Wedding Speeches

The first person generally to make a speech is the bride’s father. He will generally be asked to make the speech by invitation of the best man. The bride’s father is not expected to make a long wedding speech. He would likely be expected to say a few well chosen words about his beloved daughter, say a few kind words of appreciation towards the man she has just married and welcome his parents and other members of his family, as well as all the other guests at the wedding.

Next to make a speech is usually the bride groom, again being asked to do so by his best man. He should verbally appreciate the remarks made about himself by the father of the bride. He is expected to give thanks to his own parents for their care and attentions towards him during his childhood years and in his youth. He will thank the guests, on behalf of himself and new wife, for their attendance at his wedding and their gifts, and make a mention of any guests who have been unable to attend owing to illness or infirmity. He is expected to say a few kind words about his betrothed and can add a little sparkle to finish his speech by adding a few witticisms. Before being seated, he might like to say a personal thank you to his best man – followed by thanking, admiring and proposing a toast to the bridesmaids.

The best man acknowledges all the thanks - plus the toast on behalf of the bridesmaids. And then it is his turn to make a good impression with a well rehearsed and appropriate speech. A good best man will have done his homework in advance. Any little snippets of funny incidents, which have happened to the groom in his life time, always go down well with the guests. The best man may remember these occasions himself, having personally been involved in them, - or close friends and family may be able to supply the best man with extra material to put in his speech. The “lighter” and funnier the best man’s speech, the more it will be greatly appreciated by everyone present.

Although traditionally, it is the bridegroom, best man and father of the bride who make the speeches, - if someone else present wishes to also make a speech, or replace one of the traditional speakers, this is perfectly acceptable – and often makes a refreshing change. Usually, these less traditional speakers are fairly well accustomed to making speeches - or they will have something relevant which they feel they wish to mention. This may be something really personal and special relating to the bride or bridegroom – or they may have an amusing anecdote which they personally would like to share with everyone present in the room. But if others wish to stand up and make a speech, their speeches usually precede the best man’s speech. It is wise to advise the best man in advance – so that he can introduce any extra speakers. The grand finale of speeches is usually left to the best man.