘proud,’ but let’s not forget ‘bewildered,’ because how exactly did we get here so fast? It feels like just yesterday that [Bride’s name] was running around in a tutu, insisting she could be a princess, a superhero, and a rock star all at once. Honestly, she kind of pulled it off…
The thank yous: Before we get going I’d like to say a few thank-yous. First, to all of you for being here today—whether you’ve come from near or far, or just turned up for the free food and wine, it means the world to us that you’re here to celebrate [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name].
I’d also like to thank everyone who’s worked so hard to make today so special. From the beautiful decorations to the incredible food, everything has been perfect. Sincerely, thank you so much.
The bride: Now, onto the star of the show. [Bride’s name], what can I say? You’re every father’s dream come true. Funny, clever, beautiful, and a dab hand at an oil change. You’ve always been full of surprises—whether it was your ability to beat your brothers at just about anything, or that phase where you insisted you were going to be a pirate and made us all call you Captain [Bride’s name] for a month. And honestly, seeing you today, so radiant and happy, I can’t help but think, “Yep, she’s still my little superstar.”
The happy couple: [Groom’s name], I know we like to have a joke together, but in all seriousness, I’m just as proud of you as I am of [Bride’s name]. From the moment you came into our family, I knew there couldn’t be anyone else for her. You’re the perfect balance to her crazy energy, and you’ve got a knack for keeping her grounded while still letting her shine. You respect her, you support her, and—most importantly—you know how to handle her competitive streak. Honestly, anyone who can survive a family game night with [Bride’s name] and still come back for more deserves a medal.
Some words of wisdom: And if I could just share a couple of pieces of advice for you both as you embark on this wonderful journey called marriage, here they are. Be each other’s rocks, the other person’s biggest cheerleader. Stand behind them when they need it, and hold their head up when they can’t. Oh, and never underestimate the importance of an spontaneous bunch of flowers.
The toast: Everyone, please charge your glasses to the new, wonderful Mr and Mrs [Surname].
Example 3: Sentimental father of the bride speech
Introduction: Hi everyone, thank you so much for coming. For those of you who don’t know me, my name is [your name] and I’m the very proud father of the bride.
The thank yous: We’ll get the thanks yous out of the way before we all start crying (myself included). First, a huge thank you to everyone who’s travelled to be here today. Whether you came from just down the road or crossed oceans to join us, your presence means the world. This day wouldn’t be the same without each and every one of you. I’d also like to thank everyone who pulled together to make the day so special. From the food to the flowers and everything in between, the day wouldn’t have been possible without all your efforts. Thank you.
The bride: Parents spend a lot of time wondering what this day will be like. Who will they end up with, how will it all unfold, and what will I say when the time comes? Well, let me tell you, [Bride’s name], you’ve turned into someone more wonderful than I could have ever dreamed. I couldn’t be prouder of the person you’ve become. You’ve grown into someone who’s not only beautiful on the outside, but also kind, compassionate, and endlessly capable. Watching you navigate life with such grace and humour has been one of my greatest joys as a parent.
The happy couple: Now, let me talk about [Groom’s name]. From the first time we met, I could see what made you so special. You’re thoughtful, genuine, and you’ve got this steady calm about you that balances [Bride’s name] perfectly. You don’t just fit into our family—you’ve added to it in ways we didn’t even know we needed. It’s clear to everyone here that you adore [Bride’s name], and as her parent, I honestly couldn’t ask for more.
Some words of wisdom: I couldn’t be happier for you both. You’re starting this incredible journey together, and if there’s one thing I could share with you about marriage, it’s that the little things are what truly matter. It’s not the big gestures or the grand milestones. Although those are lovely, it’s the small, everyday acts of love and kindness that build a life together. The shared laughs, the quiet moments, and even the compromises about whose turn it is to take out the bins. Embrace every little moment. It’s an incredible journey.
The toast: On that note… if you could all please raise your glasses to the couple of the decade, Mr and Mrs. [Surname].
Example 4: Quirky father of the bride speech
Introduction: Welcome one, welcome all to the happiest day of [Bride’s name]’s life. My name is [your name] and I’m the very proud father of the bride.
The bride: When I think back to watching my beautiful little girl grow up, I can’t help but smile at the sheer whirlwind of personality she brought into our lives. [Bride’s name] was never one to do things by halves. Whether it was her brief yet passionate career as a magician (apologies to the neighbour’s cat for that one) or her insistence that she could set up a lemonade stand and manage the family finances at the age of seven, she’s always been determined, creative, and just a little bit chaotic—in the best way possible. As a teenager, of course, she had a knack for keeping us on our toes. From her “unique” fashion phases (I still have no idea how neon zebra print became a thing in our house) to the time she decided she’d become a world-class ukulele player overnight, life with [Bride’s name] has been anything but boring. And honestly? I wouldn’t change a single second of it.
Today, seeing her standing here, all grown up and radiant, I can’t help but think she’s still that same adventurous, passionate soul—just with better taste in shoes. [Bride’s name], you’ve turned into the kind of person any parent would be proud to call their daughter: kind, funny, and with a heart as big as your ambition.
The happy couple: And then there’s [Groom’s name]. The first time I met him, I thought, “He seems normal enough… let’s see how long that lasts.” Turns out, it wasn’t an act—[Groom’s name] truly is as genuine and good-hearted as he seemed.
What I quickly realised is that [Groom’s name] not only loves [Bride’s name], but he also gets her. He understands her quirks, supports her dreams, and even seems to enjoy her impromptu ukulele serenades. He’s braver than most, I’ll give you that. You’ve become an integral part of our family, [Groom’s name], and for that, we’re truly grateful. Just one piece of advice: always double-check what she’s ordering online after midnight. Trust me on this.
Some words of wisdom: In all seriousness, my main advice would be that marriage is about being a team. It’s not just about love, though that’s a big part of it. It’s about partnership, patience, and biting your tongue when someone insists they definitely know how to assemble IKEA furniture without the instructions. It’s about finding joy in the little things like laughing at the same old jokes or getting their favourite biscuits in without asking. You’ll find your rhythm, I know you will.
The thank yous: As a final point from me, I’d like to extend a sincere thank you to everyone who made this day possible. To my wife, who graciously returned my cheque book to me, to the wedding planner, who managed to coordinate this beautiful chaos with the precision of a Swiss watch, and to everyone who played a part in making today so special. Genuinely, thank you.
The toast: So, let’s wrap this up before I get too sentimental—or worse, attempt to tell a dad joke. Here’s to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]: may your life together be full of laughter, love, and plenty of biscuits. Cheers!
