YOUR
STUDY GUIDE
FOR A GREAT
WEDDING SPEECH
Dear person reading this,
You’ve been asked to complete a special (and stressful) task: speak at the wedding. You only have one chance to deliver a great speech (no pressure!), and organizing everything you want to say so that it flows right is harder than you thought it would be.
We've all seen those viral wedding videos of maids of honor and best men making wedding guests laugh and cry while they confidently give their speech. Their words seem to be a perfect mix of poetry, humor, and personal touches. How did they do it? How can you do it?
If it's okay with you, we'd love to ease some of your worries and make you the best speaker at the wedding. We'll start with our exclusive study guide. This is our gift to you. If you want help writing out your ideas, find out more here or get in touch.
LET’S GET TO IT.
1. START WITH A JOKE.
Grab the crowd's attention by opening your speech with a joke. Lightening the mood will help calm your nerves and improve your performance.
2. INTRODUCE YOURSELF.
The couple knows who you are, but not all of the wedding guests do. Introduce yourself in the first paragraph of your speech and explain how you know the newlyweds.
3. KEEP IT SHORT.
Keep your speech around 5 minutes. Confirm that this time frame is okay with the couple (because they may want shorter speeches). Use the time you're given to honor the couple and entertain their wedding guests.
4. SHARE GOOD MEMORIES.
Make your speech entertaining by sharing a few memories you've made with your friend who's getting married. Use these stories to shape the overall tone of your speech (i.e. funny, heartfelt, or a mix of both).
5. TELL YOUR FIRST IMPRESSION.
We all remember our first impression of our friend's new spouse. Make a story out of what you first thought about them versus what you think about them now.
6. ADDRESS THE THREE PARTIES.
There are three distinct "parties" that should be acknowledged in your speech: spouse 1, spouse 2, and their wedding guests. Talking to all three of them will make your speech more lively and dynamic.
7. GIVE SOME ADVICE.
If you have words of wisdom to offer the newlyweds, share them. It can be funny or genuine advice that you have learned yourself or that you've heard from other people.
8. END WITH A TOAST.
Share your hopes for the couple and wish them well on their new adventure together. Invite the crowd to join you for a toast.
9. PRINT IT OUT.
Printing out your wedding speech prevents technical difficulties and lessens the chances you lose your spot while you read. Having your speech written on paper also doubles as a keepsake for the newlyweds.
10. READ OFF THE PAPER.
Reading the speech from your paper keeps you on track despite the nerves you may feel in the moment. Even with tears in your eyes, you will be able to tell your friend how happy you are for them exactly how you planned.
