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How To Write A Wedding Speech: The Ultimate Guide For Do’s, Don’ts, and Delivery PART 1/3: Do’s

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How To Write A Wedding Speech: The Ultimate Guide For Do’s, Don’ts, and Delivery PART 2/3: Don’ts

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Someone you love is getting married, and you’ve just been asked to give a speech at the wedding. What an honor! But also, if you’re not used to giving speeches, what a nightmare! Public speaking can be scary , which is why many people prefer to avoid it. But when your bestie asks you to make a speech at his or her wedding, it’s time to rally. But now you’re wondering if you even know how to write a wedding speech! What makes some wedding speeches fun and memorable, and what makes others cringy and fall flat? We’ve got you. We’ve put together the ultimate guide for how to write a wedding speech, focusing on things you definitely should do, things you definitely should NOT do, and then how to deliver your killer wedding speech like a pro.

If you’re wondering how to write a wedding speech, here are a few “Do’s” to keep in mind.

Start planning early
Introduce yourself and how you know the bride and groom
Thanks to hosts, guests, and wedding party; congratulate the couple
Make it personal
Think of 3 traits with 3 stories
Talk about the couple
Have a beginning, middle, and end
Consider your audience
Keep it short and sweet
It’s okay to be simple and meaningful

1. Start planning early

If you don’t know how to write a wedding speech but the bride just asked you to give one, this is not a time to procrastinate. Public speaking is one of the number one fears many people have, so it’s likely you’ve avoided giving too many public speeches before this. And unless you’re a performer or a veteran improv comedian, you might not do too well winging this one. If you get nervous in front of an audience (as most of us do), the best defense against freezing up when you take the mic is being prepared.

As soon as you know you’ve been asked to give a speech at the wedding, begin jotting down notes immediately. Whenever you’re inspired by a thought of the couple or remember an anecdote that might be worth retelling, make note of it. This will help to give you a pool of ideas to draw from when you start writing down the speech.

Begin gathering ideas and writing the speech a couple of weeks to a month before the wedding. You’ll need time to edit, fine-tune it, and make it concise. And as wedding showers, bachelorette parties, and other wedding festivities begin, you might find there are entertaining stories from these events you want to add as well. If you want to write it all at once, you can do that too. However, make sure to sleep on it and come back with fresh eyes. You don’t want just “okay,” you want your speech to be heartfelt and meaningful.

You will also want to begin early to give yourself time to practice and rehearse your speech plenty of times.

2. Introduce yourself and how you know the bride and groom

No matter how large or small the wedding is, it’s likely you will not be familiar with many of the guests on one or both sides. And they won’t be familiar with you either. So don’t leave them guessing!

Make sure when you start to write a wedding speech to introduce yourself and mention how you know the couple. This will help them understand the context of your speech, which will also help it to be more well-received.

3. Thank hosts, guests, and wedding party; congratulate the couple

It’s also courteous to take this time to thank the hosts and other members of the wedding party for all the hard work that went into the event, and to thank guests for being there to support the newlyweds, especially those who had to travel far.

It’s also a good time to officially congratulate the newlyweds and offer them your personal well-wishes for their future. It is imperative that you don’t forget this part, because they are the whole reason you’re there and giving a speech!

4. Make it personal

Whether you are the maid of honor, the best man, father of the bride, or just a friend, you were asked to give a speech because of your close connection and relationship with either the bride or groom (or both).

And since you know your friend as well as you do, you probably have plenty of stories to share; so the next tip for how to write a wedding speech is don’t hesitate to make it personal and share those stories! This will also help guests get to know the other half of the couple they might not know as well or are just meeting for the first time. And those guests who do know them will love hearing some entertaining stories they might not have heard yet.

5. Think of 3 traits with 3 stories

If you’re finding it difficult to come up with anything, a useful approach for how to write a wedding speech is to think of 3 positive defining traits or qualities of the bride or groom and recount three stories or examples that illuminate a time they exhibited these traits. These stories could be comedic, heartwarming, or both. Just make sure they are relevant and entertaining!

6. Talk about the couple

If you’re the maid of honor and have been chatting up the bride for the whole speech, part of how to write a wedding speech is to make sure at some point it circles around to the groom, too, and to the two of them as a couple.

Recount the time you met him, or how you remember talking about him with the bride in the beginning stages of their relationship. If you don’t know the groom all that well, talk about how good they are as a couple and about how happy he makes her.

And If you’re not a fan of the groom, this is not the time to air your grievances. Always keep it positive.

7. Have a beginning, middle, and end

All good speeches have a good flow and take the audience along with it.

Don’t let your speech fall flat or jumble together in a haphazard confusion of disconnected anecdotes. Give it the structure of an overarching theme, with a beginning, a middle, and an end.

We are not talking about a novel here, just make sure there is a direction to where the speech is going, and that the destination, end, or sentiment is achieved. It doesn’t need to be Charlie Chaplin in The Great Dictator, but a three-act structure does help keep you grounded. Most people also follow a story easier when there is a clear direction for a story or speech.

8. Consider your audience

The next thing to keep in mind when considering how to write a wedding speech is to make sure you consider who your audience is.

This is not the bachelor or bachelorette party. There will be a wide range of people present from children to the elderly, and from close friends of the bride and groom to casual acquaintances and coworkers. Make sure your speech is free of any crudeness that might not be fit for such a varied audience. Also, this isn’t the time to take a shot at any of the religious cermonies.

Be considerate and keep it positive and use language everyone can relate to.

9. Keep it short and sweet

You want your speech to be meaningful and memorable; but the wedding is not about you, and yours is not the only speech.

No one ever complains about a speech being too short, but they do begin to grumble if it runs on too long. A good rule of thumb to keep in mind when figuring out how to write a wedding speech is to keep your speech between 2-5 minutes long. Any longer than 5 minutes and you’ll lose everyone to thoughts of cake and whether or not to Cupid Shuffle later.

10. Add humor

Don’t be afraid to be funny! Another tip for how to write a wedding speech is that if you’ve got a lighthearted, creative, joking side, use it and add humor to your speech! Everyone likes to be entertained.

This doesn’t mean you should scour the internet for generic wedding-themed jokes, but if you’ve got some good original material to use that helps relate a story about the bride or groom in a comedic way, do it. As long as you’re not making fun of the couple but having fun with them, jokes are great. Or you can even poke fun at yourself to illuminate a higher quality in your bestie. It’s all about making the newlyweds shine.

If you’re creative and have other talents, use them! If you are musical, bust out your instrument and/or vocal cords and make the speech in the form of a song! Use props, and get the other guests involved! The newlyweds will feel special because you created something for them, and the guests will love joining in the fun.

11. It’s okay to be simple and meaningful

If entertaining isn’t your thing, that’s okay! Don’t force it – just be yourself. It’s okay to be simple and meaningful with your speech. Always keep in mind when you go to write a wedding speech that what’s important is that you are genuine and speak from the heart.

Hopefully, you found these tips for how to write a wedding speech helpful, and can start writing today! And stay tuned to our blog for the next part in this ultimate guide for how to write a wedding speech where we highlight a few things you should definitely avoid.

Love this content and want more? Read more about weddings on our blog ! Involved in the wedding planning process and the bride is still looking for a venue ? Give us a call today and we’ll help you find the perfect place!

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Free Wedding Speech Examples to Celebrate the Big Day

These wedding speech examples will help your write a memorable wedding toast for the big day.

If someone has asked you to make a speech at a wedding, then you probably know the wedding couple pretty well. And since you know and love them, you'll want to make that speech personal, meaningful, engaging, and maybe even a little charming. Don't worry - we've got your back with free wedding speech examples you can use as guides. Use any of these sample wedding speeches as a jumping off point to help you speak from the heart. You've got this.

Best Man's Wedding Speech

The best man's speech is usually upbeat and lighthearted. He may tell some stories about the couple, and if he has known one or both of them since childhood, he may add a few tales from that period, too.

Maid of Honor Speech Examples for the Sister of the Bride
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Lighthearted & Amusing Best Man Speech Example

(Name) has asked me to talk today about what a great guy he is, and so I can honestly say that he's handsome, brilliant, funny and perrr.... (TURN TO GROOM) ... (Groom's name), I can't read your writing. What's this last word? Since we met, I have seen his transformation from an awkward youth to a slightly less awkward adult, and it is my great pleasure to speak on this important occasion.

Of course, we wouldn't be here today without (partner's name) and his/her/their ability to get shy old (groom's name) to propose. (Partner's name), I'm sure it was worth the wait. I often think that (partner's name) makes (groom's name) look good. Mainly by standing next to him. He/she/they is/are full of warmth, humor, and initiative.

Marriage is a serious matter which shouldn't be entered into without careful consideration and since (groom's name) took his sweet time proposing, I think it's safe to say he's thought about this for a long time. (Add humorous story about his commitment issues here).

In conclusion, these two married today for better and for worse. (Groom's name) couldn't have done better and (partner's name) couldn't have done….. (look down at notes and pause) better either. I'd like to thank the attendants on behalf of the couple. They all look wonderful, and I'm sure you'll all agree they have performed their role splendidly. And finally, on behalf of everyone here, I can truly say we wish nothing but the best for your future. You are a unique and perfectly matched couple, and we hope that all your dreams come true, and you have a magical life together. Ladies and Gentlemen, please join me in a toast............. To (couple's names).

Toasts for a Best Man to Give

Groom's Wedding Speech

The groom's speech should be one that primarily expresses his appreciation for the love and support of his friends and family. He should also express his devotion to his new spouse.

Heartfelt Groom's Speech Example

I would just like to thank everybody for coming today, especially those that have traveled quite a ways to celebrate this day with us. Ever since I first started dating (spouse's name), his/her/their family has made me feel welcome and, well, like a member of the family. Now, I am officially part of that wonderful family, and I'm very grateful.

I would like to thank both sets of parents since neither (spouse's name) nor I would be here today if it weren't for them. I would also like to thank you for all your love and support over the years, and for all the advice you have given us. If we can raise a family half as wonderful, then we will be very happy.

I must also thank my new in-laws for bringing up such a compassionate and intelligent son/daughter/child. And, to my husband/wife/partner, you look absolutely gorgeous. Thank you for everything you've done. You know everything about me and love me just the same. I have my faults, yet you still agreed to marry me. I am extremely lucky today to be the one to marry you, and I know this is the start of many happy years together. I would like to thank (best man's name) for agreeing to be my best man and all the attendants for their help and support. Here's a toast to you all.

Bride's Wedding Speech

The bride's speech is very similar to the groom's speech. She should also express her appreciation to her family and friends and express her love for her new spouse.

Elegant Bride Speech Example

(Spouse's name) and I feel privileged to be sharing our day with all our friends and family who have been so important to us throughout our lives. Many of you traveled for quite a long distance. Thanks to all of you for the efforts and sacrifices you have made to be with us today.

I also want to thank the most wonderful parents a child could ever have. Not only for the love, support and guidance over the years, but also for everything you've done to help make this day perfect. We would have never managed without you both, and today would not have been possible or so special. Thank you to both sets of our parents from the bottom of our hearts.

Now it's time to thank my beautiful bridesmaids for everything they've done and for being the greatest friends ever. To my maid of honor, (maid of honor's name), you have been a lifesaver. You truly are the definition of a best friend and sister. Thank you for always being there for me.

(Spouse's name), I want to thank you for making my life complete. I am so lucky to be your wife, and I look forward to our life together. Finally, we would like to thank each one of you for being here with us on this special day.

Groom's or Bride's Father Speech

The groom's or bride's father should give a speech that welcomes the bride or groom into the family. He should also mention the joining of the two families and express well wishes and thoughts of happiness for the newly married couple's future.

Thoughtful Welcome Speech Example

Good afternoon everyone. First of all, on behalf of my wife and I, I would like to welcome (groom's or bride's parents) into the family. I'd also like to welcome relatives and friends of both families and thank you all for being here, especially those of you who have traveled a long way to make this special occasion so memorable. (Bride and groom's names) have obviously worked really hard on this beautiful wedding, and I'm sure everyone here agrees that the ceremony was wonderful.

I'd also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone else involved in making the day so special. At this point, I would like to formally welcome (bride or groom) into the family, even though you have been part of it for a good while now. Without sounding too corny, (bride or groom's name), you are a great person who clearly loves our (son/daughter/child) and obviously makes him/her/them very happy. I think you have been with (groom or bride's name) long enough now to know what you are getting yourself into by joining our family, so, to be honest, I don't have any sympathy for you. Seriously though (groom or bride's name), we are glad that you are part of our family, and I am proud to have you as a (son-in-law or daughter-in-law).

Sticking with tradition, I'd like to leave the new couple with some words of advice as they enter into this next stage of their lives together. As a great philosopher once said, a man who gives in when he is wrong is a wise man. Whilst a man who gives in when he is right is married. All that remains is for me to ask that you all join me in a toast to the happy couple. May you both live as long as you like and have all that you need for as long as you live. Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you (bride and groom's names).

Maid of Honor's Speech

The maid of honor's speech might give thanks to the bride for being chosen as the honored attendant. She might also give a little history as to how the bride and groom met, as well as when she first noticed that they had fallen in love. The bride's maid of honor could also relate some humorous, though not embarrassing, stories about the bride or the newly married couple.

Free Maid of Honor Speeches

Gracious Maid of Honor Speech Example

When (bride's name) asked me to be her maid of honor, I started wondering where the custom of having a bridesmaid originated from. My research led me to the interesting origins of many of our wedding customs, and everything is done to protect the bride from misfortune on her wedding day.

In the old days, sometimes marriage was by capture, and a maiden was guarded by her family to prevent seizure. The bridesmaids would often act as decoys by wearing dresses similar to the bride's to confuse the kidnappers and to keep evil spirits away. Today, I have done my best to keep the evil spirits away, but at least the family wasn't a problem!

Both of you have found your other half. Thank you (bride's name) for being such a wonderful best friend. I'm glad you have found (spouse's name), and I know that he/she/they will always love you. Always love and respect each other. Remember that a married couple are indeed best friends, and good friendships are built not with time, but with trust! May you grow old together on one pillow, and may your life be filled with happiness and joy! My love to the both of you!

Craft Your Perfect Wedding Speech

Giving a wedding toast or speech doesn't have to be complicated or difficult. Base your speech ideas on your history with the couple, your friendship, and their love. With these examples to follow, you can craft a wedding speech that honors the newlywed couple and expresses your gratitude for being a part of their special day. Remember, the most important part of your wedding day speech is to speak from the heart.

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How to Write—And Deliver—The Perfect Wedding Speech

By Shelby Wax

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If one of your nearest and dearest is tying the knot, it’s possible you may be asked to give a speech during the wedding festivities. And while having an opportunity to share your love and memories at a major milestone event is an honor, there’s no denying that it’s a big ask—especially if public speaking isn’t your forté. A wedding speech presents a unique challenge: There’s no set formula for how the speech should play out, but it often requires sentimentality, a touch of humor, and the good sense to know when to wrap it up.

Are you a member of the wedding party that wants to (or has been asked to) give a toast at an upcoming celebration? Read ahead to learn how to write and prepare for your big moment.

Who Gives a Wedding Speech?

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First off, it’s important to make sure that the couple definitely wants you to give a toast at their celebrations. Traditionally, the maid of honor, best man, and parents of the couple will give a speech at the wedding. However, the couple should explicitly ask these guests well in advance to give a speech so they have plenty of time to prepare. They may also choose additional wedding party members to give toasts at the reception or pre-wedding parties; but if the couple has not asked you to give a speech, do not prepare one. Speeches are carefully placed into a wedding timeline so the day will stay on schedule, and an additional five minutes could cut into strategically timed moments of the celebration.

The to-be-weds also have the right to curate the day as they wish, and occasionally at a rehearsal dinner or welcome party, the couple may open the floor to additional toasts. But if this doesn’t happen, grabbing the mic unexpectedly for an off-the-cuff speech (especially after a few glasses of wine) will not be appreciated.

How to Write a Wedding Speech

If you are asked to give a toast, it’s important that you don’t just wing it. “First, recognize that speechwriting is a creative process,” shares Allison Shapira, founder and CEO of Global Public Speaking . “Give yourself plenty of time to be creative (i.e. not the night before, when you already have so much to stress about). Wait for your most creative time of the day, and turn off any distractions. Spend some unrushed time thinking about your relationship to the couple, and what you’d like to say.”

While there’s no exact template to follow, there is a good basic formula to adhere to. “The framework I recommend for a wedding speech is: story, message, blessing,” she shares. “Tell a heartwarming story, share the message or value behind that story, and then offer a blessing or wish for the couple based on that message.”

“Typically, we advise our speakers to try to bring the audience on a journey where you initially try to make them laugh, then get to the real depth of the speech and earn some tears, then bring the whole speech full circle with a deep insight or story about the couple that ends with a funny final punch,” shares Steven Greitzer, CEO and founder of Provenance , an AI company that specializes in helping write personalized wedding vows, ceremonies, and toasts. “It’s important to have a good balance of humor and sentimentality because, if it’s a full roast, it can feel like you’re just doing a standup comedy show for your own benefit and it could lack substance. Or, if it’s too overly emotional, it can get heavy and perhaps a bit too somber for a wedding celebration.”

When choosing a story, Shapira recommends reading the room. “It should obviously be good-natured, without making anyone look bad. And, it all depends on the family dynamics,” she says. “What one family considers good-natured, another family could consider scathing. Choose someone in the audience whom you think could give you some helpful feedback, and practice the speech with them in advance.”

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Greitzer adds that it's important that both members of the couple are highlighted in the speech. “Great anecdotes showcase who each person was before meeting, their synergy together, and their individual and collective growth,” he shares. If you don’t know one member of the couple very well, don’t be afraid to get creative. “One of the best speeches I’ve seen was from a bridesmaid who hadn’t really been able to spend too much time with her best friend’s fiance because of the pandemic,” Greitzer shares. “She creatively read texts she found in her phone that gave her a hilarious timeline of her friend falling in love.”

If you’re still not sure where to begin, consider giving an AI platform a try to help you form your toast. “The Provenance tools guide speakers to create unique, and personal ceremonies, vows, and toasts without the stress. It’s a partner in your brainstorming process; a way to help you verbalize what you were trying to say—but faster,” explains Greitzer. “Instead of being some outdated, mad-libs-style template, the expert-curated prompts inspire special stories and insights, ultimately weaving your responses together into a custom, editable first draft.”

A final writing tip from Shapira? “I definitely recommend creating an outline but do not recommend writing the speech out word for word. When we script the entire speech, it sounds too formal,” says the public speaking expert. “I recommend first brainstorming the content, rearranging it into a logical structure, then drafting a general outline which you can bring with you to the event. While it may look better to simply give the speech ‘from the heart,’ the stress involved in trying to memorize your speech is simply not worth it.”

How to Deliver a Wedding Speech

Writing a wedding speech is half the battle—next comes your performance. It’s important that your toast has a good flow, feels natural, and doesn’t drag on. Here’s where the idiom “practice makes perfect” rings true. Shapira advises giving yourself a few weeks of rehearsal to make your speech feel authentic and fluid. Her recommendations? “Read your speech out loud and make sure it stays within the time you have allotted. Read it to someone else and get their feedback. Record it and watch it back. We use a tool called AMPLIFY to get AI-based feedback.” She adds, “Don’t memorize the speech, but do read it out loud and make sure it sounds like your voice.”

The ideal length of a toast is between two to four minutes, which translates to around 500 to 1000 words on a page. Still, Greitzer notes, “The perfect length for the wedding toast complies with whatever length the couple wants it to be. Many guests don’t realize that long speeches can impact the whole evening’s timeline and affect the caterer, DJ, and so much more.”

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While it’s now common to see toasts being read off a phone, both experts agree that it’s much better to print out your speech. “Reading off of a phone comes with the risk of distractions from notifications, a weird backlight that can affect the color of your face in photos, finicky technical difficulties, and having that annoying sound interference with the mic,” says Greitzer. (You also should make sure your speech is legible with a large font and wide spacing so you can easily find your place.)

