7 tips to nail your wedding speech
The speech! We always try to make it moving, funny, and memorable… It can’t be thrown together at the last minute. Stress, emotion, or even a few glasses of alcohol (oops) can all make your mission a bit more complicated. Here are a few tips to help you hit the mark every time and nail the big speech on the big day.
Prepare your speech
Speaking in public makes you nervous? Afraid of being overwhelmed by emotion? Don’t take the risk of improvising at the last moment. Plan ahead by writing your speech out in full before the big day. There’s no secret: the key to success is practicing several times out loud! When the moment arrives, you’ll be able to deliver it without too much stress!
Address the newlyweds
Giving a speech is dreaded by more than one wedding guest. In front of everyone, you’ll need to be funny at times and moving at others to celebrate the couple. No room for improvisation. Jot down ideas and memories on a sheet of paper as early as possible. An effective speech takes work. Think about the couple and what their union naturally inspires in you. Sincerity and simplicity are the keys to success. If you’re closer to the bride, avoid addressing only her, and make sure to highlight the man in her life and the couple they form.
Write down a few keywords
Even if you’re fairly comfortable speaking in public, avoid memory blanks! We recommend using a super-discreet cheat sheet: write only a few important words on your hand or on a small piece of paper.
Use technology or plan some props
You can use family photos and videos to illustrate what you’re saying: a visual aid is always appreciated. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from friends and family—or even ChatGPT. A PowerPoint with a few funny photos, or better yet, a video, always works really well.
If you can play an instrument, try composing a song. This is the moment to show your hidden talents and be original!
Keep it short
A wedding speech can become boring and test guests’ patience if it drags on too long. Don’t forget that several people will take turns doing this, and you need to keep everyone’s attention.
Line up one or more helpers
Stage fright, emotion, or the effect of alcohol... No one is safe from forgetting something! Why not give a copy of your speech to another guest so they can discreetly prompt you if needed? If the emotion is really too strong, that person could even take over in a humorous way. If there are several best men/maids of honor, you can of course give the speech together. That will only reduce the stress.
Balance humor and emotion
Laughter and a few tears are the best ingredients for a successful wedding speech. Strategically, a wedding speech works like any address. The secret: start by surprising, then persuade. A funny anecdote, a powerful memory: the idea is to grab the room’s attention right away. With humor, the speech gradually shifts toward emotion—an opportunity to show your friendship, your bond with the newlyweds, and to wish them all the best for the future. That said, avoid a melodramatic tone. The goal isn’t to make the guests cry either. It’s all about balance.
And you—any good memories, or a good tip about wedding speeches?
