how to write a good wedding speech

2 min read 20-01-2025

Getting up to give a wedding speech can be daunting. But with the right preparation, you can deliver a memorable and heartfelt toast that everyone will appreciate. This guide will walk you through how to write a good wedding speech, from brainstorming to delivery.

Understanding Your Role and Audience

Before you even start writing, consider your role in the wedding. Are you the best man, maid of honor, a family member, or a close friend? Your relationship to the couple will shape the tone and content of your speech.

Think about your audience too. Will there be older relatives, close friends, or a mix of people who know the couple to varying degrees? Tailor your humor and anecdotes accordingly. Avoid inside jokes only a select few will understand.

Brainstorming and Structuring Your Speech

What to Include:

Opening: Start with a warm greeting and acknowledge the happy couple. A brief, engaging opening line sets the tone.
Anecdotes: Share personal stories about the couple. These are the heart of a good wedding speech. Choose stories that highlight their personalities, relationship, and journey together. Keep them concise and relevant.
Toast: Raise a glass to the couple, expressing your well-wishes for their future happiness. This is the formal part of the speech.
Closing: Offer a final heartfelt sentiment. Keep it brief and sincere. Thank the guests for being there.

Structure:

A good structure makes your speech flow smoothly. A classic structure includes:

Introduction: Greet the audience and introduce yourself.
Anecdote 1: Share a story that illustrates the couple's personalities.
Anecdote 2: Share a story that highlights their relationship.
Toast: Offer your well wishes and raise a glass.
Conclusion: Thank the guests and the happy couple.

Writing Engaging Anecdotes

The best anecdotes are:

Relatable: Everyone can connect with a good story.
Positive: Focus on happy memories and positive attributes.
Concise: Keep it brief and to the point. Avoid rambling.
Relevant: Ensure your stories are directly related to the couple or their relationship.
Funny (if appropriate): Humor can be effective, but make sure your jokes are appropriate for the audience and occasion. Avoid anything offensive or potentially embarrassing to the couple.

Crafting a Heartfelt Toast

The toast is a formal part of your speech. It should express genuine well-wishes for the couple's future together. Use language that conveys sincerity and warmth. For example:

"To [Couple's Names], may your life together be filled with love, laughter, and endless adventures."

Practicing and Delivering Your Speech

Write it out: Don't try to wing it. Write your speech in full.
Practice: Rehearse your speech multiple times. This will help you feel confident and comfortable when delivering it.
Time it: Aim for a speech length of 3-5 minutes. Respect your audience's time.
Speak clearly and slowly: Project your voice and maintain eye contact with the audience.
Be yourself: Let your personality shine through. Authenticity is key.
Read your speech, but don't read it stiffly: Connect with your audience. Let your emotions show.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Going too long: Keep it concise.
Inappropriate humor: Avoid offensive jokes.
Roasting the couple excessively: Keep it lighthearted and respectful.
Reading directly from your notes: Practice and make eye contact.
Forgetting to toast the couple: This is the most important part of the speech.

Conclusion

Writing a great wedding speech takes effort but is incredibly rewarding. By following these steps and practicing beforehand, you can deliver a speech that will be cherished by the happy couple and their guests for years to come. Remember: it's about celebrating their love and sharing your joy with them. So relax, be yourself, and let your heartfelt words shine through!