The final hurdle of giving a wedding toast is getting over your nerves. “Find a quiet place right beforehand to center yourself (perhaps the bathroom or a corner of the room), pause and breathe, and remind yourself why you care about the couple,” recommends Shapira. She also adds—perhaps unsurprisingly—that it’s best to hold back on alcohol consumption ahead of the toast. “No one expects a perfect or professional speech; they want a unique, authentic message. The speech isn’t about you—it’s about the couple. Once you reframe the fact that the center of attention isn’t on you, you can relax.”

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Wedding Speeches: How to Write and Deliver a Memorable Toast

Wedding speeches are an important tradition that adds a personal touch to the wedding celebration. They allow loved ones to share their feelings and memories, express gratitude, and wish the newlyweds a lifetime of happiness. However, with the rising trend of online marriages due to the ongoing pandemic, wedding speeches have taken on a new form. Online marriages refer to weddings that take place virtually, with the couple and their guests participating from different locations through video conferencing platforms.

In this post, we will discuss how to write and deliver a memorable toast, both for in-person and virtual weddings.

Who gives speeches at a wedding?

At a traditional wedding, certain people are expected to give speeches. These people include the father of the bride, the best man, and the maid of honor.

Here is a breakdown of the traditional roles of speech givers at a wedding:

Father of the Bride: This speech is typically the first one given, and it sets the tone for the rest of the speeches. The father of the bride welcomes the guests, thanks them for coming, and talks about his daughter and his relationship with her. He will usually end the speech by toasting the newlyweds.
Groom: The groom will usually give a speech after the father of the bride. He thanks everyone for coming, talks about his bride and their relationship, and thanks her parents for their support. He will usually end the speech by toasting his bride.
Best Man: The best man is responsible for giving the final speech of the night. He will typically start by thanking the groom for choosing him as his best man. He will then share stories about the groom, including some embarrassing ones, and end by toasting the newlyweds.
Maid of Honor: The maid of honor will typically give a speech after the groom. She will thank the bride for choosing her as her maid of honor, share stories about the bride, and offer advice for a happy marriage. She will also usually end by toasting the newlyweds.

However, more modern variations have emerged over the years, and other people may give speeches at a wedding as well. These could include the mother of the bride, the bride herself, the groom's parents, or close friends of the couple. It's important to keep in mind the wishes of the couple and to ensure that all speeches are appropriate and in good taste.

Tips for Writing a great wedding speech

Here are some tips to help you write a great wedding speech:

Prepare and Practice: Don't wait until the last minute to start writing your speech. Give yourself plenty of time to prepare and practice. Write down your thoughts and ideas, and then organize them into a logical structure. Practice delivering your speech several times, either by yourself or in front of a trusted friend or family member.
Structure Your Speech: A great wedding speech typically follows a basic structure. Start with an attention-grabbing opening that will capture the audience's attention. Then, move on to the body of your speech, where you will share your thoughts, stories, and advice. Finally, end with a memorable conclusion and a toast to the newlyweds.
Keep it Positive: A wedding is a joyous occasion, so keep your speech positive and uplifting. Share stories that celebrate the love and happiness of the couple, and offer words of encouragement and support.
Use Humor Wisely: Humor can be a great way to connect with the audience and lighten the mood, but be careful not to go overboard. Avoid jokes that are inappropriate or offensive, and keep in mind that what may be funny to you may not be funny to everyone.
Share Personal Anecdotes: Personal anecdotes are a great way to personalize your speech and connect with the couple and the audience. Share stories that highlight the couple's strengths and unique qualities, and that demonstrate the love and support they have for each other.
Avoid Sensitive Topics: Avoid topics that may be sensitive or controversial, such as politics, religion, or past relationships. Stick to positive and uplifting messages that celebrate the love and happiness of the couple.

Tips for delivering a great wedding speech

Here are some tips to help you deliver a memorable speech with confidence:

Manage Your Nerves: It's normal to feel nervous before giving a speech, but there are techniques you can use to manage your nerves. Take some deep breaths, visualize a positive outcome, and remind yourself that the audience is there to support you.
Project Your Voice: Make sure you speak clearly and project your voice so that everyone in the audience can hear you. Take your time, speak at a moderate pace, and avoid rushing through your speech.
Maintain Eye Contact: Maintain eye contact with the audience to help build a connection with them. Look around the room and make eye contact with different people, but avoid staring at one person for too long.
Use Pauses: Using pauses can help you emphasize key points and give the audience time to digest what you're saying. Don't be afraid to take a moment to gather your thoughts and take a breath before continuing.
Vary Your Tone: Varying your tone can help you keep the audience engaged and prevent your speech from sounding monotonous. Use inflection to emphasize key points, and adjust your tone to match the mood of the moment.
Practice, Practice, Practice: The more you practice your speech, the more confident you'll feel on the day of the wedding. Practice in front of a mirror, record yourself or give your speech to a trusted friend or family member for feedback.

Examples of great wedding speeches

Here are some examples of great wedding speeches to inspire you:

Father of the Bride Speech: This father of the bride speech is both touching and humorous. He speaks from the heart and uses personal anecdotes to illustrate his love for his daughter and his joy at seeing her marry the man she loves.
Best Man Speech: This best man speech is funny, charming, and heartfelt. He tells stories about the groom that show both his good qualities and his quirks, and he ends with a touching message of support for the newlyweds.
Maid of Honor Speech: This maid of honor speech is both heartfelt and inspiring. She talks about the bride's strengths and qualities and offers a message of love and support to the happy couple.
Bride's Speech: This bride's speech is touching and emotional. She speaks about her love for her new husband and her gratitude for the support of her family and friends.

What makes these speeches effective is that they all have a clear structure, with an opening that captures the audience's attention, a body that tells personal stories or expresses heartfelt sentiments, and a conclusion that offers words of wisdom or congratulations to the happy couple.

For more inspiration, there are many online resources that offer examples of great wedding speeches, including Hitched , Wedding Forward , and LoveToKnow Weddings .

Additionally, In the spirit of embracing new experiences, you may want to craft a heartfelt and personalized wedding speech by using Provenance , which has a number of modern online tools, including a Ceremony Builder, Vow Builder, and Toast Builder, as well as more in-depth services like professional speechwriting and public speaking services.

Wedding speeches are an important part of any wedding ceremony, as they provide an opportunity for loved ones to express their feelings and support for the happy couple. Whether you are the father of the bride, the maid of honor, or any other speech giver, there are certain tips and techniques you can use to write and deliver a great wedding speech that will be remembered for years to come.

Remember, a great wedding speech can have a profound impact on the newlyweds and their guests, and can create cherished memories that last a lifetime. So, if you have a wedding coming up, start preparing your speech early, and use the tips and resources we've discussed to create a memorable and meaningful tribute to the happy couple.

Common questions

What is the best time during the wedding for speeches?

Traditionally, speeches are given after the meal and before the cutting of the cake. This allows everyone to enjoy their food and drinks before the speeches begin and also ensures that the speeches do not run too late into the night. However, some couples may choose to have speeches earlier in the evening or during the reception, depending on their personal preference.

How long should a wedding speech be?

The length of a wedding speech can vary, but generally, it should be no longer than 5-7 minutes. This allows enough time to deliver a heartfelt message or share a few humorous anecdotes without losing the attention of the audience.

Is it okay to use humor in a wedding speech?

Yes, it is perfectly fine to use humor in a wedding speech, as long as it is appropriate and not at the expense of anyone present. However, it's important to balance humor with sincere sentiments, so that the speech doesn't become too light-hearted or frivolous.

What should I do if I forget my speech during delivery?

If you forget your speech during delivery, take a deep breath and try to remain calm. You can take a moment to gather your thoughts, look down at your notes (if you have them), or ask someone to prompt you with a question. If all else fails, you can simply speak from the heart and express your feelings in your own words.

How can I involve the audience in my speech?

One way to involve the audience in your speech is to ask them a question or invite them to participate in a brief activity. For example, you could ask them to raise their glasses for a toast or have them shout out a particular phrase or response at certain points in your speech.

How do I end a wedding speech?

A good way to end a wedding speech is to offer a message of congratulations or well wishes to the happy couple. You can also thank them for the opportunity to speak and express your gratitude to those who helped make the wedding day special. Finally, you can invite everyone to join you in raising a glass for a final toast to the newlyweds.

Online Marriage with Courtly

In recent years, online marriage has emerged as a popular alternative to traditional in-person weddings. Online marriage allows couples to legally tie the knot without the need for physical presence in a courthouse or a place of worship. One platform that has garnered a lot of attention for its online marriage services is Courtly. We offer customizable ceremonies, licensed officiants, and a virtual marriage license, making the entire process streamlined and efficient.

Couples can choose from a range of ceremony options, including secular, religious, and interfaith ceremonies. Furthermore, we offer additional services such as wedding planning, premarital counseling, and online resources to help couples prepare for their big day.

One of the key benefits of online marriage with Courtly is convenience. Couples can get married from the comfort of their own home, without the need for travel or extensive planning. This can be particularly appealing for those who have busy schedules, are unable to travel, or simply prefer a more intimate ceremony. Additionally, the online marriage option may be more affordable than a traditional wedding, as it eliminates many of the expenses associated with a physical ceremony.

However, it is important to note that online marriage is not without its drawbacks. Some may argue that an online ceremony lacks the personal touch and emotional impact of a physical wedding. Some countries may not recognize online marriage as a legally valid option, which can be a barrier for couples looking to obtain legal recognition of their union. It is important to do thorough research and ensure that online marriage is a legally valid option in your location before making any decisions.

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Getting married is complicated. Courtly simplifies the process and provides everything necessary to get married online.

Pre-Wedding Jitters: Advice For Engaged Couples…From A Therapist

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Photobug community, wedding blog, the ultimate guide to wedding speeches and toasts.

Image by Hugo Coelho . See more of this real wedding here . Read on about nailing wedding speeches and toasts

Wedding speeches and toasts may be the most daunting things to write and deliver, but they’re also one of the best parts of any wedding. They give guests a unique perspective on the couple, make you laugh, make you cry, and bring the room together. So, to take some of the pressure off your shoulders, here are some tried-and-true tips for writing a killer wedding speech and toast!

Image by Emily Delamater Photography . See more of this real wedding here

The Basics Of Wedding Speeches and Toasts

Who gives toasts and speeches.

Traditionally, the best man, the maid of honor (MOH), and both sets of parents give speeches for the couple. You’ll also find that the couple gives a welcome and gratitude speech. However, here at Junebug , we believe it’s entirely up to you and what you want for your special day.

We’ve seen brides give the newlywed speech, and we’ve seen best friends give speeches instead of the MOH or best man. If you’re going the non-traditional route, we don’t recommend an open-mic situation where anyone can speak, and we don’t recommend having more than five speeches or guests will start to get restless.

When do speeches and toasts take place?

Most speeches and wedding toasts are given during the wedding reception , either before or after dinner. If you’d rather they be more intimate or you aren’t having a traditional reception, you can also have them take place at the rehearsal dinner .

What is the correct order for speeches?

Did you know that wedding speeches have a logistical order that is typically followed? While it may seem like such a minute detail, it actually makes more sense than you’d imagine. It usually starts with the couple. This gives you the opportunity to welcome and thank your guests for coming. From there, it traditionally goes in this order:

The hosts (typically the parents)
Maid of honor

Every couple has their preferences on who they want to speak and the order in which they want them to speak. As we mentioned earlier, it’s your wedding. If you have a maid of honor who hates public speaking, or you want your best friend to give the speech rather than your best man, go for it. The same goes for the order we just listed.

How long should wedding speeches and toasts go?

No matter how long you’ve known each other, try to keep speeches under five minutes. In fact, three minutes is the sweet spot. Even if you have countless things to say, three minutes can feel a lot longer than you’d expect. Keeping it short and sweet will keep everything, including the newlyweds, happy.

Image by Ana Hinojosa . See more of this real wedding here

Steps For Writing Killer Wedding Speeches and Toasts

The hardest part of writing a speech is knowing where to start. If you’re drawing a blank or having difficulty narrowing down the stories you want to tell, start by making a list of your favorite qualities about the newlyweds. Chances are there are many amazing qualities about them, so making a list of your top three favorites will help you craft a personalized speech tailored to them.

To expand beyond that, you can ask yourself these questions as well:

Questions To Ask Yourself

Is there anyone speaking before or after you? If so, how will it affect the content of your speech?
What is the general tone you want to convey in your speech? Emotional? Joy? Funny?
What are some of your favorite memories with the newlyweds? These memories can be based on the individual getting married or them as a couple
What do you see when you envision their future with one another?
Is there any advice that you want to share?

When it’s time to start writing, use the following general outline to help create a great speech from beginning to end.

1. Introduce Yourself

Tell everyone your name and a brief explanation of how and when you met the couple or how you’re related. Everyone may not already know who you are, so a little context will go a long way.

2. Tell A Relevant Story

Go back to the list you created and choose a story that reflects the qualities you love most about the couple. This should be relatable, endearing, and appropriate. Make sure you have a point to the story so that you can seamlessly tie it into your speech at the end.

3. Reminisce about the day you met their partner

Everyone in that room will likely have seen different pieces of the couple’s love story, so tell their story from your perspective. Talk about the day you met their significant other for the first time and the moment you realized this was the person they were going to marry.

4. Talk about what you love about their partner

Although your main responsibility is to talk about one of the newlyweds, every speech should ultimately be about both of them. Tell their partner why they are the best choice for your friend and what qualities you love most about them.

5. Talk about your hopes for their future as a couple

If you’re married, this is where you can insert your best piece(s) of advice for a healthy marriage. If you’re not married, wish them a long, happy, and healthy life together. Make your wishes and your advice personal to their relationship and end on a positive, optimistic, and heartfelt vision of their future.

6. End with a toast

Ending a speech can be just as challenging as starting it, which is why we recommend ending with a wedding toast. Ask everyone to raise their glass and toast to the wonderful couple—and, in your own mind, to the killer speech you just gave!

Junebug Tip:

The Art of Etiquette’s wedding guest books include ten speech sheets that will give a beautiful space for your loved ones to write the perfect speech that is short, sweet, and sentimental. We love that they’ve included these thoughtful speech sheets that will double as a wedding keepsake in your guest book.

Image by Annabelle Agnew Photography . See more of this real wedding here

Tips For Giving Wedding Speeches and Toasts

Don’t drink too much beforehand.

We love open bars at weddings as much as the next person, but you don’t want to be slurring your words or drunkenly rambling in front of everyone. Just a couple of sips of liquid courage will get you through those few minutes in front of the crowd, we promise!

Don’t make it about you

It’s okay to be relatable by telling a story, but remember that this speech is about them . After you’ve introduced yourself, move on to talking about the newlyweds and their relationship.

Don’t humiliate the couple

There’s nothing wrong with jokes. In fact, some of the best toasts and speeches inject humor throughout. However, don’t use crude language, tell inappropriate stories, or mention past relationships. The moral of the story is if there’s even the slightest chance someone could feel uncomfortable about something you want to say, leave it out.

Keep it short and sweet

We mentioned this earlier, but it’s an important one! Chances are there will be at least two other people giving speeches before or after you, so keep your speech to five minutes max . If you go any longer than that, the couple and their guests may start getting a little antsy. If you aren’t sure how long your speech will take, our next tip will help.

Practice beforehand

You practice for speeches for school and work, why should a wedding be any different? Rehearse your speech with a friend or in front of the mirror. It will help get some of the nerves out and allow you to make sure it all flows before the big moment.

Keep in mind that you’ll naturally speak more quickly when you’re handed the microphone, so as you’re practicing make sure you remind yourself to slow down.

Write your speech down

With all the excitement and nerves of the day, there is a good chance you’ll blank out or forget parts of your speech. Even if you plan to memorize it, write it down and bring it with you just in case. Nobody will fault you for holding notes–just be sure to look up occasionally!

Pass these tips along to everyone giving a speech and toast at your wedding, and get ready for some pretty epic and heartfelt moments! Then start thinking about how to keep the party going all night with these wedding reception songs guaranteed to get your guests dancing .

Image by Jordan Jankun Photography

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Being the standout at the wedding speeches and toast is quite tricky. You have to be funny for everyone, or even a heartfelt story to tell for the guest and couple. This guide really tick all the boxes for build an ultimate wedding speech.

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Struggling to Write a Wedding Speech? It’s All in the Details.

If you’ve been charged with saying a few words about the newlyweds, here are some tips to help ease your anxiety and inspire you to speak from the heart.

By Dina Gachman

Massive parties with 10-piece bands and champagne fountains gave way to backyard microweddings and Zoom celebrations during the pandemic. But one tradition has stayed strong, and even thrived, over the last year: the wedding speech.

Love them or hate them, “a speech gives people something to talk about, and it’s an amazing bonding juice,” says Heidi Ellert-McDermott, the founder of Speechy , a British company that creates bespoke speeches for weddings around the world. “It can really kick-start a party.”

Public speaking, whether it’s in front of 10 people or 100, can be intimidating, and if you’ve ever sat through a lengthy, cliché-riddled wedding speech, you know it’s not so easy to pull off a memorable toast.

“We’re all so acutely aware that no one has any idea what tomorrow will bring,” said Marisa Polansky, a founder of the Brooklyn-based speech writing service Speech Tank with Kristine Keller. “The fact that two people want to tackle that tomorrow together feels especially noteworthy. As such, there’s more pressure on speeches to bring a weightiness or gravitas to the event, I think. But it’s an opportunity, too.”

If you’ve been charged with saying a few words about the couple, there are a few things to remember that will help you ease your anxiety and inspire you to speak from the heart.

Ask Yourself ‘Why Me?’

If you’re staring at a blank page, take a step back and think about your relationship to the couple. “Start by asking yourself why you’re giving the speech,” said Tess Barker , 38, a Los Angeles-based comedian who has a “deep résumé as a bridesmaid.” Thinking about your relationship to the couple can help you focus on memories you share, and remind you that you’re not giving a State of the Union address — you’re simply speaking to someone you care about.

Don’t Do It Alone

There’s a tendency to think of the speech-writing process as something solitary, but Speechy’s Ms. Ellert-McDermott suggests making it a group effort. “Don’t confine it to this secret thing that has to be done in a dark room the night before when you’re panicking,” she said. Ms. Ellert-McDermott suggests inviting the couple or other friends to brainstorm with you. Gather stories or find out traits or quirks about the couple that other friends or family love.

Ditch the Thank Yous

Don’t start your speech by thanking the guests, the DJ, the florist, the parents, and the band. “Anyone who has listened to an Oscars acceptance speech knows that thank yous are boring,” Ms. Ellert-McDermott said. You can thank people individually, and instead center your speech on stories, humor and emotion. A quick, “Thanks for coming” won’t ruin a speech, but it shouldn’t be the focus.

Find a Theme

Instead of talking about everything there is to know about the couple , narrow it down by identifying a theme. “It will help you stay focused and not be too long-winded, and build an outline,” said Carla Eustache, 38, the owner of Style Perfect Events , which is based in Charlotte, N.C. Ms. Eustache said she has noticed an increase in speeches about resilience and perseverance since the pandemic, but your theme doesn’t have to be lofty. It can center on the bride’s obsession with finding the perfect taco, or the groom’s horrible singing voice. “If you can spot a theme in all the randomness, then that’s how it all comes together,” Ms. Ellert-McDermott said.

[ Sign up for Love Letter and always get the latest in Modern Love, weddings, and relationships in the news by email. ]

Cut the Clichés

It’s easy to panic and Google a wedding speech template, but cut-and-paste jobs rarely make memorable speeches. If you find yourself writing a string of clichés, toss your speech and get down to basics, said Jason Mitchell Kahn , a New York-based wedding planner and the author of “Getting Groomed: The Ultimate Wedding Planner For Gay Grooms.” “When a client comes to me,” he said, “we focus on three points to hit: how you met, what you loved about them before they met each other, and how you’ve seen their lives enriched as they’ve commingled.” Another tip: Don’t say things like “they’re perfect for each other,” because, as Ms. Ellert-McDermott said, “nobody’s perfect.” Also, try to avoid quotes. “We’ve never heard a good speech that started, ‘As Jane Austen once said,’” said Ms. Keller of Speech Tank.

