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How to Begin a Wedding Speech: Great Opening Lines

Handy one-liners to get your speech off to an amazing start.

If you've read our post on how to make a great wedding speech , you'll know that it's really important to start strong! Well, here we're showing you how to do exactly that, with a list of the best wedding speech opening lines . The beauty of this list is that it works for any kind of wedding speech, whether you're the bride, groom, best man, bridesmaid, father-of-the-bride, or even the flower girl or the groom's granny!

We've made sure to include lots of different options so there's something to suit every style of speech, whether you want to keep it simple, bring the audience to tears, or give them a giggle with a joke . Some of our wedding speech opening lines can be customised, too, to help you make your speech even more personal. So, let's dive in!

Our Favourite Wedding Speech Opening Lines

To help you find what you're looking for, we've split our sample opening lines into three categories; simple and sincere opening lines, funny opening lines and opening lines with quotes from famous people.

Note: (name) can indicate yourself, the bride/groom, the couple as a whole, or another member of the wedding party.  

Wedding Speech Opening Lines: Simple and Sincere Opening Lines

"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen, and thank you (name) for the kind introduction."

"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. As (name's friend/relative), I'm delighted to welcome you all here tonight."

"Thank you so much, (name), for such a wonderful introduction. I only hope I can live up to your kind words!"

"Hello everyone. I hope you're all having a great night so far."

"Hello, I'm (name) and, for those of you who don't already know me, I'm (relation to couple)."

"Hi everybody, I'm (name), and I'm here to talk a little bit about my good friend (name)."

"Hi everyone, I'm (name), and I'm going to talk a little bit about (name). When I was writing this speech, I asked myself how I could sum up (X) years of friendship, laughter and adventures in one speech, and I decided that I can't. We'd be here all night."

"Hello everybody and welcome. I think we can all agree that it's been a wonderful day so far. (Couple names), you should be really proud of the amazing day you've put together. We're all very lucky to be a part of it."

"Hello everyone. I hope you're all having a great night so far. My life changed completely on (date, year), when (name) came into my life, and it changes again today, as they embark on their latest adventure with (name)."

"Hi everybody. Thank you for the warm welcome. Mark Twain once said that 'there are only two types of speakers in the world. 1. The nervous and 2. Liars.' I'm definitely in the former category, so I hope you'll forgive me if I'm a little bit shaky this evening."

Wedding Speech Opening Lines: Funny Opening Lines to Make Guests LOL

"Hi everyone, I'm (name), and before any of you ask, yes I am single."

"Hi everyone, I'm (name), and I'll be your speaker for the next 95 minutes."

"Hi everybody. If you don't know who I am... well, you're probably at the wrong wedding! But stick around, we need extra people for the conga line."

"Hi everyone. You're probably wondering why I gathered you here today. I've got a once-in-a-lifetime investment opportunity that I know you're going to - sorry, wrong speech!"

"Hello everyone! Thank you all for being here on such an exciting night. Yes, the rumours are true, I will be debuting some new choreography on the dance floor this evening. But in the mean time, I suppose I should talk a little bit about (couple names)."

"Hello, and welcome. You may know me as (name's friend/relative), but tonight, I go by the title, (name), Lord of the Dance."

"Hi everyone. Just in case you don't already know, I'm (name) and I'm the best man. There are some really successful, good-looking, charming men in the room tonight, but now that it's written on the ceremony program in black and white, it's official - I am the best."

"Hi everyone, I'm (name), and I'd like to begin my speech with a quote from the great Seamus Heaney/Maya Angelou/Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr./Mother Teresa... but unfortunately I left my speech in my other jacket. So you'll have to make do with me!"

“Hi everyone. If I could just say a few words … I’d be a better public speaker! That gag was actually stolen from Homer Simpson, which should give you an idea of the caliber of speech you can expect from me tonight.”

"Hi everyone, and welcome. Webster's dictionary describes a wedding as, 'The process of removing weeds from one's garden'. That's a Homer Simpson quote, which should give you an idea of the caliber of speech you can expect from me tonight.”

"Hello everyone, I'm (name.) According to most studies, people’s number one fear is public speaking. Number two is death. Death is number two. Does that sound right?"

"Hi everyone. When I was preparing this speech, (name) gave me a list of topics that were strictly off-limits, so I'd like to start with those."

"Hi everyone. I'm (name). Anyone who knows me knows that I'm (name)'s biggest fan. So much so, that I was actually quite hurt when I learned that I wasn't going to be involved in the first dance!"

"Hi everyone. I just want to take a few minutes to talk about my good friend (name). I first met (name) when we were 13, and since then, I've always looked up to him. He was, after all, the only 6ft 2' student at (school name)!"

"Good evening everyone. To our English speakers, I'd like to say welcome, we're delighted that you could be with us today to celebrate the marriage of (couple names). To our (other language) speakers, I'd like to say (use Google Translate or ask a native speaker to translate, 'My llama is very handsome. I hope my translation is correct.')"

Wedding Speech Opening Lines: Beginning with a Quote

"Hi everyone. I'd like to begin my speech with a quote from Dr. James Dobson, who said, 'Don't marry the person you think you can live with; marry only the individual you think you can't live without.' "

"Hi everyone. I'd like to begin my speech with a quote from Franz Schubert, who said, 'Happy is the man who finds a true friend, and far happier is he who finds that true friend in his wife.' "

"Hi everyone. I'd like to begin my speech with a quote from The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who said, 'There is no more lovely, friendly, and charming relationship, communion, or company than a good marriage.' "

"Hi everyone. I'd like to begin my speech with a quote from Franklin P. Jones, who said, 'Love doesn't make the world go 'round; love is what makes the ride worthwhile.' "

"Hi everyone, I'm (name.) I hope you're all having a wonderful day so far. When I got married to my partner (name), somebody told me, 'Don't just be husband and wife, be president of each other's fan clubs,' and I'd like to pass on that same advice to (couple)."

"Hello everyone. I'd like to begin with a quote from Mignon McLaughlin, who said, 'A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person.' Over the past (x) years, I've had the pleasure of watching (name) fall in love with (name) over and over again."

Click herefor a handy checklist of people to thank in your wedding speech , plus how to keep the speeches from being too long !

Image credits

Adam and grace, via one fab day, see more in:.

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How to Start a Wedding Speech – Perfect Opening Lines

May 19, 2024 moneyspeech Wedding Resource

Embarking on the journey of delivering a  wedding speech  can often stir up a mix of excitement and nerves. Knowing how to start a wedding speech can set the tone for the entire delivery, making it a crucial step in speech preparation. Whether it’s captivating wedding quotes, humorous  wedding jokes , or heartfelt stories, the opening lines play a key role in connecting with the wedding guests and honoring the wedding couple. Crafting a message that resonates with the wedding day’s celebration, aligns with the wedding style, and embraces wedding traditions can transform a simple speech into a memorable highlight.

This article endeavors to guide readers through crafting a personalized introduction, setting a strong tone right from the beginning, incorporating effective body language, and managing stage nerves for a confident delivery. It will also explore ways to conclude with impact, ensuring the speech for the wedding leaves a lasting impression. From selecting the perfect wedding quotes to navigating through wedding nerves, this guide provides a roadmap for delivering a speech that not only aligns with the wedding celebration’s spirit but also resonates with the wedding audience, making your message an integral part of the ceremony’s joy and the couple’s story.

Table of Contents

Understand Your Audience

Assessing the crowd.

Before diving into the heart of your wedding speech, take a moment to gauge the audience. Understanding the general mood and expectations of the crowd is crucial. If the guests lean towards a more serious demeanor, aim for a conservative and tasteful speech. On the other hand, a relaxed audience might appreciate a bit more playfulness and a few calculated risks. This initial assessment will guide you in choosing the right  tone and content  for your speech, ensuring it resonates well with everyone present.

Familiarizing Yourself with Guests

Getting to know the guests can significantly enhance the connection you establish during your speech. A helpful tip is to read the wedding website ahead of time. Often, couples share their love story, details about the bridal party, and other fun facts that can serve as excellent conversation starters or even elements to incorporate into your speech. This background knowledge not only helps in personalizing your message but also in making the guests feel seen and appreciated. Remember, a wedding speech is not just about addressing the couple but also about engaging with the entire gathering.

Adjusting Tone Based on the Audience

The tone of your speech plays a pivotal role in how well it is received. The “Grandmother Test” is a simple yet effective way to ensure appropriateness. If an anecdote or joke you plan to share wouldn’t be appreciated if heard by the couple’s grandmother, it’s probably best left unsaid. Moreover, keep your speech concise—aim for no more than five minutes—to maintain the audience’s attention. Making eye contact with the couple and various guests throughout your speech can help create a more intimate and engaging experience. Remember, the goal is to complement the joyous atmosphere of the wedding day, not to overshadow it.

Incorporating these strategies into your preparation will not only help you better understand your audience but also empower you to deliver a speech that’s memorable, respectful, and engaging.

Crafting a Personalized Introduction

Creating a personalized introduction for a wedding speech requires a blend of authenticity, humor, and a deep understanding of your relationship with the couple. It’s the perfect opportunity to set the tone for your speech, making it memorable and engaging for all the guests. Below are key strategies to craft an introduction that stands out and resonates with everyone present at the wedding celebration.

Breaking Away from Cliches

To make your wedding speech memorable, start by moving away from overused phrases and generic quotes. Instead of relying on terms like “soulmate” or describing the couple as “beautiful,” try to find unique descriptors that truly capture their essence. For instance, comparing your friend to a blend of Audrey Hepburn’s elegance and Debbie Harry’s cool factor not only avoids cliches but also adds a personal touch that’s both vivid and endearing. Remember, the goal is to wake the audience up with fresh language that paints a clear picture of the couple’s unique qualities.

Incorporating Humor and Warmth

Humor is a fantastic way to connect with the audience and break the ice. Opening with a light-hearted joke, such as a playful set of “rules” for the guests or a humorous observation about the wedding day, immediately engages the audience. However, it’s essential to balance humor with warmth to ensure your speech feels genuine and heartfelt. Sharing a funny story about your first impression of the couple or a memorable moment you’ve shared with them can beautifully blend humor with warmth, showcasing your affection for the couple while keeping the mood light and joyful.

Highlighting Your Relationship to the Couple

Your relationship with the couple is the cornerstone of your speech. Begin by clearly introducing yourself and explaining your connection to the bride, groom, or both. This not only helps set the context for your speech but also personalizes your message. Sharing anecdotes that highlight the couple’s qualities, such as their shared love for board games or how they’ve supported you during a tough time, further personalizes your introduction. These stories not only entertain but also deepen the guests’ understanding of the couple’s character and the bond you share with them.

By focusing on these aspects, your introduction will not only capture the audience’s attention but also pave the way for a speech that’s both memorable and deeply meaningful. Remember, the best wedding speeches are those that reflect your genuine feelings for the couple and your excitement to celebrate their love and union.

Setting the Tone with a Strong Opening

Setting the tone with a strong opening is crucial for a memorable wedding speech. It’s your opportunity to capture the attention of the wedding guests and set the stage for your message. Here are some strategies to achieve that:

Using Anecdotes or Quotes

• Incorporate Memorable Quotes : Begin your speech with a famous quote that resonates with the theme of love and marriage. For example, “It’s so great to find that one special person you want to annoy for the rest of your life.” — Rita Rudner. This can immediately engage your audience and set a lighthearted tone.
• Share a Personal Anecdote : Relate a brief story about your relationship with the bride or groom, or a moment you witnessed between the couple that left an impression on you. This personal touch can create a connection with the audience and add depth to your speech.

Starting with Gratitude or Compliments

• Express Your Gratitude : Acknowledge the couple for inviting you to play a significant role in their special day. A simple expression of thanks can warm the hearts of the couple and the guests.
• Compliment the Couple : Highlight the qualities you admire in the bride and groom. For instance, “I’ve always admired [bride’s] strength and [groom’s] sense of humor. Together, they make an unstoppable team.”

Incorporating Humor Appropriately

• Choose Humor Wisely : Humor is a fantastic way to engage your audience, but it’s essential to tread lightly. Opt for light-hearted jokes that are inclusive and won’t offend anyone. A safe bet is self-deprecating humor, such as, “I’m the guy who hasn’t gone 4 feet from the bar all evening. I’m also the best man, but mostly the guy at the bar.”
• Avoid Sensitive Topics : Steer clear of jokes about the couple’s past relationships or anything that might cause discomfort. Remember, the goal is to celebrate and uplift, not embarrass.
• Test Your Material : If you’re unsure about a joke or story, run it by someone close to the couple. They can provide valuable feedback on what will resonate well with the couple and their guests.

By starting your wedding speech on the right note, you can create an atmosphere of warmth, celebration, and inclusivity. Whether you choose to open with a poignant quote, a heartfelt anecdote, or a tasteful joke, the key is to be authentic and speak from the heart. This approach will not only set the tone for your speech but also contribute to the joy and love that defines the wedding day.

Incorporating Body Language and Eye Contact

When delivering a wedding speech, the power of body language and eye contact cannot be overstated. These non-verbal cues play a significant role in how the message is received by the audience, making them essential tools for a speaker. Below are strategies to effectively use body language and make eye contact to connect deeply with wedding guests.

Engaging with the Audience through Body Language

Body language is a powerful aspect of communication, conveying emotions and intentions beyond what words can express. When standing before an audience, holding the microphone in one hand and a toasting glass in the other can seem like a balancing act. However, this setup can actually work to your advantage. By holding the mic in one hand and placing the toasting glass on a nearby table, you free up one hand to gesture. This allows for more animated expressions, making your speech more engaging. Gesturing with your hands can help emphasize key points and make your stories more vivid and memorable. Remember, an active speaker who uses their body to communicate leaves a much stronger impression than one who remains static.

Making Eye Contact to Build Rapport

Eye contact is a crucial element in establishing a connection with your audience. It conveys confidence, sincerity, and engagement. When speaking, aim to make eye contact with different people throughout the room, including the wedding couple and guests. This practice not only personalizes the experience for each listener but also helps in managing nerves, as connecting with individuals can make the vast audience seem more approachable. Moreover, eye contact can intensify the emotional impact of your words, making your speech more impactful.

Utilizing Gestures for Emphasis

Gestures are a natural part of communication, enhancing the delivery of your speech. They can be used to highlight important points, convey emotions, and keep the audience engaged. For example, using open hand gestures can signify honesty and openness, helping to foster a connection with the audience. However, it’s important to use gestures that feel natural and are appropriate to the content of your speech. Overdoing gestures or using them inappropriately can distract from the message. Practice your speech and experiment with different gestures to find what works best for conveying your message effectively.

In conclusion, incorporating body language and eye contact into your wedding speech plays a vital role in how your message is received. These non-verbal cues enhance the overall impact of your words, making your speech more engaging and memorable. By engaging with the audience through body language, making eye contact to build rapport, and utilizing gestures for emphasis, you can deliver a wedding speech that truly resonates with the wedding guests and honors the wedding couple.

Managing Nerves and Delivery

Managing nerves  and ensuring smooth delivery are critical aspects of giving a wedding speech that often go overlooked. However, with the right preparation and mindset, anyone can overcome these challenges and deliver a speech that is both memorable and impactful. Below are practical tips and strategies to help manage nerves, maintain an appropriate speaking pace, and deal with unexpected emotions during the speech.

Practical Tips for Calming Nerves

• Understand the Source of Nerves : Recognize that the fear often stems from the possibility of embarrassment rather than the act of speaking itself. Knowing that the audience is supportive and not looking for you to fail can help alleviate some of this anxiety.
• Prepare Thoroughly : Practicing your speech multiple times will boost your confidence. Familiarity with your speech allows you to focus on delivery rather than memorization.
• Breathing Techniques : Learn diaphragmatic breathing to calm your nerves. Practicing the 4-7-8 breathing technique before going on stage can help relax your body and mind.
• Positive Visualization : Imagine yourself delivering the speech confidently. Positive affirmations can transform your mindset and reduce negative thoughts.
• Physical Preparation : Eating a banana before your speech can help with nerves due to its potassium content, which has a calming effect.

