Wedding Planning Guides

Speeches

There are generally three speeches at a wedding reception, which are the bride's father's, the bridegroom's and the best man's speech.

The purpose of the bride's father's speech is to toast health and happiness to the bride and bridegroom. Before toasting, the father should welcome the grooms parents, relatives of both families and other guests. The father should then welcome the groom to his family and day a few words about his daughter.

The bridegroom's speech is a reply on behalf of himself and his bride. The bridegroom should take the opportunity to thank the parents for their love and care, thanks the guests for the presence and gifts. The bridegroom should conclude by toasting the bridesmaids and thank them for attending.

The best man's purpose is to reply to the toast to the bridesmaids and should be light-hearted and funny. The best man's speech is the main highlight of the speeches and should reflect on both the bride and bridegroom. The best man should identify himself and his relationship to the bride and groom as some guests may not be aware. Thank the parents of the bride and from and end with a message of hope and congratulate the bride and groom.

Important tips when making speeches:

• Keep the speeches short
• Stand up so everyone can see and hear better
• Have the speech written and practiced
• Use names when toasting. For example "This toast is to Melissa and John, the new bride and groom"
• Keep things fun and light by adding in funny anecdotes
• Speak slowly, loudly, and clearly so everyone can hear

Click here for examples of Fine Wedding Speeches