Know Your Audience

The pandemic has caused many weddings to become smaller and more intimate, which means speeches can get more personal and casual. The key is to read the room, whether it’s virtual or in person. “Don’t talk about a wild night in Vegas on drugs,” Ms. Barker said. “Remember there might be grandparents there.” She also suggests addressing both of the newlyweds. “When someone just gushes over one of the parties, it can get awkward.” Another key to avoiding awkwardness is not leaving people out. “Inside jokes always fall flat,” Ms. Eustache added.

Keep It Short, and Speak Up

Longer doesn’t equal better. Most speech-writing experts suggest three to five minutes, tops. “No one ever gets upset if a speech is too short,” Ms. Keller said. Most experts also prefer holding a piece of paper to scrolling through a phone or device, since that can affect the flow of your speech. Leave the phone at the table, practice, memorize as much as you can, and don’t forget to breathe. With the popularity of outdoor weddings becoming a post-pandemic trend, Mr. Kahn offers another important tip: “Always have a microphone,” he said. “There’s nothing more frustrating than a good speech that people can’t hear.”

Continue following our fashion and lifestyle coverage on Facebook ( Styles and Modern Love ), Twitter ( Styles , Fashion and Weddings ) and Instagram .

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Reinventing a Mexican Tradition: Mariachi, a soundtrack for celebration in Mexico, offers a way for couples to honor their heritage at their weddings.

Something Thrifted: Focused on recycled clothing , some brides are finding their wedding attire on vintage sites and at resale stores.

Brand Your Love Story: Some couples are going above and beyond to personalize their weddings, with bespoke party favors and custom experiences for guests .

Going to Great Lengths : Mega wedding cakes are momentous for reasons beyond their size — they are part of an emerging trend of extremely long cakes .

Popping the Question: Here are some of the sweetest, funniest and most heartwarming ways that c ouples who wed in 2023 asked, “Will you marry me? ”

Classic Wedding Traditions: Some time-honored customs have been reimagined for modern brides and grooms seeking a touch of nostalgia with a contemporary twist.

How to Write a Memorable Wedding Speech: Tips and Examples

Need assistance with your wedding speech? Discover the first AI-powered wedding speech generator! Craft the perfect speech for your special day with ease. Simply provide your email here and say, 'I want to use the AI-generated wedding speech maker.' Let's make your moment unforgettable

Standing in front of a crowd at a wedding can be scary. Everyone wants their speech to leave a lasting impression , not flop. This blog will offer easy tips and examples to craft a memorable speech that will touch hearts and raise smiles .

Let's make your words unforgettable!

Key Takeaways

Start your wedding speech with a personal introduction and share stories that highlight the couple's journey and love for each other.
Use anecdotes, relevant quotes , and keep speeches short to maintain attention; avoid making it about yourself or embarrassing the couple.
Practice regularly to deliver your speech confidently; use notes if needed but don't rely too heavily on them.
Stay sober before giving your speech to ensure clarity and composure.
Finish with an uplifting toast wishing the newlyweds happiness in their future together.

Tips for Writing a Memorable Wedding Speech

Introduce yourself to the guests and share your connection to the couple. Tell a relevant story or anecdote that highlights the couple's love and relationship. Reminisce about the day you met their partner, expressing your genuine love and support for them.

Lastly, share your hopes for their future together as a married couple.

Introduce yourself

Hi, I'm [Your Name], a close friend of the couple. My bond with them started back in college where we shared countless adventures and dreams. Today, I stand here honored to speak at their wedding.

I've laughed and grown alongside these two remarkable individuals . Now, as they unite as one, I feel privileged to share stories that highlight their love and dedication .

Tell a relevant story

Begin your wedding speech with a simple and heartfelt story that highlights the couple's love and journey. This can be an anecdote about how they met, a memorable moment you shared with them, or an experience that truly captures their bond.

By weaving in this relevant story , it adds a personal touch to your speech and draws in the audience's attention, making it more engaging and memorable . Keep the focus on the couple as the heroes of the tale, emphasizing their qualities and love for each other.

Consider using templates or examples found online to guide you on structuring your story effectively while keeping it short and sweet. It's important to ensure that any anecdotes or stories shared are within boundaries set by the bride and groom, avoiding sensitive material they may not want included.

Reminisce about the day you met the couple's partner

On the day I first met Sarah, I was struck by how her eyes lit up when she talked about meeting John. They shared such a beautiful connection that it was clear this was something special.

When you met Brad, you instantly put everyone at ease with your warm smile and infectious laughter. The two of you were like magnets, drawing us all in with your genuine love and joy.

As we reminisce about the days we first crossed paths with the couple's partner, let these memories fuel our wedding speeches with warmth and authenticity. These moments are precious threads that weave into heartfelt stories to celebrate their love as they embark on this new journey together.

Express your love for the couple

Show your affection for the couple by sharing heartfelt words that reflect your genuine care for their happiness and future together. Use meaningful anecdotes or memories to express the depth of your emotion, highlighting what makes them a special and unique pair .

Emphasize their strengths as individuals and as a couple, offering warm wishes for a lifetime of love , joy, and shared adventures. Utilize quotes or phrases from wedding toast examples to add an extra touch of warmth and sincerity to your expression of love for the newlyweds.

Share your hopes for their future

As you express your hopes for the couple's future, focus on their happiness and fulfillment . Emphasize support for each other through life's ups and downs. Encourage them to embrace challenges as opportunities to grow together.

Use meaningful anecdotes or quotes to illustrate the importance of love, respect, and communication in a successful marriage.

In sharing your hopes for their future, consider the impact of mutual understanding and compromise within their relationship. Express wishes for continued laughter, adventure, and unwavering support as they navigate life's journey together.

Examples of Wedding Speeches

The examples of wedding speeches include the maid of honor speech, best man speech, and father of the bride speech. Each speech offers a unique perspective and sentiment that can inspire your own wedding toast.

Maid of Honor Speech

As the Maid of Honor, keep your speech simple and focused on the bride . Share a heartfelt story about her and express your love for her and the groom. Avoid clichés and inside jokes that others might not understand.

Keep it short to maintain everyone's attention, and end with a warm toast to their future together. Remember to seek input from others to make your speech impactful.

I hope you find these tips helpful as you prepare for this important role in your loved one's wedding day!

Best Man Speech

The best man speech should include a personal introduction , a humorous and heartfelt story about the groom, an acknowledgment of the couple's love , and well wishes for their future .

It's important to keep the speech lighthearted but respectful and avoid embarrassing anecdotes . The best man can also share how he knows the groom and express appreciation for being chosen as part of this special day.

Using examples from their friendship or shared experiences can make the speech genuine and meaningful. Additionally, incorporating relevant quotes or wedding toast quotes can add charm to the speech while keeping it concise and engaging.

Father of the Bride Speech

The father of the bride speech should be heartfelt and warm , focusing on sharing your love for your daughter and welcoming her new spouse into the family. Begin by introducing yourself and expressing your joy at being part of this special day.

Share a relevant story about your daughter growing up or the moment you realized how much she loves her partner. Express your hopes for their future together and end with a heartfelt toast to the newlyweds.

Including these elements will help you deliver a memorable father of the bride speech that will touch everyone's heart.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Wedding Speeches

Avoid drinking too much before giving your speech, making it about yourself, or embarrassing the couple with inappropriate stories. It's important to focus on the couple and their special day.

Drinking too much

Drinking excessively before giving a wedding speech can lead to embarrassing moments and unclear delivery . It's essential to avoid alcohol beforehand in order to maintain composure and deliver a heartfelt, coherent message.

Keeping a clear head will ensure that the focus remains on celebrating the couple and their special day without any unnecessary distractions or missteps. Additionally, staying sober allows for better judgment when selecting stories and expressing thoughts, ultimately leading to a more meaningful and memorable speech.

Making it about yourself

Avoid making your wedding speech about yourself. Keep the focus on the couple and their special day. Remember, this is their moment to shine, not yours. Using too many personal anecdotes or stories unrelated to the couple can detract from their celebration .

When delivering your speech, steer clear of boasting or seeking attention for yourself . Instead, share genuine and heartfelt words that celebrate the love between the bride and groom without overshadowing their joyous occasion.

Embarrassing the couple

When delivering a wedding speech, avoid sharing embarrassing stories or anecdotes about the couple that could cause discomfort. It's crucial to respect their privacy and not divulge any information that might make them feel uneasy in front of family and friends.

Remember to use discretion when choosing the content for your speech and focus on uplifting and positive anecdotes instead.

Embarrassing the couple with inappropriate jokes or stories can detract from the joyous atmosphere of the celebration. By being mindful of what you share , you contribute to creating a warm and memorable experience for everyone present at the wedding reception.

How to Prepare and Deliver a Successful Wedding Speech

Practice regularly, keep your speech short and concise, use notes if needed, avoid alcohol before speaking, and end with a toast. Ready to craft the perfect wedding speech? Read on for more tips and examples!

Practice regularly

Regular practice is essential for a successful wedding speech. Short, frequent practice sessions can help you become more confident and comfortable with your delivery. Using notes if needed and rehearsing in front of a mirror or with a friend can also improve your performance.

Additionally, avoiding alcohol before speaking can ensure that you are clear-headed and focused during the delivery of your speech.

Consistent practice is crucial to delivering an impactful wedding speech. Rehearse regularly to enhance your confidence and delivery. Utilize notes as required, conduct mock speeches in front of a mirror or with a trusted companion, and abstain from consuming alcohol before speaking for optimal results.

Keep your speech short and concise

To make your wedding speech memorable, keep it short and sweet . Focus on telling simple stories that highlight the bride and groom as the heroes. Avoid rambling and stay within a few minutes to hold the audience's attention.

Using examples and templates found online can guide you in crafting a brief yet impactful speech. Remember, brevity is key to delivering an engaging wedding toast.

Practice regularly to ensure your delivery is concise and effective . Utilize notes if needed but avoid going off on tangents by sticking to a well-prepared script . Keep thank-yous minimal and have a clear theme for your speech to tie it all together without taking up too much time.

Use notes if needed

When preparing your wedding speech, feel free to use notes if needed. Having cue cards or a written outline can help you stay on track and remember important points. Keywords and bullet points can guide you through the structure of your speech, ensuring that you cover all the essential elements, such as introducing yourself, sharing relevant stories, expressing love for the couple, and offering hopes for their future.

Using notes will also boost your confidence and help you deliver a successful wedding speech with ease.

Remember to keep your notes concise and clear to avoid getting lost in them during your delivery. It's crucial to maintain eye contact with the audience as much as possible while referring back to your notes when necessary.

Avoid alcohol before speaking

Refrain from consuming alcohol before delivering your wedding speech. A clear mind will help you communicate effectively and avoid any embarrassment. Alcohol can impair your judgment , affecting the quality and appropriateness of your speech.

It's important to stay sober to honor the couple and respect the significance of the occasion while creating a memorable moment for all.

Remember, avoiding alcohol ensures that you are fully present to deliver a heartfelt and meaningful speech. This way, you can express genuine emotions and connect with the audience without any hindrances or regrets later on.

End with a toast

Conclude your wedding speech with a heartfelt toast to the newlyweds, wishing them love and happiness in their future together. Raise your glass and invite everyone to join you in celebrating the joyous occasion .

A meaningful toast serves as a fitting end to your speech, leaving a lasting impression on the couple and all those in attendance.

In conclusion, writing a memorable wedding speech involves simple storytelling , heartfelt expressions of love , and hopes for the couple's future . These practical tips are easy to implement and ensure that your speech is engaging and impactful .

By following these strategies, you can create a wedding speech that will leave a lasting impression on the couple and their guests. For further guidance and inspiration, explore online resources for wedding speech examples and templates .

Take action now to craft a meaningful wedding speech that truly reflects your sentiments.

How to Write an Unforgettable Newlywed Reception Toast

Raise a glass to your guests and new spouse.

Jaimie Mackey was the real weddings editor at Brides from 2013 to 2015. She also worked as a luxury wedding planner and produced over 100 high-end weddings and events in Colorado

Photo by Inma Fiuza

In This Article

A toast by the newlyweds during the reception isn't required, but it is a welcomed and thoughtful gesture—one that can also be useful in moving along the evening's events if need be. It's not a long one (that's usually made by the groom during the rehearsal dinner), but it's always a nice touch that reflects how humbled and thankful you are for having all of your loved ones take part in the momentous occasion with you. Your guests will definitely appreciate a few words from the couple of the night and feel truly treasured afterward. After all, they did come all this way just to celebrate the two of you, right?

But, what should you say while giving a toast and raising a glass during the reception? We've put together several guidelines, including expert tips and examples from Beth Sherman, an Emmy Award–winning comedy writer and founder of Authentically Funny Speeches to help. Read on for all the important tips and tricks to ensure your reception speech is a memorable one.

Meet the Expert

Beth Sherman is an Emmy Award-winning comedy writer who has written for shows such as The Ellen DeGeneres Show, The Late Show with David Letterman, and The Oscars. Sherman is also the founder of Authentically Funny Speeches , a consultation business offering courses on speech writing.

Newlywed Reception Toast Template

Finding the right words to adequately express yourself in front of all of your friends and family can be tough, so here are several components to include when addressing your beloved guests .

Welcome guests. Acknowledge all of your loved ones and how important their presence is to the occasion. "First and foremost, thank the guests for coming," advises Sherman. "You might also want to single out whoever made the longest journey to be there on the big day—and remember, the phrase ‘longest journey’ doesn’t have to be taken literally."

Show gratitude. Begin by thanking both of your parents, families, and wedding party for all the support they've provided during the planning process. "If you’ve been a difficult bride-to-be (and you know who you are), a little good-natured self-awareness will go a long way here," notes Sherman. If one (or both) set of parents contributed financially to the wedding, be sure to thank them for hosting such an amazing evening in your honor. If your wedding planner is present or the service staff has been absolutely exemplary in their performance, it's nice to say a quick thank-you for their supporting role, too, but be mindful of the time. Try not to single out too many people, lest you turn this into an Oscars acceptance speech ( cue speech play-off music ).

Don't forget to thank your new spouse. "It may sound obvious, but you’d be surprised how often it happens," says Sherman. "Save the best for last and end on a thank you that turns into a physical toast." You may have said a lot already during the ceremony , but you've been married for only a few hours. Why not gush for a moment about how happy you are to be married to the person standing next to you? A sweet aside will garner a few "awws" from the crowd and remind everyone why they are there with you.

Give instruction about whatever is coming next. As you wrap up your toast, let guests know if you'll need them to head to a different room, gather around the dance floor for the first dance , or stay in their seats as entrees are served.

A toast. Don't forget to end your toast by inviting guests to raise a glass . Toast to love, to life, to your new spouse, or to your family and friends for coming to your wedding. Then clink those glasses and take a sip!

Newlywed Reception Toast Tips

Now that you've got your thoughts outlined, check out these tips from Sherman to nail your wedding reception speech.

Go last. Save your toast for the very end of the speech-giving segment and allow all your designated loved ones to shower you with embarrassingly kind sentiments. Sherman suggests being gracious enough to allow other speakers to have first dibs on any choice anecdotes. "You and your partner are the headliners—the ones everyone is there to see—so your guests’ attention spans will reset automatically no matter how long your dad goes with his detailed review of every boyfriend you’ve had since kindergarten," she adds. "Going last also means that all your other speakers can sit back and enjoy your speech instead of preparing for or dreading their own."

Get everyone's attention. While speakers typically think to clink their glass to get people to pay attention, this can usually be ineffective and go unheard in large rooms. The best way to start the speech is to simply ask for the mic and then request your guests' attention for a few brief moments. Choose a time when all of the guests have a full glass of Champagne or a cocktail so that they can join you in raising a glass.

Don't go overboard with humor. Everyone loves a good laugh, and it's a great way to loosen up your guests a bit during your toast. But keep in mind that there is a big difference between actually saying something funny and just telling a bunch of jokes. Stick to humor that comes about organically within your content, and leave the latter for a comedy special.

Keep the drinking to a minimum. We know this can be a bit tricky, being that you're the VIPs of the day and everyone will be wanting to have a drink with you before, during, and after every event. Try to keep your drink number relatively tame if you know you'll be addressing the crowd later. A slurred speech is never a good speech.

Relax. "Even if you hate public speaking , you’re going to enjoy this," says Sherman. "This is the most loving, supportive audience you will ever have. Your friends and family want to hear from you and they want your speech to succeed." All you have to do is say a quick thank you to them for being there and you're done. Nothing to stress about.

Be mindful of body language. An exemplary toast is never just about eloquence. You have to make sure you're nonverbally communicating your message as well. Make sure to stand tall—please don't ever deliver a speech sitting down. Not only does it come across as disrespectful, but it also allows people to just tune you out. Keep a big smile on your face (this is the happiest day of your life, right?) and maintain eye contact with your guests.

You can both speak. Traditionally, if there is a bride and groom, the groom speaks and the bride does not, but this is completely up to preference. Same-sex couples can delegate the duty to one of the newlyweds as well. If the couple chooses to share the delivery, it is best to establish the speaking order beforehand so there is no awkward fumbling of the mic. If only one of you is speaking, use the inclusive "we" pronoun whenever appropriate to acknowledge that your partner also shares the sentiments. But, keep in mind that this speech is different from the longer toast that the groom traditionally makes during the rehearsal dinner. This should just serve as a quick thank-you.

Divide the speech in half or split it up by paragraphs. If it's divided in half, give the person doing the second half of the speech the very first line, so it feels like a group effort right from the very beginning.

Answer These Questions to Get Started

We know getting started is the hardest part, so here are some questions to kick off the process.

Who is speaking before you? (Perhaps, you will want to make a reference to them or refer to part of their speech in yours. Maybe even add in a rebuttal if the prior toast-maker was exceptionally cheeky.)
Was there someone that went above and beyond in helping make the big day a success? (This would be the perfect time to give them an extra-special shoutout.)
Is there something the guests should be made aware of? (Prep your guests if you're planning something special or unconventional.)
How will you invite everyone to meet your toast? (A traditional, cultural call to action like cheers, l'chaim , prost , etc. are always classic choices.)
Did anything unexpected happen during the day's events? (You can take this moment to lightheartedly mention it and diffuse it, if need be.)

Newlywed Reception Toast Examples to Make Your Own

To help you get a feel of how all those tips and guidelines come together, Sherman provided a few examples to illustrate just that. (Names and details have been changed. Speeches are not published in their entirety to protect client confidentiality. )

And mostly what we want to do is sincerely thank each and every one of you for joining us this weekend.

"Kat and I wanted to say a few words today. We know it hasn’t been easy. In the best of times, a wedding invitation comes with an implied to-do list—a happy one, but let’s be honest, it’s a to-do list. So, we can’t say enough how grateful and flattered we are that you consider us worth the effort." —Heather

"Without this sounding too much like an awards ceremony, there are a few people I’d like to thank. First, my sister , Sam. She’s been a constant source of support throughout my life. She’s the strongest, most resilient person I know. She’s also the one of the kindest. She’s helped me plan and re-plan so many parts of this wedding. And no good award speech would be complete without thanking one’s parents! Not a day goes by that I’m not acutely aware of their love and support.

Their calm and constant guidance has always gotten me through any uncertainty.

And even better than that, they’re a lot of fun to be with. Mom and Dad, I don’t know what I did to deserve you. I know there are times you’ve thought the same of me with a slightly different emphasis perhaps, but I am immensely proud to call myself your daughter. To Jo, Ben and Frasier, thank you for folding me so completely into your family . Jo, you have one more woman on your team! The numbers are still a bit lopsided, but we’ll get there! Truly, you are the kindest, most welcoming in-laws I could ask for, and I look forward to celebrating many more happy occasions with you." —Tia

"Dave, I know we took our vows during the ceremony, but I’d like to end with a few more. I promise to always be there when you need me. I promise to make sure you always feel safe and loved. I promise to continue pretending to enjoy and understand all sports you make me watch. (I might regret this.) And I promise to always be willing to negotiate a back scratch. Now before I go into my ugly cry, would you all raise your glass to my wonderful new husband? To Dave!" —Cynthia

A Guide to Wedding Reception Toasts

Who Gives a Speech at a Wedding Reception?

