Being the best man at a wedding is a big responsibility, and one of the main duties is to deliver a memorable speech. While it should be entertaining, it also needs to include a sincere tribute to the groom. It's important to strike a balance between humour and sincerity, and one way to do this is to share heartfelt stories that also reveal the groom's positive qualities. For example, if the groom is known for being intelligent, you could say: “Of course, marriage for everybody is a major adjustment. For example… before today, as a smart single man, Paul had the answers to everything. Now, as a married man, he has the answers to nothing. It's also a good idea to express your approval of his choice of bride and pay tribute to her efforts in organising the wedding.
What You'll Learn
Highlight the groom's best qualities
As the best man, your speech is a big deal, not just for the groom but for the bride too. It's your chance to make her feel truly special and welcome her into your crew. It's also your opportunity to show your appreciation for your friend and highlight his best qualities. Here are some tips to help you craft a speech that does justice to your friend and the incredible man he is:
- Kindness and Generosity: "In the [number of] years that I've known [groom], I've experienced nothing but kindness, support, and encouragement from him. He's always been there to lend a helping hand, whether it's giving advice or just being a great friend. I don't think I know anyone more generous, and I know his generosity will extend to his new life with [bride]."
- Intelligence and Wit: "The groom has always been known for his intelligence and quick wit. He's the kind of guy who always has the answers and can make even the most boring story hilarious. His intelligence and humour have won him many admirers, and I know his new wife will benefit from these qualities as well."
- Entrepreneurial Spirit: "I've known the groom for a long time, and I've been a first-hand witness to his wild and adventurous schemes. He's always been a visionary, chasing new ideas and ventures with passion and determination. Although some of his early business initiatives didn't pan out, he never gave up and eventually triumphed in the most important endeavour of all – winning over [bride]."
- Compassion and Empathy: "One of the things that stands out about the groom is his compassion and empathy. He's always been the first to offer support and a shoulder to cry on. He has a unique ability to connect with people and make them feel understood. His kindness and empathy will undoubtedly make him an amazing partner to [bride]."
- Loyalty and Friendship: "The groom is one of the most loyal and trustworthy friends I've ever had. He's always been there for me through thick and thin, and I know he'll be there for [bride] in the same way. His unwavering loyalty and deep sense of friendship are qualities that make him an exceptional person and will undoubtedly contribute to a strong and loving marriage."
Remember to be sincere and speak from the heart. Share specific examples and anecdotes that showcase the groom's best qualities. Your words will not only honour your friend but also create a lasting memory for the happy couple.
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Share a funny story about the groom
Sharing a funny story about the groom is a great way to add some humour to your best man speech. Here are some tips and examples to help you craft a funny and engaging story:
- Choose a story that is relatable and not too inside-jokey. You want to make sure that most of the guests will understand and find the story entertaining. Avoid stories that are too personal, embarrassing, or involve the groom's exes.
- Keep the story concise and to the point. You don't want to ramble on for too long and lose the attention of the audience. Aim for a story that is around 30 seconds to 1 minute in length.
- Make sure the story has a clear beginning, middle, and end. It should have a clear structure that is easy for the guests to follow.
- Add humourous details and exaggerate certain elements to make the story more entertaining. Embellish the story slightly to make it funnier, as long as it doesn't veer too far from the truth.
- Practice your delivery. Work on your timing, body language, and facial expressions to enhance the humour of the story.
"For those who don't know me, I'm Dave, the groom's childhood friend and self-appointed taste police. You see, the groom and I go way back, and I've had the honour of witnessing his fashion evolution—or should I say revolution. From his early days of questionable fashion choices to his current dapper self, it's been a wild ride. I still remember the time he showed up to a school dance in a bright purple suit, thinking he was the epitome of cool. Thankfully, his style has improved significantly since then, and now he's rocking a much more sophisticated look. Although, I must admit, that purple suit had a certain charm to it."
"Speaking of the groom's unique sense of style, I have to mention the time we went on a double date. The groom, always one to make a statement, decided to wear his bright orange pants—his lucky pants, as he called them. Little did he know, his date was also planning to wear orange. As they say, great minds think alike! Unfortunately, their outfits didn't exactly complement each other, and they ended up looking like a pair of walking traffic cones. It was quite the sight, and we still laugh about it to this day."
