Wedding Speech Tips: How to Make Yours Memorable

Wedding speeches can be one of the most memorable moments of the day, filled with emotions, humour, and heartfelt stories. But they can also be nerve-wracking for the person delivering them! Whether you’re the best man, father of the bride, or one of the newlyweds, here are five quick tips to help you deliver a wedding speech that everyone will remember fondly.

1. Start with a heartfelt story

Nothing captures attention like a story that comes from the heart. Instead of rattling off a long list of thank-yous or relying on overused jokes from Google, try to focus on a personal moment that connects you with the couple. This could be a touching memory, a funny incident, or something meaningful you’ve shared with them over the years. Why does this work? Well, Stories are engaging and relatable. They allow the audience to connect with your message on a deeper level and help you steer clear of the usual wedding speech clichés.

2. Keep it short and sweet

Wedding speeches should leave people wanting more, not wondering when they will end! Aim for around five to seven minutes. This gives you enough time to share a heartfelt story, offer a few well-chosen words of advice, and give your best wishes, without dragging things out. Here is a tip for success, practice your speech a few times beforehand to ensure you’re not going over the time limit. Being concise will make your message stronger and more impactful.

3. Speak from the heart, not from a script

It’s great to have notes, but don’t read your entire speech word-for-word. Speeches that are delivered naturally come across as more sincere and captivating. Use your notes as a guide, but allow yourself the freedom to speak from the heart and be in the moment. However, on the opposing side, do NOT just off the cuff ad-lib the whole speech, that is a recipie for disaster! Pro Tip: a few ad-libs or genuine emotions will help your speech feel authentic. If you get a little choked up or make a mistake, that’s okay! Those real moments are what people remember.

4. Avoid inside jokes and cringe-worthy stories

While inside jokes might have meaning for you and the couple, they can leave the rest of the audience feeling lost. Avoid jokes or stories that only a small group will understand. Also, steer clear of anything inappropriate or cringe-worthy – what might seem funny to you could be uncomfortable for others! Avoid embarrassing the couple or bringing up awkward memories. Keep your stories light-hearted and positive, ensuring that everyone in the room can enjoy them.

5. End with a Toast

Your speech should build to a heartfelt conclusion and then end on a high note with a toast. A simple, genuine toast wishing the couple a lifetime of happiness, love, and laughter is the perfect way to close. You can simply say “Here’s to [couple’s names], may your love continue to grow stronger each day, and may your life together be filled with joy, adventure, and many more beautiful memories. Cheers!”

Wedding speeches don’t need to be complicated or filled with jokes to make an impact. With a little preparation and a focus on storytelling, you can deliver a speech that’s heartfelt, memorable, and leaves the audience smiling. Just remember to be yourself, speak from the heart, and have fun!