How to Write a Wedding Toast

Tips for the Father of the Bride Speech

How to Write a Best Man Toast

Advice for the Maid of Honor Speech

What to Know About a Newlywed Toast

Public Speaking Experts' Wedding Speech Tips

60 Quotes to Use for Your Wedding Toast

The Best Wedding Toasts: 116 Wedding Toast Examples

Want to give a wedding toast? Here are the best wedding toast examples, from toasts from parents to toasts to absent friends, as well as funny best man toasts and heartfelt bride or groom ones.

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Getty Images / Pixdeluxe

If you’re planning on giving a wedding speech , then ending with a wedding toast can be a really nice touch.

Finding the right words for a wedding toast can be tough. It completely depends on what the happy couple are like as to whether you want it to be funny, sentimental or traditional.

We’ve rounded up all our favourite wedding toasts so you’ll have lots of options. You’ll find everything from wedding toasts from parents that are ideal for the father of the bride speech, to toasts from the groom to his new spouse. If you’re a little nervous there’s plenty of short and sweet options; if you’d like something more elaborate, check out some of our rhyming toasts. Most of these traditionally refer to a bride and groom, but it’s easy to mix them up for all LGBTQ+ couples.

The toast marks the end of your speech and the chance to take a much deserved drink, so enjoy it!

If you're looking for wedding toast tips in a hurry, here are five simple and snappy wedding toasts in under one minute - feel free to borrow one of these.

Types of Wedding Toast

Click below for the best wedding toast examples:

Traditional Wedding Toasts

Funny wedding toasts, wedding toast to the newlyweds.

Wedding Toast from Parents
Wedding Toast to Bride
Wedding Toast to Groom

Best Man Toasts

Wedding toast for a second marriage, wedding toast quotes.

First, let’s clear up a few questions about wedding toasts, with some expert input to help you nail ending your wedding speech with the perfect toast.

Who Toasts Who at a Wedding?

In the UK, most people raise a toast at the end of their wedding speech. In America, the wedding speeches are commonly known as toasts, but in the UK the term refers almost exclusively to a few lines at the end of the speech when the guests raise their glass and drink to the newlyweds.

The traditional wedding toast order is the father of the bride, groom and the best man, followed by any other toasts. This is obviously for a heterosexual couple; but it's not set in stone. For all couples, including LGBTQ+ couples, you can mix speeches and toasts up however you like.

READ MORE: Wedding Traditions to Re-Invent for LBGTQ+ Couples

Here’s who each person traditionally toasts:

The father of the bride toasts his daughter and the new couple
The groom toasts his new spouse
The best man toasts the bridesmaids and the new couple
Other toasts may include the maid of honour toasting the groom

It’s totally up to the couple though how many toasts they’d like to have and who they toast to (just make sure not to make it last too long as people want to eat cake and dance!).

"We’re so pleased that the wedding speech line-up is becoming more diverse. Couples are feeling less constrained by traditional etiquette and the usual three blokes hogging the mic is becoming less prevalent (though it’s still a popular option and could still be the right choice for you)," shares Heidi Ellert-McDermott, founder of Speechy .

"We’ve worked with adult sons of the bride and teenage daughters of the groom! Kids and grandparents can provide some additional ‘cuteness’ and one trend we’re particularly enjoying is the rise of joint mum & dad speeches."

READ MORE: The Order of Wedding Speeches Explained

How Do You Propose a Wedding Toast?

There’s some simple things to remember when making a wedding toast. First, ensure everyone has their glass full so they can take a drink at the end, then get everyone’s attention. If you’re giving a speech that’s pretty easy to do. If not, the best way to do this isn’t clinking your Champagne glass, but instead go to the master of ceremonies and ask for the microphone.

Introduce yourself to the room and ask for their attention, for example, “Hello, I’m Mark, the bride’s brother. May I have your attention while I raise a brief toast to my lovely sister and her new wife?”

READ MORE: 21 of the Best Best Man Toasts

"If you’re one of the couple getting hitched, this is, of course, your opportunity to thank people. And it’s not just about the people who have helped you with the décor or organised the hen do, this is about the folk who have given you a lifetime of love or supported you through the single years. As a newlywed, your toast is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to drop a love-bomb on the people you care about so take advantage and do it with a smile," says Heidi.

Keep your toast short. A few lines, a funny anecdote, a short poem or a quick quotation that’s either humorous or emotional is all you really need. "Don’t turn your speech into one long tedious thank you list. Make sure your thank yous are also unique, meaningful and sprinkled with humour," explains Heidi.

At the end, either ask guests to rise if they’re seated, or to raise their glass if they’re standing, and take a sip.

If a toast is made just to one of the couple, their partner rises too (e.g. the groom will rise if a toast is made just to the bride). If it’s made to the couple, they both remain seated.

How Do You Make a Good Wedding Toast?

A wedding toast is a few words of wishes or blessings for the newlywed couple, after which all the guests take a sip of drink in agreement. A good wedding toast is one that strikes the right balance between humour and emotion, is short and sweet, and will be remembered as a great closing to your speech.

"We encourage everyone to include humour in their wedding toast. While no wedding speaker should be trying to deliver a stand-up routine, all speakers should aim to make their audience smile. And, not a polite smile, but a hearty involuntary one," explains Heidi.

"When it comes to the sentimental sucker-punch, keep it real too. Think about specific things or moments that give an insight into your relationship and what it means to you."

READ MORE: 51 Toast-Worthy Quotes About Love and Marriage

The number one rule is: be clear-headed. This isn’t a chance to drunkenly slur into a microphone. Always practise what you’re going to say so it’s not an impromptu stream of words and wishes. If in any doubt, use a wedding toast quotation and just end with “To the happy couple!” You can’t go wrong with a classic – these traditional wedding toasts and wedding toast quotes below will make sure you’re never lost for words.

Who Makes a Toast to Absent Friends at a Wedding?

Typically, the first speaker will make the toast to absent friends that could not attend the wedding, with a wedding toast such as: "Please join us in raising a glass to loved ones - those who are here and those who sadly can't be with us."

116 of the Best Wedding Toast Examples

Wedding toasts have been around for centuries. Many of these traditional toasts are either proverbs or blessings from the likes of Ireland or Armenia. Use one of these for a sentimental toast, wishing a bright future on the couple. There's a lot of use of husband and wife so feel free to adapt if you're a same-sex couple.

“Here’s to the past, for all that you’ve learnt. Here’s to the present, for all that you share. Here’s to the future, for all that you’ve got to look forward to.”

“May these rich blessings be your due… A wealth of friendships, old and new, Quiet nights and busy days, time for prayer and time for praise, Some service rendered, some solace given, And gentle peace with God and heaven.”

“May thy life be long and happy, Thy cares and sorrows few; And the many friends around thee Prove faithful, fond and true.”

“May your wedding days be few and your anniversaries many.”

“Please make sure your glasses are charged and join me in toasting the new Mr and Mrs [NAME]. Ladies and gentlemen, to the bride and groom!”

“May you live as long as you like, and have all you like for as long as you live.”

“May the hinges of friendship never rust Or the wings of love lose a feather! Ladies and gentlemen, the bride and the groom May they live happily forever.”

“To the bride and groom, may the roof above you never fall in and may you both never fall out.”

“Let’s drink to love, which is nothing – unless it’s divided by two.”

“May you never steal, lie, or cheat, but if you must steal, then steal away my sorrows, and if you must lie, lie with me all the nights of my life, and if you must cheat, then please cheat death because I couldn’t live a day without you.”

“I wish thee health, I wish thee wealth I wish thee gold in store I wish thee heaven upon earth. What could I wish thee more?”

“Here’s to the new husband and here’s to the new wife. May they remain lovers for all of life.”

“To long life and happiness – for your life will be my happiness.”

“To the lamp of love – may it burn brightest in the darkest hours and never flicker in the winds of trial.”

“Here’s to the bride, May your hours of joy be as numerous as the petals of your bridal bouquet. Here’s to the groom, A man who keeps his head though he loses his heart.”

“Live life to the fullest – remember, this is the first day of the rest of your life.”

“Here’s to love, laughter and happily ever after. As (Groom) and (Bride) start their new life, Let’s toast the new husband and wife!”

“Let us raise our glasses to the happy couple. May you grow old on one pillow.”

“Here’s to the bride and the bridegroom, We’ll ask their success in our prayers, And through life’s dark shadows and sunshine That good luck may always be theirs.”

“May your joys be as deep as the ocean, and your troubles as light as its foam.”

(A toast to grandparents) “Let us raise our glasses And then imbibe To the splendid couple Who founded this tribe.”

READ MORE: 45 Funny, Romantic and Wise Love Quotes

Not every couple wants mushy wedding speeches or a soppy toast. If they love a laugh, a funny wedding toast might be much more reflective of their personalities. Just read the room first! Whether you go for a funny one liner wedding toast or a witty poem, we’ve got lots more funny wedding toasts you can explore, but these ones below are our favourites. Switch them up if you're a same-sex couple.

“Raise your glasses to both [daughter’s partner] and me as we’ve each gained something this fine and blessed day. S/he gains a wife and a companion for life – while I gain a whole new stack of bills to pay.”

“To the two secrets to a long-lasting happy marriage: Here’s to a good sense of humour –and a short memory!”

“Before we raise a glass to the newlyweds, I’d like to share a Pauline Thomason quote with you: ‘Love is blind – marriage is the eye-opener.’ To the happy couple!”

“May our children be blessed with rich parents!”

“Here’s to you and here’s to me, I hope we never disagree, But if, perchance, we ever do, Then here’s to me, to hell with you.”

“[Groom] stole [bride’s] heart, so she stole his last name. All in all, I would say that things worked out quite nicely. Let us toast to these lovebirds on their wedding day.”

“Congratulations on the termination of your isolation and may I express an appreciation of your determination to end the desperation and frustration which has caused you so much consternation in giving you the inspiration to make a combination to bring an accumulation to the population.”

“[BRIDE] and [GROOM], before I finish, I’d like you to turn to face each other. You’re now looking into the eyes of the person who is statistically most likely to murder you. To the bride and groom!”

“To keep a marriage brimming with love in the loving cup- When you are wrong, admit it and when you are right, shut up!”

“May all your ups and downs come only in the bedroom.”

“To the bride – may she share everything with her husband, including the housework!”

“Before we raise our glasses to the happy couple, I’d like to make a toast to wives and lovers everywhere – may they never, ever cross paths!”

“I have known many, Liked not a few, Loved only one – I toast to you.”

“For one more time, I’m going to ask everyone to charge their glasses and – for those who still can – stand, and raise a glass to the newlyweds”

“To our best friends, who know the most about us, but refuse to believe it.”

READ MORE: 35 Genuinely Funny Best Man Speech Jokes

Craig Preston Photography

Any of the toasts on this page could be used for the newlyweds, but this pick are more modern toasts that can be given quickly to round off a speech. Short and sweet doesn’t mean they’re without sentiment – the newlyweds will love these! If you want to write your own, focus on words like adventure, future, happiness, love; these are the hopes you want to pass on. Once again, these are bride and groom heavy so mix them up for same-sex couples.

“A toast: may all sweethearts become married couples, and may all married couples remain sweethearts.”

“The man or woman you really love will never grow old to you. Through the wrinkles of time, through the bowed frame of years, you will always see the dear face and feel the warm heart union of your eternal love.” Alfred A. Montapert

“To the bride and groom – may we all be invited to your golden wedding celebrations.”

“They say you don’t marry the person you can live with, you marry the person you can’t live without. That sums up [NAME] and [NAME] perfectly. To the happy couple!”

“To the bride and groom, may I wish you health, may I wish you happiness, may I wish you wealth – and everything else you could wish for.”

“May your love always be added. May it never be subtracted. May your household multiply and may your hearts never be divided!”

“Watching [bride] and [groom] together has renewed my faith in true love. I am so honoured to be a part of this special day. Let us toast to the two people who have brought all of us together in this room today.”

“May ‘for better or worse’ be far better than worse.”

“Here’s to the bride that is to be, here’s to the groom she’ll wed, May all their troubles be light as bubbles Or the feathers that make up their bed! ”

“To the lovely bride and groom, here are my wishes for you. May you always have a place to call home and may you always be surrounded by those you love.”

“Here’s to marriage, that happy estate that resembles a pair of scissors: ‘So joined that they cannot be separated, often moving in opposite directions, yet punishing anyone who comes between them.'” Sydney Smith

“May you have love, health, and wealth, but most importantly, may you have the time to enjoy them all.”

“Love believes, endures, and hopes. And above all things, love never fails. Let us all raise a glass to [bride,] [groom,] and the unfaltering love that they share.”

“To be able to find your soul mate is a true blessing. Let us raise a glass to the bride and groom. Thank you for sharing your blessing of happiness with all of us.”

“Rich or poor, quick or slow, may you know nothing but happiness from this day on.”

“May all your hopes and dreams come true, and may the memory of this day become dearer with each passing year.”

READ MORE: How to Deliver a Memorable Wedding Speech

Wedding Toasts From Parents

Fiona Kelly Photography

Whether it’s the father of the bride or another parent who wants to toast their child’s marriage, one of these toasts from parents will do the trick. They perfectly emphasise how happy, proud and touched you are to be part of this important day.

“It is written: when children find true love, parents find true joy. Here’s to your joy and ours, from this day forward.”

“Happy marriages begin when we marry the one we love, and they blossom when we love the one we married.”

“Before I take a seat I have one last task to perform, and it’s a task that is both my honour and my privilege. Ladies and gentlemen, please raise your glasses and join with me in wishing the newlyweds a long, healthy and very happy future together. To [Bride and partner]!”

“To the man who has conquered the bride’s heart, and her mother’s.”

“To you both, it’s worth bearing in mind that neither of you will ever be perfect, but you can be perfect together.”

“Here’s to the groom, a man who keeps his head even as he loses his heart.”

“There are two lasting bequests we can give our children. One is roots. The other is wings. Here is to you soaring together.”

“May you be friends to each other as only lovers can, and may you love each other as only best friends can.”

“May your love be modern enough to survive the times and old-fashioned enough to last forever.”

“May you never forget what is worth remembering or remember what is best forgotten.”

“May the future hold your happiness. May the future hold your health. May your heart hold your love, and may your arms hold your babies, yet to come. Here’s to your future happiness together!”

“Here’s to health and prosperity, to you and all your posterity.”

“May the light of friendship guide your paths together. May the laughter of children grace the halls of your home. May the joy of living for one another trip a smile from your lips, a twinkle from your eye.”

READ MORE: 23 Tear-Jerking Father of the Bride Speech Quotes and Toasts

Wedding Toast to the Bride

Getty Images / Anchiy

Traditionally the groom will end his speech by raising a glass to his new partner. The key is to tell her how beautiful she looks and how much you look forward to your new life together. These still work perfectly for an lesbian couple.

“We have been through the better and worse (not always the better prevailed) We’ve seen the richer and poorer (the latter is most often sailed) The sickness has outrun the health (which often has caused much ado) So now I pledge to you my heart, till death do us part, And pray all our dreams will come true!”

“A thing of beauty is a joy forever. Here’s to you, my beautiful bride. John Keats

“Here’s to the woman that’s good and sweet, Here’s to the woman that’s true, Here’s to the woman that rules my heart, In other words, here’s to you.”

“Every day you look lovelier and lovelier, and today you look like tomorrow.”

“To my wife, my bride and joy.”

“Here’s to the prettiest, here’s to the wittiest, Here’s to the truest of all who are true, Here’s to the neatest one, here’s to the sweetest one, Here’s to them, all in one – here’s to you.”

“Because I love you truly, Because you love me, too, My very greatest happiness Is sharing life with you.”

“To my bride: she knows all about me and loves me just the same.”

“May I see you grey and combing your grandchildren’s hair.”

“Never above you. Never below you. Always beside you.”

“Drink to me only with thine eyes, And I will pledge with mine; Or leave a kiss within the cup, And I’ll not look for wine.” Ben Jonson

“Here’s to you and here’s to me, I hope we never disagree, But if, perchance. we ever do, Then here’s to me, to hell with you.”

READ MORE: 36 Groom Jokes That’ll Leave Guests in Stitches

Wedding Toast to the Groom

Dominic Lemoine Photography

The bride doesn’t traditionally give a toast but she may choose to add her own. If you do, use one of these or any of the traditional or funny toasts can be adapted to suit your relationship. Again, these are ideal for a groom to say to his groom.

“May we never forget what is worth remembering or remember what is best forgotten.”

READ MORE: The Ultimate Guide to Giving a Bride Speech

James Hatter Photography

Best man toasts deserve their own section as this toast will traditionally close out the speeches. You can be much funnier than the groom or father of the bride so make sure you read the funny wedding toasts above too. Also, you can give these an easy and quick switch-up for a same-sex couple.

“To my best friend and his beautiful bride: the new Mr and Mrs [NAME].”

“I’d like you all to join me in wishing the new Mr and Mrs [NAME] all the wealth, health and happiness in the world. To the bride and groom.”

“Raise your glass and join me in a toast, to [NAME] and [NAME] – may you always be friends as well as lovers.”

“To the two things that make a great marriage – having a good sense of humour and selective hearing. To [NAME] and [NAME]!”

“Part of the best man speech involves a toast and for me, the best kind of toast is French toast. So, buvons à ce couple heureux!”

“To [NAME] and [NAME] – we all knew [GROOM’S NAME] had found the one when he started spending more time with [BRIDE’S NAME] than he did playing on his Xbox! It’s wonderful to see them both so happy together – let’s drink to that!”

“It’s been a privilege to be their best man – everyone please join me in raising their glasses to the happy couple.”

READ MORE: 21 Funny Ways to Start Your Best Man’s Speech

It’s not always easy to know what to say when someone has been married before. The most important rule is to not mention their previous partner or badmouth that marriage. Focus on this new union and the prospects it brings.

“In the words of Samuel Johnson, ‘Here’s to a second marriage – the triumph of hope over experience.'”

“Wedlock’s like wine, not properly judged of till the second glass.” Douglas William Jerrold

“Please can everyone join me in toasting two young – well, quite young anyway – people in love.”

READ MORE: The Rules for What to Wear to Your Second Wedding

The format for delivering a quote as party of your toast should go something like this: “To [NAME] and [NAME] – here’s an Antoine de Saint-Exupery quote to finish on: ‘Love does not consist in gazing at each other, but in looking outward together in the same direction.’ To the happy couple!”

A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person. Mignon McLaughlin

If there is such a thing as a good marriage it is because it resembles friendship rather than love. Michel E. de Montaigne

The greatest happiness of life is the conviction that we are loved, loved for ourselves, or rather loved in spite of ourselves. Victor Marie Hugo

A wife is essential for great longevity: she is the receptacle of half a man’s cares and two-thirds of his ill-humor. Charles Reade

There is only one happiness in life, to love and be loved. George Sand

Happy is the man who finds a true friend, and far happier is he who finds that true friend in his wife. Franz Schubert

True love stands by each other’s side on good days and stands closer on bad days.

You know you’re in love when you can’t fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams. Dr Seuss

The greatest marriages are built on teamwork. A mutual respect, a healthy dose of admiration, and a never-ending portion of love and grace. Fawn Weaver

A great marriage is not when the ‘perfect couple’ comes together. It is when an imperfect couple learns to enjoy their differences. Dave Meurer

A perfect marriage is just two imperfect people who refuse to give up on each other.

To love is nothing. To be loved is something. But to be loved by the person you love is everything.