"The groom and I go way back, and I've had the pleasure of witnessing his culinary journey—or lack thereof. You see, the groom used to be what you might call a "culinary disaster." I still remember the first time he attempted to cook for his then-girlfriend. He decided to make a romantic dinner, but let's just say it ended up being a disaster. He somehow managed to burn the pasta, and the kitchen looked like a war zone. Despite his best efforts, his date was less than impressed. Luckily, his cooking skills have improved since then, and he can now whip up a decent meal without setting off the fire alarm."
"One of the groom's most memorable adventures involved a road trip we took together. We set off with high spirits and a fully loaded cooler. Everything was going well until we got a flat tire in the middle of nowhere. As we struggled to change the tire, the groom managed to lock the keys in the car, leaving us stranded. To make matters worse, it started pouring rain. We ended up soaked, covered in grease, and laughing hysterically at our misfortune. It was a true test of our friendship, and we still laugh about that chaotic day."
"The groom has always been a bit of a daredevil, and one of his most daring exploits involved skydiving. He decided to take the plunge—literally—and signed us up for a skydiving adventure. As we soared through the sky, I could see the excitement and fear in his eyes. When it was his turn to jump, he froze. It took a lot of encouragement, but eventually, he took the leap. As we floated back down to earth, he looked at me with a mix of relief and triumph. It was a memorable experience, and we still laugh about the look of sheer terror on his face as he jumped out of that plane."
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Compliment the groom's appearance
Complimenting the groom on his appearance is a great way to make him feel special on his big day. Here are some ideas to craft your speech:
Highlight the groom's unique style:
"I have to say, [Groom], you really know how to make an entrance. Your style and charisma always make you stand out, and today is no exception. That suit/tuxedo is an excellent choice, and you're wearing it with confidence. You've always had a keen eye for fashion, and it shows today as you embark on this new chapter of your life."
Mention his beaming smile:
"Your smile, [Groom], is infectious, and it's shining brighter than ever today. It's a smile that has brought joy to so many, and it's a reflection of your warm and friendly personality. It's a smile that first captivated [Bride], and it continues to light up the room. Your joy and happiness are contagious, and we can all feel the positive energy you bring to this celebration."
Compliment his dashing good looks:
"Well, [Groom], you've always been a handsome devil, and today you've taken it to a whole new level. That dashing look, with your hair styled to perfection and your confident posture, has left us all impressed. [Bride] must be feeling incredibly proud to have you by her side, and I must say, you two make a stunning couple. Your good looks are only outshone by your kind heart and the love you have for [Bride]."
Praise his attention to detail:
"The attention to detail you've shown, [Groom], is remarkable. From the perfectly chosen outfit to the way you've styled your hair, it's clear that you've put thought into every aspect of your appearance. It showcases your dedication and commitment to making this day memorable. The effort you've put into looking your best is a testament to the importance of this occasion, and it's safe to say you've left us all impressed."
Comment on his radiant happiness:
"The happiness and joy radiating from you, [Groom], are truly something special. Your smile and positive energy are infectious, and they reflect the love and excitement you feel on this momentous day. It's a pleasure to see you so happy and content as you begin this new chapter of your life with [Bride] by your side. Your happiness is contagious, and it adds to the wonderful atmosphere of this celebration."
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Talk about the groom's family
Talking about the groom's family is a great way to compliment the groom in your best man speech. Here are some ideas to help you craft your speech:
Introduce Yourself and Your Relationship with the Groom
Start by introducing yourself to the audience, especially if you're not well-known to the groom's family. Mention how you know the groom and for how long. This will establish a connection with the audience and help them understand your role in the groom's life. For example: "For those who haven't met me yet, I'm Chris, and it's an honour to be the best man at Mark's wedding. Mark and I go way back to our secondary school days, and I've had the privilege of witnessing his incredible journey."
Share Stories and Anecdotes about the Groom's Family
Share fond memories or funny anecdotes about the groom's family, especially his parents or siblings. Talk about their close bond, their dynamic, or any heartwarming stories that showcase their family values. For instance: "I still remember the first time I met Mark's parents, Fran and Andy. Mark's mum welcomed me with open arms, and his dad, well, let's just say he gave me a slight heart attack when he made a witty comment about my big eyes. But in all seriousness, Mark comes from a wonderful family, and I'm grateful to have them in my life as well."
