Wedding speeches are a time-honoured tradition, but who says them and when is entirely up to the couple. While traditionally, the bride wouldn't speak, it's becoming more common for brides to make a speech. In fact, at many weddings, it's the couple who gives a joint speech, or the bride who speaks instead of the father. It's your wedding, so it's your choice!
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Who gives a speech | The bride, groom, father of the bride, mother of the bride, best man, maid of honour, or other family members/important guests |
When to give a speech | During the rehearsal dinner, the wedding reception, or during the ceremony |
Speech content | Stories, humour, meaningful tributes, thank yous, and compliments |
Speech length | 3-6 minutes |
Speech preparation | Start early, practise, and brainstorm ideas |
What You'll Learn
Brides are not expected to speak at weddings, but it is becoming more popular
While it is not traditional for brides to make a speech at weddings, it is becoming more common for brides to break with convention and address the room.
At weddings, it is customary for the groom, the father of the bride, and the best man to give speeches. However, this tradition is increasingly being challenged, with more brides choosing to speak at their weddings.
There are no rules or expectations for a bridal speech, and brides can choose when to deliver their speech. They may opt to give a thank-you speech, share a story, or make a toast to their new spouse. Brides can also decide whether to give a separate speech or a joint speech with their spouse.
Some brides may feel nervous about public speaking, but it is their day, and they should feel empowered to speak if they wish. Brides who do choose to speak often find it a meaningful way to express their love and gratitude to their spouse, family, and friends.
Ultimately, whether or not a bride gives a speech at her wedding is a personal choice, and there is no right or wrong answer.
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Brides can choose when to give their speech
Brides can absolutely choose when to give their speech at their wedding. While there are some traditions around wedding speeches, there are no rules, and it's becoming more and more common for brides to make a speech.
If you're a bride who wants to give a speech at your wedding, you can choose to give it at any point during the celebrations. One option is to give your speech at the rehearsal dinner, which is often a more intimate setting with fewer people in attendance. This can be a less daunting option if you're nervous about public speaking, but still want to say a few words. At the rehearsal dinner, you can thank your in-laws, share a story or two, and express your excitement for the wedding day.
If you want to give your speech on the big day itself, you can choose to do so at the wedding reception. As the bride, you can decide to go first and be the one to welcome and thank your guests, or you can opt to speak after the traditional speakers, such as the best man and maid of honor. Giving your speech at the reception allows you to address all your guests at once and share your appreciation for their presence and support.
Remember, it's your wedding, and you can choose when and how you want to address your loved ones. Whether you opt for a heartfelt and emotional speech or a light and funny one, your guests will be eager to hear what you have to say. So, take a deep breath, smile, and enjoy this special moment!
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A bridal speech should be no longer than 6 minutes
While it is not traditional for brides to give a speech at weddings, it is becoming more and more popular for brides to do so. If you are a bride who wants to give a speech, go for it! It's your big day, too!
If you are giving a speech, you should keep it concise. An ideal length for a speech is 900 words, which is around 6 minutes of speaking time. You don't want your speech to drag on, and you have a lot to get through on your big day, so keeping it short and sweet is the best policy.
You can, of course, choose when you want to give your speech. You might want to get in early before the other toasts so you can be the first to thank your wedding party and your new spouse. Or, if you're feeling nervous, you might want to leave it until later in the day when everyone is a little more relaxed.
There are no rules or expectations for bridal speeches, so you can include whatever you like. However, a good formula to follow is:
- Welcome and thank your guests
- Thank your bridal party and family
- Include a hilarious anecdote or story, perhaps relating it to your wedding day
- Finish with a toast
Remember, it's your wedding, so it's entirely up to you whether or not you give a speech. But if you do decide to give one, make sure you keep it to a maximum of 6 minutes!
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A bridal speech should include an anecdote, humour, and meaningful tributes
It's your wedding day, and you want to make a speech. But what should you include? Well, the great thing about a bridal speech is that there are no expectations and no template. However, there are a few key elements that can make your speech memorable and engaging. Here are some tips to help you craft a bridal speech that includes anecdotes, humour, and meaningful tributes:
Anecdotes:
Share a story or two that is meaningful to you and your partner. It could be about how you met, a funny incident during your relationship, or an adventure you went on together. Your guests will love hearing about the special moments that have brought you to this day.
Humour:
Don't be afraid to inject some humour into your speech. It could be a light-hearted joke, a witty one-liner, or a playful anecdote. Humour can help to engage your audience, put everyone at ease, and make your speech more enjoyable. Remember, it's okay if your jokes don't land perfectly – your guests will appreciate your effort and authenticity.
Meaningful Tributes:
Take the opportunity to express your gratitude and pay tribute to the people who have supported you and your partner. Thank your bridal party, family, and friends for their presence and their contributions to your special day. You can also share a heartfelt message with your new spouse, letting them know how much they mean to you.
Here's a suggested structure for your speech:
- Welcome and thank your guests for being a part of your special day.
- Share an anecdote or a funny story related to your wedding day or your relationship.
- Thank your bridal party and family for their support and contributions.
- Include a few love bombs and compliments for your spouse.
- Finish with a meaningful toast to love, marriage, or your future together.
Remember, there are no hard and fast rules for a bridal speech. You can make it as unique and personal as you like. Speak from the heart, and your guests will surely appreciate hearing your voice and your perspective on this momentous occasion.
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Brides can give a joint speech with the groom
Brides can certainly give a joint speech with the groom at their wedding. This is becoming increasingly popular, and it is a great way to shake off outdated traditions and make your wedding your own.
A joint speech is a great way to thank your guests, and to share stories and anecdotes about your relationship. You can make it funny, heartfelt, or a mixture of both. You can also use this opportunity to thank your bridal party and family, and to pay tribute to those who couldn't be there.
If you are nervous about speaking in front of a large group, a joint speech can help to take the pressure off. You can plan and practise your speech together, and feed off each other's energy when it's time to deliver it. It's a good idea to start planning early, and to practise before bed, as this is when your brain is best able to absorb information.
You can also decide when during the wedding day you would like to give your speech. You might want to get in early before the other toasts, or you could give your speech during the reception.
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Frequently asked questions
It's becoming more and more common for brides to make a speech at their wedding. While it's not traditional, it's your big day, so it's entirely up to you!
There are no expectations and no template for bridal speeches, but there are a few things you might like to include. Generally, it's stories, humour and meaningful tributes. It's a good opportunity to thank your bridal party and family, and to share a few memories of your relationship.
Keep it punchy! An ideal length is 900 words, or 6 minutes speaking time. Any jokes you're unsure about? Leave them out.
There are no traditions or expectations, so you can choose when to give your speech. You might like to get in early, before the other toasts, so you can be first to thank your wedding party and your new spouse.