Example 5: Poetic father of the bride speech
Introduction: Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to introduce myself as the very proud father of [Bride’s name]. As I stand before you today, I find myself filled with a mix of emotions: pride, joy, a touch of nostalgia, and perhaps just a little disbelief at how quickly time has flown. It feels like only yesterday [Bride’s name] was my little girl, with wide eyes and big dreams, and now here she is, beautiful, radiant, and beginning the most wonderful chapter of her life.
The bride: [Bride’s name], from the moment you came into my life, you brought a light that I never knew I was missing. Watching you grow has been one of my greatest privileges. Every laugh, every challenge, every triumph has been a gift. You’ve always been a dreamer, a doer, and someone who leaves the world a little better just by being in it. I couldn’t have been prouder today to give you away to [Groom’s name], who I know will steer you steady through the course of life.
The happy couple: And then there’s [Groom’s name]. The first time I met him, I’ll admit, I had my questions (a father’s prerogative, after all). But it didn’t take long for me to see the depth of his character and the sincerity of his love for [Bride’s name]. He reminded me of the words of Jane Austen: “There is no charm equal to tenderness of heart.” [Groom’s name], you’ve shown us all your tender heart—not just in how you love [Bride’s name] but in how you’ve embraced our family. Truly, we are blessed to have you.
The thank yous: Thank you to everyone who made this day so special. Your presence, presents, and kindness have not gone unnoticed.
Some words of wisdom: I wish you the very best on your journey through life together. Today I am blessed to be able to share my wisdom with you, and this is: Marriage is a delicate balance of independence and togetherness. Remember, communicate openly, forgive freely, a little space is no bad thing, and never lose sight of the friendship that brought you together in the first place.
The toast: Ladies, gentlemen, and non-binary friends, please raise your glasses to the new Mr. and Mrs. [Surname].
Example 6: Thoughtful father of the bride speech
Introduction: Friends, family, esteemed guests… Welcome, to the wonderful wedding of [Bride’s name], my little girl, and [Groom’s name]. I cannot tell you how proud I am to be here today, representing my wonderful daughter on the happiest day of her life.
The thank yous: We’ll get the thank yous out of the way before I lose the ability to speak, no doubt. First off, thank you to everyone who’s made the effort to be here today. Whether you’ve travelled miles or just popped over from down the road, your presence means everything to us. This day wouldn’t be the same without the love and laughter you’ve all brought into this room.
A special thank you to everyone who’s worked so hard behind the scenes to make today so beautiful—the flowers, the food, the music—it’s all been perfect, hasn’t it? And a big thank you to [Groom’s name]’s family for welcoming [Bride’s name] into your hearts. Knowing she’s joining such a kind and supportive family makes this day even more special.
The bride: Now, let’s talk about [Bride’s name]. Where do I even begin? From the moment she came into my life, she turned my world upside down in the best possible way. She’s always been a little spark of joy, full of energy, mischief, and, let’s be honest, more than a few strong opinions. Growing up, she kept me on my toes—from her wild ideas about turning the garden shed into a “pet sanctuary” to her unwavering belief that glitter made everything better (and our carpets still haven’t recovered). But through it all, she’s shown a kindness and determination that I’ve always admired.
[Bride’s name], seeing you today, all grown up and glowing with happiness, I can’t help but feel a little emotional. You’ve become such an incredible person—strong, compassionate, and with a laugh that lights up the room. You’ve always been my little girl, but today, I’m handing you over to someone who I know will cherish and support you as much as I do.
The happy couple: [Groom’s name], let me just say, you’ve set the bar pretty high. The first time I met you, I could tell you were someone special. You weren’t just polite and charming; you had this calm confidence about you that told me you were here for the long haul. It’s been clear from the start how much you love [Bride’s name], but what’s even more important to me is how you understand her. You get her quirks, her passions, and her occasional stubborn streak (good luck with that, by the way). In all seriousness, I couldn’t wish for a better son-in-law, so thank you.
Some words of wisdom: If I can offer you one piece of advice, it’s this: don’t sweat the small stuff. Marriage isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up every day for each other, even when life gets messy. Be each other’s biggest supporters, keep laughing together, and don’t let anyone or anything come between you. You’re an unshakeable team, and I know you’ll do just fine.
The toast: Ladies and gentlemen, please raise your glasses to the health, wealth, and happiness of the new Mr and Mrs. [Surname].
Example 7: Personal father of the bride speech
Introduction: Well… what a day this has already been. Can you believe we’re here? Because I certainly can’t. Where has my little girl gone? My little girl who used to run around the house with mismatched socks and a million questions… I can’t help but reflect on how we got to this moment.
The thank yous: Before we get going, I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who made this day possible. From the bar staff to the priest and everyone in between, this day has been truly magical. Fit for a princess, truly.
The bride: Now, my [Bride’s name]. My little girl. You’ve grown into the most incredible woman—kind, smart, and strong—and yet, in my eyes, you’ll always be that little whirlwind of energy, full of curiosity and laughter. Watching you today, glowing, looking so happy, it’s hard not to feel a lump in my throat (and not just because of the speech nerves, I promise!).
You’ve taken every stage of your life in your stride, and today is no different. Seeing the love between you and [Groom’s name], it’s clear you’ve met your match. He makes your eyes sparkle and your laugh just a little louder. That’s all a dad could ever want for his daughter, to find someone who treasures her as much as we do.
The happy couple: To [Groom’s name], welcome to the family, mate. You’ve passed the ultimate test: her mother likes you. But truly, you’ve not only won her heart but ours as well. Seeing how happy you make her—it’s all we’ve ever wanted for her. As I stand here looking at you both, I can see the perfect balance you bring to each other. [Bride’s name], you’ve found someone who loves and respects you for the amazing person you are, and [Groom’s name], you’ve got yourself a partner who will stand by your side no matter what life throws at you. Together, you’re a force to be reckoned with, and I have no doubt that the future holds incredible things for you both.
Some words of wisdom: It won’t always be smooth sailing, of course. Marriage isn’t. But if you keep steering your ship with love, patience, and a good sense of humour, you’ll always find your way back to calm waters.
The toast: To Mr. and Mrs [Surname]. Wishing you a lifetime of love, laughter, and maybe a little bit of chaos because let’s face it, it keeps things interesting. Here’s to your happily ever after!
Example 8: Humorous father of the bride speech
Introduction: Time for the main event! I’m joking, of course. I know you’re all here for the cake. My name is [your name], and I’m the very proud, if a little emotional, father of the bride, and it’s my absolute pleasure to stand here today and say a few words.