Speaking Pace and Pausing

• Practice with a Timer : This helps you get a realistic idea of how long your speech will be and allows you to adjust your pace accordingly.
• Mark Pauses in Your Speech : Identify moments in your speech where a pause for effect or for audience reaction would be appropriate. This helps in pacing your delivery and engaging with your audience.
• Speak Slowly and Clearly : Nervousness can make you speak faster. Make a conscious effort to slow down, which will make your speech more understandable and impactful.

Dealing with Unexpected Emotions

• Stay Grounded : Remember that feeling nervous is natural. Focus on the support you have from the ground beneath your feet and the room around you.
• Allow Yourself to Be Authentic : It’s okay to show emotion. If you feel tears coming, let them. Authenticity resonates more with the audience than a perfectly delivered but emotionless speech.
• Prepare for the Unexpected : Be open to deviating slightly from your prepared speech if the moment calls for it. Your preparation will give you the confidence to trust your instincts.
• Connect with Your Audience : Making eye contact and connecting with the audience can help manage nerves. Seeing friendly faces in the crowd can reassure you and make the experience more personal.

By incorporating these strategies into your preparation and delivery, you can effectively manage nerves and deliver a wedding speech that is both heartfelt and memorable. Remember, the wedding guests are there to celebrate, and they are on your side. With the right mindset and preparation, you can turn your speech into a highlight of the wedding celebration.

Concluding with Impact

Concluding a wedding speech  with impact not only leaves a lasting impression on the couple but also on all the guests. It’s the final chance to encapsulate your feelings, wishes, and hopes for the newlyweds in a memorable manner. Here are strategies to ensure your conclusion resonates with everyone.

Ending on a Memorable Note

To leave your audience with something to remember, consider ending with a powerful quote or a personal anecdote that highlights the couple’s journey or your relationship with them. For instance, using a quote like, “May ‘for better or worse’ be far better than worse,” not only adds a touch of humor but also conveys heartfelt wishes for the couple’s future. Alternatively, sharing a personal memory that reflects the couple’s love and resilience can deeply touch the hearts of the listeners, making your speech unforgettable.

Encouraging Applause or a Toast

Inviting the guests to join you in a toast is a traditional and effective way to conclude. This gesture not only signals the end of your speech but also unites everyone in a shared moment of celebration. You might say, “Let’s raise our glasses to the happy couple and wish them a lifetime of love and happiness.” This encourages a collective participation, turning your concluding words into an interactive and inclusive celebration of the couple’s love.

Wrapping up with Well-Wishes for the Couple

Concluding with well-wishes is a heartfelt way to wrap up your speech. Expressing hopes and dreams for the couple’s future not only leaves them with your blessings but also resonates with the guests’ sentiments. Phrases like, “May all your hopes and dreams come true, and may the memory of this day become dearer with each passing year,” beautifully encapsulate the essence of your wishes for the newlyweds. This not only provides a touching end to your speech but also reinforces the joyous atmosphere of the occasion.

By incorporating these elements into the conclusion of your wedding speech, you ensure that your final words are impactful, memorable, and filled with warmth. It’s a beautiful way to honor the couple’s journey, celebrate their love, and wish them well as they embark on their new life together.

Key Takeaways and Next Steps

A truly good wedding speech is one that is heartfelt, engaging, and memorable. To achieve this, certain elements are crucial, including a personal touch, a blend of emotions, a well-structured format, and appropriate humor. Additionally, warmth, positivity, and thorough  practice  play significant roles in delivering a speech that resonates with the wedding guests and honors the couple. Keeping the speech concise and engaging the audience further ensures that your message is well-received. Here, we summarize these main points and provide encouragement and inspiration for making your wedding speech uniquely memorable.

Summarizing Main Points

• Personal Touch : Share personal anecdotes and memories that highlight your unique relationship with the couple. This adds authenticity and depth to your speech.
• Emotion : Balance humor with sentimentality and sincerity. A mix of emotions keeps the audience engaged and makes your speech more impactful.
• Structure : Organize your speech with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. This helps in delivering a coherent and compelling message.
• Humor : Use light-hearted jokes and funny anecdotes judiciously to entertain the audience without overshadowing the essence of the occasion.
• Warmth and Positivity : Express your genuine love and support for the couple, sharing hopes and best wishes for their future.
• Practice : Rehearse your speech multiple times to enhance your confidence and ensure smooth delivery on the big day.
• Respectful Length : Aim for a speech duration of 3 to 5 minutes to respect the event’s flow and other speakers.
• Engage the Audience : Make eye contact, speak clearly, and use appropriate body language to connect with your listeners.

Encouragement to Practice and Personalize

To ensure your speech is both memorable and impactful, practice is key. Begin crafting your speech early, allowing ample time for revisions and rehearsal. Use tools like recording yourself to identify and improve upon any distracting mannerisms. Practice in front of a mirror or with a friend to gain feedback and make necessary adjustments. Remember, the more familiar you are with your speech, the more confidently you can deliver it, making eye contact and engaging with your audience effectively.

Inspiration to Make the Speech Unique

Incorporating unique elements into your speech can make it stand out. Consider reversing the chronological order of your storytelling, starting from the present day and moving backward to when you first met the couple. Utilize music snippets from significant years, modify well-known songs with personalized lyrics, or include interactive elements like a quick-fire quiz about the couple. Embracing your personal style, whether it’s humorous or sincere, ensures your speech reflects your genuine sentiments. Always aim for authenticity, focusing on the couple’s journey and your relationship with them.

By keeping these key takeaways and next steps in mind, you’re well on your way to delivering a wedding speech that not only captures the essence of the couple’s relationship but also leaves a lasting impression on all the guests. Remember, this is a celebration of love, and your speech is a tribute to the couple’s special day. With preparation, personalization, and a touch of creativity, you can create a speech that is both meaningful and memorable.

Through the journey from starting a wedding speech to its impactful conclusion, this guide has walked readers through every crucial aspect, ensuring a speech that not just resonates but warmly lingers in the memories of the couple and guests alike. By weaving together personal anecdotes, a  balanced tone of humor and sincerity , alongside a well-structured format, speakers are equipped to deliver messages that harmonize perfectly with the joyous essence of the occasion. The emphasis on thorough practice and engaging storytelling serves as the backbone for delivering a speech that stands out as a highlight of the wedding celebration.

As we reflect on the elements that contribute to a heartfelt and memorable wedding speech, it’s clear that authenticity, emotional intelligence, and a keen understanding of the audience play pivotal roles. Encouragement to personalize your message, paired with the inspiration to infuse your unique style, underlines the importance of making each word count. With this foundation, speakers are poised to not only capture the essence of the couple’s story but to also enhance the celebratory atmosphere of the day, leaving an indelible mark on this significant chapter of their lives.

How Should I Kick Off a Wedding Speech?

To initiate a wedding speech on a high note, consider beginning with a heartfelt greeting such as, “Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. As [name’s] friend/relative, I’m thrilled to have you all here tonight.” Alternatively, if you’re responding to an introduction, you might say, “Thank you so much, [name], for such a wonderful introduction. I only hope I can live up to your kind words!”

What Are the Best Ways to Start a Wedding Ceremony Introduction?

When it comes to the opening words of a wedding ceremony, you have a few options depending on the tone and style you prefer:

• For a  Generic Introduction : “Dear friends and family of the Bride and Groom, we welcome and thank you for being part of this significant occasion.”
• For an  Intercultural Setting : “Today is a day to celebrate.”
• For a  Religious Ceremony : “Dear family and friends, we are here to witness [Name Of Bride] and [Name Of Groom], as they exchange their vows of marriage.”

What Makes an Ideal Welcome Speech at a Wedding?

An excellent welcome speech for a wedding warmly greets the bride and groom along with their families, expressing gratitude to everyone for their presence. It highlights the joy of the occasion and the efforts of the couple in organizing a memorable ceremony, with a message like, “A warm welcome to the bride and groom and their families. We thank you all for being a part of this celebration. I hope everybody enjoys the ceremony, lovingly prepared by the wonderful couple we’re here to celebrate today.”

What Should Be Said at the Start of a Wedding Ceremony?

The beginning of a wedding ceremony traditionally involves seating the guests, followed by the bridal party’s entrance. A common opening statement is, “Dearly beloved, we are gathered here in the presence of God, family, and friends to witness a joyous occasion—the union of [Name] and [Name] in holy matrimony. Who gives [Name] to be married to [Name]?” This sets the stage for a solemn and celebratory union.

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Best Wedding Speech Opening Lines

If you have read our Ultimate Guide To Writing & Delivering A Great Wedding Speech or Toast post, then you know that adding a little bit of humor can really help break the ice and calm your nerves. If you are drowning in the sea of wedding speech examples online and need help writing a speech that you can be proud of- you’re in the right place.

The key to delivering a great wedding speech is how it begins and ends. So today, we’ve rounded up some great opening lines that will have the guests praising your witty wordsmithing. And the great news is these can work for any type of wedding speech ( Father of the Bride , Best Man , Groom , and more).

How you open your wedding speech is critical because you only have 30 seconds to capture the guests’ attention and intrigue them enough to listen. Kicking off your wedding speech with one of these gems, and you’ll have a terrific speech.

Spice Up The Introduction

Ditch the old boring introduction “For those who don’t know me; I am – blah, blah, blah” by adding a little spice and humor. Here are a few examples.

“Hi, Ladies & gentlemen. If you’re in this room tonight and don’t know me, you’re probably at the wrong wedding. I am, of course, [NAME] I’ve been [GROOM’S NAME] wingman for 25 years.”

“Hello and welcome to this evening’s reception, [BRIDE’S NAME]; YOU truly are MY biggest fan. Wait, that didn’t come outright. As I was saying….”

Address the Nerves

We know delivering a speech in front of a crowd of people has a way of bringing on nerves, anxiety, and downright fear for many. The fact that you are nervous can be a great way to open your wedding speech while also helping you to relax.

“Good evening, everyone. I am [NAME], I am the best man this evening and must say – I’m pretty nervous up here. So, I will rely on that expert advice of “picture the crowd naked” to get over it. And I must say…bridesmaids, you look incredible this evening.”

Add a Little Humor; Corny Jokes Are OK

Pretty sure most will agree that there is no better way to start a wedding speech than a well-delivered joke . But when deciding which jokes you can include, make sure to consider your audience. One of the biggest wedding speech gaffes you could make is to offend the Mr. & Mrs. or the guests, so keep it PG. With that said, if you can get them to laugh in the first 30 seconds, you’re going to kill the speech.

“Hello, I’m the father of the bride [NAME]. This entire day has been beautiful, romantic, and emotional so far. In fact, I’m getting emotional. The wedding cake has me in TIERS. (looking at a 3-tiered cake).”

Deliver a Hilarious Joke With a Straight Face

Saying something downright hilarious and absurd with a straight face will always get the crowd to laugh (and sometimes cheer). If you can pull this off, you’re on your way to an unforgettable wedding speech.

“As Abraham Lincoln once said, [say something outrageous than Lincoln never said—an inspirational quote, movie line, piece of advice, etc.] … and that’s what brings us all together tonight to celebrate [COUPLE’S NAMES].” ( source )

“Thank you all for joining us here to celebrate the joining of two beautiful souls. I promise my toast is going to be like a mini-skirt, long enough to cover the goods but short enough to hold your attention.”

History in the Making

Here’s a simple and funny opening line that is appropriate for any presenter and any type of wedding.

“Family and friends, today we are witnessing a unique event in history – it’s the first, and probably the last time anyone will trust me to give a speech!”

Add Something Funny About The Previous Speech

Ok, hear us out on this one because this could really turn disastrous. If you are not first in the speech order, your opening line can be to say something funny about the previous presenter or speech. Just make sure it is not derogatory or insulting. Keep it clean, or you’ll make a few enemies. Here’s a great way to do it!

“I just want to start by congratulating (PREVIOUS PRESENTERS NAME) on their incredible wedding speech tonight. I knew that speech would be hard to follow and I was right; I couldn’t follow a word of it.”

Relationship Advice

“I’d like to begin my speech this evening by giving the happy couple some relationship advice. Unfortunately, I’m single and spend the majority of my time dressing my dog in cute outfits and trying to get their photos viral on Instagram.”

Just Be Yourself

The pressure is undoubtedly on when you have been asked to present a wedding speech. And while you may be tempted to WOW the guests and couple with witty jokes and charming sentiments, the best advice is just to be yourself. And you can even use this as your opening line. Here’s how.

“(NAME) knows that I’m am incredibly nervous about this speech, so they gave me some great advice. They said, ‘Don’t try to be too witty, charming, or intellectual… just be yourself!'”

We hope that you enjoyed this guide to the best wedding speech opening lines. If you need more guidance on wedding speech examples or wedding toast inspiration, we have you covered. Visit our Complete Guide To Wedding Speeches & Toasts . You’ll be writing a killer wedding speech in no time.

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• Who Gives a Speech at a Wedding Reception? How to Write a Wedding Toast Tips for the Father of the Bride Speech How to Write a Best Man Toast Advice for the Maid of Honor Speech What to Know About a Newlywed Toast Public Speaking Experts' Wedding Speech Tips 60 Quotes to Use for Your Wedding Toast

Public Speaking Experts Share Their Top Tips for Giving an Amazing Wedding Speech

Check out their best examples and advice to learn how to knock it out of the park.

Photo by Kurt Boomer

In This Article

Most people would agree that public speaking isn't easy, and this is especially true when you're feeling the added pressure that comes along with giving a speech at a loved one's wedding. Not only do you have the attention of dozens (if not hundreds!) of guests you probably don't know, but you're also trying to appeal to a group of people in a wide range of ages from all different phases of the couple's lives. What's more, you want your speech to delight the couple of the hour and be as appealing to your group of friends as it to the newlyweds' grandparents. All in all, it's a tough task.

Before you panic, know that we're here to help. Ahead, we're sharing a comprehensive guide on what you should include in your speech , how to nail your delivery, and questions to consider to get the brainstorming process started—all from noteworthy speakers, well-established speechwriters, and wedding planners (who have seen it all).

Wedding Speech Template

Every great wedding speech has one thing in common: the right flow. Factor in these guidelines to help you find your own organic rhythm.

Open With a Statement or Question

Don't lead with a joke or a reference to how nervous you are. "The goal is to engage your audience, not make it a boring one-way message," says award-winning motivational speaker Jaime Pfeffer . "You'll lose them if you do this."

Introduce Yourself

After your opener, introduce yourself, says Fallon Carter , a wedding planner, even designer, and professional speaker. "A lot of times, people don't know who is speaking, and they don't know their relationship to the bride or the groom," she says. "It's really important to identify yourself, so make sure you've prepared something."

Address Your Audience

As speaker and life strategy coach Mark Black, CSP , points out, focusing on yourself only enhances nerves. "Instead, concentrate on your audience and how you want them to feel. This will help you to speak from the heart, allowing your speech to do what it's supposed to do: Make the couple feel special while also engaging the audience."

Focus on a Few Points

Seasoned speaker Susan Bender Phelps, CEO of Odyssey Mentoring & Leadership , says her top guideline is to select one to three aspects of the newlyweds that you love and appreciate, along with no more than three short stories to illustrate each of these points (or that one point). "The simple, succinct story or stories where the bride and groom are the hero will work best." This is an excellent way to structure your speech and keep your message focused.

How Long Wedding Speeches Should Be

The ideal length for a speech is three to five minutes, with five minutes being the absolute maximum you should speak for. That's it. "I’ve never been to a wedding where anyone said, 'That was a great wedding, but the best man speech was just too short and that  ruined  it,'" says David Litt , the speechwriter for former President Barack Obama and author of Thanks, Obama .