Highlight the Groom's Family Values
Discuss the values the groom has learned from his family and how they have shaped him into the person he is today. This can include their work ethic, their sense of humour, their generosity, or any other admirable traits. For example: "Mark, your parents have instilled in you a strong work ethic and a generous spirit. I've always admired how you're willing to go the extra mile for those around you, and I know your family has played a significant role in cultivating those values."
Express Gratitude towards the Groom's Family
Take the opportunity to thank the groom's family for their support, love, and contribution to the wedding. This will not only compliment the groom by showcasing the positive influence of his family but also honour his family directly. For instance: "I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Mark's parents for their unwavering support and love. They have welcomed me into their family with open arms, and their contribution to this wedding has been invaluable. Mark, you are who you are today because of the incredible family you have."
Share a Heartwarming Story about the Groom and His Family
Recount a story that showcases the groom's relationship with his family, especially if it's a heartwarming or humorous moment. This could be a time when they supported him through a difficult period, a family tradition they hold dear, or a specific incident that demonstrates their strong bond. For example: "I recall a time when Mark was going through a challenging period, and his family stood by his side unconditionally. They provided him with the strength and guidance he needed to overcome those obstacles. It's heartwarming to see the unbreakable bond they share."
Remember to keep your speech sincere and meaningful while injecting humour tastefully. The key is to strike a balance between humour and sincerity, ensuring that your jokes come from a place of love and respect.
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Wish the couple well
Wishing the couple well is an essential part of the best man's speech. It's a chance to show your support for their union and to offer them your blessings and best wishes for the future. Here are some tips and examples to help you craft this section of your speech:
Express Your Support and Well Wishes
Offer your sincere blessings and wish the couple a bright future together. You can say something like:
"May your marriage be filled with love, laughter, and everlasting happiness. Cheers to the happy couple!"
"I wish you both a lifetime of love, joy, and endless adventures together. May your bond grow stronger each day."
"To the newlyweds, thank you for honouring me with the role of best man. I raise my glass to your future together, filled with all the blessings and joys of marriage. Cheers!"
Tie It Back to the Couple
Make your wishes personal by tying them back to the couple's unique relationship. You can reference their love story, shared interests, or inside jokes. For example:
"You two are the definition of soulmates, and your love has inspired us all. May your marriage be as extraordinary as your love story. Cheers to the happy couple!"
"Your love has already taken you on so many adventures, and I know this is just the beginning. Here's to a lifetime of new experiences, shared dreams, and unending love. Congratulations!"
"I still remember when you first met and the spark between you was undeniable. Today, that spark has grown into a bright flame. May your love continue to burn brightly and guide you through a long and happy life together."
Include a Toast
Typically, the best man's speech concludes with a toast to the couple. This is a time-honoured tradition and a great way to involve the guests in celebrating the newlyweds. Raise your glass and invite everyone to join you in wishing the couple well:
"Please join me in raising a toast to the newlyweds. To Sarah and Steve, may your love endure through all life's challenges and triumphs. Cheers to a lifetime of happiness!"
"Let's raise a glass to the happy couple! May your marriage be filled with joy, laughter, and ever-growing love. Congratulations!"
"I invite everyone to stand and raise a toast to the wonderful couple. To your enduring love, shared dreams, and a lifetime of blessings. Cheers!"
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Frequently asked questions
It's important to strike a balance between being heartfelt and avoiding over-the-top praise. You can do this by sharing specific examples of the groom's best qualities, such as his kindness, intelligence, or entrepreneurial spirit. For instance, you could say something like: "I've known the groom for a number of years, and I can honestly say he's one of the most generous people I know. Generous in giving help, in advice, or in the pub. That last one might have to change now that he's married, but only from tomorrow."
To make your compliments sound more sincere, it's a good idea to share personal stories or anecdotes that showcase the groom's positive qualities. For example, if the groom is known for his sense of humour, you could share a funny story that highlights his wit and leaves the wedding guests laughing.
Here are some examples of compliments you can give, tailored to the groom's unique qualities:
- "In the sixteen years that I've known Paul, I've known nothing but kindness, support, and encouragement from him. Discussions with Paul are always lively, direct, and honest – I don't believe he has lied once in his life."
- "John, you're the only friend who shares my fascination with Elon Musk. You're the one person who makes me feel better about my DIY skills. You still give cool music suggestions."