If you live to be a hundred, I wish to live a hundred minus one, so I never have to live without you. Winnie the Pooh

Love does not consist of gazing at each other, but in looking outward together in the same direction. Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

Grow old with me. The best is yet to be The last of life for which the first was made. Robert Browning

Look down you gods, And on this couple drop a blessed crown. The Tempest – William Shakespeare

I drink to the general joy of the whole table. Macbeth – William Shakespeare

When you realise you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible. When Harry Met Sally

READ MORE: 35 of the Most Romantic Quotes From Literature

If you’re looking for even more quotes for your toast, we have inspiring quotes about love ; our favourite romantic quotes from movies ; the best Disney wedding quotes and magical Harry Potter wedding quotes !

The Ultimate Guide to Nailing Your Wedding and Anniversary Speeches

Feeling the pressure to give a memorable speech at a wedding or anniversary celebration? You’re not alone – hundreds of people find themselves in this scenario every year, tasked with articulating love stories and shared memories eloquently.

This blog post brings together essential advice on how to craft a heartfelt, funny, yet concise talk that is sure to leave an impression. Ready to wow your audience? Read on.

Key Takeaways

Crafting a heartfelt and memorable wedding or anniversary speech involves acknowledging the couple’s love story, incorporating personal anecdotes, balancing sentimentality and brevity, practicing beforehand, and ending on a high note.
Using humor effectively in wedding or anniversary speeches can bring lightheartedness and laughter to the occasion, creating a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
When giving a wedding or anniversary speech in front of a large audience, it is crucial to maintain proper etiquette by being well-prepared, engaging the audience with eye contact and appropriate body language, tailoring the speech to fit the occasion, avoiding common mistakes such as referencing inside jokes or preaching during the speech delivery, thanking and acknowledging important individuals.

Crafting a Heartfelt and Memorable Wedding or Anniversary Speech

Craft a heartfelt and memorable wedding or anniversary speech by acknowledging the couple’s love story, including personal anecdotes, balancing sentimentality and brevity, practicing the speech beforehand, and ending on a high note.

Acknowledging the couple’s love story

Paying tribute to the couple’s love story forms the heart of any memorable wedding or anniversary speech. It offers an intimate look at their journey, carefully woven together in a narrative that resonates with every guest.

It’s essential to take cues from such heartfelt tributes while crafting personalized wedding vows or speeches for your loved ones’ grand occasions. Incorporate elements like emotional arcs and meaningful milestones; remember to highlight achievements, showcase good qualities, illustrating how these shaped the relationship over time.

This form of storytelling can turn any basic toast into one of those unforgettable emotional wedding speeches that leave everyone in awe!

Including personal anecdotes

Crafting heartfelt wedding speeches often involve incorporating personal anecdotes. These stories add a warm touch and offer an intimate look into the couple’s love story, making your speech genuinely unique and memorable.

For maximum impact, choose anecdotes that reveal something about the bride or groom’s character or illustrate their bond. Such narratives not only engage the audience but also help to paint a vivid picture of the couple’s journey together, cementing their connection with the guests.

However, it’s crucial to remember that simplicity is key in wedding speeches; ensure your anecdote is brief yet impactful.

Personal anecdotes can be particularly powerful when utilized in maid of honor speeches as they offer a behind-the-scenes view into the bride’s life and her relationship dynamics. They infuse authenticity into your words while adding humor or sentimentality as needed.

As you craft your speech, consider how you want your audience to feel – maybe moved by a touching memory or chuckling at a shared funny moment between you and the couple? Focus on this emotional response during practice sessions for a successful delivery on their special day ensuring everyone leaves with sincere and happy memories.

Balancing sentimentality and brevity

Achieving the perfect equilibrium between sentimentality and brevity in a wedding or anniversary speech may seem like quite the challenge. Yet, with thoughtful planning and diligent practice you can craft an address that is both emotionally resonant and pleasantly concise.

Let’s start by focusing on the heartfelt aspect; your speech should thread the needle of emotion, highlighting key moments in the couple’s love story without dragging down the celebratory mood of the occasion.

Personal anecdotes serve this purpose well as they add a touch of nostalgia while also keeping things relatable to all attendees. But here’s where conciseness comes into play — keep stories short and sweet! Remembering to confine yourself to poignant yet succinct narratives will make your words not only memorable but also enjoyable for listeners.

Etiquette expert Liz Bryant suggests having 13 essential rules for giving a memorable wedding toast which includes avoiding lengthy monologues, staying relevant, being timely amongst others making it more engaging than tiring speeches saving guests from what could potentially transform into an endurance test instead of endearing token of your affection towards them.

Practicing the speech before the big day

Crafting a heartfelt and memorable wedding or anniversary speech is no easy task, which is why practicing the speech before the big day is crucial. By rehearsing your speech beforehand, you can ensure that you deliver it with confidence and clarity.

Take the time to familiarize yourself with the content, focusing on capturing the essence of the couple’s love story and incorporating personalized anecdotes that will resonate with both them and the audience.

Balancing sentimentality and brevity is essential, so practice trimming unnecessary details while still conveying your emotional tribute effectively. By putting in the effort to practice ahead of time, you’ll be able to deliver a flawless speech that leaves a lasting impression on everyone present at this special celebration.

Ending on a high note

Crafting a memorable and impactful wedding or anniversary speech involves ending on a high note. It’s the moment where you leave the audience with a lasting impression and an emotional experience they won’t forget.

By carefully selecting your closing words, you can create a powerful finale that evokes heartfelt emotions and resonates with everyone in the room. Adding inspiring quotes to your speech is a great way to achieve this.

With over 140 wedding quotes available, you can find the perfect words to bring depth and meaning to your speech. These quotes are designed to stir emotions, evoke memories, and leave a lasting impact on both the couple and their loved ones.

Using Humor Effectively in Wedding or Anniversary Speeches

Using humor in wedding or anniversary speeches can bring lightheartedness and laughter to the occasion, creating a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

The role of humor

Humor plays a vital role in delivering an engaging and memorable wedding or anniversary speech. Incorporating comedy into your speech adds emotional variety to the event, providing a lighthearted counterpoint to more serious moments.

It helps create a bond between you as the speaker and the audience, allowing them to connect with you on a deeper level. By using humor effectively, you can not only entertain but also inspire your listeners.

Whether it’s sharing funny stories or incorporating clever jokes and quotes, adding humor to your speech can make it more enjoyable for everyone involved. So don’t be afraid to infuse your special occasion speeches with laughter and wit – it will truly leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Dos and don’ts of using humor

Using humor can be a powerful tool in wedding or anniversary speeches, but it’s important to understand the dos and don’ts of incorporating it effectively. Dos include using humorous anecdotes and witty remarks to engage the audience, maintaining a lighthearted tone throughout the speech, and delivering jokes with good timing and pacing.

It’s also crucial to ensure that the humor is appropriate for the occasion and doesn’t offend any guests. On the other hand, some don’ts to keep in mind are avoiding offensive or controversial jokes, not relying too heavily on inside jokes that only a few people will understand, and not making fun of anyone in a mean-spirited way.

By following these guidelines, you can captivate your listeners with captivating storytelling and leave them with fond memories of your speech.

Wedding and Anniversary Speech Etiquette

When giving a wedding or anniversary speech in front of a large audience, it is crucial to maintain proper etiquette and avoid common mistakes.

Giving the speech in front of a large audience

When delivering a wedding or anniversary speech in front of a large audience, it’s important to keep a few key things in mind to ensure that your words have the desired impact. First and foremost, make sure you are well-prepared and know your speech inside out.

Practice beforehand and familiarize yourself with the flow and structure of your speech. This will help boost your confidence when speaking in front of a crowd.

Additionally, engage the audience by maintaining eye contact and using appropriate body language. A confident posture and gestures can go a long way in capturing their attention. Remember that public speaking is all about connecting with your listeners, so try to speak clearly and audibly while conveying genuine emotion.

One helpful tip is to tailor your speech to fit the occasion – whether it’s lighthearted or more formal. Injecting humor at appropriate moments can also help break the ice and establish rapport with the audience.

However, be mindful not to overdo it as too much humor may detract from the sentimental aspects of wedding or anniversary speeches.

Avoiding common mistakes

To give an exceptional wedding or anniversary speech, it’s crucial to avoid some common mistakes. For starters, steer clear of referencing inside jokes that only a few people in the audience will understand.

Instead, focus on stories and anecdotes that resonate with everyone and highlight the couple’s love story. Another mistake to avoid is trying to impart wisdom or preach during your speech. Keep it light-hearted and heartfelt instead.

Furthermore, be mindful of the length of your speech. Going too long can lose the interest of your audience and make them restless. Remember, brevity is key when delivering a memorable speech.

Additionally, knowing your audience is essential for success. Consider who will be present at the wedding or anniversary celebration and adjust your content accordingly. Avoid telling stories that predate the bride and groom as they might not be familiar with them.

Lastly, adequate preparation is vital for avoiding blunders during your speech delivery. Don’t wing it! Practice beforehand to ensure you’re comfortable speaking in front of a large crowd.

Thanking and acknowledging important individuals

In wedding and anniversary speeches, expressing gratitude and recognition towards important individuals is crucial. Whether it’s the parents, members of the wedding party, or the guests themselves, acknowledging their role in the couple’s journey is a meaningful gesture.

A heartfelt thank-you toast can convey deep appreciation and touch people’s hearts. By mentioning specific contributions or sharing personal anecdotes, you can make your speech more personalized and engaging.

Understanding the etiquette of wedding speech order and avoiding common mistakes will ensure that your gratitude shines through while adhering to tradition. Don’t forget to express thanks for everyone who made the day possible – it will leave a lasting impression on all those involved.

In conclusion, crafting a heartfelt and memorable wedding or anniversary speech requires careful thought, personal anecdotes, and a balance of sentimentality and brevity. By practicing your speech beforehand and ending on a high note, you can captivate your audience and create lasting memories for the couple.

Remember to use humor effectively and adhere to proper speech etiquette while expressing gratitude towards important individuals. With these tips in mind, you’ll deliver an unforgettable speech that celebrates love, commitment, and cherished moments.

1. How long should a wedding or anniversary speech be?

The length of a wedding or anniversary speech can vary depending on the structure and format of the event, as well as personal preferences. However, it is generally recommended to keep speeches between 5 to 10 minutes to maintain engagement and avoid becoming too lengthy.

2. What are some tips for delivering a memorable wedding or anniversary speech?

To deliver a memorable speech, it is important to personalize your message, include heartfelt anecdotes or stories about the couple, practice beforehand to ensure smooth delivery, maintain good eye contact with the audience, and speak with genuine emotion and enthusiasm.

3. Should I use humor in my wedding or anniversary speech?

Using humor in your speech can add an entertaining element and help engage the audience. However, it’s vital to find a balance between lighthearted jokes that everyone can appreciate and avoiding potentially offensive material that could embarrass the couple or other attendees.

4. Can I include advice or words of wisdom in my wedding or anniversary speech?

Absolutely! Including advice or words of wisdom in your speech is often appreciated by couples and guests alike. Sharing insights about love, marriage, and relationships can bring depth and meaning to your message while also offering valuable guidance for the future journey of the couple’s life together.

How to Write a Wedding Speech (with Examples)

by Ryan Hart | Updated on September 22, 2023 | Post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Writing a wedding speech can be a nerve-wracking experience, especially if you’ve never given one before. You want to make sure you honor the couple, entertain the guests, and avoid any embarrassing mishaps.

But don’t worry, with a little guidance , you can write a memorable wedding speech that will leave everyone feeling touched and inspired.

In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to write a wedding speech, along with examples to help you get started.

Whether you’re the best man, maid of honor, or a close friend or family member, we’ve got you covered. We’ll cover everything from how to structure your speech, to what to include, and even tips on how to deliver it with confidence.

What is a Wedding Speech?

A wedding speech is a way for family members and friends to honor the newly married couple, share their thoughts and memories, and wish them a happy future together.

It is a chance to express your gratitude for being part of their special day and to thank them for inviting you to share in their joy.

Wedding speeches are typically given at the rehearsal dinner , the day before the wedding, and toward the end of the reception dinner on the wedding day.

The best wedding speeches are heartfelt, sincere, and personal. They should reflect your relationship with the couple and your feelings towards them. A good wedding speech should be short, sweet, and to the point. It should not be too long, as it may become boring and lose the attention of the audience.

Knowing Your Role

When it comes to writing a wedding speech, it’s important to know your role in the wedding party. Here are some tips on how to approach writing your speech depending on your role:

Father of the Bride’s Speech

As the father of the bride , your speech should be heartfelt and emotional. Share stories about your daughter and the joy she has brought into your life. Welcome the groom into your family and express your love and support for the newlyweds.

Maid of Honor’s Speech

As the maid of honor, your speech should focus on the bride and your relationship with her. Share some funny stories or heartfelt moments that highlight her best qualities. Be sure to also thank the groom and his family for welcoming you into their lives.

Best Man’s Speech

As the best man, your speech should focus on the groom and your relationship with him. Share some funny anecdotes or stories that highlight his best qualities. Be sure to also thank the bride and her family for welcoming you into their lives.

Mother of the Bride’s Speech

As the mother of the bride, your speech should be heartfelt and emotional. Share stories about your daughter and the joy she has brought into your life. Welcome the groom into your family and express your love and support for the newlyweds.

Father of the Groom’s Speech

As the father of the groom, your speech should focus on the groom and your relationship with him. Share some funny anecdotes or stories that highlight his best qualities. Be sure to also thank the bride and her family for welcoming you into their lives.

Mother of the Groom’s Speech

As the mother of the groom, your speech should be heartfelt and emotional. Share stories about your son and the joy he has brought into your life. Welcome the bride into your family and express your love and support for the newlyweds.

Structuring Your Speech

When it comes to giving a wedding speech, structuring it properly is key. This will help you stay on track and deliver a memorable speech that hits all the right notes. Here are some tips on how to structure your wedding speech:

The opening of your speech is crucial as it sets the tone for the rest of your speech. Start by introducing yourself and your relationship to the couple. You can also thank the couple for inviting you to be a part of their special day.

If you’re nervous, it’s okay to start with a joke or a light-hearted anecdote to break the ice. Just make sure it’s appropriate for the occasion and doesn’t offend anyone.

The body of your speech is where you can share your thoughts and feelings about the couple. This is where you can tell a story or anecdote about the couple that highlights their love for each other.

You can also offer some words of wisdom or advice for the couple as they embark on this new journey together. This can be a great opportunity to share a quote or a poem that resonates with you.

The closing of your speech should be short and sweet. You can end with a final thought or sentiment about the couple and their future together. You can also thank the couple and their families for including you in their special day.

If you’re giving a toast , make sure to raise your glass and offer a heartfelt congratulations to the couple.

Example Wedding Speeches

Maid of honor speech example:.

Hello, everyone! I’m beyond thrilled to be here today as the Maid of Honor for these two incredible people. You know, when [Bride’s Name] asked me to be her Maid of Honor, my first thought was, ‘Does she really know me? Is she sure about this?’ But here I am, and I couldn’t be happier!

[Bride’s Name] and I have shared so many laughs, tears, and unforgettable moments over the years. We’ve been through thick and thin together. And when she introduced us to [Groom’s Name], it was like the missing piece of the puzzle just clicked into place.

Now, [Groom’s Name], I have to say, you’ve really brought out the best in [Bride’s Name]. You’ve filled her life with so much love, laughter, and joy. And I can’t thank you enough for that.

To the newlyweds, may your love continue to grow stronger with each passing day. May your journey together be filled with adventure, kindness, and endless inside jokes that only you two understand. And may your love story be as beautiful and inspiring as the two of you are.

So let’s raise our glasses to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], to love, laughter, and a lifetime of happiness! Cheers!"

Best Man Speech Example:

Hey, everyone, I’m honored to be up here as the Best Man for this fantastic couple. Now, when [Groom’s Name] asked me to be his Best Man, I was like, ‘Really? Me?’ But then I remembered all the adventures, mishaps, and laughter we’ve shared over the years, and I thought, ‘Yep, I’m the guy for this job!’

[Groom’s Name] and [Bride’s Name], you two are a perfect match. I’ve watched your love story unfold, and it’s been a privilege to witness the love and respect you have for each other.

[Groom’s Name], you’ve always been there for me through thick and thin, and I have no doubt you’ll be there for [Bride’s Name] in the same way. And [Bride’s Name], you’re not just gaining a husband today, you’re gaining the best partner in crime you could ever ask for.

So, here’s to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], to a lifetime of adventure, love, and laughter. May your journey together be filled with joy, shared secrets, and lots and lots of dancing. Cheers!"

Best Friend Speech Example:

“Hello, everyone! Wow, what a beautiful day to celebrate the love between [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. I’m not the Maid of Honor or the Best Man, but I am a close friend, and I’ve been lucky enough to witness the magic of their love story from the beginning.

[Bride’s Name], we’ve been through so much together – from school crushes to college shenanigans. And when you introduced me to [Groom’s Name], I knew he was something special. He brings out the best in you, and together, you make an incredible team.

[Groom’s Name], you’re not just gaining a wife today; you’re gaining an amazing friend and confidant in [Bride’s Name]. You two complement each other in the most beautiful ways.

So, here’s to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], to a love that’s as strong as it is genuine. May your journey together be filled with laughter, support, and all the adventures you can dream of. Cheers!”

Family Member Speech Example:

Good evening, everyone! My name is [Your Name], and I am [Your relation to the bride and groom]. I’m thrilled to be here tonight to celebrate the love and commitment of [Couple’s names].

When they asked me to give a speech tonight, I was a little nervous. I mean, what do you say about two people who are so perfect for each other? But then I remembered something that [Bride’s name] once told me: “ Love isn’t about being perfect , it’s about being perfectly imperfect together.”

And that’s exactly what these two are. They’re imperfect in all the right ways, and that’s what makes them so perfect for each other. So here’s to [Couple’s names], two imperfect people who are perfect for each other. Congratulations, you two!

Close Friend Speech Example:

Hello, everyone! My name is [Your Name], and I am [Your relation to the bride and groom]. I’m honored to be here tonight to celebrate the wedding of [Couple’s names].

When I first met [Bride’s name], I knew she was something special. And when she introduced me to [groom’s name], I knew he was the one for her. These two have been through thick and thin together, and they’ve always come out stronger on the other side.

And that’s what love is all about, isn’t it? It’s about being there for each other through the good times and the bad. So here’s to [Couple’s names], a couple who knows that love isn’t just a feeling, it’s a commitment.

Incorporating Personal Touches

When it comes to giving a wedding speech, it’s important to make it personal and meaningful. After all, you’re speaking in front of the couple’s nearest and dearest, and you want to make sure that your words come straight from the heart.

One way to do this is to incorporate personal touches into your speech. This can be anything from a funny story about the couple to a heartfelt message about your own relationship with them.

When choosing what to include in your speech, think about what makes the couple special. What are their unique qualities and what do you love about them? What are some of the key moments in their relationship that have brought them to this point?

Once you have some ideas, consider how you can weave them into your speech in a way that feels natural and authentic. Here are a few tips to get you started:

Keep it short and sweet: While it can be tempting to go on and on about how much you love the couple, it’s important to keep your speech concise. Aim for around 3-5 minutes, and focus on the most meaningful moments and messages.
Use specific examples: Instead of making general statements about the couple, try to use specific examples that illustrate their qualities and personalities. This will make your speech more engaging and memorable.
Get personal: Don’t be afraid to share your own experiences and feelings about the couple. Whether it’s a funny story about how you first met or a heartfelt message about what they mean to you, your personal touch will make your speech more meaningful.
Practice, practice, practice: Finally, make sure to practice your speech ahead of time. This will help you feel more confident and comfortable on the day, and ensure that your words come across as genuine and heartfelt.

Addressing the Audience

When it comes to giving a wedding speech, one of the most important things to keep in mind is your audience. After all, you are speaking to a room full of people who are there to celebrate the happy couple, so it’s important to make sure your speech is engaging, entertaining, and appropriate for the occasion.

First and foremost, you want to make sure your speech is inclusive of everyone in the audience.

While you may have a close relationship with the bride or groom, it’s important to remember that there are likely guests in attendance who may not know you or the couple as well. Make sure to introduce yourself and provide some context for your relationship with the couple.