The bride: Now, I have to start by saying how stunning [Bride’s name] looks today. Absolutely radiant, isn’t she? It’s hard to believe this is the same person who used to think that tidying her room meant shoving everything under the bed or into that chair—you know the one. The one where clothes go to die.
Growing up, [Bride’s name] was always the queen of organised chaos. Shoes in the fridge? Sure. Homework on the dog? Why not? But somehow, she always managed to keep it together, even if her surroundings didn’t. And you know what? That’s one of the things I love most about her. She’s not perfect—thank goodness, because none of us are—but she’s real, she’s genuine, and she’s got a heart as big as this room.
The happy couple: Now, let’s talk about the other star of the show—[Groom’s name]. From the moment I met you, I could see how much you loved [Bride’s name]. It’s in the way you look at her, the way you laugh at her jokes—even the bad ones—and how you’re always there to lift her up. You’re the kind of person every parent hopes their child will find: someone who will cherish, respect, and challenge them. So, thank you for loving [Bride’s name] the way you do.
The thank yous: Thank you to all of you, too. Everyone who has travelled from afar, everyone who helped make this day as special as it is. From the venue staff to the florist, and of course, the catering team, who ensured we’ve all been very well fed. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed, so thank you.
Some words of wisdom: But the biggest thanks of all go to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]. Not just for giving us an excuse to dress up and eat cake, but for reminding us all what love and partnership look like. You’ve brought all of us together today, and I think we can all agree—it’s been a pretty spectacular day.
The toast: So, let’s raise a glass to the happy couple: may your lives be filled with love, laughter, and maybe a tiny bit of tidiness (but only if it doesn’t cramp your style). To [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]! Cheers!
Example 9: Heartfelt father of the bride speech
Introduction: Testing, testing… No, I’m joking. I know it’s on. Welcome, everyone to this special day. My name is [your name], and I’m the bride’s father. Honestly, I couldn’t be prouder to say that. What a moment this is in a father’s life.
The thank yous: Before we get started, I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who made this magical day possible. From the venue staff to the florist, the caterers, and everyone who worked behind the scenes. You’ve all helped create a day that’s nothing short of perfect.
The bride: [Bride’s name], you look absolutely stunning today. I mean, you always look lovely to me, but today you’ve outdone yourself. Watching you grow up has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. From the little girl with scraped knees and a fearless spirit to the incredible woman sitting here now… It’s been quite a journey, hasn’t it? And I couldn’t have been prouder to hold your hand throughout.
The happy couple: Until, of course, you met [Groom’s name]. From the moment we first met him, it was obvious he was something special. He’s got that steady, grounded way about him that balances out your whirlwind energy perfectly. And I’ve seen the way he looks at you, with so much love and admiration…. It’s all I could have ever hoped for you.
Some words of wisdom: Looking at the two of you, I’m filled with so much hope for the life you’re about to build together. If I can, I’d love to give you a little advice: Always dance in the kitchen. Even if there’s no music. Especially if there’s no music. Those silly, unexpected moments will remind you why you chose each other. Don’t just love each other—like each other. Be friends, partners in crime, and the person the other one wants to call with the good news, the bad news, and the “you won’t believe what just happened!”
And finally, remember that it’s the little things that matter most. Not the big gestures, but the everyday kindnesses. Like letting the other have the last slice of pizza, even when you really, really want it. Those are the things that build a lifetime together.
The toast: Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in a toast to the new Mr and Mrs [Surname]. I couldn’t think of anyone who deserves this more.
Example 10: Candid father of the bride speech
Introduction: Hello, everyone. Welcome to the wedding of [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]. What a beautiful day this has been so far—and what an emotional one, too. I’ve been doing my best to hold it together, but seeing my little girl all grown up and starting this incredible new chapter… Well, let’s just say it’s a good thing I didn’t wear mascara.
The bride: [Bride’s name]. I love you. I know I don’t say that enough, but I could say it a million times and it still wouldn’t have been enough. As your dad, it’s been my greatest privilege to walk alongside you, to cheer you on, to wipe the occasional tear (and maybe cause a few when I said no to a hamster). Watching you grow into the woman you are today—strong, funny, and with a heart so big it barely fits in this room—has been nothing short of amazing.
There’s a bond between a father and his daughter that’s hard to put into words. It’s love, pride, and the occasional panic when you first ask for the car keys. But it’s also unshakable, no matter how far life takes you. And while today marks a new chapter in your life, know this: you’ll always be my little girl. Always.
The happy couple: [Groom’s name], thank you. I couldn’t think of anyone more deserving of her love. You and I both know that [Bride’s name] isn’t just any woman. She’s a force of nature. She’s clever, compassionate, and a little stubborn at times. But that’s part of what makes her so remarkable. And seeing the way you love her, not despite those qualities but because of them, fills me with so much joy.
From the moment I saw the way you looked at her, I knew. You weren’t just a boyfriend or a fiancé, you were her partner in every sense of the word. You’ve brought a calm, steady presence into her whirlwind world, and for that, I’ll always be grateful.
Some words of wisdom: So, to wrap this up—because I know no one wants to see me cry—I just want to say this: Marriage is a journey, and like all great journeys, it’s made up of small, everyday moments. Make those moments count. Laugh often, forgive easily, and never stop holding hands.
The thank yous: Thank you to everyone who helped out with today. What a fabulous day it’s been so far.
The toast: Let’s raise a glass to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]. [Bride’s name], you’ve always been my little girl, and while today you’re taking on a new title, “wife”, you’ll never lose that special place in my heart. And [Groom’s name], thank you for loving her the way she deserves. Together, you two are unstoppable, and I can’t wait to see the incredible life you’ll build.
Here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and the little moments that make it all worthwhile. May you always find joy in each other, even when the socks don’t match and the Wi-Fi’s gone down. To [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]—cheers!
Example 11: Short and sweet father of the bride speech
Introduction: Hello, ladies and gentlemen. Are you all having a good time? My name is [your name] and I’m the bride’s father. I’m not one for speeches, so if it’s ok with you, I’ll keep it short and sweet.
The thank yous: A huge thank you to everyone who has made this wonderful day possible. It’s already been a day to remember, and I can’t wait for tonight to see everyone’s dodgy dance moves. Whether you travelled from afar, cooked the whole menu, or even just turned up ready to celebrate, thank you. It means the world to all of us, and I know it means the world to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name].
The bride: [Bride’s name]. Look at you. My little girl, and now all grown up. I couldn’t be prouder of the person you’ve become. From day dot, you’ve been an absolute superstar, full of life, laughter, and just a little stubbornness. You’re more than I ever could have dreamed of, and you are truly my greatest achievement.
