A Guide to Writing a Perfect Wedding Speech

Wedding Speeches- Your Complete “How To” Guide

Being asked to give a wedding speech is quite an honor, although many people feel a sense of dread and have a few misgivings about the important task at a hand. But, with the proper preparation and with a little help as to what to say, you can embrace this special honor and give a heartfelt speech that will be greatly appreciated and remembered fondly for years to come.

Start Preparing Early

Lack of preparation is one of the most common mistakes people make when writing their speeches. If you’re not exactly used to public speaking, as soon as you have a general idea as to what you’ll say start practicing in front of the mirror and then ask a few friends and family to serve as your practice audience. It’s perfectly acceptable to have a few notes neatly printed on a few small index cards that you can refer to if your nerves get the best of you and you forget the next line.

Starting on your speech early will also allow you to work on your pace and how to keep the tone and volume of your voice even and at a level everyone will be able to hear. Few things are more irritating than being at a wedding and being completely unable to hear a word that’s being said. By saying your speech aloud, you’ll also be able to see that it flows well and will make sense to all of the guests present and not just the couple getting married.

Not Too Long, Not Too Short

As far as the length of the speech is concerned, you certainly don’t want to be too brief and you definitely don’t want to put guests to sleep either. The trick is finding a happy medium that will allow you to convey your feelings, pay tribute to the couple, and sound sincere while keeping things interesting.

Speeches that are too long tend to sound insincere, not to mention incredibly boring, and will distract from the true meaning of the occasion, while those that are too short or filled with pauses and stammers may be misconstrued as equally insincere. If you are nervous about giving the speech, remember that everyone there will be related or friends with each other or know one another in some way, all with one common bond of caring for the marrying couple and sharing in their day.

End With a Toast

Allow time in your speech to end with a toast by raising your glass and asking guests to join in with you in toasting the happy couple, wishing them all of the best for their future together. If the couple shares a religious or ethnic heritage, you may want to incorporate something about that into your toast or speech.

Then, simply thank the guests for coming and sharing this special day with the couple, and if you’re in the bridal party you can also thank the bride and groom for asking you to be involved. Finally, close your speech by telling everyone to have a wonderful time at the wedding.

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