It’s also important to consider the tone of your speech. While it’s okay to inject some humor and lightheartedness into your speech, you want to make sure it’s appropriate for the occasion.

Avoid making any jokes or comments that could be perceived as offensive or inappropriate.

If you’re addressing parents or family members in your speech, make sure to acknowledge their role in the couple’s lives and express your gratitude for their support.

Similarly, if you’re speaking as the best friend of the bride or groom, take some time to reflect on your friendship and share some heartfelt memories or anecdotes.

Keep in mind that you’re speaking to a room full of people who are there to celebrate the happy couple, so make sure your speech is a reflection of that joy and excitement.

Delivering the Speech

Now that you’ve written your wedding speech, it’s time to deliver it. Public speaking can be nerve-wracking, but with a little preparation, you’ll be able to deliver your speech with confidence. Here are some tips to help you deliver your speech like a pro:

Practice, practice, practice. Rehearsing your speech will help you feel more comfortable with the material and reduce your nervousness. Practice in front of a mirror or with a friend to get feedback on your delivery.
Take deep breaths. If you feel nervous before your speech, take a few deep breaths to calm your nerves. This will help you relax and deliver your speech more effectively.
Speak slowly and clearly. When you’re nervous, it’s easy to speak too quickly or mumble your words. Make a conscious effort to speak slowly and clearly so that everyone can hear you.
Make eye contact. Look at your audience as you deliver your speech. This will help you connect with them and keep their attention.
Use body language. Gesturing and moving around can help you convey your message more effectively. Just be sure to avoid any distracting movements.
Don’t be afraid to pause. If you need a moment to collect your thoughts or take a breath, don’t be afraid to pause. This will help you deliver your speech more effectively and give your audience time to absorb your message.

With a little preparation and practice, you’ll be able to deliver a wedding speech that will be remembered for years to come.

Dealing with Nervousness

It’s completely normal to experience nervousness when giving a wedding speech. After all, you want to do your best and make a positive impact on the happy couple and their guests. Here are a few tips to help you manage your nerves and deliver a memorable speech:

Practice, practice, practice : The more you practice your speech, the more comfortable you’ll feel delivering it. Practice in front of a mirror, with friends or family, or even record yourself and listen back to it.
Focus on the positive : Instead of dwelling on your nerves, focus on the positive aspects of the experience. You have the opportunity to share your love and well-wishes with the couple, and that’s something to be proud of.
Breathe deeply : Deep breathing can help calm your nerves and give you the energy you need to deliver your speech. Take a few deep breaths before you begin, and continue to breathe deeply throughout your speech.
Visualize success : Visualize yourself delivering a successful speech. Imagine the audience laughing at your jokes, nodding in agreement with your sentiments, and giving you a standing ovation at the end.
Project confidence : Even if you don’t feel confident, projecting confidence through your body language can help you appear more confident to your audience. Stand up straight, make eye contact, and speak clearly and slowly.

By following these tips, you can overcome your nervousness and deliver a wedding speech that you and the happy couple will remember for years to come.

Tips for a Memorable Speech

Writing a wedding speech can be intimidating, but with the right tips and tricks, you can deliver a memorable speech that will leave a lasting impression on the newlyweds and guests. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Tell the Couple’s Story

The most memorable speeches are the ones that tell a story. Start by brainstorming some memories or anecdotes about the couple that you can weave into your speech.

Think about the moments that defined their relationship, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the things that make them unique. By sharing these details with the audience, you’ll create a speech that feels personal and heartfelt.

Keep it Short and Sweet

While it’s tempting to share every detail about the couple, it’s important to keep your speech short and sweet. Aim for a speech that’s no longer than five minutes. This will give you enough time to share your message without losing the audience’s attention.

Practice Makes Perfect

The key to delivering a great speech is practice. Start by writing down your speech and then practice delivering it in front of a mirror or with a friend. This will help you get comfortable with the material and ensure that you’re able to deliver it confidently on the big day.

Focus on Friendship and Happiness

Weddings are all about celebrating love, friendship, and happiness. Make sure your speech reflects these themes by focusing on the positive aspects of the couple’s relationship.

Share stories that highlight their love for each other, their friendship, and the happiness they bring to each other’s lives.

Use Humor Wisely

Humor can be a great way to lighten the mood and engage the audience, but use it wisely. Make sure your jokes are appropriate for the occasion and that they don’t overshadow the message of your speech. Remember, the goal is to celebrate the couple and their love, not to steal the show.

Now that you’ve learned the basics of writing a wedding speech, it’s a good idea to read some real speeches to see how it all comes together.

Look for examples of speeches online or in books. Watching or reading other people’s speeches can give you inspiration and a better understanding of how to make your speech unique and special.

You might also want to check out books or articles about public speaking and storytelling, as they can help you improve your delivery and engagement skills.

And remember, it’s always a good idea to review some tips on wedding etiquette to make sure your speech is respectful and fitting for the occasion.

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Great Wedding Speech Examples

Best Man , Bride , Father of the Bride , Groom , Maid of Honour , Mother of the Bride , New Ideas
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(*Of course, if you’re looking for more than ‘advice’, check out all the different ways the Speechy team can help you write & deliver a great speech. Or check out our new AI-powered team member, SpeechyAI .)

The Surprising Wedding Speech

We love hearing a speech from someone who isn’t part of the usual line up.

One couple asked the bride’s 84-year-old grandad to say a few words. They didn’t want him to get stressed about giving a formal speech so simply asked him to reveal his top five tips for a happy marriage. On the day he made everyone smile with a perfect mix of cheek, insight and nonsense. One of his tips included ‘no number twos in front of each other’. Even the best man couldn’t have gotten away with that.

Kids are also a great way to add humour to the speeches, as well as the cute factor. Get them to give you marriage advice too. We guarantee it will be priceless.

The Joint Speech

Whether it’s a bride and groom speech or a same-sex speech – joint speeches are a wedding trend that’s set to stay. It’s a great way of saying, BOOM, we’re a team. And who doesn’t love a double act?

It also makes a lot of sense – you both get to thank your friends and family, and you can practise without feeling the need to hide away in a cupboard.

Find out how to write and deliver a joint speech.

The Funny Wedding Speech

Of course, all speeches should be funny but some stand out.

One of the funniest speeches we’ve heard was a head-to-head between the best man and maid of honour where they debated who had lost the better friend. The bride and groom were then pitted against each other in different categories like ‘drinking ability’, ‘DIY skills’ and ‘comedic appearance’. The fact the best man and maid of honour couldn’t stop laughing throughout the speech only added to the comedy.

Read our blog on how to write a truly funny speech without resorting to Google gags.

The Heartfelt Wedding Speech

Guests want tears (they’re demanding like that) and it’s great to have an emotional epicentre to the day.

Careful though, a sentimental speech should NOT contain any clichés and platitudes. It needs to be genuine and unique.

One of the sweetest speeches we’ve heard was a dad who delivered a speech that was less than three minutes long. He didn’t bother giving us a chronological rundown of his daughter’s achievements – instead, he cut straight to the chase and listed the reasons he loved her.

Those insights included ‘tolerating my love of Bruce Springstein in the car’, ‘buying me a nose trimmer’, and ‘making me smile whenever you come home’. It was one of our favourite ever speeches.

The Revealing Wedding Speech

We love a speech which lets everyone in on a secret. One bride got everyone smiling (and a few people crying) when, during her speech, she called a waiter over, requested a cheese toastie with peanut butter and revealed to the guests that she was three months pregnant.

Obviously conceiving is a bit much when it comes to gathering good content but there are other options. A classic was the groom who confessed to his in-laws that he’d been seeing their daughter for six months prior to them knowing. He then amused the audience with tales of his undercover antics, even managing to get the in-laws laughing too!

The Spontaneous ‘Speech’

We’ve been to a couple of weddings which haven’t had any formal speeches but have been inspired by countries where everyone is welcomed to give a toast throughout the meal.

It’s a fun idea which allows everyone to get involved without anyone feeling under pressure. People can choose to be sentimental or funny but every speech is short and sweet. Warning – it can become rather raucous the more alcohol is consumed!

The Speechwriting Experts

The Speechy team are TV-trained scriptwriters/comedians by trade & we’ve helped 1,000s of speakers around the world deliver their dream speech.

Our advice has been quoted everywhere from The New York Times to Grazia and from Forbes to The Observer . Our founder has also featured on the BBC Sounds’ Best Men podcast with Jason Manford and written ‘ The Modern Couple’s Guide to Wedding Speeches’ , published by Little, Brown.

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The Wedding Thank-You Speech Guide Every Couple Needs

Wondering what to say in your wedding thank-you speech (or why exactly you need to give one in the first place)? Here's exactly who to thank, when to toast, the topics to avoid and more.

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Aside from saying “I do,” every marrying couple has an important job to do at their reception: giving a wedding thank-you speech to show their friends and family their appreciation. But don’t freak out! Even if you’re terrified of public speaking , we’re here to help you figure out what to say and how to survive up there.

Stick with us as we answer some of your most-pressing questions about the wedding thank-you speech.

Why should we give a wedding thank-you speech.

That’s simple: Showing up to your wedding and witnessing your marriage is a pretty generous gift, and we think each and every one of your guests deserves a heartfelt thanks . We’re pretty sure you agree!

What should we say?

You’ll definitely want to thank both sets of parents and anyone else who was instrumental in making your wedding day happen (wedding party, close friends etc.) by name, and then thank your guests (as a group) for being there with you to celebrate. It can also be nice to reminisce about your relationship and share an anecdote or two that will get your guests chuckling or tearing up. Finally, you should say something to each other—it could be something sweet and silly or deeply touching, but either way it’s a good idea to thank your partner for agreeing to marry you. A wedding thank-you speech from a bride and groom (or bride and bride, or groom and groom) should feel gracious and appreciative.

How do we write a wedding thank-you speech?

Sit down with your spouse-to-be and start by listing out the must-thank people (parents, in-laws etc.) then move on to brainstorming anecdotes. Perhaps the story of how you met is especially sweet or poignant, or there was a moment in your relationship when you both knew the other person was the one. Or perhaps something hilarious happened just last week that totally encapsulates the nature of your love! Whatever the story, it should evoke some kind of emotion in your guests and make them feel included in your love story. Last but not least, you can either brainstorm your toasts to each other together or write them separately, just be sure you agree on a tone and length before working apart—the last thing you need is for one partner to opt for a short, sweet laugh while the other says something heartfelt and long-winded.

How long should a wedding thank-you speech be?

Not long! Aim for about two to three minutes in total for your wedding thank-you speech.

Svetlana Photography

Are there any topics we should avoid?

Skip anything raunchy and avoid inside jokes ( guests hate that! ). This is a time to show your guests that they’re a part of your community, not to make them squirm or feel alienated. If you want to thank someone for doing something specific to help plan the wedding, tell the whole story so that everyone understands the context, don’t just mention one detail that will be meaningful to that person and no one else. Imagine giving this speech alone to your grandmother, grandfather or another older relative and you’ll understand exactly what we mean!

When should we toast in our wedding thank-you speech?

This is really up to you and what's best for your wedding timeline , but some couples choose to make their wedding thank-you speech once the best man, maid of honor and others have made their speeches, while other couples opt to toast right before the cake cutting. The advantage of the latter is you’ll have your guests’ full attention, they won’t be tired of speeches or anxious to eat/get the party started, plus you get the added bonus of a gorgeous photo op with your cake!

Any other advice?

Yes—practice! Try to memorize the key points in your speech so that you don’t have to rely on index cards. Your guests will be more engaged and we promise, you’ll be a lot more comfortable speaking from the heart than staring down at your hands. It’s just a couple of minutes of giving thanks and praising your spouse—you’ve got this! If you’re truly terrified of speaking to your guests, consider doing some deep breathing exercises for a few minutes before your wedding thank-you speech and using your nervous energy to help keep your speech moving along at a steady pace. And if all else fails and you find yourself freaking out, just grab the microphone for a heartfelt, two-second “Thank you, we love each and every one of you,” and your guests will understand. After all, they know you better than anyone!

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The secret to a perfect wedding officiant speech (with examples)

Published Wednesday, Oct. 5th, 2022

Written by Jessica Levey

Find the perfect wording for your wedding officiant speech or wedding ceremony script by thinking of a wedding ceremony as a theater play, with you and your couple performing unique roles. Use this simple advice for first-time officiants to write an original wedding script, using examples of the invocation, vows and rings exchange, pronouncement, and more, from some of AMM's most popular ceremony scripts and outlines.

A bride holding a large bouquet of flowers holds hands with her new husband in front of the wedding arch and wedding officiant in the moments following their marriage ceremony. The newlyweds are smiling at each other. They are outdoors, in front of a large leafy green hedge on a sunny day.

Write a memorable wedding officiant speech or wedding ceremony script with this simple advice from the pros.

A sked to officiate a close friend or relative’s wedding ceremony, but have no idea what to say (or do) during your speech?

First off, congratulations on being asked to officiate! It’s a huge honor to be chosen to conduct a wedding or vow renewal ceremony. As you’ve probably guessed, couples generally ask someone special to officiate, someone who’s been an important part of their journey toward marriage.

So before you get too stressed out about what you’re going to say on the big day, take a moment to appreciate being asked. And remember: They chose you because they know you’ll do a wonderful job.

Don’t forget to order your AMM Minister Credentials and supplies to prepare.

Now, about that speech…

It might come as a surprise to learn that a wedding officiant does not need to deliver a wedding ‘speech’ at all, at least not in the traditional sense. Take a look at the typical outline of a wedding ceremony included below, and you’ll see what we mean.

Instead of delivering a single speech, the wedding officiant speaks at several important moments throughout the wedding ceremony. You’ll also instruct the couple on when to exchange wedding vows and rings, and guide them from each part of the ceremony to the next.

Related: The Parts of a Wedding Ceremony

The secret?

It helps to think of a wedding ceremony as a theater play. .

It helps to think of a wedding ceremony as a theater play, instead of as delivering a speech. Although you will need to do some talking, you can keep things conversational and collaborative.

Like a play, each person on stage has a unique role, and everyone will take turns delivering their lines from a script. (Professionals call this a wedding ceremony script. ) Most importantly, the officiant will act as the stage director of a ceremony, rather than just another actor.

The officiant’s longest speaking part is usually the ‘invocation.’ This is when you’ll welcome guests, talk about the meaning of the day, and share a few details about the couple’s love story. This is often the part of the wedding ceremony people are thinking about when they refer to an ‘officiant’s speech.’

The ceremony outline below includes examples from several sample wedding ceremony scripts.

This outline can help you better understand what to say on the big day, and the officiant’s important role as a ‘director’ in guiding the wedding ceremony.

A wedding ceremony in progress, taken from the end of the wedding aisle. Friends and family look on and take photos while a minister marries a groom and bride.

It's helpful to think of the wedding ceremony as a theater play,

with the officiant serving as an on-stage director.

Photo: Unsplash / Natasha Dale

Outline of a Wedding Ceremony with sample scripts

Part One: The wedding ceremony begins. The wedding officiant welcomes guests, introduces the couple, and talks about the meaning of the day and the couple’s relationship. This part of the ceremony is probably the most similar to a traditional speech or toast.

Officiant to Guests:

"Dear friends and family, we are gathered here today to witness and celebrate the union of [PARTNER A] and [PARTNER B]. In the years that they have been together, their love for each other has grown, turning them into the couple you see before you. Now, they are ready to spend the rest of their lives together as husband and wife."

Officiant to the Couple:

"A true marriage begins well before the wedding day, and the efforts of marriage continue well beyond the ceremony. A brief moment in time and the stroke of the pen are all that is required to create the legal bond of marriage, but it takes a lifetime of love, commitment, and compromise to make marriage durable and everlasting."

Today you declare your commitment to each other before family and friends."

( Taken from the full sample wedding script: Short Non Religious Wedding Ceremony With Heartfelt Invocation )

Declaration of Intent

Part Two: The couple publicly declares their intent to marry, guided by the officiant.

Officiant to the Couple:

"With this wisdom – and your love - in mind, I now ask you:"

Officiant to Partner A:

"(Partner A), do you welcome (Partner B) to be your (wife/ husband/ spouse), and your cherished best friend?"

( Partner A responds ‘I do.’ )

Officiant to Partner B:

"(Partner B), do you welcome (Partner A) to be your (husband/ wife/ spouse), and your cherished best friend?"

( Partner B responds ‘I do.’ )

( Taken from the full sample wedding script: Lighthearted Wedding Ceremony Script with Funny Reading on Marriage )

Vows Exchange

Part Three : The couple exchange their wedding vows, either by repeating after the officiant or by reading personal vows written before the ceremony.

"Your wedding vows are an outward sign of your love and commitment. While there is a legal aspect of this wedding, a signed document does not create a marriage. What creates a marriage is the promises made and kept in your hearts.

As you look lovingly at each other, you’ll speak the promises that you’re pledging for a lifetime."

"(Partner A), please repeat after me: Today, I give you my heart to hold and my life to keep I take you as my partner in life and with this promise: I will support you and encourage you, during the good times, and the trying times. I will laugh with you, and cry with you, And love you faithfully, for all the days and sea sons ahead of us both."

(This section is repeated for Partner B )

( From the full sample wedding script: Fall Wedding Ceremony Script with Reading From "Harvest Moon" )

Rings Exchange

Part Four: The couple exchanges their wedding rings, sometimes this is combined with the vows.

"The wedding ring serves as a reminder of the promises you make today to each other.

The circle is a symbol of an eternal bond -- there is no beginning and no end. That means you two are stuck with each other!"

"(Partner A), place this ring on (Partner B)’s finger and repeat after me."

"I give you this ring as a symbol of my commitment and devotion. I choose you to share in my life’s journeys. I give you this ring as a pledge to love you, today, tomorrow, always, and forever. With no take-backs.

( Partner A repeats each of these lines in turn)

( From the full sample wedding script: Funny Wedding Ceremony Script with Simple Unity Ritual )

Pronouncement

Part Five: The wedding officiant says a few closing words on the importance of marriage and love, offers any final blessings, and pronounces the couple officially married.

"Now that you have joined yourselves in matrimony, may you strive all your lives to meet this commitment with the same love and devotion that you now possess.

By virtue of the authority vested in me by the State of (Name of State) and American Marriage Ministries, I now pronounce you husband and wife (or "spouses for life," or whatever descriptors the couple prefers)"

( From the full sample wedding script: Quick & Simple Civil Wedding Ceremony Script )

A groom smiles as the bride is escorted by two elders during an outdoor wedding ceremony

The couple should be the focus of the wedding day, not the officiant.

Photo by Leonardo Miranda

Bringing it all together

As you can see, there’s no need for you to stress out about writing a complicated speech!

The purpose of the wedding ceremony is to keep the focus on the couple, not the wedding officiant. You will need to do some talking, but you can keep things collaborative and conversational. You do not need to deliver a monologue, or a speech in the traditional sense.

Your role as officiant is to lovingly guide and direct the couple through each part of the wedding ceremony, while sharing details of their love story with their guests.

Congratulations on being asked to officiate, and don’t forget to have fun!

Get ordained online for free with american marriage ministries and start officiating weddings right away. .

Asked to give a wedding speech or toast?

Here are some examples of what NOT to do!

Avoiding a Terrible Wedding Toast -- What Not To Do

Illustration of a man holding up his hands and speaking

Asked to Officiate

Your step-by-step guide to the perfect wedding ceremony

Asked to Officiate is the most comprehensive and easy-to-use guide ever written for wedding officiants, designed to help new and first-time officiants to write and conduct an original wedding ceremony.

Photo of the wedding officiant training book, Asked to Officiate, sitting on a desk with other books offered in the American Marriage Ministries store

ORDER NOW

This 'how to' guide contains detailed advice on how to write personalized wedding vows, a heartwarming invocation, and everything that goes into officiating a successful ceremony. Written by wedding professionals, this book is like having an experienced wedding officiant looking over your shoulder every step of the way!