The happy couple: [Groom’s name], what can I say? You’re the perfect match for my daughter. You make her laugh, you support her dreams, and most importantly, you seem to have mastered the art of letting her win an argument now and then. That’s a skill that will serve you well! Welcome to the family—it’s a slightly chaotic but very loving one, and we’re thrilled to have you in it.
Some words of wisdom: Life will throw its surprises at you—both wonderful and challenging—but if you tackle them together, with a bit of patience and a lot of humour, you’ll be just fine. Oh, and remember, [Groom’s name], the answer to “Does this dress make me look…?” is always no.
The toast: So, let’s raise a glass to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]. May your life be filled with love, laughter, and just enough surprises to keep things interesting. And may you always find your way back to each other, even if someone’s gone and nicked the last slice of cake.
Example 12: Gender-neutral father of the bride speech
Introduction: Welcome, welcome, welcome everyone to the wonderful wedding of [Child’s name] and [Partner’s name]. Isn’t this a spectacular day? I couldn’t be prouder to be stood here today as [Child’s name]’s father, celebrating this incredible moment with all of you. Honestly, what a privilege it is to be part of such a special day, surrounded by so much love, joy, and probably a fair bit of prosecco.
The thank yous: First off, let me say a massive thank you to everyone who’s helped make today what it is. From the stunning venue to the delicious food and the flowers that I definitely can’t name but know look amazing—what an effort. And to all of you, thank you for showing up with your best outfits and your biggest smiles. It’s a real testament to how much love [Child’s name] and [Partner’s name] inspire.
The happy couple: Now, let’s talk about the stars of the show: [Child’s name] and [Partner’s name]. You two are a perfect match, like tea and biscuits or a Friday night and a takeaway. Watching your relationship grow has been like watching the best kind of rom-com—one that’s full of laughter, a bit of bickering over what to watch on Netflix, and a whole lot of love.
[Child’s name], I’ve always known you were destined for something extraordinary. You’ve always had this spark, this way of lighting up a room and making people feel instantly at ease. And then you met [Partner’s name]. From the moment I saw you two together, it was clear—this wasn’t just a spark. This was a full-on firework display.
[Partner’s name], thank you for loving my child as deeply as you do. You’ve not just joined our family—you’ve completed it.
Some words of wisdom: So, here’s a bit of advice from someone who’s been around the block a few times: Life is unpredictable. There will be highs, there will be lows, and there will definitely be arguments over who left the milk out. But if you keep choosing each other—every single day—you’ll weather anything that comes your way.
And don’t forget to keep laughing, even when the dishwasher’s broken, or someone’s forgotten to replace the loo roll. Laughter is the glue that holds it all together.
The toast: So, let’s raise a glass to [Child’s name] and [Partner’s name]. May your days be full of joy, your nights full of laughter, and your love for each other only grow stronger. And may you always find a reason to celebrate— big or small, rain or shine. To the happy couple— cheers!
Start planning your father of the bride speech today!
The father of the bride speech is one of the most anticipated parts of the wedding reception. It’s your chance to tell the world how amazing your little girl is and how proud you are of her.
Make sure you leave plenty of time to plan your wedding speech. This way, you know you’ll be happy with the content and have plenty of time to practice. Follow a time-honoured structure, throw in a few jokes, and let your personality shine through. You’ve got this!
If you’re still feeling nervous, we can support you in writing a brilliant father of the bride speech. Whether you want to keep it simple or make it funny and heartfelt, we have plenty of wedding speech ideas to give you inspiration. Sign up to Bridebook today and write a cracking speech!
Looking for expert guidance and top tips on how to write perfect wedding speeches? Look no further than You Said It Speech Writing, brought to you by former Emmerdale and West End actress, Naomi Marghaleet. Based on 30 years’ experience, Naomi’s Wedding Boot Camps (for Grooms, Best Men, Brides and Best Women) are designed to take your wedding speech writing to another level. Check out her story, expert advice, and amazing speech writing packages below.
What is You Said It Speech Writing?
You Said It Speech Writing offers professional help for the one occasion in life when speaking well matters. After a confidential consultation we write your speech and offer to teach you how to deliver brilliantly, ensuring you are remembered for the right reasons! Don’t leave your speech until the last minute or try to “wing it.” Preparation is essential. Seize the opportunity to impress your new in-laws, surprise your partner and bring the house down.
For over 20 years we have helped Grooms, Brides, Best Men, Best Women, Fathers & Mothers successfully deliver fabulous speeches. Our experience and integrity will boost your confidence. When people say, “You Said It!” you will glow with pride from a job well done.
What’s the story behind You Said It Speech Writing?
Years ago, I felt honoured when a friend asked me to read a poem at her wedding. Then, three weeks before The Big Day, she rang to say her fiancé didn’t like any of the priests her parents introduced them to and felt it was hypocritical to have a religious service because they were not religious. “I know I asked you to read a poem,” she said, “but as an actress you’re good with words and we’d like you to do the whole wedding. Will you create a ceremony for us?” I was flabbergasted! Later that evening another friend dropped by, with a book called Sacred Ceremonies and I opened it randomly at “Weddings.” Serendipity! Long story short, I created a ceremony and officiated at my friends’ wedding in France. It was a beautiful day. Everyone loved the ceremony and commented on the unique, special poems I included. Ever since, I’ve written ceremonies and speeches for weddings and all kinds of events.
I set up You Said It Speech Writing to bring academic, research, writing and performance skills under one umbrella. We provide speeches and a range of content, but also help clients improve how they communicate, in person and online. By teaching the techniques professional actors use, based on 20 years in the theatre and television industries, we transform how clients feel about speaking in public and on camera. Formal training boosts confidence and fine tunes presentation style. Our wedding clients often return for help with work projects that lead to promotion. Upgrading your communication skills is a key to success.
If you’ve been chosen as Best Man, Best Woman, Head Bridesmaid or Maid of Honour it is well worth booking a place at Boot Camp. Boot Camp is a fun, practical way to unlock your creativity & upgrade your communication skills in a supportive environment.
We do a brief physical and vocal warm up before introducing our unique collection of wedding poems and prose. Next, we discuss how to approach speech writing in terms of targeting your audience and why this matters, whether the wedding is traditional, themed or “alternative.” You will learn how to overcome nerves, boost confidence and explore vocal techniques, gestures and effective body language. We explain how to connect with an audience and how to successfully prepare for delivering your speech. Best of all, everything you learn at Boot Camp gives you a kitbag of skills that will last a lifetime.
Attend solo or book a unique Stag / Hen “do.” Boot Camp is suitable for 5-10 people. Spaces fill up fast. Book now!