Carter agrees: "I always say anywhere between two and five minutes—and no more than five minutes," she says. "You want to keep things short and sweet." It's just as important to keep in mind when the speech will take place when determining length, since toasts are often timed with meal courses: "Be mindful of how long a course generally takes or how long it takes people to eat," Carter adds, noting that most courses last between 15 and 20 minutes and that several speeches have to fit inside each window. "If there are other people speaking, you want to be mindful and give them space."

Wedding Speech Tips

Now that you've established the right framework for your words, take note of these essential tips for acing the delivery from a few speaking pros.

Rehearse Regularly

The better prepared you are, the more confident you'll be and the better your speech will be, says author and professional speaker Barry Maher . A good rule of thumb is to practice the speech enough that you can remember the points you want to make and the order in which you want to make them. That way, you can look out to the crowd and make eye contact every so often.

Record Yourself Practicing

Use your phone to take a video of yourself practicing, suggests Kate Kenfield , speaker and sex educator. "It can be a little uncomfortable to watch yourself, but you'll be able to identify distracting mannerisms, such as the verbal pauses 'um,' 'uh,' and 'like'." It's also a good idea to practice your speech in front of someone else. "A second opinion can help you craft your piece and make it that much stronger," she says.

Don't forget body language! Rehearse the speech in front of a mirror and notice things like your facial expression, eye contact, and hand position.

Avoid Alcohol

Although it may be tempting to look for some liquid courage, alcohol definitely won't do you any favors, warns keynote speaker Amy Morin , author of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do . "It may cause you to slur your speech and forget your lines, so wait until after your toast to celebrate," she advises. If you need a drink to loosen up the nerves or can't refrain from participating in a toast without being rude, stick to one glass of Champagne before you address the crowd.

Use Nerves to Your Advantage

A little nervousness can actually liven up your speech. "I get worried if I'm not a little nervous," says Maher. "I'll actually try to make myself a little tense to get my energy level up." The key is to harness that energy and communicate it in a positive, genuine way; tensing up to the point that you forget your words or panic won't make for a great presentation.

Be Yourself

Keep in mind that you're not putting on a show, only sharing your personal perspective. Trying too hard to force the funny can yield the opposite of the desired effect, cautions Matt Dalley, co-founder of Simply Eloped . "I've noticed that keeping it short and sweet, heartfelt and warm, and coming across as authentic and focused on the couple is something we are all capable of and generates some very wonderful moments," he says.

Never Embarrass the Newlyweds

It's a wedding toast, not a roast. While this should go without saying, keep the bachelor or bachelorette party jokes out of it, and remember that grandma and possibly a few colleagues are in the audience, notes Laurie Battaglia , a keynote speaker and workplace strategist. "It's okay to look back at childhood and refer to something funny, but ask yourself if you'd like 200-plus of your closest friends knowing that story about you."

Use Your Notes

Reading your speech straight from a piece of paper is a big no-no. However, having a couple of note cards handy is encouraged. "You're likely to be nervous, excited, and exhausted, which can make you forget your lines," explains Morin. "The audience won't care if you glance at your notes. In fact, there's a good chance they won't even notice."

Wedding Speech Brainstorm Ideas

Need some inspiration? Ask yourself these questions to get the brainstorming process going.

• Who will speak before you? After you? How will this affect the content of your toast? (Perhaps you want to include a reference to their speech, thank them for an introduction, or introduce the next speaker).
• Is there someone you should thank for making the event possible and inviting you to speak?
• What would you want to hear in this speech if you were in the audience?
• Is there a favorite story or memory that the couple would want you to share with their friends and family?

Wedding Speech Examples to Make Your Own

So, what does it look like when all these elements come together? Wedding vow and speechwriter Katelyn Peterson , owner and creator of Wedding Words , offered us three examples of successful toasts to inspire your own.

Maid of Honor Wedding Speech Example

"Hi, I’m Maya, the bride’s older sister . With Lucy being three years younger, we fell right into our respective roles as sister-rivals growing up. We constantly fought over stolen clothes, monopolizing the phone back when landlines were a thing, and what boy band to blare from the car speakers. I’m still Team Backstreet Boys while Lucy is forever indebted to NSYNC.

Looking back on those memories, I should have stepped up and granted Lucy permission to wear my favorite sweater for picture day, to hand her the phone once in a while, and to let her play, 'Bye Bye Bye.' Even I can admit that’s a good one. But despite Lucy being the younger sister, she has always been more patient, more accommodating, and more thoughtful than me. And that’s because when it comes to the people she loves, she’s all in.

She’s the one to prioritize their desires. She’s the one to compromise first. And, she’s the one to support their dreams as if they were her own. 

This is why it makes me so happy to know that Lucy has found a home in David. He matches her in compassion, thoughtfulness, and warmth. And I know he’ll spend his life prioritizing her desires, being ready to compromise, and supporting her dreams as his own.

Cheers to Lucy and David! May you always feel loved because you always put each other first."

Best Man Wedding Speech Example

"Hello, everyone. My name is Luke and I’m the best man . I met Robert eight years ago when I became his neighbor. His reputation preceded him as I had heard about the 'Block Party King' before my closing papers were inked. 

Rob has never been the guy to wear fancy clothes. In fact, I’m still in shock seeing him in that tux tonight. And he’s never been the guy to show off even though the work he’s put into his vintage Mustang could make Henry Ford himself envious.

But when it comes to cooking, he should receive an award. His pulled pork is a staple at our summer block parties and his homemade barbeque sauce has remained our neighborhood’s best-kept secret. But the most satisfying part about his delicious dishes is that there’s always plenty to go around. And Rob makes sure your plate is never empty. I have no idea how he pulls it off, but Rob has a covert ability to scoop seconds onto your plate without you ever seeing him do it. I hope you all came hungry tonight, folks. You’ve been warned! 

The first time I met Jasmine I could immediately tell she was an amazing person. She laughed at his jokes which I never thought anyone would get. She supported his career and the nonstop travel involved. But most importantly, whenever we’re all hanging out, Jasmine is the one always topping off Rob’s plate with more pasta, more chicken, more of everything. When she’s around, it’s never empty. 

And that’s when I saw what a perfect match they were for each other. I know they will always put each other first, make sure their needs are met, and will never allow the other to go hungry.

So let’s raise our glasses to toast the newlyweds! As you begin this next chapter together, may your plates and your hearts always remain full."

Father of the Bride Wedding Speech Example

"Good evening, family, and friends. I’m Daniel Lee, the father of the bride. I’d like to welcome you to this special occasion where we get to celebrate the love between my daughter Allison and her new wife, Kristin. 

Standing up here today, I’m reminded of all the moments that led to this significant one. The dance recitals that ended with standing ovations and the soccer games that concluded with winning scoreboards. 

But, while those were fun and rewarding times, those aren’t the moments I cherish most with Allison. The memories that make me smile the brightest are those in-between the big stuff moments. It’s the makeshift magic shows in our living room using a bedsheet that Allison confiscated from our linen closet to convert into a curtain. It’s the countless tea parties she hosted with exclusive invitations just for me and her beloved stuffed bear, Buttons. And it’s the way she’d beg to stay up for just five more minutes but was asleep on the couch by minute number two.

Those everyday, blink-and-you’ll-miss-them moments with Allison are the ones that gave color to my life and filled my heart with a happiness I never knew could exist.

So, my beautiful daughter, as you begin your life with Kristin today, I have one wish for you: May your warmest memories come from the ordinary moments throughout your marriage, and may those moments give you a reason to smile brighter every day. Cheers! I love you both." —Daniel

What Not to Say in a Wedding Speech

Your job when delivering a wedding speech is to keep things light—tell an anecdote, make an emotional connection, then wish the couple well before you close out. Anything that doesn't feel definitively positive should be avoided. "I would advocate against bringing up negative details, specifically past relationships or past spouses," says Carter. "Skip anything that you wouldn't want to be physically recorded and played over and over again—this is a rule of thumb."

Keep it light, delicate, and present- and future-focused, Carter adds. "If you're going to go into the past, make those stories really intentional," she says. "Bring those stories back to who they are now. Your mission is to create a great environment and vibe and to potentially give some information about one of the newlyweds, so that it's enlightening for all guests."

A Guide to Wedding Reception Toasts

Who Gives a Speech at a Wedding Reception?

How to Write a Wedding Toast

Tips for the Father of the Bride Speech

How to Write a Best Man Toast

Advice for the Maid of Honor Speech

What to Know About a Newlywed Toast

Public Speaking Experts' Wedding Speech Tips

60 Quotes to Use for Your Wedding Toast

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Bride Speech Examples

If you're keen to give a bride speech, you've come to the right place. The bride speech is the perfect moment to thank your guests for coming and to say a special thank you to your new spouse and wedding entourage. Not sure where to start? We have lots of example bride speeches, tips and advice to help inspire you here.

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How to Start a Wedding Speech

Last Updated: August 10, 2021 References

This article was co-authored by Lynn Kirkham . Lynn Kirkham is a Professional Public Speaker and Founder of Yes You Can Speak, a San Francisco Bay Area-based public speaking educational business empowering thousands of professionals to take command of whatever stage they've been given - from job interviews, boardroom talks to TEDx and large conference platforms. Lynn was chosen as the official TEDx Berkeley speaker coach for the last four years and has worked with executives at Google, Facebook, Intuit, Genentech, Intel, VMware, and others. This article has been viewed 9,261 times.

Speeches are a key part of any wedding. Normally, the best man and maid of honor give speeches honoring the bride and groom, but sometimes the couple's parents also give toasts. If you've been asked to give a wedding speech of any kind, it's important to nail the introduction. First, brainstorm to find stories and memories you have with the people getting married. Then start off the speech by introducing yourself and thanking the couple for including you. Recount a few memories, and then set up a good transition into the rest of your speech.

Brainstorming Ideas

• The timeline for writing the speech varies from person to person. A few days before the wedding, you may be busy preparing, so plan on thinking about it at least a week in advance. If you’re a slow writer, start planning a month ahead of time.
• Whatever your writing style, never start writing the speech on the day of the wedding.

• Write down multiple stories to have a selection that you could include. You don’t have to use all of them. This just gets your brain working.
• If you’re the maid of honor and the bride is your sister, for instance, memories could include how you two bickered when you were younger, when you finally started getting along, or a time that you helped each other out.
• Wedding speeches commonly include the story of how you met the person, a funny or profound experience you had when you were younger, and how you met the person’s spouse. Plan on including your meeting story in the intro.

• A harmless joke for your introduction could be, “I have to thank the bride and groom for including me on their special day and providing the drinks, because otherwise I wouldn’t have the courage to give this speech.”
• Try to avoid inside jokes as well, because most other people won’t understand them. 1 or 2 inside jokes are okay, but get rid of any more so the whole reception is in on the joke.
• If you do use some inside jokes, try to explain them briefly so the audience can laugh along. For example, “So I’m here to toast Skinny now. Do you all know why I call the groom Skinny? It’s because back in high school our football coach threatened to bench him because he didn’t go to the gym enough.”

• If you’re a best man, for example, common advice is to tell lots of jokes about the groom. But if you’re a stern person who doesn’t tell jokes, then forcing some out won’t look genuine. Opt for a few wholesome jokes rather than frat boy-style jokes to stay consistent with your character.
• Similarly, if you’re naturally a laid-back person, don’t try to be extra serious. Put your personality into your speech.

• Try to reach outside your immediate friend group for opinions. Your close friends may share your sense of humor, so you might not get a good indication whether certain jokes are appropriate from them.

• Key topics to avoid are past relationships, sex, racial or ethnic jokes, or stories that you know embarrass the bride or groom.
• Avoid any topics that might be a secret. For example, the groom might not know that you took an impromptu vacation with the bride while he was away on a business trip once.
• A good general rule is avoiding jokes about the spouse. If you’re the best man, don’t tell any jokes about the bride, and vice versa if you’re the maid of honor. Even if you have a good relationship with the person, you don’t want it to look like you’re making fun of them.

• For example, “I’m elated and ecstatic that the bride and groom asked me to speak” might look good, but saying 2 vowels that quickly is like a tongue twister. Instead, saying “I’m so excited” is much easier.
• Also keep in mind if you always trip over a certain word or phrase. If you’re practicing and keep getting tripped up at a certain spot, it’s easier to just eliminate the word that’s giving you trouble.

Composing the Introduction

• You don’t need a punchy introduction. A simple, “Hi everyone, I’m Sarah, I’m the bride’s best friend and maid of honor,” is fine.
• Try to use a little bit of humor in your introduction, if possible. For example, “Hi everyone, I’m Mike, the best man, and someone decided it was a good idea for me to give a speech tonight.”

• You can still use a bit of lighthearted humor at this part. For example, “I don’t want to be overly formal, but I can’t go on without thanking the lovely bride and groom for having me here.”
• For added points, also thank the guests for coming and making the event possible.

• Try to make this a natural part of the speech rather than introducing it out of nowhere. While, “I first met the bride in our freshman year of high school” accomplishes the task, something else like, “Ten years ago I never thought I’d be standing here, because the bride and I hated each other when we met in math class as freshmen” uses a more narrative style.
• If you’ve known the bride or groom your whole life, like if you’re a sibling, then think about your first memory of them. For example, “My first memory of my brother is when he poured spaghetti on my head at the dinner table.”

• A good transition is spending the introduction talking about how you met the groom in college and thought he’d never get married. Then, your transition could be how when he met his wife, suddenly he started talking about settling down and having a family. The rest of the speech should cover this arc and how he changed for the better.
• This tactic will also work in stories that don’t involve a lot of change. For example, “As you can see, John always knew what he wanted in life. That’s how I knew Kristin was perfect for him,” is another good transition.

• Adjust your approach depending on the situation. If you’re the only one speaking, then a speech near 10 minutes is okay, so you have more time for your intro. If there are multiple speakers, try to finish your speech within 5 minutes. That means your intro should be 2 minutes at most.
• When timing your speech, remember to speak at the pace you’ll be speaking at the wedding.

• Remember that after you write the rest of the speech, go back to the intro and see how it flows. Make revisions to the intro if you have to so it matches the rest.
• If you get stuck on the intro, then move on to the rest of the speech. Sometimes writing the intro last works out better, and some people prefer doing it this way.

Expert Q&A

• Remember to drink in moderation before your speech. You don't want to start stumbling and slurring your words while trying to toast your friends. Enjoy yourself after the speech is done. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ Lynn Kirkham. Public Speaking Coach. Expert Interview. 20 November 2019.
• ↑ https://www.vox.com/the-goods/2019/10/11/20908156/wedding-speech-writer-professional-best-man-maid-honor
• ↑ https://www.askmen.com/money/how_to/best-man-speech.html
• ↑ https://www.weddingideasmag.com/14-wedding-speech-tips/
• ↑ https://www.artofmanliness.com/articles/how-to-write-deliver-good-best-man-speech/
• ↑ https://www.presentationmagazine.com/the-structure-and-etiquette-of-wedding-speeches-1041.htm

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How to Write a Wedding Speech

Last Updated: March 19, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Jenny Yi . Jenny Yi is the Founder of Chloe+Mint, an award-winning full service event planning company that specializes in wedding planning, design and floral design. Jenny has been in the industry for over 5 years, and also works closely with notable brands and celebrities on branding and events. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 604,515 times.

For most people, their wedding day will be among the most important days of their lives. As such, it is customary for a close friend or loved one to deliver a speech congratulating the newlyweds on their union. This can be a nerve-wracking prospect if you’re the one called upon to give a speech in front of a big, expectant crowd. As the speechwriter, it will pay off to make sure that you’re organized, keep it concise and practice extensively beforehand.

Things You Should Know

Professional wedding planner Jenny Yi says the wedding speech should be “impactful, short, and sweet.” Explain how you know the bride and groom, share a quick backstory on how they met, then wish them well as a couple.

