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We’ve all heard them: the terrible wedding speech that drags on for what feels like hours and doesn’t make any sense (does this person even know the bride and groom?!). Nobody wants to be that person! Follow these 4 steps to make your speech stand out (in a good way)!
1. Write down all your ideas in advance.
While spontaneity may be the spice of life, it has no business in a speech. Have a well thought out speech will be a more enjoyable experience for you to give and for the guests to listen.
2. Keep it short and sweet.
Anything over five minutes will start to drag on and guests will become antsy (especially if speeches are before dinner!). You also don't want it to be too short either. Aim for around 3 minutes and you’ll be golden.
3. Remember that a wedding is not a comedy club.
While a humorous story may be anecdotal, make sure it won’t hurt anyone’s feelings. Your speech also shouldn’t be solely focused on stories that will get a good laugh from the audience. Find stories about the couple that have meaning and sentiment that guests will relate to.
4. Practice your speech.
Practicing your speech beforehand can help you shake off any nerves you might be feeling. It will also help with flow, delivery and tone. You don’t need to spend a lot of time practicing either. One or two times with or without a small audience can make the difference between a jumbled mess or a sophisticated speech.
Here’s a speech pattern we recommend following!
Open with a thank you to everyone who is in attendance.
Let the audience know your relation to the bride and groom.
Share a funny or heartfelt memory you have with the bride or groom (or both!).
Offer advice to the newlyweds, but only if you stand behind the advice you are giving.
End with well wishes and a toast to the new Mr. & Mrs.!