Silver Package
Our Silver package is designed for two wedding guests. The most popular combinations are Best Man + Groom, or Bride + Maid of Honour, but Fathers and Mothers of the Bride or Groom are welcome. Two speeches are included in the package, of 5-10 minutes length, plus two public speaking sessions per person. People who have never received any formal public speaking training benefit hugely from learning 1-1 but we can provide shared sessions if requested.
Gold Package
If you decide to go for gold let us know asap! Three members of a wedding party receive three speeches of 5-10 minutes each, plus three public speaking sessions per person. As with the Silver package, some clients prefer to learn 1-1, but we are happy to offer group sessions so you can all learn together if you choose.
We are always delighted to hear from people keen to upgrade their communication skills in time for The Big Day.
What are your top tips for writing a wedding speech?
You Said It Speech Writing believes in the power of positivity, hence the following tips include 7 describing best practice and 3 warning what to avoid…
As Best Man, Best Woman, Bride, Groom or Proud Parent you have a once in a lifetime opportunity to celebrate love and friendship. Approach it with gusto!
Find a poem or piece of prose to include. Excellent words add a sense of formality and help with structure. Remember schooldays English. Ensure your speech has a clear beginning, middle and end. Tell a good story.
Research some writing that normally may not interest you. People tend to use the same pieces at weddings e.g. “On Marriage” from The Prophet and, although we love Gibran, there are many other sources to draw from. Think about the couple and find a piece of writing that connects with their hobbies, interests and/or favourite place. This makes your speech more personal and shows you care.
Take some time to think about the wedding guests. Nowadays many people have stepfamilies they might want to acknowledge, in addition to blood relatives. It is crucial you find out before the wedding who to include and/or exclude in your speech. Asking a few questions can help avoid disaster on The Big Day.
If the wedding is a second or third marriage be aware of how children or young people might feel when hearing their mum or dad say, “I do” to someone who is not their mum or dad. Sensitivity is key.
Prepare well in advance. No performer goes on stage without rehearsing.
In terms of content, don’t go on and on. Five minutes is adequate for a speech, unless there is a particularly good reason for elaborating. Keep it punchy and succinct. Long sentences may look good on paper, but when spoken out loud can sound as if you are trying too hard to impress.
Before your speech do not drink alcohol and do not assume you can “wing it.” People make terrible mistakes when drunk. A wedding is a one take opportunity where your words will affect families for decades to come. Be remembered for the right reasons! Stay sober until after your speech.
Bear in mind, people in the UK spend up to £50,000 on a wedding. Your job is to honour the occasion, not use this expensive event as a rehearsal for your stand-up act, or to blather on about yourself. It’s good to include a joke or three, but your sense of humour could be wildly different to the Bride’s parents or grandparents. Proceed with caution!
Get professional help. At You Said It Speech Writing we love providing people with brilliant speeches because we know, in 10 years’ time, no one will remember the colour of your hair, tie or shoes but everyone will remember what you said. By getting professional help you can contribute to making The Big Day a huge success. Better still, you will learn lifelong skills and when people say, “You Said It!” you will glow with pride from a job well done.
Everyone loves a wedding speech, but there is so much to think about if you are organising a day to be remembered, from how to write a great wedding speech to figuring out which order the wedding speeches should be in.
Before we dive into everything you need to know about writing a wedding speech, we wanted to give you an overview of what type of wedding speeches to expect at weddings in the UK.
The father of the bride speech
The father of the bride speech is an opportunity for the father to express his love for his daughter, and to welcome the groom into the family. The speech often includes some memories from the bride’s life. The father of the bride may also offer his blessing and good wishes for the couple’s future together. The speech is often emotional and sentimental and is a special moment for the bride and her father to share.
The groom’s speech
The groom’s speech is an opportunity for the groom to express his love to his new wife and his family, and to thank everyone who has played a role in the wedding planning and ceremony. The groom may also thank his parents, the parents of the bride, the bridal party, and any other important people in attendance. He will often express his feelings and thoughts about the wedding day and his future with his new wife. The groom’s speech is often a blend of sentimentality and humour.
The best man speech
The best man’s speech is an opportunity for him to give his congratulations and well wishes to the newlyweds, and to share his thoughts and memories about the groom. The best man may also include some light-hearted humour and anecdotes. He may also thank the parents of the bride and groom and the bridal party for their support, and express his appreciation for the couple’s relationship.
The maid of honour speech
The maid of honour’s speech is an opportunity for her to give congratulations and well wishes to the newlyweds, and to share her thoughts and memories about the bride. She may also include some words the bride’s personality and character. As it’s the maid of honour’s duty to help the bride during the planning process, so she may also thank the wedding planner and vendors for making the day special.
The bride’s speech
The bride’s speech is a less traditional part of a wedding ceremony, but it is becoming more common for the bride to give a speech at her wedding reception. The bride’s speech is an opportunity for her to express her love and gratitude to her new husband, family, and friends. She may also thank the wedding planner and vendors for making the day special.
The parent of the groom speech
A parents of the groom speech is less traditional, but it’s becoming increasingly common for the parents of the groom to give a speech at their son’s wedding reception. The parents of the groom speech is an opportunity for them to express their love and pride in their son, and to welcome the bride and her family into their own family.
Nowadays, wedding speeches in the UK are a much less formal affair than in previous years, so you can take the opportunity to give your speeches in whatever order you think works for your wedding day, but the wedding speech order traditionally follows this format and begins after the wedding breakfast is finished:
The father of the bride speech
The groom’s speech
The best man speech
The maid of honour speech (if any)
The bride’s speech (if she wishes)
The parent of the groom (if any)
Remember, this is the traditional order, but can vary depending on the wedding and those attending. Some weddings also have speeches from other family members such as step parents that might change the order.
Tips for Writing and Delivering a Great Speech
Researching for your wedding speech can be a fun and rewarding experience. If you are stuck on where to begin when it comes to researching your wedding speech then think about working through the following tips.
Reflect on your relationship: Think about your relationship with the bride or groom, and any special memories or moments that you’ve shared. This can make for great content in your speech.
Talk to the couple: Speak to the bride and groom to get a sense of what they would like to hear in your speech. Ask them about their favourite memories, what they love about each other, and what they are looking forward to in the future.
Research online: There are many resources available online that can help you gather material for your speech. You can find speech examples, tips, and advice on how to structure your speech.
Get inspiration from others: Speak to friends or family members who have given speeches at weddings in the past. Ask them for tips, and gather inspiration from their speeches. But remember, never copy!
Take your time: Don’t rush to write your speech. Take your time to gather material, reflect on your relationship, and think about what you want to say. A well-prepared speech will be more meaningful and heartfelt.