Sample Speeches

Writing a Meaningful Speech

• The best man and maid of honor are usually each asked to make a short speech on behalf of the wedding party. After that, the microphone is sometimes turned over to whoever would like to say a few words.
• Saying your name and briefly summarizing your history with the bride or groom will be enough. Don’t talk about yourself too much. Remember, the focus of your speech is the married couple.

• Use jokes judiciously to break the initial tension and keep the crowd relaxed. Try not to let your speech turn into a stand up comedy routine.
• Keep your humorous stories and remarks appropriate. There will be people of all ages in your audience, including children.
• Funny stories might include a funny story about the bride and groom's meeting, or an anecdote about one of them as a child.

• Sharing unique memories or stories is much more effective than simply complimenting the bride or groom because it is a more personal touch.

• If you decide to use a quote for this segment of the speech, make sure it is short, relevant and not a cliche.

• Acknowledging the people who helped make the wedding festivities possible will make you appear humble, as well as making them feel appreciated.
• Express your gratitude in a couple sentences. There’s no need to go on and on thanking every person individually by name.

Making Sure You're Prepared

• Treat your speech like you would a school assignment. Compose several drafts, check it for errors and have a friend proofread it to make sure it sounds good.

• Familiarize yourself with the order of presentation if multiple speeches are to be given.
• Don’t spend the entire ceremony fretting over your speech. If you’re sufficiently prepared, you won’t need to give it a second thought until it’s time for you to deliver it.

• Know your speech word for word, but try not to sound like you’re simply reciting it from memory. Pace yourself and give every passage emphasis, emotion and clarity.

• Put your entire speech on a couple note cards rather than a several large sheets of paper. Not only will this look better, it will help you keep your speech at the appropriate length.
• Only look at your notes if you draw a blank or forget the next part. This will allow you to keep your eyes up and engage your audience. Even the most riveting speech will be a bore if the person giving it is reading off a note card the whole time.

Giving the Speech

• Take a few slow, deep breaths. Think about what you’re saying and shut out all other distractions. Imagine that you’re giving your speech to one person instead of a room full of people.
• Have a drink or two if it helps your nerves. Just don’t have too many—you want to be focused and clear-headed when it’s time for you to take the floor.

• It’s perfectly okay to give a short speech. Simply say a few kind words, raise a toast and hand back the microphone.
• Speak slowly and deliberately. It’s easy to start chattering too fast when you’re nervous. By talking slower than you feel like you need to, you’ll probably be going at just the right speed.
• People who are underprepared or extremely anxious tend to talk aimlessly. Avoid this by sticking to what you’ve written and look to the crowd for cues about when their attention is evaporating.

• Take a moment to speak to the bride and/or groom directly.
• It’s normal to get a little choked up! As long as you can finish your speech, there’s no need to worry. It may even be flattering, as it will show the people you’re talking about how much you truly care.

• It’s customary for the best man or groomsmen to toast the bride, and the maid of honor to toast the groom.

Expert Q&A

• Keep quotes to a minimum, as other people's words can distract from what you're trying to say yourself. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 1
• If you're stumped on how your speech should flow, approach it the way you would a story: give it a beginning, middle and end. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1
• Ask an honest, objective friend to give you feedback on your speech after you've finished writing it. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• Never use a premade template you find on the internet to write a wedding speech. Your speech should be a product of your own unique thoughts, feelings and experiences. Thanks Helpful 6 Not Helpful 1
• Don't drink too much before delivering your speech. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 1
• Leave out especially embarrassing or offensive anecdotes. These are usually considered bad form. You're supposed to be honoring the married couple, not getting a laugh at their expense. Thanks Helpful 6 Not Helpful 3

You Might Also Like

• ↑ http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-2110745/Lost-words-Top-tips-write-winning-wedding-speech-deliver-like-pro.html
• ↑ https://www.theknot.com/content/wedding-toasting-tips-for-the-maid-of-honor
• ↑ https://www.presentationmagazine.com/the-structure-and-etiquette-of-wedding-speeches-1041.htm
• ↑ http://www.artofmanliness.com/2008/07/22/how-to-write-deliver-good-best-man-speech/
• ↑ https://www.theknot.com/content/wedding-toasting-tips-for-the-maid-of-honor/
• ↑ https://finley-h.schools.nsw.gov.au/content/dam/doe/sws/schools/f/finley-h/localcontent/how_to_write_a_speech.pdf
• ↑ https://mediacenter.toastmasters.org/2014-07-01-10-Tips-for-the-Perfect-Wedding-Toast

About This Article

To write a wedding speech, start by introducing yourself and explaining how you know the bride and groom. Then, share some fond memories, like stories from when you were kids or how you met. Next, offer well-wishes to the bride and groom, such as wishing them health, happiness, and prosperity. Alternatively, try opening with a joke or funny anecdote, but make sure that your remarks are appropriate for everyone in attendance. Finally, briefly thank everyone for coming and for making the celebration possible. For tips on how to memorize your speech so that it doesn’t sound rehearsed, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Bride Speech Examples

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(*Of course, if you’re looking for more than ‘advice’, check out all the different ways the Speechy team can help you write & deliver a great speech. Or check out our new AI-powered team member, SpeechyAI .)

Lessons to Learn from Our Speech Examples

• Length  – no more than 1,300 words MAX
• Structure  – Don’t begin with the thank-yous, start with the stories and hook in your audience*
• Don’t let your speech become a tedious thank-you list
• Tell good stories
• Resist Googled-gags, cliches, and platitudes
• Pepper the speech with humour throughout
• Have the romantic summary towards the end of your speech

Ultimately though, every speech should be unique and tailored to the individual speaker’s style.

For obvious reasons, we cannot share the full range of speeches we write for our clients but these are generic (and made-up) speeches to give you an idea of a good structure.

Your speech may be more sentimental, shorter, or poetic. Crucially, it needs to be more YOU!

INTRODUCTION & TRIBUTE TO THE DEARLY DEPARTED

LIGHT THE CANDLE ON THE TOP TABLE

I promised Dom when he passed away that I’d make sure we remembered him at the wedding. In true Dom fashion, he said that dying was his sure-fire way of getting out of doing a toast, so I said that I’d stand up today and speak, so you can consider this a part-bride, part-father-of-the-groom speech. A mess, basically!

I thought it would be nice to have this candle on the top table to remember that a flame is the closest thing we have to actually seeing love. Like love, a flame can keep us warm.

The light from a flame can banish the darkness. It brings us all these amazing things, but it can still hurt us when we get too close.

Dom, wherever you are, please will you make a special note of the fact that it took me forever to find a candle in the Chicago Bulls colours, so you’d better appreciate it!

THE SPEECH-MEAT

What I most wanted to say today is how lucky I am that I have found my light. Before I met him in the grubbiest, smelliest backpacker’s hostel in Australia, perhaps the world, I had been fortunate to experience light in my life. My family and friends have shone brightly for me since I’ve known them and I want to thank them today for being here to celebrate with us.

But it was only when I met Christian that I understood how bright the light can become. And this light is just for me. And my light is just for him. I know others notice the light between us, but it’s only my life that is warmed and brightened by it. I think that’s wonderful.

Of course, I’d be letting him get away with too much if I claimed that Christian was exclusively a source of light! I’m hoping that James’s best man speech will give us more information, but I will tell you that I first knew Christian as a source of a smell. Specifically, the smell of the worst hiking boots that have ever existed.

These boots were attached to Christian’s feet for several weeks as he walked around Australia. Over the time that he’d been pretending to be waltzing Matilda, these boots had festered into fungal fun-houses. I’d been working at the hostel in Adelaide and when Christian booked a room, it was left to me to speak to this weird, bearded stick man about the smell emanating from his feet.

In typical Christian fashion, he apologised and immediately threw the boots in the bin behind the hostel. He then proceeded to go barefoot in Adelaide. Clearly, this was someone I needed to get to know more.

Since that time, Christian and I have travelled together on four of the seven continents. We’ve seen rainbows over Mount Fuji. We survived being mugged in Phuket by the drunkest mugger that has ever been. We also spent an entire week with what we think might have been dysentery in an Israeli kibbutz. Relationship experts should note that if you really, really want to know if your relationship will survive then you should try fighting for the ownership of a single toilet as one of you projectile vomits and the other tries to control explosive diarrhoea. In the end we found it easier to just buy a pack of corks.

Throughout it all we have laughed, we have learned about each other, and we started to love each other.

SENTIMENTAL & ROMANTIC TRIBUTE

Life has been more serious since we returned home and found that Dom, Christian’s beloved dad, had fallen very ill. We moved into the house with him and spent the next few months looking after him as best we could.

I’ve known that I loved Christian since he threw those boots in the bin, but it was during this time that I knew why. Just like Dom, Christian is someone who doesn’t believe in getting caught up in the emotions of a situation, he prefers to focus on what he can do and as a result he has a gift for bypassing embarrassment.

It’s really an amazing attribute, it meant that he was a perfect carer for Dom. I think it’s also what makes him an incredible social worker. He doesn’t have a judgmental bone in his body, he can talk to kings or tramps and treat them with the same love and dignity. I truly love and admire that about him.

About a month before he died Dom made us open all the booze in the house that he’d been saving for a rainy day. He realised it was a rainy day. For about two days we were as drunk as we’ve ever been. We drank £400 bottles of champagne and a 30-year-old whisky. Fortunately, the training that we’d had in that Israeli kibbutz came in handy.

During that time, Dom made us promise that we’d make sure that today was a huge party and that there wouldn’t be any moping around. Dom wouldn’t want you to waste any emotion on sadness, he’d rather you use that energy to make sure you got on the dance floor. That’s why we’re having a ceilidh tonight, because there’s no chance of sitting out the dancing. If you’re not normally a dancer, consider it your wedding gift to us.

As we start our married life together, we don’t feel like it’s overshadowed by Dom’s death. We feel like it’s warmed by the light of his love. So, as I finish my speech, I’d like to propose a toast to the man I love and to love itself.

You’ll see on the table there are loads of candles and lighters. I’d love it if you could take a candle and light one, or two, or even more, for people you love. It doesn’t have to be someone who is no longer here, it could be someone in this room. It could be someone who knows about that love and who reciprocates it. Or it could be for someone who is oblivious to your love.

That’s it, just place your candle on the table and the venue have kindly said they’ll switch the lights off for my toast. Thank you. Wow!

Now as you look around, you can see just how much love there is. You might even be able to feel the warmth of it.

You can see how kindly it lights the faces of everyone who sees it and how people smile when they see it.

Could you raise your glasses with me and drink to Dom, to Christian, and to love. 

Written by Andrew, Speechy writer

INTRODUCTION

Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. It’s my absolute honour and privilege to welcome you to our special day. A day made all the more special for us by your presence.

Now, in life, people say ‘God works in mysterious ways’, and never has that been truer, than in our relationship. When you think about God having a romantic plan for you, you think of cupid’s arrow striking you in the heart as a tall, dark stranger saunters into your life. Whereas what I got was an awkward guy in his dad’s suit walking into church and tripping over a mop bucket.

So, sure he probably wasn’t the inspiration for Christian Gray, but actually the deeply embarrassing trip over a mop bucket caused me to check if he was ok, which led to us sitting next to each other, and which led to us having a conversation. Admittedly that conversation was throughout the entire service… sorry, Pastor Watkins.

Yet in that chance conversation, we found out one thing, one thing that has stood us in good stead ever since: That we share a lot in common. Sure, I also found out he likes pineapple on his pizza, but you can’t win them all.

Hideous taste in pizza aside, we talked for hours about our favorite films, music and our deep love of gaming. Side note: for a man of God, I’m not quite sure why he chose the PlayStation screen-name ‘DemonBoy666’.

But as much as there was an immediate bond between us, there wasn’t yet a romantic one. As before, God didn’t make his plan immediately obvious. Instead of presenting it in one go, fully wrapped with a nice little bow, he gave it to us in pieces. Bit by bit, allowing us to piece it together like a jigsaw where the full picture is obscured until the last piece is placed.

We stayed friends for three years, staying up late, gaming together and talking about the world and our plans. Both oblivious to the fact we’d be stood here, getting married five years later.

Although it does seem that our friends weren’t oblivious, as unbeknownst to us, they’d began taking bets on a ‘when will Nicole and Adama go on their first date’ sweepstake. Well, that was the PG version of the bet anyway. The R-rated version isn’t one I care to repeat in a house of God.

But soon, this plan would start to reveal itself to Adama and I. I’ve always said, I knew there was a spark between us when Adama gently held my hand to guide me round a puddle. Although I asked Adama when he knew that he was attracted to me and he said, ‘That night you wore that see-through top to the gym’. So maybe it wasn’t all as romantic as I first thought.

But, whether it was a puddle or a see-through top, the final piece of the jigsaw was set in place. And from there on out, it was plain sailing. We were friends who already knew everything about each other… I say that, he did recently admit to me that his favorite film isn’t Citizen Kane , it’s actually The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift . Which admittedly did make me question this whole ‘God’s plan’ thing… And the whole ‘wedding thing’.

But what I’m saying is, our story wasn’t some huge fairytale, birds tweeting, love at first sight kinda deal. It was a slow, cautious build up, which isn’t stereotypically romantic, but has enabled us to create a solid, unshakeable foundation that our future can be built on.

Friends first. Partners second. Now that’s a plan I can get behind.

THE THANK YOUS

While I have you here, I’d like to take this opportunity to offer some words of thanks to some incredibly special people. Although I warn you, between Adama and I, we have over [TA1]   eleven siblings to thank, so this might take a while. (Look to the back of the room) Lock the doors.

Firstly, to my mom and dad. They have taught me everything I know about life and love. Smart, caring, thoughtful… and dad’s ok as well. From being a young child, I have been around a couple that work as a team and are stronger than their parts. So, if in marriage, Adama and I even have 10 per cent of what you both have, I know we’ll be in a good place.

To Adama’s mom, Michelle. A bold, kind woman who managed to bring up seven children, mostly on her own. You’ve been a great source of strength and support for me throughout my time with Adama, and I can’t wait for us to spend more time together.

Now, I can’t thank all of our siblings individually, as we’ve only got this place booked until midnight, but I speak for both of us when I say how integral to our lives you’ve been, and how important you are to us both. I say that partly because I mean it, but also because you’re the keepers of our most embarrassing secrets.

TRIBUTE TO THE DEARLY DEPARTED

I want to say a special thank you to my sister, Julia. As many of you may know, she passed away last year from cancer. Which makes today especially hard, as I couldn’t ever have imagined getting married without her by my side. But while she’s not here with us in person, she’s here with us in every smile, every dance move and every hug. She’s here with us in dad’s sense of humour and mom’s filthy laugh. So, Julia, we love you and miss you, but we’ll never forget you.

FINAL ROMANTIC TRIBUTE

And finally, I want to say a thank you to Adama. A person who has enriched my life in almost every way since stumbling into it, all those years ago. I love how you’re equally happy playing games together as you are on an expensive holiday. I don’t know if you remember, but when we first started dating, you made me a promise: You promised that no matter what happens you’ll always be my friend.

So, DemonBoy666, I’d like to close this speech by making you a promise in return:

Our relationship started with kicking a bucket, so my promise to you is that I’ll stay by your side until we kick a different bucket entirely.

Now, if you could all be upstanding and raise a toast to friends, family, and loved ones.

To loved ones.

Speech written by Ed and Tom, Speechy writers

THE INTRODUCTION

Well, hello everyone! Seeing as Xavier has already had two goes at doing a wedding speech, I thought maybe this time, I’d have a turn. Third time isn’t lucky in all things.

I honestly never, in all my days, thought I would be standing here doing a speech at my own wedding. Especially not at my age. I truly believed the first time I walked down the aisle would be the only time. Because back then I was twenty-one, and so obviously I knew everything.

