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The usual order
for wedding speeches are as follows:
1. Welcome
by the MC - Close family friend or even the DJ at many weddings
2. Toast to the Bride and Groom - By either the minister/celebrant,Bride's father or close family friend or relative
3. Response and toast to the Bridesmaids - by the Groom
4. A speech by the Bride these days is becoming very common
5. Response on behalf of the Bridesmaids - by The Best Man
6. Toast to parents of the Bride - by a family friend (optional)
7. Response by the Bride's father
8. Toast to the parents of the Groom by a family friend (optional)
9. Response by the Groom's father
10. Reading of the Telegrams by the Best Man or Groomsmen
11. Any others speeches or special announcements (such as birthdays, anniversary's etc)
How to prepare
your speech
One of the
hardest things that a lot of people find to do is to write and deliver a speech. This is quite normal as
public speaking can be quite scary. Many people can say a successful speech "straight from the heart", and most times without any notes to look at.
If you are unaccustomed to public speaking, you need to be prepared and it is advisable to make a few notes.
Here are a few tips to help you with writing and delivering a good speech.
When
delivering your speech,try to keep it moving without rushing it. A lot of people spoil a good speech
by rushing through it. A good speech usually lasts no longer than 5 minutes, so don't carry on forever with your speech. When your speech is too long, guests
turn off and at times are frustrated because you just won't give in! Say a few funny things if you have
to but don’t give a life story. Remember that you are at a celebration, and there must be time left for other speakers and most importantly - dancing !
The
first thing to consider is what you are actually going to say. Keep in mind that you have been chosen
by the bridal couple because they feel confident that you will deliver a good speech. Wedding speeches
usually reflect on the relationship between the bride, groom and the person giving the speech. If you
went to school with the bride,reflect on the friendship that has built over those years.If you are an
uncle or aunty you could aim your speech at the way you saw the bride or groom grow up.
A
great way to relieve the pressure of standing in front of all the guests is to introduce humour into
your speech. This can work quite well but it can also destroy a good speech if not thought out carefully.
Try to give any jokes or funny stories a personal touch by adapting them to the occasion. A great way
to introduce comedy into your speech is with funny quotes from the bride or groom.
- The Groom's Speech
You may begin with thanking everyone for attending your special day, making special mention of guests that have travelled a long way such as interstate or overseas guests.
You may wish to make special mention of the attractiveness of the venue and the great service from the food and beverage staff.
You may wish to thank trades people hired for the day such as hire cars, photographer, video, band or D.J.etc
Thank your best man and ushers.
Now for your beautiful bride. Reflect on special moments such as how you met or things you have done together, how she has changed your life etc.
Try not to read from notes things like " I would like to thank my beautiful bride for saying yes etc etc" - this should come from the heart!
The romantic groom will also express his sincere love and, at this stage, may get emotional, but its O.K. to show emotions - you are a human being!
You may even wish to propose a toast to your bride.
Lastly, propose a toast to the Bridesmaids. Now, you can relax!
- The Best Man's Speech
The best man is in a favourable (or frightening) position, as he goes after the Groom.
Firstly, you respond to the Groom on behalf of the Bridesmaids.
Now you are in a very powerful position. Many funny speeches have been done by the Best Man. You can reflect briefly on some of the good times you have spent together, whether it be growing up,sporting or career achievements etc.
Remember to keep it short and not rob precious dancing time left for the evening.
People love to hear funny stories relating to the Groom, but avoid tacky stories or remarks as this can be very embarrassing to the guests and especially the Bride.
Lastly, you finish by proposing a toast to the Bride and Groom.
- The Father Of The Bride/Groom Speech
A father's speech should naturally come from the heart. If you are used to speaking in front of a crowd , this will be easy. All the notes you need are already in your mind.
If you are not one of the elite, you should start by reflecting on special moments in your life involving your daughter/son. You can reflect on funny moments, positive areas of your daughter growing up, relationships, career or sport successes etc.
Next you would officially welcome your new son/daughter in law into the family, also using some of the above points if you wish.
You may even wish to offer the couple some advice that you feel to be important such as "don't let the sun go down without apologising when you have an argument." or any other wise anecdote you have learnt.
As you are down the line in the speeches you may pick up on areas missed out such as thanking someone not mentioned such as Uncle Peter and his family coming over from the U.S.A. etc.
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