Practice, Practice, Practice: The more you practice, the more confident you will be when you deliver your speech. It will also help you to time your speech and make sure it’s the right length.
Remember, the goal of your speech is to show your support for the couple, and to celebrate their marriage. With proper research, you will have no problem giving a wedding speech that is heartfelt, meaningful, and memorable.
Many people find themselves anxious at the thought of actually delivering the speech itself, even if they have spent time writing and researching a great speech. Spend some time focusing on these top tips to help your wedding speech go with a bang.
Speak clearly and confidently: Speak in a clear, confident voice, and make sure to project your voice so that everyone can hear you.
Make eye contact: Make eye contact with the audience, especially the bride and groom, to create a connection and show your sincerity.
Speak at a natural pace: Speak at a natural pace, and don’t rush through your speech. Take your time and enjoy the moment.
Use visual aids: Use visual aids such as photos, videos, or props to add some visual interest to your speech.
Have a glass of water nearby: It’s good to have a glass of water nearby, in case you need it.
Be yourself: The most important thing is to be yourself, don’t try to copy someone else’s speech. The couple and the guests want to hear what you have to say.
Examples of wedding speeches
Browse the examples below for inspiration and guidance on how to write and deliver a wedding speech. Whether you’re the father of the bride, the groom, the best man, or the maid of honour, they’ll help you create a speech that’s personal, meaningful and will be remembered for years to come. And for even more speech samples, check out our dedicated wedding speech examples post.
Funny wedding speech examples
Use self-deprecating humour to make the audience laugh. For example, “I’m honoured to be standing here today as [couple’s name] best man/maid of honour, considering all the times I’ve been a bad influence on them.”
Share a funny story or anecdote about the couple. For example, “I remember the first time [couple’s name] met, they bonded over their love of [insert a shared interest] and it’s been nothing but laughs ever since.”
Use a pop culture reference to make your speech more relatable. For example, “I always thought [couple’s name] would end up together, it’s like a fairytale romance straight out of a Disney movie.”
Use a pun or play on words to add some humour to your speech. For example, “I always knew [couple’s name] were meant to be together, they’re truly a perfect pear.”
Use a hypothetical scenario to add humour to your wedding speech. For example, “I can’t imagine what [couple’s name] wedding would have been like if they had chosen someone else as their best man/maid of honour. It would have been a disaster!”
Use a silly or unexpected prop to add some humour to your wedding speech. For example, “I have a special gift for the couple, it’s a [insert a funny or unexpected prop] to symbolise their love and commitment to each other.”
It’s also worth keeping in mind that you should be careful with the use of humour in a wedding speech, as you don’t want to offend anyone or make anyone uncomfortable. Make sure you test your jokes with a few people before delivering your speech.
Romantic wedding speech examples
Share the story of how the couple met and fell in love. For example, “I remember the moment [couple’s name] met, it was love at first sight and it’s been nothing but romance ever since.”
Share your personal thoughts on the couple’s relationship and what makes it special. For example, “I’ve never seen two people more in love than [couple’s name]. Their love is truly inspiring.”
Share your hopes and wishes for the couple’s future together. For example, “I wish the couple a lifetime of happiness and love, may they always be each other’s best friend and partner.”
Use poetry or a quote to add romance to your speech. For example, “I leave you with a quote that perfectly sums up the love between [couple’s name]: ‘I love you, not only for what you are, but for what I am when I am with you.'”
Use a metaphor to describe the couple’s relationship. For example, “The love between [couple’s name] is like a beautiful garden, it has grown stronger with each passing day.”
Share a personal memory or moment that you shared with the couple and how it made you realise the depth of their love. For example, “I remember the time when [couple’s name] did [insert a special memory], it was then when I realised that they were truly meant to be together.”
Share a message of love and support for the couple. For example, “I want to tell the couple that I love them and I will always be there for them, through good times and bad.”
As you’ll now know, a wedding speech is a special moment during a couple’s big day when the couple and their loved ones can celebrate their union. Writing a wedding speech, no matter your part in the day, can be a daunting task, but with a little preparation and some helpful tips, it can be a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone when it comes to the day itself.
Speeches are a part of the wedding that everyone loves to get excited about, but what if it’s your turn to be in the hot seat? Let’s take a look at what it takes to write a great groom’s speech, whether you are looking to write something that leaves the ladies swooning or your guests crying with laughter.
What is a groom’s speech?
A groom’s speech is the speech given by the groom at the wedding reception, typically after the meal. The groom will often use this opportunity to show his love and gratitude to his partner and thank the guests for attending the wedding. It’s also a time to share some personal memories and reflect on you and your new spouse’s relationship.
How to write a groom’s speech
Preparing a groom’s speech
Preparing for your groom’s speech is an exciting but nervewracking time. Your groom’s speech should give you an opportunity to express your love and gratitude to your partner, but it should also allow you to show your personality and make a lasting impression on your guests.
By taking the time to plan and prepare your speech, you can be confident and comfortable when it’s time to deliver it. This means that you definitely shouldnt wait until the last minute to start planning your speech, take the time to write a meaningful grooms speech that will make your partner and guests feel special.
Tips for researching and gathering material for your groom’s speech
Start by making a list of special memories and moments that you have shared with your partner. Think about your first date, the proposal, and any other significant events that have happened during your relationship, such as holidays or special surprises you have organised in the past.
Ask your partner and close friends or family members if they have any anecdotes or memories that they would like to share with you. This can provide some great material for your speech and give a different perspective on your relationship.
Look through old photographs and videos together, this can serve as a great source of inspiration and help jog your memory about certain moments in your relationship.
Take note of any inside jokes or silly nicknames that you and your partner have for one another.
Research and read speeches from other grooms for inspiration, but remember to not produce a carbon copy of another speech you have seen or heard. People will know.
Consider incorporating a poem, song or a personal story that relates to your relationship.
Remember, speak from your own experiences and emotions. This will make the speech more genuine and heartfelt.
At this point, its probably worth thinking about if you should write a funny groom’s speech, When it comes to whether or not the groom’s speech should be funny, the jury’s out. It can be difficult to ensure that any jokes you make aren’t going to fall flat but at the same time, if it suits the feel of the wedding then there is nothing stopping you from throwing a few well placed jokes into the speech.
How should I structure my groom’s speech?
It’s important to keep in mind that this structure should be adjusted to your own style, personality, and the tone of the wedding. The important thing is to keep it simple, sincere and heartfelt.
Here’s a suggested structure for the Groom’s speech:
Opening: Welcome the guests, thank the parents of the bride, acknowledge the bridal party, and thank the bride for making you the happiest man in the world.