By the time I met Xavier twenty-five years later, I had discovered I, of course, knew absolutely nothing. In fact, the only thing I did know about love was, I wanted nothing at all to do with it!

I had my family, my two gorgeous children, Milly and Lance, I had a wonderful group of girlfriends, and I had my dogs. Who needed anything more?

Well, it turned out, life had a few more lessons for me yet.

To be honest, I was slightly annoyed when I turned up at Milly’s graduation to realise she was clearly trying to set me up with her friend Samuel’s father. Oh, he was handsome alright. Too handsome if you asked me. I knew all about handsome men. They were to be avoided at all costs!

But, when the kids went off to collect their diplomas, I learnt something fascinating about this tall, dark, handsome stranger. He had absolutely no interest in love either. Divorced twice, he was as happy to settle down with his dogs as I was.

So, together, we hatched a plan. At the meal the kids had organised that evening, we would flirt so wildly with one another, they would be horrified, and never set us up with anyone ever again. Well, this was a plan I could get on board with. I said I wasn’t interested in falling in love, I never said I wasn’t interested in flirting with a handsome stranger. I was a 54-year-old mother, not a nun!

As we had guessed, the kids were mortified. We laughed, we played with each other’s hair, we made some very smutty jokes. I’m not sure I’ve ever had more fun. By the time the dessert menu came round, the kids couldn’t wait to get us out of there.

Once we were back at our hotel room, I told Milly what had really happened, and I couldn’t tell if she was more furious, or relieved. I was surprised the next day when he added me on Facebook, but I didn’t think too much about it.

But love lesson number one was: sometimes even fake flirting can do the job.

Every time one of Xavier’s posts came up on my newsfeed, I couldn’t help but smile, remembering that night. How nice it had been to have a handsome man tell me my ‘eyes sparkled like the stars on Midsummer’s Eve.’ Even if he hadn’t meant a word of it.

My friends started rolling their eyes whenever I began retelling the story for the 114 th time. Or mentioned Xavier’s name in passing. But I knew it was nothing. Just my last flirtation before I slipped into old lady hibernation. I had my cardigans ready and everything.

So when I saw Xavier’s beloved dog had sadly passed away, I thought nothing of sending him a little message of condolence, just as a friend. And I thought nothing of him sending me a little thank you note back. Which, of course, it was only polite to respond to.

Which is when I learnt love lesson number two.

A single woman really can’t just be friends with a very handsome single man.

Soon we were messaging every day. Which was ridiculous because I absolutely knew he wasn’t interested. And neither was I. So it was harmless for us to meet for a few drinks, right? And the kids didn’t even have to know!

So I was surprised, and more than a little delighted, that when we finally met after three months of messaging he was just as charming and flirtatious as he’d been that very first time. We laughed and we talked and we smiled until my cheeks hurt. Which is when I learnt love lesson number three.

You’re never too old to be giddy as a schoolgirl.

Of course, love lesson number four came hot on its heels.

The course of true love never runs smoothly.

Being an old fashioned broad, it never crossed my mind that my gorgeous, charming, flirtatious Latin lover could be dating other women. So when Milly casually mentioned on the phone that her and Samuel had bumped into Xavier on a date the night before . . . and I knew I’d been at home all night watching re-runs of Grey’s Anatomy . . . well . . .

Let’s just say, if the government really are monitoring our Facebook messages, then someone saw some very choice words that day!

But after a lot of grovelling, Xavier explained that he hadn’t thought we were exclusive. After all, hadn’t I told him over and over that I wasn’t interested in love? It was then I learnt love lesson number five.

Honesty is the best policy. Particularly when it came to being honest with myself.

I really wasn’t ready to hang up my heart just yet. I wanted to be with Xav. And so, we finally made things official.

Although we did have to blur the lines on that honesty policy a little. Turns out, if I ask Xavier if my outfit looks nice just as I’m leaving the house, sometimes a little white lie helps move things along. Same goes for me and my critique of his cooking.

THE ROMANTIC TRIBUTE

And along the way, we’ve learnt some other little love lessons too. That no matter how much you adore a person, their snoring can lead to some very vivid murder fantasies. That sometimes it’s easier to just hire a cleaner. And I’ve learnt that Manchester United is the most superior football club in the world, and I must never say anything else, even if I don’t follow football at all.

But I’ve also learnt that opening up my heart again has been the most wonderful, delicious and exhilarating thing I could ever do. Xavier, you have brought so much love and light into my life. Knowing you will be waiting for me at home when I’m having a stressful day makes everything that little bit easier.

You’ve brought adventure to this old gal’s life, taking me to Cuba and Thailand and Bali, showing me all kinds of amazing sights – not least the sight of you in those tiny swimming shorts you wear.

And yes, between us, we have far too many dogs, and even the amount of children and grandchildren is starting to get out of hand. But I love every single bit of it. Before I met you, I truly believed I had more than enough love in my life. You have shown me that my heart is limitless.

And I know now that you can be wholly and completely in love at any age. And I’ll never be too old to learn more, and to love more.

I’m so excited to watch you grow even greyer, to welcome even more dogs and grandchildren, and for my heart to grow even bigger. Thank you for taking another chance on love, and for becoming my husband.

If you could all please be upstanding for the toast.

To life’s lessons.

Speech written by Claire, Speechy writer

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Bride’s Speech Examples

March 5, 2017 By Kate

While bride speeches are not necessarily traditional at weddings, there is no reason why the star of the show cannot give her own speech in front of all the people that are near and dear to her. If you are a bride and are not shy or feel like you have something important to express, then you will want to deliver a speech that is sincere and heartfelt.

Since bride speeches are not traditional, there are many things that you can talk about. You can talk about the Groom and how you met. You might decide to thank your parents and about how their marriage inspired you.

If someone you love could not make it to your wedding, you can make them the focus of your speech. If someone close to you recently passed away, then you can talk about them as well.

More than anything, your guests will love to hear you talk about your romance. What was your first impression of the groom? How did you know that he was the one? What are your most favorite things about him?

Brides can also be stereotypically known for being Bridezillas, which is a term for brides who are way too demanding when it comes to planning their weddings. If you like, you can make it a point in your speech to thank your bridesmaids for all the help they have given you while you planned for your wedding

You can also thank your bridesmaids for their unfaltering emotional support and for any other help they may have given to you while you prepared for your big wedding day. Being a bridesmaid can be very demanding and stressful and they might appreciate the shout out and the show of appreciation.

Below are a variety of bride speech ideas that you can use for your own speech at your wedding. Whether you want to talk about your groom, feel like thanking your bridal party, or want to honor someone special, there are many ways for you to craft your wedding speech. Let the bride speech quotes below inspire you to make your own unique and touching speech for your wedding.

As the bride, all eyes will be on you and people will want to hear what you have to say. So make it entertaining, romantic, and if you want and if it is appropriate, you can even use some humor as well. And last of all, do not forget to thank all of your guests for coming to witness your wedding and support you and your husband on your big day.

1. I know that a bride giving a speech at her wedding is a little out of the box, but I have always been the type of person to march to the beat of my own drum. I want to thank my husband, my bridesmaids, and the rest of our family and friends for being so supportive of us. Thank you for showering us with your love and thank you for embracing our weirdness.

2. I will be the first person in this room to admit that I was never the type of girl to dream about her wedding day. A big, romantic wedding was just never something that I thought all that much about. I was not even sure if I would ever get married. But when you meet the right person, you just know, and I am so grateful that I met [groom] and that I get to be his wife. I could not ask for a better husband.

3. Growing up, I was always a little bit skeptical of everything. I never wanted to believe in things that were too good to be true. But sometimes good things just happen. I learned that when I met [groom.] When I met him he was a breath of fresh air and since then he has become much more than that.

What started out as a good friendship blossomed into a wonderful relationship with someone who is truly amazing. I believe in angels and miracles now, because [groom] is my angel, he is my miracle.

4. When I was just a little girl, I used to dream about my wedding day. I would think about the beautiful white dress, the gorgeous flowers, and the delicious cake. And I have to admit all of those things have been nice things about my wedding. At the same time, none of it would mean anything without my wonderful groom, our lovely friends, and our amazing families. All the material stuff is extra, but it is the people you love that make a special day like this so meaningful.

5. This wedding has been a whirlwind of love and happy moments with all of the people that I love the most. But most of all, it is the day that I got to marry the love of my life. [Groom,] thank you for being my husband. I love you with every fiber of my being. Thank you for being my husband.

6. The first day that [groom] and met, I will admit that I thought he was cute and that he was interesting. I wanted to get to know him better. But never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined what our future would hold. Every now and then I think to myself, how lucky I am that I got to meet and marry such a wonderful person.

7. [Groom,] I never knew what my wildest dreams were until I met you. You have made me feel immeasurably happy, loved, and content and I know this is only the beginning of our journey together as a married couple.

8. [Groom,] having you in my life has been an absolute blessing. First as a friend, then as boyfriend and girlfriend. Then we became engaged and decided to get married. And as of today, we are husband and wife and I could not be more excited.

9. Hi everyone. Are you all having fun or what? I sure hope you are all having a great time because I sure am. I have to say that I am having the time of my life today.

I want to thank all of you for coming here to witness [groom] and I’s special day. It goes without saying that this day is obviously about the love that [groom] and I share, but there are two other people in this room that I especially want to thank. These are two people who I would not be here without. And these special people of course, are my mom and dad.

My mom and dad did what all good parents do. They always nurtured me, protected me, and loved me. But they also loved each other and I got to witness their love for one another every day when I was growing up. Whether intentional or not, that love that the two of them shared had a deeply profound impact on me, even as a little girl. Because of my parents, I know what real love is.

And now that I’m a lot older and am married, I cannot wait to share my whole entire life with this one person who is so special and means so much to me. Thank you mom and dad, for always showering love on me. I love you both with all of my heart and thank you [groom,] for being my husband.

10. Some of you here know that we have been planning this wedding for some time now. During the whole planning process, I have learned quite a lot about weddings, but most of all, I learned a lot about [groom] and I.

We all know that planning a wedding takes a lot of work and now that the wedding day is finally today, I know that now more than ever. This day could not have been possible without so many people but I especially want to thank the love of my life [groom,] our bridal party, and our parents. You have all provided us with so much support and love throughout the whole wedding planning process and we are thrilled to be celebrating our special day with all of you by our side.

11. If I look overcome with emotion, it is because I am. I never knew life could be like this and that I could be so happy. And I have [groom] to thank for that. Thank you, [groom] for filling my days with joy and filling my heart with love. And thank you for becoming my husband today and letting me be your wife.

12. I would like to give a special and heartfelt thank you to all of my bridesmaids for helping me with this wedding. Not only did you lovely ladies help me with the planning, you sat there through some of my bridezilla moments and did not run away screaming. Thank you for being so patient with me and for being there for me especially on today, which is such an important day to [groom] and I. I love all of you so much.

13. I would first and foremost like to thank the handsome and charming [groom,] who I am now lucky enough to call my husband. Just saying that feels weird, but it also feels so right.

Thank you, [groom] for loving me for me and for standing up with me at the altar so we could exchange our vows. This is not the happy ending to our love story because this day is only just the beginning of a new and more exciting adventure that we get to experience together. We have a lifetime ahead of us and I for one cannot wait to see what lies ahead.

14. All my life, I have always been a very spiritual person and I truly believe that everything happens for a reason. So I have never thought that my meeting [groom] was ever a coincidence. I think that we were meant to be together and that God was saving you for me.

15. Thank you to everyone for coming to our wedding. [Groom] and I are truly blessed to have all of you in our lives. And I have to say that for me, [groom] has been my biggest blessing of all. To be able to find someone to share a married life with is something that I can only attribute to God’s grace and I want to thank God for everything that has been given to me and [groom.] We could not be happier.

16. In life, there are so many things for us to constantly think about. Sometimes it can be easy to feel like you can never be sure of anything. In fact, I have often found myself feeling that way. Unsure about some of the choices I have made, about the career I’ve chosen or the home I live in. And sometimes I have even been unsure about the people I surround myself with.

But over time, you learn how to tackle that uncertainty, though you will still find times where you are not always sure about everything. That is just how life is.

When I met [groom] though, I was sure. Of what I was sure of, I didn’t exactly know. But I knew that he was someone special. I was sure that I wanted to know this person and get to know everything about him. I didn’t know at the time whether that meant as a friend or something more, but all I knew was that I wanted to be in his life.

As [groom] and I got to know each other more and more, that certainty only grew stronger. And not only was I sure about him, but having him around made me more sure of other aspects of my life as well. When you are with someone that you are that sure about, you feel much more confident and more sure of things.

[Groom,] thank you for being here with me today and deciding to become my husband. I know without a doubt, that we have a very bright future ahead of us. I know not everything will be easy or perfect, but we will have each other and that is more than enough for me.

17. Most of you probably know that [groom] and I are religious. And for me, my spirituality has often been about taking a leap of faith. My faith has gotten me through so many good times and some not so good times as well. And how did I know that [groom] was the one? I didn’t know right away, it wasn’t exactly love at first sight. But when I took that leap of faith, everything clicked and I am glad we took a chance on each other. Without my faith and without [groom,] my world would not be as bright and as happy.

18. As I look at all of you in this room, I am overcome with emotions. Joy, love, and gratitude just to name a few. Thank you all so much for being here. Whether you were part of the wedding or traveled near and far to see [groom] and I get married today, it means more to me than words can adequately explain.

Check out our other article on Wedding Vows for Him or Her.

19. While this night is about me and [groom,] I just want to take a moment to thank the other two most important people in my life: my mom and dad. Mom and dad, you both have taught me so much. Dad, you are the first guy I ever loved and you have always taken care of our family. You and Mom have always made me feel so safe and so loved.

Mom, you are everything that I always wanted to be. Watching you and Dad, I always wanted to find a love that was as strong as yours. I am so happy that I found that perfect person. Thank you both for teaching me the meaning of love and for preparing me for the world.

20. What can I say about [groom?] You all know that he is smart, hardworking, and funny. And he is pretty handsome as well. But there is a lot more to him than meets the eye. Over the years, I have gotten to know the real [groom.]

[Groom] is a romantic. He has always been thoughtful from day one. And I don’t even mean the gifts. Romance is also about the little things. Saying “I love you” every morning when you wake up and every night when you go to bed.

And [groom] is also the most patient, nicest person I know. He has seen me through a lot of hard times and while he has seen me at my very best, he has also seen me at my worst.

[Groom] is fearless. And with him, I am fearless as well. I know that together, we can explore the world as husband and wife. Together, we will have many adventures together.

21. [Groom,] I just want you to know that you have my heart today and always. I cannot wait to go to bed with you next to me every night and to wake up every morning with you by my side. You are an absolute blessing in my life and I am so happy to be the new Mrs. ____________.

22. When two people decide to get married, there is a lot of talk about the wedding. The couple sits down and goes crazy trying to find a venue, set a date, get together a bridal party, and book a caterer, DJ, and florist among many other countless vendors. You also have to find the perfect dress for the bride and the right dresses for the bridesmaids. Down to every little detail, weddings are something that are discussed and planned in great detail.

But there is a lot more to a marriage, isn’t there? After the fun wedding, when the music is gone and the food and cake has been eaten, when the guests have danced their hearts out, and the newlyweds have driven off together, what is left?

After the wedding, what is left is the marriage itself. And while marriage is certainly not a big party every day, it is something that [groom] and I talked about a lot and in great detail. Who would pay the bills? Who would do the laundry, the cooking, the cleaning? Did we want kids? How many? What would our home look like?

And even then, when all of those questions have been discussed, there is still a lot more to a marriage. How much are two people willing to fight for each other and listen to each other? Will they be strong for each other? So [groom] and I sat down and we talked and talked and talked about the wedding, about what marriage meant to us, and what our future together would look like.

What we realized more and more is how right it all felt. We won’t always have the perfect answer to everything that comes our way, but what we do have is each other. We have our love, our patience, and determination and with that in mind, I am so happy to now be married to [groom.]