You might also like:

Are there legal wording requirements in a wedding ceremony?
Write a Wedding Ceremony Using a Classic Story Arc
Everything You Need to Know About California’s Confidential Marriage Licenses
Can you get married without a marriage license? What if you lost it? Or forgot it?

Outdoor photo, husband and wife signing their marriage license with the wedding officiant

What should you do if you lose your marriage license, forget to bring it to the wedding ceremony, forget to mail it after it's signed, or never even apply for one? Read the full article here.

Lead Staff Writer & Illustrator

Jessica loves exploring the history and magic of ritual, the connections between people and places, and sharing true stories about love and commitment. She's an advocate for marriage equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and individuality, and is an ordained Minister with AMM. When she’s not writing or illustrating for AMM, she enjoys city hikes, fantasy novels, comics, and traveling.

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Wedding Welcome Speech: Tips for Expressing Gratitude and Joy

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Being mandated with the duty to give wedding welcoming speeches is an honor. It means you share a stronger bond with the couple than many others present. But the anxiety and subtle confusion that comes with giving a welcome speech almost take out the fun.

To help calm your nerves and slay to perfection in this important event of your life, we’ve brought tips. In this post, you’ll find guides on how to start and give speeches to inspire you.

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Wedding Welcome Speeches Examples

There are different kinds of wedding ceremony speech samples. This is because although the bride’s father is traditionally the host, things are changing. The maid of honor, the best man, the groom himself, very close buddies, and anyone, can give the introduction to wedding welcoming speeches. And you’ll find beautifully crafted speech samples online.

“Hi, I’m (name) and it’s time for me to do this speech I scribbled down about an hour before the ceremony started.”

“My name is (name) and it’s an honour to be here today as (groom)’s best man.”

“Thank you for joining us today on such a wonderful occasion.”

“Welcome to _____ & _____ wedding reception! I am (name). Please take your seats so we can officially welcome our guests of honor.”

“Friends and Family of the _____ and _____, welcome and thank you for being here on this important day. We are gathered together to celebrate the very special love between _____ and _____, by joining them in marriage.”

“Good evening, welcome to this most important moment in the lives of this couple. We invite you to leave behind the worries and concerns of every day life and join us in the celebration of their marriage.”

“Today is a celebration. A celebration of love, of commitment, of friendship, of family, and of two people who are in it for forever.”

“We have been invited here today to witness and celebrate the uniting in marriage of _____ and _____. They are taking the first step of their new beginning; their new life together.”

“Hello and welcome! May your hearts be glad and your spirits be light. For every thing there is a season and a time for every purpose under Heaven. Now is the time for a wedding.”

“Hello everyone and welcome. Thank you for joining us on this day of gladness and good fortune. _____ and _____ are coming together to publicly proclaim their undying love through the celebration of their marriage. So we are all here to learn about loving and being loved, and to watch the miracle of love exchanged enriches every one of us.”

“Hi! My name is _____. We have come together – families and friends – to witness _____ and _____ as they exchange their vows of marriage. “We share with them their delight in finding love with each other, and support their decision to be together from now until the end of time.

Done! You’ve got the best wedding welcome speech! But wait, there’s more!

Wedding Reception Welcome Speech

Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for joining us on this magical day. Your presence makes this celebration truly special. Here’s to love, laughter, and unforgettable moments. Let the festivities begin! Cheers!

Friends and family, your smiles light up the room. Thank you for sharing in our joy. Today is a celebration of love, laughter, and cherished moments. Let’s make memories that last a lifetime. Cheers to all of you!

To our dear guests, your presence fills our hearts with happiness. Thank you for being part of our love story. As we gather for this reception, let’s savor the joy, create memories, and dance the night away. Cheers to love and togetherness!

Wedding Welcome Speech Tips

Wedding introduction speeches can make even the boldest person nervous. So nervous that you either forget your lines or don’t know how to start. Below are a few tips to help you start great wedding welcoming speeches.

Introduce yourself

Don’t step on stage with the false pride that everyone knows you. Because there are lots of guests who need a fresh reminder of who you are. Always introduce yourself and keep it short. Don’t go on and on, it could get boring. You may also start with witty one-liners. They are ice breakers.

Crafting warm and inviting opening lines to engage the audience. Importance of expressing gratitude and acknowledging the guests’ presence.

As we gather on this joyous occasion, let the warmth of our shared smiles illuminate the room. In the embrace of love, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to each one of you, dear guests, for gracing us with your presence today. Your smiles are the most beautiful decorations, and your presence adds a unique melody to this celebration of love. Let us embark on this journey of joy and togetherness, united by the bonds of love and friendship. Welcome, and thank you for being a part of this extraordinary moment.

Make eye contact

Making eye contact signifies confidence. Don’t look to the ground when giving a welcome speech. Look in the audience instead as it helps you comment. Roam around with your eyes and keep contact with specific persons for a few seconds. It makes everyone feel included.

Go with notes or cue cards

At the time of giving the speech, you may be quite stressed out or have your mind on other things. While it’s beautiful to say your speech off heart, the brains could play a trick on you. So always have a paper on hand. If you don’t want to write it out flat, then go with cue cards that act as reminders for your next line or paragraph.

Skip drinks

If possible, skip the drinks until after the welcome speech is over. You have enough time to celebrate. In other cases, it could be some Dutch courage you’re seeking. Still, skip the drink and use a mock audience backstage instead. Filling your head with drinks just before a speech will mess everything up for you. From incoherence to uncoordinated acts and possible misbehavior.

You could say all the funny jokes and witty one-liners. But if you’re not genuine, there’s no way of hiding it. Put some heart in your speech. Don’t give the welcome speech like an obligation. Do it as something you’re delighted at doing for someone who means the world to you.

Keep it short

Remember you’re giving the first speech out of many. There are still other activities on the program which must fly. So keep it short, straight the point and informative. It should last 10 minutes at the maximum. This sums up to about 1,000 words when written.

Mention the spouse

Don’t focus only on your half of the couple. Mention their spouse and praise them.

Closing Remark

Encouraging other speakers to follow with their toasts or speeches.Emphasizing the importance of creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

As we conclude this welcome speech, let us extend a warm invitation to other speakers to share their toasts and speeches. Each word spoken contributes to the tapestry of this celebration. Remember, the key is to create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, where every expression of love and joy finds a place. Let us build on the warmth and camaraderie, making this wedding a truly memorable and inclusive experience for all. Cheers to love, laughter, and beautiful moments ahead!

Crafting the Perfect Wedding Welcome Speech Guide

Welcome to our guide on crafting an exceptional wedding welcome speech! In this guide, we’ll explore the importance of a welcome speech, who traditionally delivers it, and the ideal moment to present this warm introduction.

Is a Wedding Welcome Speech Necessary?

A wedding welcome speech is more than just a formality—it sets the tone for the entire celebration. It expresses gratitude to guests, creating a warm atmosphere and enhancing the overall experience. It’s a thoughtful touch that makes everyone feel valued.

Who Does the Wedding Welcome Speech?

Typically, the honor of delivering the welcome speech falls to a key figure such as the bride’s or groom’s parents, the master of ceremonies, or a close friend or family member. Whoever takes the stage should be someone who can convey warmth, gratitude, and excitement.

When Should You Give a Wedding Welcome Speech?

The wedding welcome speech is ideally delivered at the beginning of the reception, just before the festivities kick off. It ensures that everyone feels welcomed and sets a positive vibe for the rest of the celebration. This opportune moment allows guests to settle in, creating a seamless transition into the joyous occasion.

How To Deliver A Wedding Welcome Speech?

There’s really no ‘one size fits all’ to delivering welcome wedding speeches. But there are some “holy grails” that must never be quite neglected. Follow these tips and you’d deliver a welcome wedding speech no one will forget.

Start with something funny

The truth is weddings are solemn and the guests may not be over the ceremony yet. It might take an effort for them to listen to you. Their ears were not made for you after all. So if you want to get them interested, start with something funny.

Harvest the good memories

Do you have some personal experience with the couple? Then narrate it. If you’re closer to one of them, share sweet memories. The guests will be well delighted to know a little more about the couple they’ve come to celebrate.

Give well wishes and advice

The good memories are in the past and they’re about building a future together. So why not give them some bricks in the form of advice? Also, encourage and cheer them up.

Say thank you

Best Welcome Speech for Wedding

“Ladies and gentlemen, family and friends, welcome to this beautiful celebration of love. Your presence here makes this day even more special, and we’re thrilled to share these joyous moments with you.”

What to Say to Welcome at a Wedding

“Good [morning/afternoon/evening], everyone! On behalf of [Couple’s Names], I extend a warm welcome to each of you. Thank you for gracing us with your presence on this joyous occasion.”

Best Opening Line for a Wedding Speech

“As we gather here today to celebrate the union of two incredible souls, let us embark on a journey of love, laughter, and cherished memories. Welcome, and let the festivities begin!”

Wedding speeches are as interesting as you make them. These are wedding welcoming speeches that could make guests howl with laughter or shed a tear. Regardless of who gives the wedding welcome speeches, there are guides to help you pull it off. Thus, we’ve rounded off tips and samples to keep you inspired as you prepare your wedding welcome speech .

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Say 'I do' in Trenton: Couples flock to Ohio town to get married during total solar eclipse

TRENTON, Ohio — The wedding bells are ringing in Trenton as the city prepares for a mass wedding ceremony during the solar eclipse.

“I just got a call at my normal job one day and they said would you like to marry people during the eclipse,” Trenton Mayor Ryan Perry said.

Perry said his administration came up with the idea because they wanted their event to be different and asked him to officiate.

“That’s one big reason why we’re putting this on is that there’s a lot of cities around us doing a lot of events of course, but we looked for something that we would stand out and have people notice us,” he said.

The wedding ceremony and reception will be held at Trenton Community Park. After they say “I do,” they’ll have cake and mementos for the couples and any guests. Perry said he isn’t sure how many people will show up.

“That’s kind of the wild card in all of this, we don’t have a lot of people signed up for this being their first wedding,” Perry said. “We do have people renewing their vows.”

This will be Perry’s first time officiating a wedding — but don’t worry, he’s been practicing his speech.

But will getting married during an eclipse bring these couples extra luck?

WCPO 9 wanted to find out, so we talked with Professional Astrologer Ed Kluska, who has been practicing for over 50 years.

“It gives a lot of extra energy, dynamics, and force, and I would say yes,” Kluska said.

Kluska astrology is a complex practice that gives people an objective way to gain insights into their lives.

“There’s hundreds of factors an astrologer considers assessing a person's life, their personality, and future trends,” Kluska said.

He said getting married during the eclipse has more to do with what day it falls on rather than it being an eclipse. He said April 8, 2024, is a good day to get married.

“Overall that day is not bad,” he said. “There’s many other days that would be far worse than Monday.”

This is what he had to say about the types of couples choosing to get married in Trenton during the eclipse.

“So, there’s a lot of Aries there so any of the couples will likely be adventuresome, just like getting married during an eclipse, they would be outdoors, more physical, athletic, bold,” he said.

Of course, Kluska said the couples have to be compatible in order for them to have a long-lasting marriage. But, just because you get married on a good day, doesn’t mean the marriage will last.

“If you get two people who aren’t compatible and you pick a really good day that may not help them out. So, hopefully these people up in Trenton a lot of them are compatible,” Kluska said.

Perry said couples wanting to get married or renew their vows will just need to bring their marriage license, and the city will provide the glasses. He said anyone can come and watch the ceremony. Perry is asking couples to arrive at 2 p.m., so they can be ready for the ceremony that starts at 3 p.m.

“We’ve had people inquire all the way from Texas and in Maryland,” he said. “We’ve checked with Butler County and they’ve had a lot of increase in marriage license requests here lately.”

Kluska has been tracking the eclipse and looking at what it could mean for people, including if a baby was born.

“That would be a special child,” he said. “This child would be, it’s got … six Aries that’s pretty unusual. So, this child could be very athletic, outdoors, bold, adventurous,” he said.

He also said this child would have an artistic side.

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Wedding Industry Workers Shared Stories About When They Knew Couples Weren’t Gonna Make It

by Matthew Gilligan

I’d imagine that the wedding industry has to be a pretty strange business to work in.

And you can bet that those workers see a lot of things at these events…and not all of them are good.

Check out stories from Reddit users about when they knew that couples getting hitched weren’t going to make it.

“Two that immediately come to mind: Groom would not make any eye contact with the bride. So many photos where she is gazing lovingly at him, and he’s just like 10 yard stare right over the top of her head. Was a tough edit. Groom’s speech included a line about how opposite he is from his bride because “her friends have never even been to Paris!””

“Wedding was on a golf course. Bride had a vision she wanted of her husband driving up on a golf cart to see her for a first look. He got one look at her from the top of the hill and vaulted the cart, ran down the hill, picked her up and twirled her around to tell her how gorgeous she was. We caught it all. It was the best first look ever. Once he set her down she straightened herself and looked back to us. “Okay, I don’t want that. Let’s do the golf cart now.” And she sent him back up.”

“Bride looked visibly miserable the entire ceremony. While photographing the men’s “getting ready” portion, the groom repeatedly kept joking about ******* himself. During the toast, the bride ran off to the bathroom for about 30 minutes and came back wiping her tears with her eyes red and puffy. Neither of them had any chemistry at all, it made no sense why they were together to me. That was the last wedding I shot.”

That was fast.

“One of those hotel venues that can run two weddings at the same time. Bride from our wedding is found in a hotel room with the groomsmen from the other wedding doing coke before the first dance. End result was we got paid and told no need to edit or deliver pics. Safe to say it didn’t last the night.”

Oh, man…

“Went to a wedding during college to my friends that got married who graduated 2 years prior to me. They had a beautiful wedding on a boat off the Keys and as the best man gave his speech, he was really intoxicated by this point, just shouted out, “You don’t deserve her, you literally got a ****** from a stripper, no make that two strippers, at your bachelor party. Peace out.” He dropped the mic and tried to do a dramatic exit but by this point we were all stuck on this boat in the middle of the ocean. It took an hour to get back to port and it was the most awful and awkward hour of our lives for everyone on that boat.””

“This was 15 years ago or so, I left wedding photography a few months later. The reception was at their home, they didn’t want photos at the ceremony, and didn’t want wedding party/family photos between the ceremony and reception triggering the first raise of the eyebrow on my end. At the reception the groom didn’t want his brother, the best man, in the photos. Other eyebrow goes up. The mothers of both the bride and groom both scolded me to let them be and told me to eat instead of take photos. The groom and the best man got unholy drunk and had a weird by play of brother making way too many toasts and the groom making grossly inappropriate speeches of what he’s going to do to the bride on the honeymoon. As the newlyweds were making their grand departure the bride tosses the bouquet, everyone cheers. The groom shouts “I knocked the ***** up so hard she’s got two babies in her ******”. Guest react in various ways of shock and happiness about the pregnancy test but the best man lunges at the groom shouting and swearing. Family holds the best man back as the couple runs out to a car. The groom flipped off the spectators, and pulled out of the driveway. Two houses down the car stops, the groom gets out and pukes on a neighbor’s lawn, the bride gets in the driver’s seat and takes off, leaving her husband yurking into a flower bed, and the best man ran down the street trying to flag down the car. Divorced four months later.”

Not a good sign.

“The engagement session. The couple was in from out of town because she had just taken the bar exam to become a lawyer. At the end of the session, I gave them a prompt to share with each other what they were proud of each other for. He couldn’t think of a single thing. Somehow they still got married, complete with: the groom drinking 11 IPAs + several shots before the ceremony, mother of the bride so intoxicated for family photos she pretended to strip, and the groom and all the groomsmen wearing camo hats with neon orange letters that said ‘****** and beer.’ For the entire wedding day. Including sunset couples photos where he refused to do anything I suggested, nearly spat chew right on my feet, kept farting on purpose, and loudly complained about how all he wanted was to go have ***.”

“I’m a videographer and the groom called me a couple days after the wedding. He wanted me to make sure I didn’t include any footage of him checking out the women at the wedding.”

“Third wedding and the best man, the groom’s brother, starts his speech…. “Well, welcome back everyone. Good to see some new faces and some old ones.””

“My mother was a wedding photographer till I was about 18-19 and I helped out on many of them. The one that stands out the most was when we were at a campsite where both the wedding and reception were being held. About halfway through the reception I hear the groom start laughing maniacally. I peaked over his way and could see two groomsmen hauling the thrashing and screaming bride towards the lake. They threw her into the freezing cold water with her veil and dress still on. When she got out of the water I genuinely thought she might shoot somebody. Saying she looked like a drowned rat would have been an insult to rats. Her hair and makeup and probably the dress were ruined beyond repair. The fact that the groom laughed and didn’t do anything stuck with me as being a lame move even as a teen. Apparently she thought so too because they didn’t even make it 6 months.”

Sounds awful.

“I think my first clue was when the bride showed up with some bad make-up clearly trying to cover her black eye, while most of the rest of the family seemed far more into the free food and booze than the wedding itself. Oh yeah, never paid me either. Classy people.”

“Bride was such a monumental ***** her mom gave me a $500 tip for not walking out on the event when she was treating everyone (even her now husband) like a piece of **** employee. She did the whole clicking fingers thing when wanting someone to do something for her, and she berated the DJ for grabbing a sandwich when he’d been there for about 8 hours and was told that he should’ve brought his own lunch and she would be taking the cost of the food (like an open buffet style) out of his paycheck. They were divorced within 3 years, but not before having 3 kids that have stupid names.”

Sadly… this seems to be the norm, not the exception…

If you thought that was an interesting story, check this one out about a man who created a points system for his inheritance, and a family friend ends up getting almost all of it.

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Couple plan wedding for exact time of total solar eclipse

HOULTON, Maine (WABI/Gray News) - A Maine couple are turning two once-in-a-lifetime events into one giant celebration: their wedding and the total solar eclipse.

Chris Selmek says he was on a cross-country road trip when he realized he belonged in Maine with Stephanie Sennett.

“I proposed to Stephanie on the front porch before I even got into the house. It was the first thing I did when I got here,” Selmek told WABI .

For their wedding, Sennett had a stellar idea: the ceremony would be on April 8, the date of the total solar eclipse.

“I just thought, ‘Oh, that would be such a cool day to get married,’” she said.

At first, Selmek was a little wary, but then, he thought about the once-in-a-lifetime experience and was hooked.

“It just felt like the biggest party in the world. How could you celebrate your wedding in a bigger way than that?” he said.

So, the couple got right to planning, embracing the eclipse theme. Their wedding dress code requires eclipse glasses, and each guest received a pair with their invitation.

“Our colors are navy blue and gold,” Sennett said.

During the ceremony, Sennett will walk down the aisle at the moment of totality when the sun is completely obscured by the moon.

With thousands expected to visit Maine for the eclipse, timing is key.

“I keep thinking about, what if there’s so much traffic, I can’t get there in the time that we want to start the ceremony?” Sennett said.

But she and Selmek agree that the most important part of the day is starting their lives together.

“I came up here, not knowing what I would find, and I found the sweetest girl in the world,” Selmek said.

The couple say they plan to get married April 8, no matter what the weather is like.

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A couple started planning their winery wedding without a set budget. Here's how their $73,000 day came together, from a pricey venue to DIY decor.

High-school sweethearts Julia and Mark Baugh got married on September 3, 2023.
Julia broke down their $73,405 wedding day for Business Insider.
The venue cost $41,000, and the couple DIYed some of their decor.

When Julia and Mark Baugh got engaged, they didn't know much about the cost of a wedding .

They were the first of their friends to get married , meaning they had no real idea of venue prices, how much a floral arch would cost, or what they could expect to pay a videographer.

Julia spoke to Business Insider about how their wedding came together, breaking down the cost of their day.

Julia and Mark Baugh have been together since they were teenagers.

Julia was best friends with Mark's cousin throughout her childhood, but she didn't meet her now-husband until they were teenagers, she told Business Insider.

They finally met when Mark took the duo to get ice cream when Julia was 16 and he was 17. Their connection was instant.

"We've been best friends and dating ever since," Julia said.