Body: Share your feelings and thoughts about the couple’s relationship, express your love for the bride, and thank the guests for being a part of your special day.
Closing: Thank everyone for being a part of the day and raise your glass to the happy couple.
Now let’s break this down into a structured speech:
Opening: Start with a warm welcome and thank the guests for attending the wedding.
Expressing gratitude: Thank the parents of the bride and groom for their support, and any other important people who have played a role in the wedding planning.
Love for the partner: Share your feelings for your partner and express your love for them.
Personal anecdotes and memories: Share personal anecdotes and memories about your relationship with your partner, these can be funny or touching.
Future plans: Share your future plans as a couple, and your hopes and dreams for the future.
Toast: Raise a glass to the couple and make a toast to the happy couple.
Groom’s speech examples
The internet is awash with examples of wedding speeches, but nothing is worse than sitting through a plagiarised speech you have heard a thousand times before. If you are looking to get your creative juices flowing, then we have included a few typical sentence ideas for a grooms speech that might help kickstart the writing process.
“I never knew true love until I met [partner’s name].”
“I am the luckiest man in the world to have [partner’s name] as my wife.”
“I promise to love, cherish and support [partner’s name] in every way, every day.”
“To my beautiful partner, I love you more than words can express.”
“I want to thank my parents for raising me to be the man I am today and for their unwavering support in my life, and for welcoming [partner’s name] into our family.”
“I want to thank [partner’s name]’s parents for raising such an amazing woman and for entrusting her to me.”
“I want to thank all of our friends and family for being here to share this special day with us, it means the world to us.”
“I want to thank my groomsmen for being my loyal friends and standing by my side today.”
“I want to thank my beautiful partner for showing me what true love is, I am forever grateful to have you by my side.”
“I look forward to spending the rest of my life making memories with my soulmate [partner’s name]”
Groom’s Speech Delivery
The delivery of a groom’s speech is crucial as it can make or break the impact of the speech. It can be the difference between a speech that is engaging and memorable,or one of those super uncomfortable ones we have all had to sit through.
A confident and well-delivered speech can help create a positive atmosphere on the day, making the guests feel more connected to the couple and the event. To ensure that the speech is well-received, make sure you work on controlling nerves, maintaining composure so you don’t find yourself racing through the entire speech.
Combating nerves when delivering a speech can be challenging, but there are several techniques that can help to control them. One effective technique is to practice the speech in advance as much as possible. Visualising a positive outcome can also be helpful when it comes to delivering your speech. Another way to combat nerves is to engage with the audience, making eye contact and using natural body language. It’s also important to remember that it’s okay to make a mistake and that the audience is fully of your nearest and dearest who are there to support you.
Writing a brilliant groom’s speech is an important part of your wedding day that requires planning, preparation, and a lot of thought. By following the tips outlined in this blog post, you can create a heartfelt and meaningful speech that will make your partner and guests feel special. Remember to start your speech writing journey by thinking about the special memories that you have already shared with your partner, ask for input from friends and family members, and take the time to gather your material.
Most importantly, write from the heart and be yourself. With a bit of preparation and practice, you can deliver a speech that will be remembered for years to come.
Wedding speeches are a super important part of a wedding reception. They let the couple, family members and friends express their love, gratitude and well-wishes for the newlyweds. But if you’re not a confident public speaker, giving a wedding speech can be nerve-wracking for many people, which is why having a few examples up your sleeve can be a great starting-point.
Here are some simple wedding speech examples that can help you deliver a heartfelt, memorable and enjoyable wedding speech. Feel free to use them as a template to inspire your own writing.
And remember that these are just samples. Be sure to incorporate your own unique elements to personalise your speeches, which might mean having more gender-equal speeches compared to the traditional wedding speech line-up.
The groom’s speech and bride’s speech is a chance for the couple to thank their families, friends and wedding party for their support and to share their love for each other. Here’s a sample of a shared groom and bride speech:
“Good evening everyone, we are [bride’s name and groom’s name], the newlyweds. We want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you for being here to celebrate this special day with us. Our families, friends and wedding party have made this day truly unforgettable, and we are so grateful for your love and support.
We also want to thank our parents for their love and guidance, and for raising us to be the people we are today. We are honoured to have both of our families come together to celebrate this special day with us.
And last but not least, we want to express our love for each other. [Groom’s name], you are my best friend, my soulmate, and my partner in life. I am so grateful to have you by my side, and I look forward to a lifetime of love, adventure and happiness with you. [Bride’s name], you are beautiful, kind, and loving, and I feel so lucky to be able to call you my wife. I promise to always cherish and love you, no matter what life brings our way.
To our friends and family, thank you again for being here to share this special day with us. We are so grateful for your love and support, and we look forward to the memories we will create together.
Cheers to love, laughter and happily ever after. Cheers to all of us!”
A father of the bride speech is one of the most traditional and emotional speeches of the wedding. The father of the bride has the chance to both reflect on the love and relationship he has with his daughter and to welcome her new spouse into the family. Here’s a sample to inspire you:
“Good evening, everyone. Today is a very special day for me, as I stand here to give away my beautiful daughter [bride’s name]. She has grown into an amazing young woman, and I am so proud of the person she has become. [Groom’s name], I couldn’t have asked for a better match for my daughter. You are kind, caring and loving, and I am honoured to welcome you into our family. [Bride’s name], [groom’s name], I wish you a lifetime of happiness, love and adventure. To the newlyweds!”
The best man speech is a fun and light-hearted speech that’s often filled with anecdotes and humour. The best man has the chance to pay tribute to the groom and to share some memorable moments from their friendship. Here’s a sample:
“Good evening everyone, I am [your name], the best man, and the groom’s closest friend. I have known [groom’s name] for [number of years], and it has been an honour to stand by his side today as he marries the love of his life, [bride’s name]. [Groom’s name], you are one of the kindest, funniest and most genuine people I know, and I am so grateful to have you as my friend. [Bride’s name], you bring out the best in [groom’s name], and I know you will have a lifetime of happiness together. To the newlyweds, congratulations, and here’s to a lifetime of love and laughter!”
The maid of honour speech is usually given by the bride’s closest friend or sister, and can be a combination of humour and sentimentality. Here’s sample:
“Good evening everyone, I am [your name], the maid of honour and [bride’s name]’s best friend. I have known [bride’s name] since we were [age], and I have never seen her as happy as she is today. [Groom’s name], you have brought so much joy into [bride’s name]’s life, and I am grateful to have you as my friend as well. To the newlyweds, may your love continue to grow stronger with each passing day. Congratulations and best wishes!”