You may also enjoy our Groom’s Speech Examples.

23. As many of you know, my grandma and I were close. My grandma was the sweetest lady that ever existed. She was a loving, nurturing, and kind soul and she was adored by everyone who knew her. We had a lot of good memories together, both in my childhood and even as an adult. I still remember her hugs and the soothing sound of her voice. She has had a profound impression on me throughout the years.

So as I celebrate my wedding day, I cannot help but remember my dear grandma. While I would have loved for her to be here today, I know that she is smiling down on us from heaven. And I know that she would have loved [groom] and that she would be over the moon for the two of us. Grandma, I love and miss you.

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In This Article

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Wedding Toast Examples

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Perfect Short Wedding Speech Examples To Guide You

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Wedding speeches are a long-time tradition of weddings. And, if you have an important role at a wedding, such as best man, father of the bride or maid of honor, you would be expected to give a speech. While the thought of giving a speech might be nerve-wracking, it might comfort you to know that the best speeches are short and sweet. So, don’t feel any stress or pressure, because short wedding speeches are not only the best, they are easy to deliver.

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For your inspiration, we’ve put together a guide as well as some short wedding speeches examples to help you on your way to give the best wedding speech.

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Short Wedding Speeches Examples

Bride’s wedding speech.

“ Hello, everyone! Thanks for sharing this special day with us. A big shoutout to my amazing parents for making my dream wedding a reality. To my incredible groom (name), your joy fills my heart every day. I’m beyond grateful to have you as my husband, and today marks the start of countless joyous celebrations together. Cheers to love and a lifetime of happiness!”

Groom’s Wedding Speech

There are many ways to give groom short wedding speeches. Use this example as a guide to inspire you when writing your own.

“Hello, everyone! Thank you for celebrating this special day with us. A big thanks to our parents for making today possible. Today is beyond special, and we’re overflowing with gratitude. To my love, you’ve been my rock and best friend. Thank you for accepting me, flaws and all. I promise to be there for you always and to love you forever. Cheers to a lifetime of love and joy together!”

Father’s of the Bride Wedding Speech

“Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for joining us on this special day. As (bride’s name)’s father, I’m overjoyed and grateful. Today, we gain a son and a supportive family. Thanks for making our dreams come true. I’m confident that (name of groom) will bring endless happiness to my daughter. Here’s to love, security, and many more joyous days ahead! Cheers!”

Father’s of the Groom Wedding Speech

“Thank you all for being here to celebrate with us. I am the happiest man today welcoming a new daughter into my family. Also, I am grateful to her family as well for being the best in-laws ever and supporting us in putting all of this together. I could not have asked for a better day for them, and all I can say is that I wish them the best. To you both, may this day be the beginning of a long and fruitful journey together. My wife and I love you both. Once again, thank you all. Cheers.

Wedding speech for mother of the bride

“Hello everyone. Thank you all for being here. My heart is full today, as you all must know. Watching my daughter take this important step in her life has made me very happy. We are all so happy to support them both in starting this new chapter in their lives. I have dreamed of this day so much; I am grateful to finally be able to see it. (Groom’s name) has been an excellent son-in-law and I am beyond happy to welcome him into our family. I am extremely proud of my daughter and happy to give her to someone who loves her just as much as we do. As we celebrate with you two today, may the sounds of celebration never leave you. All our love.”

Wedding speech for the mother of the groom

Another one of our short simple wedding speeches examples for the mother of the groom.

“Warm greetings to you all. I appreciate the time that you have taken to join us in celebrating (bride and groom). From the day my son introduced me to (name of bride), I have grown to love her as my own daughter, and it has been a joy to watch them grow in love with each other. I used to have a lot of anxiety about my son’s relationships in the past, but when I met (bride), I knew that he had met his match. I am happy to celebrate you both today in not just your union, but the union of our families too. Much love to you both. Cheers everyone!”

Best Man Speech

“Ladies and gentlemen, if I could have your attention, please. Today, I stand beside an extraordinary couple, [Couple’s Names], on their special day. To [Bride’s Name], you look absolutely stunning, and [Groom’s Name], well, you clean up pretty well too! Here’s to a lifetime of laughter, love, and countless adventures. May your journey together be as incredible as this celebration. Cheers!”

Maid Of Honor Speech

Ladies and gents, let’s talk about the dazzling duo we’re celebrating today, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. To my gorgeous bestie, you’ve found your lobster! And to the lucky guy who snagged her, good luck – you’re stuck with us now! Here’s to a love that’s as endless as the dance floor tonight. Cheers to the newlyweds!

One-Line Wedding Speech Examples

Crafting the perfect wedding speech is an art. Here are five examples that blend sentiment, humor, and celebration for your inspiration.

Today, we not only witness the union of [Couple’s Names] but also the merging of two hearts that beat as one. Here’s to a love story that transcends time and space.

As I stand before this extraordinary couple, I can’t help but marvel at the love between [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. Today, we celebrate not just a wedding but a promise of forever.

In the grand storybook of love, [Couple’s Names] have written a chapter filled with laughter, tears, and endless love. Here’s to turning the page to a beautiful new beginning.

To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your marriage be the masterpiece of a lifetime, painted with strokes of joy, understanding, and boundless love.

As witnesses to the love between [Couple’s Names], let us raise our glasses to a journey that begins today and unfolds into a lifetime of shared dreams and cherished moments.

A toast to love and laughter—here are five heartfelt expressions for raising your glass to the happy couple.

To the couple, may your love be as timeless as the vows you share today and as joyous as the celebration we’re all a part of!

Here’s to love, laughter, and a happily ever after for [Couple’s Names]. May every day be an adventure filled with shared dreams and endless love!

To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your journey together be as sweet as the cake we’re about to devour! Cheers to a lifetime of love and happiness!

Let’s raise our glasses to [Couple’s Names], whose love story is as enchanting as today’s setting sun. May your love glow brighter with each passing day!

A toast to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your marriage be as perfect as today’s weather, and your happiness as everlasting as the memories we’re creating!

How To Write a Short Wedding Speech

With this guide, you can create short and sweet wedding speeches that will just flow organically. Write a killer speech that would be easy to read and will convey your love for the couple perfectly.

• Remember who is in the audience: Whether you are giving short wedding speeches as the best man or groom, it is important to keep your audience in mind. Introduce yourself and acknowledge them. Focusing on the audience and engaging them will help you speak from the heart.
• Avoid alcohol: While getting some liquid courage can be tempting, it is best to lay off the alcohol until after your speech. Alcohol could turn short funny wedding speeches into something long and nonsensical. This is because you might slur or forget your words under the influence, and this is something you absolutely do not want.
• Use note cards: Although you are not encouraged to read out your short wedding rehearsal dinner speech completely, note cards are encouraged. With these cues, you can glance at your notes from time to time to help you remember your lines and keep you on track. The audience might not even notice, and your speech would be better for it.
• Structure your story: Structure your speech in a way that focuses on the bride and groom. Fine one, two or three points about them that you can elaborate upon and stories in which they are the hero. This will keep your message in the right direction, and you can be sure to end on a positive note.

In the next part, we have a list of some of the best short wedding speeches that can help inspire you to write your own.

Example of a Short Wedding Toast

“Cheers to [Couple’s Names]! May your days be filled with love, laughter, and countless joyous moments. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness together!”

How to Make a Short and Sweet Wedding Speech

Focus on key points like expressing happiness for the couple, sharing a brief anecdote, and offering a toast. Keep it concise, heartfelt, and light-hearted for impact.

Is a 1 Minute Wedding Speech Too Short?

No, a 1-minute wedding speech can be perfect. A concise speech ensures guests stay engaged and leaves a lasting impression. Focus on the essentials – expressing joy, sharing a quick story, and toasting the couple.

Not many people are trained public speakers, but it is hard to go wrong with short wedding speeches. Allow these tips and examples to guide you in making the best wedding speeches ever.

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Wedding Party Introductions: How-To Guide With 25 Examples

• by Marisa Jenkins
• May 26, 2024

One of the most exciting parts of a wedding is the reception that follows. Although cultures worldwide vary in how they carry out the wedding reception, one aspect remains universal — it is a night filled with dancing and entertainment. The typical reception begins with the introduction of the wedding party.

As its name suggests, a wedding party introduction is the beginning of a reception wherein each member of the wedding party is presented to the guests. Their names, relationship with the couple, and other important details are summarized and shared in short segments so that the guests can get to know them better.

Wedding party introductions are discussed in detail below, immediately followed by examples of introductions for every member of the wedding party. Ideas to make the introductions more exciting are also listed. Lastly, some tips to keep in mind regarding wedding party introductions are given.

A Guide to Wedding Party Introductions

What are Wedding Party Introductions?

Wedding party introductions occur at the beginning of a wedding reception. As the name of the tradition denotes, every member of the wedding party is given time to shine. Introducing them to the guests is a memorable and effective way of honoring them at your wedding.

Once the wedding ceremony is over, guests would proceed to the reception venue. The bridal party will most likely stay at the ceremony venue to take formal portraits; if that is the case, they might arrive 30 to 60 minutes later than the guests. Before their arrival, the wedding DJ or emcee would have been entertaining the guests with music.

Once the bridal party arrives, the host will be informed. They will line up by the entrance of the venue as the host calls the attention of everyone in the room. Traditionally, they will enter in the same order as they walked down the aisle to minimize confusion among the guests:

• Parents of the groom
• Parents of the bride
• Any children in the wedding party (junior bridesmaids, flower girls, ring bearer, etc.)
• Bridesmaids and groomsmen
• Maid of honor and best man
• Bride and groom

Although this is the recommended order, couples have the freedom to edit it according to their preferences. It may not be a good idea to include children in the grand entrance if the reception is too late, as the children may be too tired. Likewise, they may feel like their parents’ entrance should come just before theirs. They can also add their grandparents, other relatives, ushers, and escorts if necessary.

Organizing Your Wedding Party Introductions

Couples must closely collaborate with the wedding DJ or emcee, as they will be doing the introductions. Give them detailed instructions, such as the order of the entrance, exact pronunciations of every person’s name, the vibe you are going for, and which songs you want to be played as people enter.

The introductions themselves could be as simple as saying the name of the person, their relationship with the couple, and their role in the wedding party. You can include additional details such as a short description of the person, their history with the couple, and so on. Regardless of which you choose, make sure to be consistent — what you do for a groomsman must be the same for a bridesmaid.

If you are unsure of what the best way to introduce your wedding party is, ask them for their input. They may want a very simple introduction, they may want to include a joke that they have thought of, or they may have a specific song in mind for their entrance.

Examples of Wedding Party Introductions

There is no right or wrong way to introduce your wedding party at your reception; simple and straightforward introductions are just as valid as fun and humorous introductions. With that said, here are examples of wedding party introductions with varying lengths, humor, and formality.

For the Parents of the Bride and Groom

• Ladies and gentlemen, let’s put our hands together for the parents of the groom! Mr. August Hugo and Mrs. Samantha Hugo have been married for 30 years and have raised four wonderful children together. They are Larry’s biggest supporters and cannot be prouder of their “Lar-bear.”
• Everyone, let’s welcome the parents of the bride, Mr. and Mrs. McNamara!
• Let us give a warm round of applause to Sherry Lee and Robert Lee, the parents of our lovely bride! Looking absolutely gorgeous in their matching navy-blue ensemble.
• Please welcome our bride’s parents, Manny Suarez and Gina Suarez!
• Coming in next is the groom’s parents, John and Jennifer Forsyth! Everyone, please give Mr. and Mrs. Forsyth a round of applause — it is their love and commitment to each other that gave us this dashing and charming groom here today.
• Next, let’s welcome to the party Mr. Reid, the ever handsome and ever-loving father of Melissa. Melissa says that she would not be who and where she is today if it wasn’t for her father’s dedication and hard work. Let’s hear it for Mr. Reid!
• Mrs. Elsa Miller, the mother of the groom, and Mr. Kyle Miller, the father of the groom.

For the Children in the Wedding Party

• Here comes our adorable flower girl and ring bearer, Julia and Mickey!
• Everyone, let’s give a warm round of applause for our diligent flower girls, Bobbie and Pippa, and ring bearer, Charlie! Without a doubt, they had the hardest role to play today, and they deserve all the cake and sweets we have.
• Let’s welcome June, Clara, and Paul, our lovely flower girls and ring bearers.

For the Bridesmaids and Groomsmen

• Miss Jordyn Singh, cousin of the bride, and Mister Malcolm Dowell, brother of the groom.
• Put your hands together for Karina Lyman and Tom Spiel! They have been friends with the newlyweds since they were in high school.
• Let’s give a warm welcome to Trina Nguyen, one of the lovely bridesmaids who helped make this event possible! Her organizational skills have, according to the bride herself, “saved her life multiple times.”
• Make some noise for Spencer Diaz! One of the groom’s closest buddies, they met during recess time in kindergarten. They have been terrorizing each other’s lives ever since.
• Jimmy Kleinman, friend and amateur repairman of the couple, and Anna Feinstein, sister and full-time cool aunt of the family.

For the Maid of Honor and Best Man

• Let’s put our hands together for Leah Rose Robinson! She is the most amazing and most gorgeous maid of honor to walk the reception venue. Her planning skills made this very event possible. Give it up for Leah!
• Let’s welcome to the party, Max Castillo! He has been the groom’s best friend since diapers and has seen him at his best and worst. Let’s give a warm round of applause for Max!
• The best brother Ivan could have ever asked for and his favorite person to tease and annoy, Leo Karimov. Part-time mom blogger and full-time awesome best friend to Hanna, Alisa Orlova.
• Please welcome Casey Bellevue, Naomi’s maid of honor and ride-or-die, and Mark Anthony Trinidad, Melvin’s best man and biggest hype man.

For the Couple

• It is with immense joy and pride that I introduce to you, Mr. Jonathan Rodriguez and Mrs. Trinity Rodriguez, the newlyweds! Let’s give them a warm round of applause!
• Taking their first steps as newlyweds, please give a round of applause to Roberta and Dianne Wiley! Everyone, raise your glasses in a toast to their love, patience, and strength. To Roberta and Dianne!
• It is an honor to get to introduce the most stunning, fun, and amazing newlyweds I’ve had the pleasure to DJ for, Mr. Noel and Mr. Jonah Hamilton-Ray! A toast to the grooms!
• Ladies, gentlemen, and nonbinary guests, let us all put our hands together and cheer for our newlyweds, Trisha and Kylie!
• Taking their very first entrance as husband and wife, let us all welcome into this beautiful banquet, Angelina and Benedict! Give them your warmest, most genuine applause!
• Their adventure of a lifetime starts here and now. Let’s give it up for Sammy and Cora Fletcher-Carlson!

Make Your Wedding Party Introductions More Exciting

In a traditional grand entrance, the wedding party walks individually or by pair to their seats after being introduced. While this is ideal for formal receptions, you may want something more fun and entertaining for yours. Here are some themes or ideas you can incorporate into your reception.

Have a Themed Wedding Party Introduction

• NBA-Themed Entrance . If you or your partner is a fan of basketball, you may want to introduce your wedding party similar to how lineups are announced.
• Sports-Themed Entrance . Any sport wherein teams are put in a lineup and introduced to the crowd can work well with your wedding party introduction. This includes football, volleyball, gymnastics, and so on.
• Movie-Themed Entrance . Take an element of a well-known or well-loved film and emulate it in your wedding party introduction. Give some props to your bridal party and choose the perfect music to set the tone.
• School Spirit . If you and your partner met in high school or university, you can integrate that into your wedding party introduction. Hand out flags, pom poms, and other props in your school colors. If you have the budget, hire your school mascot as well to enliven the audience even more.

Dance, Dance, Dance

Just Let Them Do Their Thing

Outfit Switch

Have each bridesmaid and groomsmen switch attires with each other. During the wedding party introduction, the bridesmaids would enter wearing suits and tuxedos, while the groomsmen would enter wearing cocktail dresses.