Today, the Baughs live in New Jersey, where Julia, now 24, works for a mortgage company, and Mark, 25, works for a health company. Julia also creates content on TikTok .

When they got engaged in 2021, the Baughs didn't know much about weddings.

Mark popped the question in 2021 when he and Julia were 23 and 22.

Julia told BI they were the first of their friends to get engaged , so they didn't know much about weddings as they started planning their day.

"I was never one of those people that was like, 'I can't wait to get married,'" Julia said. "I never really thought about it. So honestly, planning a wedding was kind of a shell shock for me because of how overwhelming and expensive it was."

They set the wedding for September 3, 2023, giving them ample planning time.

As they started planning, Julia and Mark weren't sure how much to budget for their wedding.

Julia and Mark are savers, but they weren't financially planning for their wedding when he popped the question.

"We were actually trying to buy a house when he proposed," Julia said. "So that was really what we were saving for, and then we were like, 'Crap, now we have to save for a wedding.'"

Because they knew so little about the cost of weddings, the Baughs didn't set a budget as they started looking at vendors. Instead, they decided to find a venue that fit their needs, planning to select affordable vendors to complement it.

They fell in love with a winery.

When Julia saw photos of the Renault Winery & Resort in Egg Harbor City, New Jersey, online, she was pretty certain she would get married there.

"When I first saw it, I was like, 'This is it.' But just to appease everyone else, I checked out other ones," Julia said. "But as soon as we got there, my husband and I were like, 'Yep, let's just book it. This is our dream venue.'"

The outdoor space at the property particularly appealed to Julia, as she thought the winery would be the perfect backdrop for their ceremony.

Julia also liked that the venue provided catering and bar services as part of its wedding package.

The venue booking included alcohol, catering, tableware, and linens for the event, so the Baughs didn't have to outsource those services. Julia didn't want to have to worry about additional vendors on the wedding day, so the all-inclusive nature of Renault Winery & Resort appealed to her. It even included the cost of the cake.

"I didn't really want to set up anything on our wedding day," Julia said. "I didn't want to have to worry about bringing alcohol. I didn't want to have to worry about finding caterers."

"I just wanted to be able to enjoy getting ready and not have to worry about setting up, so it made it really easy," she added.

The venue was the priciest aspect of the wedding for the Baughs, and their parents ended up paying for it.

"Our parents split the venue price, which was awesome because we weren't even expecting to have help," Julia said.

Venue cost: $41,000

Julia wanted to invest in florals for the wedding.

Julia decided to go with a garden party theme for the nuptials, which meant flowers would be essential to the decor.

She tapped Bespoke Floral & Event Design to create floral displays with white flowers and a plethora of greenery, choosing the colors based on how photos of the event would look down the road.

"I picked our flower colors because I thought it would always match our home decor," she said. "If I picked pink flowers or whatever color, I would not want to hang the photos if I changed my home decor."

The ceremony included a floral arch, as well as arrangements lining the aisle.

But the Baughs reused the flowers that made a statement at their ceremony to get the most bang for their buck.

In terms of their budget, the Baughs spent a large portion on flowers.

"Flowers were definitely a splurge," Julia said. "I wanted that to be the main focus of the whole day."

However, they were able to get the most out of their investment by reusing flowers throughout the day. For instance, the arch at the altar was repurposed to accent Julia and Mark's sweetheart table, as were several bouquets lining the aisle.

Florals: $12,000

The Baughs also rented furniture to add more seating for their guests.

The Baughs wanted to add more furniture to the venue, specifically a couch and chairs for guests to lounge on throughout the event. Julia said they were particularly useful during cocktail hour.

They chose white couches and chairs with gold accents, as well as a glass coffee table, from Vision Furniture Event Rentals , placing flowers near them so they fit with the event's aesthetic.

"They were just another place to hang out and sit down," she said. "We actually took photos in front of it, which was really fun."

Furniture rentals: $800

To make the day run smoothly, the couple hired a coordinator for the wedding.

The Baughs didn't hire a full wedding planner, as Julia planned much of the day. But they did hire Tutti Belle Events to help them in the final stretch of wedding planning and on the day of the event.

"I pretty much planned the whole thing, and then two months before, she took over and did everything, which was so helpful," Julia said. "I was having a nervous breakdown two months before because I was so nervous, so it worked out."

Looking back at the day, Julia told BI that hiring a day-of coordinator for the wedding was one of the best investments she made in the wedding.

"She did so many things I did not even think of that needed to be done," Julia said.

Coordinator: $2,000

The Baughs added DIY touches to their wedding, which saved them money and brought their vision to life.

For instance, Mark made their welcome sign and brought Julia's vision for the seating chart to life.

"I found two pictures of a seating chart that I wanted to combine," she told BI. "My husband's very handy. He loves doing projects, and he's done a ton of stuff around the house."

So when he offered to make the seating chart for the day using materials they already had at home — making it essentially free — Julia was thrilled. The white, arched board had shelving with seat assignments and small bud vases of flowers. A "find your seat" decal written in cursive completed the sign.

Mark used materials they already had for the welcome sign as well.

"We always say I'm the brains behind the operation, and he does everything," Julia said of herself and her husband.

Seating chart and welcome sign: $100

Julia also designed their menu cards.

Julia made the menu cards herself, working with a printer to bring them to life. She even added a wax seal to the top of them.

Menu cards: $50

The Baughs also added an ice cream cart to their day.

Churn House is a local New Jersey ice cream shop with a churn cart for mobile events that provides ice cream sandwiches.

The brand reached out to Julia about including one of its carts at her wedding after seeing some of her TikTok content.

"Everybody loved it," Julia said of the cart. "The ice cream sandwiches were gone."

"They were such a hit, especially because it was 95 degrees on the day of the wedding," she added.

Churn cart: $650

Julia and Mark's wedding was documented in several ways.

Julia wanted "bright, airy photos" for the wedding, and Amber Dawn Photography was the perfect fit for her vision.

"She was so friendly," Julia said of Amber. "She took the best photos. When we got them back, I was like, 'I could not even imagine them looking this good.'"

Photographer: $5,200

They also hired a videographer.

The Baughs struggled to find a videographer, as many of them were out of their price range.

But then they found Forever Filmworks , which was perfect for their needs.

"I'm so glad we did it because we have the audio," Julia said. "We have the vows. We have all the speeches."

Videographer: $1,900

The Baughs had a content coordinator to document candid moments from the day, too.

In recent years, couples have started hiring people to create content for their weddings, capturing shorter and more behind-the-scenes moments than traditional photographers or videographers often do.

The Baughs tapped Salt Air Socials for the job, so their wedding was covered from as many angles as possible.

Content creator: $475

Music played a big role in the couple's wedding.

The Baughs had live music at their ceremony, hiring Ceremonious Strings for $650 to accompany them.

But their reception had more of a party feel thanks to DJ Treble & Bass Productions , whose services cost $3,000.

Music: $3,650

Julia's wedding dress was a gift, but she paid for her hair and makeup for the nuptials.

Julia's mother bought her a $4,000 Badgley Mischka Bride wedding dress and a $400 veil.

But Julia paid for her hair and makeup herself. Prostyled Bride styled her hair, which cost $250, and her makeup services were provided by Makeup By Brielle for $350.

Mark chose to rent a tuxedo for the wedding, which cost $180.

Dress and veil: $4,400

Hair and makeup: $600

Groom's attire: $180

Julia and Mark hired an officiant, but they said private vows, too.

Mark DeMuro officiated their wedding. Julia told BI he "wrote something cute" for them to say during the ceremony.

But they exchanged more personal vows privately during their first look ahead of the ceremony.

"We are both very shy, so we were very nervous to say vows in front of everyone," Julia said. "So it was really sweet to do it by ourselves."

Officiant: $400

In total, the couple's wedding cost over $73,000.

Though Julia and Mark's parents helped cover some of the costs, the couple still spent $28,000 of their own money on the wedding.

Julia thinks it's important for couples to know the real cost of weddings before they get engaged, which is why she's been open about her budget breakdown on TikTok .

"I feel like a lot of people don't really understand how much of an investment a wedding is," she said. "If you're going to have a big wedding with 150 people, it's going to be a lot of money, and you have to figure out whether that's worth spending the money for you."

"Once you sign those contracts, you can't get out of it," Julia said. "You'll lose a ton of money. So, I think that's my biggest advice for couples. Really just figure out what you want."

"Don't let social media or family members or anything pressure you into doing something because you feel obligated to," she added.

Total: $73,405

Dress: $4,000

Groom's tuxedo: $180

Six months into their marriage, Julia and Mark are closer than ever.

"That's my best friend," Julia said of her husband. "If I don't want to hang out with anybody, we can sit on the sofa together in silence and still just enjoy each other's company."

"He's always been my best friend," she added.

If you want to share the real cost of your wedding with Business Insider for a story, get in touch at [email protected] .

Main content

Total commitment: This Vermont couple will get married during the solar eclipse

Elodie Reed, Vermont Public

Craftsbury couple Leigh and Chris Falzone, pictured here with dogs Luna and Nebi, are planning to get married in Vermont on the day of the total solar eclipse. (Toph Downey via Vermont Public)

There's this essay by Annie Dillard called "Total Eclipse," published in 1982 . In it, she writes: "Seeing a partial eclipse bears the same relation to seeing a total eclipse as kissing a man does to marrying him."

So why not see a total eclipse ... and marry a man on the same day? That’s exactly what Leigh Falzone is doing.

"Quite honestly, we may never have gotten married if this darn eclipse wasn't coming over Vermont," she said.

Leigh and her partner, Chris, met as young lifeguards 17 years ago. Now ages 34 and 39, Leigh says they’re typically anti-traditional and never felt the need to have a wedding celebration.

"We bought a house together first," she said. "I proposed to him a few years ago, we had a baby two years ago."

But then Leigh says there was that 2017 partial eclipse in Vermont: "I watched it in the Tractor Supply parking lot — I bought an $85 welding helmet."

She says that partial eclipse was, in all honesty, a little lackluster. But all the hype about the total eclipse that year drew her in. She went down an internet rabbit hole, watching people watching totality.

"It was like these YouTube videos of this incredible joy and like, ecstasy, that these people were in for two minutes, with no drugs and alcohol... question mark? " Leigh said with a laugh. "That was most moving... I remember not expecting to hear this, like, child-like giddiness from these grown people just standing outside."

Leigh says she wanted to have that experience, too. So she researched the next time Vermont would see totality. And found out she only had to wait another seven years, until 2024.

"I can remember, like, talking about this four years ago with them and her just saying they were gonna get married on this date," said Hannah Schoop, who lives in Elmore and has been friends with the Falzones for more than a decade. "I mean, it's a commitment!"

Hannah Schoop, left, has been friends with Leigh Falzone for more than a decade, and remembers Leigh talking about an eclipse wedding years ago. (Courtesy)

And Leigh is going all in.

"Decor with sun and moon and some twinkly gold lights," she said. "We purchased a ring, and it's a bunch of black diamonds, little black diamonds that look like mini total solar eclipses."

And there's a name for the wedding: "My husband's last name is Falzone. And so the name of the wedding is 'FalZONE of totality.'"

Also, the dress (which we’ll be vague about so we don’t spoil the surprise for Chris the groom): "Definitely kind of showcases the gold total solar eclipse theme that we got going on," Leigh said.

And of course, the music playlist is called "Totality."

"The very first song is 'Bad Moon Rising,'" Leigh said. "Total Eclipse of the Heart" is in there, too.

Leigh Falzone says she's had this photo of a total solar eclipse as her phone wallpaper since 2017, when she started going down the internet rabbit hole about what it was like to experience totality. (Elodie Reed/Vermont Public)

As for food — the Falzones plan to have 100 sugar cookies covered in various amounts of chocolate, made to look like the phases of an eclipse.

"So the question was like, can you — can we do it all? And I think for for this particular order, we were like yes, we need to do this, we want to make this happen," said Tobin Porter-Brown, the owner of the Hardwick cafe Front Seat Coffee.

He says the Falzones’ wedding dessert order is one of several special eclipse-themed bakes they have planned for April 8. They'll have black garlic and cream cheese croissants, Oreo sticky buns, and some sort of macaron.

"I don’t know yet if we're going to be doing different stages of the moon, or just sort of like the totality, in macaron form," Porter-Brown said.

Leigh Falzone says she's hoping to feel joy and ecstasy — and maybe a little fear and uncertainty — during the few moments of totality on April 8, 2024. (Elodie Reed/Vermont Public)

All of these preparations for the eclipse — and in the case of the Falzones, for their wedding — they’re all in anticipation of this rare window where the moon perfectly obscures the sun. Thousands of people are expected to visit Vermont to collectively witness this event.

And it’s that kind of togetherness with family, friends and her partner Chris that Leigh Falzone says should heighten the whole experience.

"I think there's an energy that comes with large groups. … The oohs and ahhs of the crowd, you kind of feed on that," she said.

As it gets dark in the middle of the day, and as the temperature drops, and maybe as Annie Dillard describes in her essay, people start screaming, Leigh says she hopes it feels like the man in a highly-viewed YouTube video. It’s called “Yosemitebear Mountain Double Rainbow 1-8-10.”

In it, a man reacts while filming a vivid double rainbow arcing over mountains. He laughs, he cries, and at one point, he says, "Oh my God, it's so intense."

"Oh, I love it — it moves me to tears," Leigh said. "It clearly just completely took over his psyche. And he had nothing but pure pleasure in this most simple moment — what could be considered a simple moment. So it's like the dichotomy of overwhelming joy and simplicity — I don't know. It's almost unexplainable. But it's worth finding. It’s worth being a totality seeker. "

And for the Falzones, it’s worth planning a wedding for.

On the afternoon of April 8, 2024, skies will darken over Craftsbury — seen here after sunset on Feb. 29, 2024 — as a total solar eclipse passes over the area. (Elodie Reed/Vermont Public)

This story is a production of the New England News Collaborative. It was originally published by Vermont Public.

The Vermonters going all in on the eclipse, from a church to a septic company
A New Englanders' guide to catching the April solar eclipse
Essay: 'When the dragon eats the sun': Why I'll chase the eclipse
This 104-year-old Vermonter will enjoy twice-in-a-lifetime eclipse

More from WBUR

Anya Taylor-Joy Shares Photo of 'Anatomically Correct Heart Cakes' from Her Secret First Wedding Ceremony

T he actress offered a glimpse on Instagram of her New Orleans nuptials, which took place in April 2022 ahead of the couple's second wedding in Venice in October 2023

Anya Taylor-Joy is sharing a glimpse of her vampiric wedding cakes.

To celebrate two years of marriage with her musician husband, Malcolm McRae , the Dune: Part Two star, 27, posted intimate photos and video from her secret 2022 nuptials.

"Two years ago, on April Fools, I secretly married my best friend in New Orleans. The magic of that day is ingrained in every cell of my being, forever," she wrote on Instagram, before giving a sweet shout-out to McRae, 29. "Happy second ( first ) anniversary my love…you’re the coolest🫀."

"N.B yes, those are anatomically correct heart cakes. Yes, I am the vampire Lestat," she joked, referring to a photo featuring two small heart-like cakes displayed on a white plate on either side of a pool of blood-red-colored fruit syrup.

On her Instagram Story, Taylor-Joy shared a clip of herself and McRae crossing arms with each other as they took their first bite of the cakes.

Also within her grid carousel, the Peaky Blinders star included a photo of herself walking through an old cathedral in a tan wedding dress embellished with flowers and birds and a long, floor-sweeping veil. "👗 beautifully embroidered with our love story by @dior ," she noted of her bridal look in her Instagram caption.

Another image showed Taylor-Joy sitting on a couch alongside McRae, Cara Delevingne and another wedding guest, with the four playfully enshrouded in her veil. A short video clip also captured the bride showing off her dress in the candlelit church.

McRae marked the couple's wedding anniversary with an Instagram post of his own. "I love you now and somehow I always have and somehow it will never end. Happy two year anniversary (yesterday), beautiful," he wrote, alongside a pair of wedding photos and a clip of himself and Taylor-Joy chatting and kissing.

Related: Anya Taylor-Joy Marries Boyfriend Malcolm McRae in Starry Venice, Italy Wedding: Report

Following their quiet New Orleans nuptials, the couple said "I do" all over again on a grander scale with a second celebration at the historic Palazzo Pisani Moretta in Venice last October. In photos obtained by the Daily Mail at the time, Taylor-Joy could be seen standing on a balcony at the venue wearing her custom Dior gown.

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

Among the celebrity guests who attended the wedding were Delevingne, Evan Ross , Miles Teller , Nicholas Hoult and Julia Garner .

To cap off the weekend-long affair, a source told PEOPLE that Taylor-Joy and McRae enjoyed a terrace brunch on Sunday at the St. Regis hotel, with sweeping views of the Grand Canal.

Related: Miles Teller's Wife Keleigh Sperry Shares Glamorous Photos from Anya Taylor-Joy's Wedding Festivities in Italy

The pair first met at the March 2021 premiere of Taylor-Joy's acclaimed Netflix series T he Queen's Gambit . Just days after, a clearly smitten McRae — who is a member of the band More — wrote an original song for The Menu star and shared clips of himself performing it on Instagram .

“I wrote this song for Anya two days after meeting her," he wrote in the post's caption. "It’s called ‘Really Want to See You Again.’ "

A year later, in March 2022, the two made one of their first public appearances together at the CAA Pre-Oscar Party in Los Angeles.

In an April 2023 interview with British Vogue , Taylor-Joy opened up about how she found her perfect match in McRae.

“I've finally found someone who will happily sit in silence with me reading," she said.

“I said to my partner the other day that he was my hobby. I see reading as something that I have to do. He loved it because he's the same," she continued. "We're basically 80 years old and 7 at the same time, and it works really well."

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Christopher Polk/NBC/NBC Anya Taylor-Joy (L) and Malcolm McRae (R) at the 2023 Golden Globes

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Wedding Speech
How to Write a Wedding Speech: Examples, Tips, and Advice
11 Pro Tips for Giving the Perfect Wedding Speech
Whether you're the groom, best man, father of the bride or maid of
Wedding Speech
Welcome Speech for Bride And Groom In English for Students and Children

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Wedding Speeches: How To Write, Free Samples + Etiquette Tips
Wedding Quotes for Speeches. "I've seen nothing more satisfying than two people coming together to become one. They share in each other's pleasure, and bear each other's pain. They crush their enemies together and make home with their friends.". "The pain and weight of life vanish from our lives by one word.
Short Wedding Speeches: Tips and Examples That Will Inspire You
Wedding speeches are a long-time tradition of weddings. And, if you have an important role at a wedding, such as best man, father of the bride or maid of honor, you would be expected to give a speech. ... To the couple, may your love be as timeless as the vows you share today and as joyous as the celebration we're all a part of! Here's to ...
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Begin gathering ideas and writing the speech a couple of weeks to a month before the wedding. You'll need time to edit, fine-tune it, and make it concise. And as wedding showers, bachelorette parties, and other wedding festivities begin, you might find there are entertaining stories from these events you want to add as well.
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Wait for your most creative time of the day, and turn off any distractions. Spend some unrushed time thinking about your relationship to the couple, and what you'd like to say.". While there ...
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Wedding Speech Examples
Before you start writing your wedding speech or asking anyone else to speak, it's worth thinking about what style of speech you want at your wedding. ... One couple asked the bride's 84-year-old grandad to say a few words. They didn't want him to get stressed about giving a formal speech so simply asked him to reveal his top five tips for a ...
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If you're truly terrified of speaking to your guests, consider doing some deep breathing exercises for a few minutes before your wedding thank-you speech and using your nervous energy to help keep your speech moving along at a steady pace. And if all else fails and you find yourself freaking out, just grab the microphone for a heartfelt, two ...
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Wedding Welcome Speech: Tips On Writing + Speech Samples
They are taking the first step of their new beginning; their new life together.". "Hello and welcome! May your hearts be glad and your spirits be light. For every thing there is a season and a time for every purpose under Heaven. Now is the time for a wedding.". "Hello everyone and welcome.
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