A mother of the bride speech, while not always a traditional element in the order of wedding speeches, is becoming gaining increasing popularity in modern celebrations. This beautiful moment lets the mother share her heartfelt sentiments, commemorate her daughter’s journey and extend a warm welcome to her daughter’s new spouse. Here’s a sample:
“Good evening everyone. Today holds great significance for me, as I stand before you to celebrate the union of my beloved daughter [bride’s name]. Watching her blossom into the remarkable woman she is today fills my heart with immense joy. [Groom’s name], from the moment you entered our lives, you’ve shown remarkable qualities of kindness, compassion and love. Welcoming you into our family is an honour beyond words. [Bride’s name], [groom’s name], may your lives be filled with boundless joy, enduring love and remarkable journeys together. To the newlyweds!”
These are just a few examples of the different types of wedding speeches you may give on a wedding day. No matter what type of speech you choose, the most important thing is to be yourself, speak from the heart and let your love for the newlyweds shine through. Best of luck and have a wonderful time celebrating the love and happiness of the newlyweds.
And for even more wedding tips and tricks, sign up to Bridebook today. We’ve got plenty of articles to help you with your wedding planning and celebrations.
Wedding speeches are a cherished tradition at weddings, and an essential part of the wedding reception. They’re a way for the bride and groom, as well as their loved ones, to express their love and appreciation for each other on their big day, and can set the tone for a fun, emotional, and memorable evening.
But with so many speeches to include, it can be difficult to know the order to give them in. In this post, we’ll provide a guide to the traditional order of wedding speeches as well as possible adaptations, to help make your wedding day as unique as possible.
The origins of the traditional wedding speech order
The traditional order of wedding speeches has evolved over time, reflecting changing societal norms and values. Historically, the speeches have centered around the groom and the bride’s father, with the best man offering a light-hearted conclusion. As gender roles and wedding customs have evolved, the traditional order has adapted to include more diverse perspectives, with maid of honour speeches now the norm, and sometimes also bride and mother of the bride speeches too. Understanding the roots of these customs can help you appreciate the significance of each speech and the order to give them in at your wedding.
Traditional wedding speech order: cheat sheet
Before we dive into the details, take a look at the cheat sheet below to see how the different speeches at a wedding all flow and fit together. First is the father of the bride’s speech, then the groom’s speech, then the best man and maid of honour, and finally, any other speakers from the wedding party.
Use this cheat sheet as a guide on the traditional order of speeches at a wedding
Traditionally, the father of the bride is the first to give a speech. The father of the bride’s speech is typically a touching and emotional tribute to the bride, expressing the father’s love and pride for her, and wishing her happiness in her marriage. The father of the bride will usually welcome the guests, thank the groom for loving and caring for his daughter, and make a toast to the happy couple.
The groom’s speech is next in the order and is a time for him to express his love and gratitude to his bride, as well as to thank the wedding party, guests, and parents of the bride and groom. The groom may also take this opportunity to tell a few anecdotes or share memories of his relationship with his bride. This speech is usually light-hearted and humorous, but it should also be sincere and heartfelt.
The best man’s speech is one of the most anticipated speeches of the wedding reception. This is the best man’s chance to share some memories of the groom and offer some humorous anecdotes about him. The best man may also offer a toast to the happy couple and offer some words of advice for their future together. This speech should be light-hearted and entertaining, but it should also be respectful and appropriate.
Check out our top best man speech examples for inspiration and a complete breakdown on how to structure your speech.
If the bride has chosen to have a maid of honour, she will typically give a speech next. The maid of honour’s speech is a time for her to express her love and appreciation for the bride, as well as to share some memories of their friendship. This speech should be heartfelt and emotional, and the maid of honor may also offer a toast to the happy couple.
If there are any other speakers at the wedding, they may give their speeches after the best man and maid of honour. This may include the mother of the groom, close friends, or other members of the wedding party. These speeches should also be heartfelt and sincere, and the speakers may offer a toast to the happy couple.
Check out our wedding speech examples for inspiration and ideas on the kind of speeches you can give, including a joint speech given by the couple.
Regardless of the order of speeches at a wedding, there are a few essential elements that can make a wedding speech memorable and engaging:
1. Speak from the heart: Genuine emotions and heartfelt expressions resonate deeply with the audience. Be sincere in your words and share your true feelings.
2. Keep it concise: Aim for a speech length of 5-7 minutes to maintain the audience’s attention and keep the reception on schedule.
3. Balance humour and sentiment: A well-rounded speech strikes a balance between humour and heartfelt sentiment. While humour can keep the audience entertained, sharing genuine emotions and personal stories can make the speech more meaningful.
4. Practice makes perfect: Rehearse your speech multiple times before the big day to ensure a smooth delivery and to calm any nerves.
Adapting the traditional order to a modern wedding
While the traditional order of wedding speeches provides a solid foundation, many couples choose to adapt the format to suit their preferences or to include additional speakers. Modern weddings may feature speeches from the bride, the mother of the bride or groom, the maid of honour, or even close friends and family members. The key is to find a balance between tradition and personalisation, ensuring that the speeches reflect the unique character and dynamics of the couple and their loved ones.
According to our 2023 UK Wedding Report, based on data gathered from almost 4,000 couples, almost 20% of couples married in 2022 featured alternative or non-traditional elements in their wedding planning. Here are examples of speech ideas from real Bridebook couples surveyed as part of the report. Feel free to incorporate them into your own wedding speeches to make for a more unique and personalised speech structure.
Joint couple speech (bride and groom)
No speech from either the groom or the bride
Gender-equal speeches (including bride and mother of the groom speeches)
Mother and father of the groom speeches
Sibling or children speeches (of both the bride and groom)
Bridesmaid and groomsmen speeches
A mob speech instead of the traditional father of the bride speech
Opening up the floor to whoever wants to speak
Alternative pre-recorded speech featuring multiple speakers
No speeches or vows in the traditional sense (pub quiz style instead)
Top tips for customising the traditional speech order
If you choose to modify the traditional order of wedding speeches, consider the following tips:
Keep the flow: When rearranging the speech order, ensure there is a smooth flow between speakers, transitioning from more formal and sentimental speeches to lighter, more humorous ones.
Communicate with your speakers: Inform your speakers of any changes to the traditional order and provide clear guidance on their roles and expectations.
Consider the audience: When adding new speakers or rearranging the order, be mindful of your guests’ attention span and strive to maintain engagement throughout the speeches.
Embrace diversity and variety: Incorporating a variety of perspectives can enrich the wedding speeches, providing a more comprehensive reflection of the couple’s journey and relationships.
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