Another version of this idea is to have the bridal party change their entire outfits. They can go casual, business attire, and even wear a onesie or pair of pajamas. The logistics of these ideas may prove to be challenging, but their entertainment value may make the effort worth it.

However, keep in mind that not everyone will be receptive to this idea. This is especially true if you have conservative guests that view outfits as strictly gendered or may find other outfits unsuitable for a formal event.

Piggyback Rides

Opposite to the one above, this idea is more time-consuming. However, it will allow each member of your wedding party to have the moment and attention they deserve. You can do this simply by having them walk individually instead of pairing them up, or you can literally use a spotlight that follows the person as they walk.

• Ride-on Vehicles . Get a small car for every pair of bridesmaids and groomsmen, as well as for the children who are part of your wedding party. You can buy them in toy stores or online shops and then resell them after your wedding.
• Big Head Masks . These are cardboard cutouts of their faces, though you can also opt to give them cutouts of your and your partner’s faces. They also work well for other pre-wedding parties , such as bachelor parties and bridal showers.
• Smoke or Snow Machines . These machines can elevate the ambiance of your venue and make the wedding party introduction more unforgettable. However, check with your venue if you are allowed to use such machines.
• Money Gun . Make it rain fake dollar bills with money guns. This idea works best if the grand entrance is choreographed or is a dance-off.
• Musical Instruments . Buy small and fake musical instruments and distribute them to your wedding party. They can imitate playing them as they enter the venue.

Tips to Keep in Mind for Wedding Party Introductions

Heavily Coordinate with Your Wedding Photographer and Videographer

To get breathtaking pictures from your event, your documentation team will set up equipment, such as lighting, multiple cameras, and so on. As a result, there will be areas in the room that will be better captured. With that said, coordinate with the photographers and videographers as to where the bridal party must go before they do what they want to do.

Not having detailed instructions for the wedding party will result in pictures and videos that could be a lot better. The flash might be disorienting, or the angle might be unflattering. This is why you must keep in mind the photographer’s and videographer’s directions.

Music to Play for the Wedding Party Introduction

Typically, the parents’ entrance and the couples’ entrance will be different. Songs used for those entrances are frequently emotional or sentimental. With that said, here are a few general suggestions that you can consider for your wedding reception playlist.

• “All I Do Is Win” by DJ Khaled ft. Ludacris, Rick Ross, T-Pain, Snoop Dogg
• “Eye Of The Tiger” by Survivor
• “Feel This Moment” by Pitbull ft. Christina Aguilera
• “Fire Burning” by Sean Kingston
• “I Gotta Feeling” by The Black Eyed Peas
• “The Final Countdown” by Europe
• “Where Them Girls At” by David Guetta ft. Nicki Minaj, Flo Rida
• “Who Let The Dogs Out” by Baha Men

Whatever songs you choose to include, compile them in a playlist and give them to your wedding DJ before the reception. To be safe, you may also create a list of songs the DJ must not play for the entirety of your reception.

Final Thoughts

Not only do wedding party introductions mark the start of a night-long celebration, but they also allow your guests to become familiar with the important people in your lives. This is a testament to the statement that marriage is not only between two people but two families and an entire community.

Marisa Jenkins

Marisa Jenkins is a wedding planner and event coordinator. Her main goal for WeddingFrontier.com is to simplify the wedding planning process by sharing her years of expertise in the industry.

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Wedding Speech

Wedding speech generator.

What Is a Wedding Speech?

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Wedding Speech Format

Introduction.

a. Greeting and Welcome: Start by greeting the audience and introducing yourself. Example: “Good evening, everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], [Bride’s Name]’s [relation] / [Groom’s Name]’s [relation].” b. Relationship to the Couple: Briefly explain your relationship to the bride and groom. Example: “I’ve had the pleasure of knowing [Bride’s Name] since we were kids, and it’s an honor to stand here today.” c. Expressing Gratitude: Thank the hosts, guests, and anyone who contributed to the wedding. Example: “Thank you to everyone who helped make this day so special, and to all of you for being here to celebrate this joyous occasion.”

a. Sharing Memories: Include personal anecdotes or stories that highlight the character and journey of the bride and groom. Example: “I remember the time when [Bride’s Name] and I… [insert a funny or heartwarming anecdote].” b. Highlighting Qualities: Talk about the qualities that make the bride and groom special individually and as a couple. Example: “What I admire most about [Groom’s Name] is his unwavering loyalty and kind heart. Together, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] are an incredible team.” c. Mutual Love and Respect: Emphasize their love story, how they met, and their journey to this day. Example: “From the moment they met, it was clear that [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] were meant to be. Their journey has been filled with love, laughter, and shared dreams.” d. Offering Advice or Wishes: Share some wisdom or advice for a happy marriage, if appropriate. Example: “Remember to always communicate openly, support each other through life’s challenges, and keep laughter at the heart of your relationship.”

a. Summarizing Key Points: Recap the main sentiments and highlights of your speech. Example: “To sum up, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], your love and commitment to each other are truly inspiring.” b. Raising a Toast: Invite everyone to join you in raising a glass to the couple. Example: “Now, if everyone could please raise their glasses… Here’s to a lifetime of love, happiness, and endless adventures together. To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]!”

Wedding Speech Example

Introduction: “Good evening, everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], [Bride’s Name]’s [relation, e.g., best friend, brother, sister, etc.]. It is an absolute honor to stand before you today on this wonderful occasion. I’d like to start by thanking all of you for being here to celebrate the marriage of [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. Whether you’ve traveled from near or far, your presence means the world to them.” Body: Sharing Memories: “I’ve known [Bride’s Name] for as long as I can remember. From our childhood adventures to late-night talks about our dreams, she has always been an incredibly important part of my life. One of my favorite memories is when we were [insert a funny or heartwarming anecdote, e.g., ‘when we were ten, we decided to bake a cake for our parents. It was a disaster, but we laughed so hard, and it’s a memory I cherish to this day.’]” Highlighting Qualities: “[Bride’s Name] is not only my best friend but also one of the most compassionate, thoughtful, and resilient people I know. She has always had a heart of gold, and she lights up any room she walks into. [Groom’s Name], from the moment I met you, I knew you were the perfect match for [Bride’s Name]. Your kindness, patience, and unwavering support have been evident from the start. Together, you bring out the best in each other, and it’s clear that your love is something truly special.” Mutual Love and Respect: “Their journey together began [insert how many years ago or how they met, e.g., ‘five years ago when they met at a mutual friend’s party’]. From that moment, it was clear that they were meant to be. Their relationship has been filled with love, laughter, and countless adventures. Watching your love story unfold has been a privilege, and I know that your future together will be just as beautiful.” Offering Advice or Wishes: “As you embark on this new chapter together, I want to share a few words of wisdom: Always communicate openly and honestly with each other. Be each other’s biggest supporters and celebrate each other’s victories. Keep laughter at the heart of your relationship, and never take each other for granted. Love is a living thing that grows and flourishes with care.” Conclusion: Summarizing Key Points: “To sum up, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], your love and commitment to each other are truly inspiring. Today is a celebration of your journey so far and the beautiful future that lies ahead.” Raising a Toast: “Now, if everyone could please raise their glasses… Here’s to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. May your marriage be filled with endless love, joy, and laughter. May you continue to grow together, building a life rich with beautiful memories and happiness. Here’s to a lifetime of love, companionship, and incredible adventures. Cheers!” Closing: “Thank you all for being here tonight, and let’s continue to celebrate this wonderful couple!”

Short Wedding Speech Example

Introduction: “Good evening, everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], [Bride’s Name]’s [relation, e.g., friend, brother, sister]. It’s an honor to stand here today and celebrate the love between [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name].” Body: Sharing Memories: “I’ve known [Bride’s Name] for many years, and one of my favorite memories is [insert a short anecdote, e.g., ‘when we went on a road trip together and ended up getting lost but had the best time laughing and exploring new places.’]” Highlighting Qualities: “[Bride’s Name], you are one of the most kind-hearted and joyful people I know. And [Groom’s Name], from the moment I met you, I could see how perfect you are for [Bride’s Name]. Together, you make an incredible team.” Offering Advice or Wishes: “As you embark on this new journey together, my advice is simple: keep communicating, keep laughing, and never stop supporting each other.” Conclusion: Summarizing Key Points: “Your love for each other is truly inspiring, and I know you have a bright and beautiful future ahead.” Raising a Toast: “Now, if everyone could please raise their glasses… Here’s to a lifetime of love, happiness, and wonderful adventures together. To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]! Cheers!” Closing: “Thank you all for being here to celebrate this special day!” This concise speech covers all the essential elements: introduction, personal anecdotes, compliments to the couple, advice, and a toast, making it heartfelt and memorable without taking up too much time.

Additional Tips for a Wedding Speech

• Speak from the heart and be authentic in your words and emotions.
• Aim for a speech that is between 5-7 minutes long to maintain the audience’s attention.
• Mix heartfelt sentiments with light-hearted humor for an engaging and memorable speech.
• Rehearse your speech multiple times to become comfortable with the content and delivery.
• Focus on positive, celebratory aspects and avoid controversial topics or negative comments.

More Wedding Speech Examples and Samples

• Best man speech
• Father of the Bride Speech
• Groom wedding speech
• The Toast Speech on Wedding
• Traditional wedding toasts
• Bride to the bridesmaids toast
• Maid of honour speech
• Childhood stories Speech for Wedding
• Mother of the bride Speech
• Parents of the groom Speech
• Tell anecdotes about the groom
• Thank you for supporting our dreams Speech
• The newlyweds toast Speech
• Wedding Speech for Best Friend
• Wedding Speech for Sister
• Wedding Speech for Brother
• Father of the Groom Speech
• Mother of the Groom Speech
• Bride’s Speech
• Groom’s Speech
• Groomsman Speech
• Wedding Toast Speech
• Sibling Speech for Wedding
• Friend of the Couple Speech
• Grandparent Speech for Wedding
• Wedding Reception Speech
• Emcee Speech
• Thank You for coming Speech for Wedding
• Wedding Welcome Speech
• Vows Speech for Wedding
• Pre-Wedding Dinner Speech
• Wedding Planner Speech
• Religious Leader Speech for Wedding
• Cultural Ceremony Speech for Wedding
• Destination Wedding Speech
• Elopement Announcement Speech for Wedding
• Wedding After-Party Speech
• Engagement Party Speech
• Renewal of Vows Speech for Wedding
• Civil Ceremony Speech for Wedding

Wedding Welcome

Wedding Anniversary

Sample Wedding Speech

Groom Wedding Speech Guide (PDF)

Short Wedding Speech Guidelines

How to Write a Wedding Speech

Step 1: let the crowd know you, step 2: plan in advance, step 3: give thanks to everyone, step 4: practice your speech, tips for wedding speech.

1. Know Your Audience

• Gauge the Mood: Understand the overall vibe of the wedding. Is it formal or casual? Tailor your speech to fit the atmosphere.
• Consider Relationships: Acknowledge both sides of the family and mutual friends. Make sure to include remarks that will resonate with everyone present.

2. Start with a Strong Opening

• Introduce Yourself: Briefly introduce yourself and explain your relationship to the couple.
• Grab Attention: Use a captivating opening line, a heartfelt quote, or a light-hearted joke to draw in your audience.

3. Keep It Personal and Heartfelt

• Share Memories: Include personal anecdotes that highlight your relationship with the couple. Make sure they are meaningful and appropriate.
• Express Emotion: Be sincere in your words. Express your genuine feelings about the couple and their union.

4. Include Humor (But Keep It Tasteful)

• Lighten the Mood: Incorporate some light-hearted jokes or funny stories. Ensure that the humor is appropriate for all ages and doesn’t offend anyone.
• Balance is Key: Mix humor with heartfelt moments to keep the speech engaging.

5. Focus on the Couple

• Highlight Their Qualities: Talk about the bride and groom’s best qualities and how they complement each other.
• Their Journey: Mention significant milestones in their relationship and how they’ve grown together.

6. Offer Good Wishes

• Future Wishes: Share your hopes and dreams for their future together. This can include advice, blessings, or simply well-wishes for their new journey.

7. Practice Your Delivery

• Rehearse: Practice your speech several times before the wedding. This helps you become comfortable with the content and delivery.
• Timing: Aim for a speech that is between 5-7 minutes long. This keeps it concise and avoids losing the audience’s attention.

8. Stay Calm and Confident

• Breathe: Take deep breaths to calm your nerves before speaking.
• Pace Yourself: Speak slowly and clearly. Pause for effect and to let your words sink in.
• Eye Contact: Make eye contact with the audience to engage them and appear confident.

9. End with a Toast

• Raise a Glass: Conclude your speech by inviting everyone to join you in a toast.
• Simple and Sincere: Keep the toast short and sincere, wishing the couple happiness, love, and a bright future together.

10. Be Yourself

• Authenticity: Speak from the heart and be true to your personality. Authenticity resonates well with audiences and makes your speech memorable.

Additional Tips:

• Avoid Controversial Topics: Steer clear of any potentially divisive or controversial topics.
• Stay Positive: Keep the tone of your speech positive and celebratory.
• Hydrate: Drink some water beforehand to keep your throat clear.
• Notes: It’s okay to have notes, but try not to read directly from them. Use them as a guide to keep you on track.

Uses of Wedding Speech

• Expressing Gratitude : Wedding speeches are an opportunity to thank everyone who contributed to the wedding. This includes parents, family members, friends, and even vendors. Expressing gratitude helps acknowledge their efforts and support, making them feel valued.
• Sharing Stories and Memories : Speeches at weddings allow speakers to share cherished stories and memories about the couple. These anecdotes can be humorous, touching, or inspiring, adding a personal and intimate element to the celebration.
• Offering Blessings and Well-Wishes : Wedding speeches often include blessings and well-wishes for the couple’s future. This tradition reinforces the communal support and love surrounding the newlyweds as they embark on their life together.
• Highlighting Relationships : Through wedding speeches, speakers can highlight the relationships they have with the couple. This could be the bond between parents and their children, the friendship shared with the best man or maid of honor, or the connection with extended family members.
• Providing Entertainment : Wedding speeches often incorporate humor and heartfelt sentiments, providing entertainment for the guests. A well-delivered speech can evoke laughter and tears, enhancing the emotional impact of the celebration.
• Setting the Tone for the Event : The tone of wedding speeches can influence the overall atmosphere of the wedding. Speeches that are warm, loving, and sincere can create a joyful and positive environment, contributing to the success of the event.
• Capturing the Essence of the Couple : Wedding speeches offer a platform to celebrate the unique qualities and journey of the couple. Speakers can reflect on the couple’s story, their strengths, and what makes their relationship special, creating a lasting tribute.
• Encouraging Social Interaction : Speeches can help break the ice and encourage social interaction among guests who may not know each other well. Personal stories and shared laughter can bring people together, fostering a sense of community.
• Honoring Traditions : In many cultures, wedding speeches are a significant tradition that adds to the ceremonial aspect of the wedding. Participating in this tradition honors the cultural and familial heritage, adding depth to the celebration.
• Contributing to Wedding Memories : Speeches are often remembered long after the wedding day. They become part of the couple’s cherished memories, and recordings of these speeches can be revisited in the future, preserving the sentiments expressed.

What is the purpose of a wedding speech?

A wedding speech celebrates the couple, expresses love, and shares memories, adding a personal touch to the wedding ceremony.

Who traditionally gives speeches at weddings?

Traditionally, the best man, maid of honor, bride’s father, and sometimes the couple themselves give speeches.

What is the best way to practice my wedding speech?

Practice your speech by reading it aloud multiple times, recording yourself, and rehearsing in front of friends or family.

How can I make my wedding speech memorable?

Make your speech memorable by being sincere, adding humor, and including personal stories that highlight the couple’s relationship.

