How To Write The Best Maid Of Honor Speech For Any Wedding + Free Download
Maid of honor? Best man? Or just a dearly devoted friend? Write the perfect wedding speech…
Wedding toasts. When they’re good, they’re really, really good. But when they’re bad… they’re oh, so terribly bad. Weddings bring out a host of emotions for all involved… love, nostalgia, excitement… emotions bound to bubble up to the surface throughout the night. A beautiful wedding speech captures these emotions and conveys them through moving, inspiring words tailored just for the happy couple. Of course, when emotions — and a couple glasses of Champagne — are involved, things can take an unexpected turn. No one wants to be the one fumbling for words at the mic, so today I’m offering up a few tips to help you craft the perfect wedding toast, whether you’re the maid (or man) of honor, the best man (or woman), or just a really wonderful friend.
Take it seriously. Whether you’ve been specifically asked to give a toast, or simply want to express your love and excitement for the newlyweds, planning ahead is key. In the moment speeches, while theoretically sweet and romantic, have a tendency to go sour. Fast. Start thinking about what you plan to say early, and once you’ve crafted up a few lines, take the time to run your toast by a friend who is also close with the couple — practice makes perfect.
Speak with love. This isn’t the time to tell embarrassing stories, air grievances, or bring up dirty laundry. Craft your toast with the wedding in mind, knowing you’ll be speaking in front of, not only the bride and groom, but also parents, friends, and grandparents (among others). Keep it sweet, loving, and kind, and express your excitement. This isn’t to say you can’t get personal, but be sure it’s coming from a place of love.
Be thorough. After you introduce yourself, be sure to thank the bride(s), groom(s), and their families (if appropriate) for throwing such a fabulous celebration. Add emotional significance — through a quote, a personal touch like a story or memory, or even a song or poem — a sweet sentiment to convey your excitement and love for the couple and how much they mean to you. Raise your glass — “to the happy couple!” — and take a sip (and “awww” with the rest of the room when they kiss”).
Think outside of the box. Standard speech not your thing? Get creative! Sing a special song, write or read a poem or quote, or hey, do a song and dance number! I’m not sure anyone has ever said no to a song and dance number created especially for them.
Still struggling or asked to say a few words at the last minute? Not to worry. If you’re feeling tongue-tied, we’ve whipped a handy little sheet to help you give the perfect wedding speech on the fly. Print it out, fill it in, and keep it tucked away in case of wedding toast emergency:
+ Any tips to pass along to wedding speech givers?
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