What topics should I avoid in a wedding speech?

Avoid controversial topics, inappropriate jokes, ex-relationships, and anything that might embarrass the couple or guests.

How do I start a wedding speech?

Start with a greeting, introduce yourself, and mention your relationship to the couple before sharing your stories and sentiments.

What should be included in a wedding speech?

Include personal anecdotes, heartfelt wishes, gratitude, and a toast to the couple in your wedding speech.

How long should a wedding speech be?

A wedding speech should typically be 5-7 minutes long to keep the audience engaged and the event on schedule.

Can I include quotes in my wedding speech?

Yes, including meaningful quotes or poems can add depth and resonance to your wedding speech.

How can I manage my nerves during a wedding speech?

Manage nerves by practicing thoroughly, taking deep breaths, and focusing on the couple and your message.

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How to write a heartfelt Wedding Speech for a best friend

Crafting a Wedding Speech for your sibling's special day

Craft a Memorable Father of the Bride Speech with Our Guide

Introduction.

A s a father, your daughter's wedding day is one of the most significant moments in your life, something you've eagerly anticipated since the day she was born. But while you may have imagined walking her down the aisle, nothing compares to the reality of that moment. The father of the bride speech is essential to any wedding, but getting it right can be daunting. You want to strike the perfect balance between humor, emotion, and sincerity while avoiding cringe-worthy moments. 

But fear not because this article will guide you. From what to say to the dos and don'ts, and even some sample father of the bride speeches to help you get started, this article is your true friend when it comes to creating a unique and memorable father of the bride speech.

The Father of the Bride Speech : What to Write, Say & Do

We've got you covered, whether you're a pro or feeling the jitters. Stick to our tips and give a father’s wedding speech that will make your daughter beam with pride.

Father Of the Bride Speech Template

Wondering how to write the best father of the bride speech? Here's a breakdown of a simple yet impactful speech. 

1. Breaking the ice

Start your father of the bride speech with a quick introduction and a funny joke to break the ice. While everyone knows who you are, it's always better to set the tone of the speech and welcome the guests. However, don't take too much time thanking them; it's the groom's responsibility.

2. Remembering fond memories

This is your daughter's big day, so highlight her life journey. Share some endearing anecdotes from her childhood that reflect her personality today. You can be funny, but avoid any stories that could make her uncomfortable. After all, it's her special moment

3. Praising your daughter 

Use this day to show how proud you are of your daughter. Add to it the memories from her childhood - elaborate on how she has always been a source of joy and inspiration. Express your love and admiration for her without holding back.

4. Welcoming the new family member

The speech is also ideal for welcoming your son-in-law to the family. Focus on the positive aspects of his personality and how he complements your daughter. If you don't know him well yet, share your daughter's thoughts and feelings about her new spouse.

5. Humor in moderation

Share a funny story about the newlyweds that will make everyone laugh. It could be about how they met or your first impression of your daughter's spouse. Just make sure it's not too embarrassing or inappropriate for them. After all, you want to keep the mood light and enjoyable.

6. Gratitude and acknowledgement

It's important to acknowledge and thank the bride's mother and new in-laws in your speech. Thank your wife for raising an amazing daughter, and embrace your new family members with open arms. Show your appreciation for their support and participation in this special day.

7. Parting words of wisdom

As the eldest of the speakers, you can share some wisdom and advice for the newlyweds. Share your insights on maintaining a healthy and happy marriage or living a fulfilling life. Make the most of this moment, and inspire the newlyweds to create their beautiful journey together.

What Should A Father Of The Bride Speech Include? Tips and Pitfalls to Avoid.

With the father of the bride speech templates in consideration, let's discuss what to include and avoid to ensure a successful speech. Avoid the 7 common pitfalls and deliver a speech your daughter will cherish forever.

Pick a theme

Select a meaningful theme for your speech that reflects the occasion and your relationship with the couple. A well-chosen theme will make organizing your thoughts and delivering a cohesive message easier.

2. Keep it short

Aim for a five-minute speech. Stick to the main points and share heartfelt anecdotes to keep your audience engaged.

3. Stay positive

Remember that a wedding toast is not the time to bring up negative stories or air grievances. Keep your speech uplifting and focus on positive memories and wishes for the couple's future together.

4. Personalize your message

Make your speech unique and personal by sharing stories and memories that showcase the couple's love and commitment. Speak from the heart and avoid cliches or generic advice.

5. Practice makes perfect

Prepare and practice your speech well in advance to ensure you feel confident and comfortable delivering it. Practice in front of a mirror or with a friend, and aim to memorize your speech if possible.

6. Be yourself

Don't try to be someone you're not in your speech. Speak authentically and from the heart, and let your personality shine through. Remember, your words should reflect your relationship with the couple.

7. End on a high note

Conclude your speech with a memorable and heartfelt message that leaves a lasting impression on the couple and guests. Wish the couple well and raise a toast to their future happiness together.

Kick Start the Brainstorming 

It's normal to feel unsure about what to say in your speech. If you're struggling, try using these questions to get your creative juices flowing.

• What's your earliest memory of your daughter? - Asking this question can bring heartwarming and nostalgic memories that you can incorporate into your speech.
• What qualities do you admire most in your daughter's partner? - Focusing on the positives of your daughter's partner can help you build a connection and show your support for their union.
• What advice would you give your daughter for a successful marriage? - Drawing from your own experiences and mistakes can provide valuable insight and guidance for the newlyweds.
• How has your relationship with your daughter changed over the years? - Reflecting on the changes and growth in your relationship with your daughter can add depth and emotion to your speech.
• What message do you want to leave with your daughter and her partner on their wedding day? - A clear message can help you stay focused and deliver a meaningful speech that will resonate with the couple and guests.

Father of the Bride Speech Examples

Get inspired by real-life father of the bride speeches, as they have been tried and tested. These excellent examples showcase what has worked for others and can help you craft your speech.

Simple father of the bride speech example

My dear daughter, today is a day I have both looked forward to and dreaded. As I stand here, watching you radiate with joy and beauty, I feel proud and nostalgic. It seems like only yesterday when I first held you in my arms, and now you are, all grown up and getting married. You have been the light of my life.

Today, I am thrilled to welcome my new son-in-law into our family. I am so glad to see that he makes you happy and loves you so much. I do not doubt that together, you will build a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

Looking back, I see how much I've learned from you. Your tenacity, courage, and kind heart have taught me valuable life lessons; I am grateful for that. It is an honor to walk you down the aisle and give you away to your beloved.

Lastly, I want you to know that no matter what, I’ll always be there for you. You will forever be my little girl, and I will forever be your proud dad. Congratulations, my dear daughter, and cheers to the happy couple!

Funny father of the speech example

Hello everyone, I am thrilled to have you here today to celebrate the marriage of my beloved daughter. As a father, it's hard to let go of your little girl, but I'm happy to see her in good hands with her charming groom.

When my daughter first brought her future husband home, I was relieved that he wasn't covered in tattoos or piercings. Instead, I found a kind-hearted and successful man who loves my daughter unconditionally.

Marriage is a journey, not a destination. There will be moments when you'll want to scream and other times when you'll laugh until you cry. But always remember to be each other's biggest supporters and love each other fiercely.

As for myself, I'll be retiring as a "Dad" today and promoting myself to the "Father-in-law." But don't worry; I'll still be here to offer unsolicited advice and embarrass you in front of your friends.

Cheers to the newlyweds, and may your love be as strong and vibrant as your wedding day!

Sentimental father of the bride speech example 

Dear guests,

As I stand here before you today, watching my beautiful daughter start her journey with the love of her life, I am filled with overwhelming emotion. From the moment she was born, I knew she was destined for greatness, and seeing her marry the man of her dreams only confirms that belief.

Daughter, I'm so proud of the person you've grown up to be. You have become an independent, caring, and intelligent person, and it has been a privilege to watch you blossom over the years.

And to the groom, I want to thank you for being the perfect partner for my daughter. Seeing how you love and support her makes me grateful that she found someone like you to share her life with.

I do not doubt that the future holds wonderful things for both of you, and I am honored to have been a part of this special day. Congratulations to the happy couple, and may your love continue to grow stronger with each passing day.

Short father of the bride speech example 

Ladies and gentlemen,

On this beautiful day, I feel grateful to have gained a son-in-law and a new friend. As a dad, I've watched my daughter grow into a beautiful, independent woman, and it brings me so much joy to see her this happy. It takes a special person to win over my daughter's heart, and I am glad you have done so with flying colors. To the happy couple, I wish you a lifetime of love and happiness. Cheers to a new chapter in your lives, and may your love continue to flourish and grow.

Thank you. 

As your daughter's wedding day approaches, crafting a heartfelt father of the bride speech can be overwhelming. But with the right tools and techniques, you can deliver a speech that will leave a lasting impression on your daughter, her new spouse, and guests. From templates to start with to questions for brainstorming, to tips for avoiding common pitfalls, this article has provided you with everything you need to know. And with the help of some real-life father of the bride speech examples, you can add your personal touch to create a speech that will be treasured for years to come. Congratulations on your daughter’s wedding! 

ALSO READ:   Special duties that concern the father of the bride on the wedding day

How to Write an Engagement Party Speech That's *Chef's Kiss*

• Lauren is a contributor for The Knot covering topics such as music, cakes, venues and speeches.
• She has been published in a wide array of lifetsyle-oriented publications including SELF and Allure.
• Lauren is a proud graduate of Syracuse University's SI Newhouse School of Public Communication.

Many couples opt to celebrate their engagement with an engagement party , and for good reason. These fun-filled bashes are the first of many special events leading up to the wedding day, which means they set the tone for all the fun that awaits. And, while the soiree is sure to be a good time, you won't want to forget about all the logistics leading up to it, including the often-dreaded engagement party speech. However, when it comes to crafting the perfect toast, look no further: Below, we're breaking down everything you need to know about the engagement party speech, including etiquette , how long it should be, writing tips and, last but not least, pre-written examples to make things all the more stress-free.

In this article:

Who Gives an Engagement Party Speech?

Engagement party speech order, when to give engagement party speeches, how long should an engagement party speech be, how to write an engagement party speech, engagement party speech examples.

The engagement party is a chance for friends and family to come together to celebrate the soon-to-be-married couple, so it makes sense why some folks may want to give a speech. "At a minimum," says Brian Franklin, the cofounder of Los Angeles, California-based company Vows & Speeches , which creates custom vows, wedding speeches and ceremony scripts, "the couple should give a short speech thanking their guests for celebrating the engagement and speak to the excitement of the wedding." He also notes that, " If the party is being hosted by a friend or family member, they might also speak to how they view the couple." This can include the mother of the bride , the mother of the groom , the father of the groom , the father of the bride , the maid of honor or best man and, of course, siblings.

According to wedding planner Christina Lovelace, the owner of Lovelace Design in Massachusetts, the order of engagement party speeches will vary depending on who is hosting the party. However, she explains that, "in general, you will see the host speak first to welcome everyone and to cheer the couple." Next up would be anyone in the immediate family who has prepared a speech, followed by the best man and/or maid of honor. Last but not least, the floor finally opens up to friends or extended family members who wish to speak.

Put simply, there are no hard-and-fast rules on when to give an engagement party speech. Per Lovelace, "engagement party speeches should run with the flow of the evening." However, "relatively speaking, speeches should be done right before dinner or at the beginning of your gathering before true partying has started," Lovelace says. Franklin shares similar sentiments, telling us that presenting your engagement party speech during a meal "can make it hard for people to hear or concentrate." What's more, he says, "By doing the speeches before or after dinner, you'll have people's complete concentration."

Short and sweet is the name of the game here: Both Lovelace and Franklin agree that an engagement party speech should be no longer than two minutes. Plus, says Franklin, "It also allows the speakers to keep some material in reserve for the big day !" (Sidebar: It's never too early to start brainstorming wedding speech ideas !)

Find all the vendors you need

Writing an engagement party speech can be daunting, especially if you struggle with ideation and/or public speaking (trust us when we say you're not alone!). Ultimately—and as cheesy as it may sound—the key is to speak from the heart: After all, it's always the thought that counts. That said, in case you're still feeling anxious, we've rounded up some expert insight to help make writing your engagement party speech a little less stressful.

According to Lovelace, it is important to do the following when writing your speech.

• Introduce yourself: Unless you are the couple who is soon to be married, it's possible that not all guests in attendance will know who you are. That's why Lovelace recommends starting your speech with an introduction and sharing how you know the couple.
• Share your thoughts: "Following your introduction, you should share your feelings on the engagement and what it means to you," says Lovelace. That said, don't be afraid to get real and raw with the audience—it's totally OK if you shed a happy tear or two (and, chances are, so will everyone else!)
• Wrap it up: " Once you have shared your feelings on the couple's engagement, follow with a call to action," explains Lovelace. This is also a great opportunity to make a toast and share a hug with the guests of honor!

Practice makes perfect.

"Like a wedding speech, you want to make sure that you go up prepared and rehearsed," explains Franklin. With this in mind, he says, "don't try to wing it!" Of course, this involves plenty of practicing and planning ahead. Start by writing down your speech on paper or typing it up on your computer. Then, print it out— "do not read it off your phone," Franklin cautions—and time yourself to ensure the speech isn't too long. Rehearse it at least a few times before the party so you feel cool and confident when it finally comes time to deliver your speech.

Start with a story and speak from the heart.

Still stuck on what to write your speech on? Don't fret. Instead, Franklin recommends keeping things simple by "telling a short story that illustrates your excitement about the engagement and the wedding." If you're hosting the engagement party, Franklin advises focusing your speech on what the couple means to you. You can also add a short sentence thanking everyone for coming out to celebrate.

Conversely, if you are one-half of the newly engaged couple, you may want to use this opportunity to " "talk about how your relationship has grown from the start." Last but not least, says Franklin, remember to take a quick moment to thank the hosts!

While there is no particular format or formula for the perfect engagement party speech — again, it all comes down to speaking from the heart and sharing in the couple's joy and love — we've compiled a few examples to help spark some inspiration. Ahead, check out a few sample engagement party speeches for the parents of the couple, the couple themselves, and their closest friends and family members.

Parents of the Couple: Engagement Party Speech Examples

For those of you who don't know us, we're Jill and Joe, Brad's parents. We are so thrilled to celebrate Brad and Ashley's engagement with you all tonight, and we can't thank you enough for coming. Right after their first date, Brad came home smitten and giddy, and their energy was infectious. When we met A a few weeks later for brunch, we knew right then and there that they were meant to be together. It has been a gift watching your love grow over these past few years, and we know the best is yet to come. Thank you for affording us the chance to score a front-row seat to the best show in town: Your very own fairytale. Please join us in raising a glass to the very happy couple: Here's to a lifetime of health and happiness head!

Engagement Party Speech Examples for the Couple

We are so grateful to all of you for joining us on this special night. Both Zachary and I share a strong commitment to family and friends, which is just one of the many reasons we fell in love. With all this being said, I certainly speak for both of us when I say that there is nobody else we'd rather ring in our engagement with. We also want to take a moment to thank our gracious hosts, Marni and Isaac, my parents, for organizing this incredible evening. We will cherish this night for years to come: Cheers to all of you and all the joyjous celebrations ahead!

Additional Engagement Party Speech Examples for Family and Friends

My name is Alex, and I am so thrilled to be here tonight with all of you in celebration of my best friend, Lindsey, and her fantastic fiance, Tyler. Lindsey first told me about Tyler at our weekly wine and cheese night, and she had a distinct sparkle in her eye every time he would text her—even if it was in the middle of the new Bachelor episode! I was lucky enough to watch their love blossom in real-time, and I am so lucky to have found a dear friend in Tyler, as well. To know this incredible couple is to love them, and I can't wait for what lies ahead: Tyler and Lindsey, here's to the two of you: May this new chapter together be filled with even more love and laughter!