Best Man Speech: Sign Off With A Bang

Being the best man at a wedding is a huge honour, but it also comes with a lot of pressure – especially when it comes to making a speech. While there are many ways to end a best man's speech, the most important thing is to leave the newlyweds and their guests feeling happy and inspired. Whether you're wrapping up with a joke, a heartfelt send-off, or a toast, your ending should be short, positive, and family-friendly.

Thank the family, couple, and new wife

Thanking the family, couple, and new wife is an essential part of a best man's speech. Here are some ideas on how to craft this section:

Thanking the Family:

Start by recognizing the parents of the bride and groom, as they are often the hosts and have worked hard to make the wedding a success. You can express your gratitude for their hospitality and the effort they put into raising their children and planning the wedding. For example:

> "I'd like to recognize some pretty important people in the audience today, and as a matter of fact... without them, we wouldn't be here. That would be [groom's parents' names] and [bride's parents' names]! To all of you, thanks for making today happen! I know you've worked hard – all the way from raising two of the finest people I know – to working through the entire wedding planning, which resulted in this beautiful event! Here's to a job well done!"

Thanking the Couple:

The best man's speech should primarily focus on the groom, but it's also essential to include the bride and celebrate their union. You can talk about how the groom has changed for the better because of the bride, how happy they make each other, and how they complement each other. Here are some examples:

> "Seriously, when [groom] met you, [bride], everyone could see just how happy that made him. He’s always been a great bloke waiting for the right girl, and everyone who knows you both will tell you just what a great couple you are together. [Groom], I couldn’t be happier for you today. We’ve known each other for such a long time, and I hope that friendship lasts for many more years to come."

> "Cassie, can I just say that you look absolutely beautiful today; I think we can all agree, [groom] is one lucky guy. I have seen over the years just how happy you have made my old friend, and just how much you have helped him change his life for the better. He’s always been a great guy, but now he has wider horizons and a greater sense of adventure. And I know just how much of a support you’ve been to him through tough times. I think you are a great couple, and I look forward to many more happy times together in the future."

> "To the happy couple — may your love be as enduring as [groom's name]’s legendary hangovers, and may your life together be filled with adventure, joy, and slightly fewer tequila shots. Cheers!"

> "Here’s to [groom], the man who still thinks ‘Netflix and chill’ means watching Netflix… and to [bride], who loves him anyway. May your marriage be filled with laughter, love, and slightly better communication! Cheers!"

Thanking the New Wife:

While it's important to thank the bride and celebrate her role in the groom's life, be cautious not to upset her by mentioning former conquests or love interests. Instead, focus on the positive impact she has had on the groom and their future together. For example:

> "But when he’s not trying to track the dark forces behind his least favourite football club in the world, [groom] also likes to go on holiday. Now, going on holiday is nothing new, but the way he goes about it now is very different from the [groom] of old. Thanks to his beautiful new wife, [bride], [groom] now does something called globe-trotting, which actually involves going to lots of different far-flung countries and immersing himself in their culture, rather than a two-hour flight and immersing himself at the bar."

> "Ali, I know you make Neil incredibly happy – he’s stopped dressing like a middle-aged freak. But seriously, you both make a great couple, and I know that he’ll already have the next few years planned out on spreadsheets, but if you can fit me in, I’ll look forward to spending a lot more happy times together."

Remember, the key is to be sincere, warm, and funny, and to avoid any edgy or offensive remarks. Keep the focus on the couple and their happiness, and you'll deliver a memorable and meaningful best man's speech.

Include a light-hearted or comical observation about marriage

Including a light-hearted or comical observation about marriage is a great way to end your best man speech. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Comical Observations about Marriage

• "There is an old wedding day tradition that says the bride must wear something new, something old, something borrowed, and something blue. To ensure that tradition is followed, I would like to make a special presentation to [Bride]. It's old, borrowed, and blue, and I figure [Groom] is new enough as her husband to cover the new. These should come in especially handy tonight when the newlyweds retire to their hotel room. [Bride], here are some slightly used blue socks for you."
• "I have a telegram here for [Groom] from his bank manager, who sends his deepest apologies but sadly can't be with you today... but will definitely be seeing you after the honeymoon."
• "In a few short hours, [Groom] and [Bride] will be making their way to the airport for a wonderful two weeks in tropical paradise. But while they are sunbathing on sugar-white sand or paddling in a bath-warm ocean, my advice to them is that a good honeymoon is far more like something much closer to home – a dining table with a roast chicken on it... four bare legs and no drawers, with some breast, some leg, and plenty of stuffing."
• "Later on tonight, when the music starts, you might get to see [Groom]'s limbo dance. He learned it trying to get into the paid toilets at Waterloo station."
• "On behalf of the bride and groom, I would like to thank everyone here for sharing in this unique and special day, particularly those who have travelled long distances. I know that [Groom] and [Bride] will never forget it. But speaking personally, and perhaps slightly selfishly, I wish that you had all stayed at home because things would have been a lot easier on me."

Light-Hearted Observations about Marriage

• "There is nothing more noble or admirable than watching two incredible people come together as one in the unity of marriage. As your friends and family, we delight in your marriage and offer our encouragement and support. Here is a toast to a long life filled with adventure, love, and cherished moments."
• "May your marriage be as enduring as [Groom]'s legendary hangovers, and may your life together be filled with adventure, joy, and slightly fewer tequila shots. Cheers!"
• "To the happy couple – may your love be as enduring as [Groom]'s legendary hangovers, and may your life together be filled with adventure, joy, and slightly fewer tequila shots. Cheers!"
• "Please join me in raising a glass to the happy couple – to [Groom] and [Bride]."
• "I'd like you all to join me in wishing the new Mr and Mr/Mrs [Groom's Surname] all the wealth, health, and happiness in the world. To the newlyweds!"
• "To my best friend and his beautiful partner: the new Mr and Mrs/Mr [Groom's Surname]."
• "Please make sure your glasses are charged and join me in toasting the new Mr and Mrs/Mr [Groom's Surname]. Ladies and gentlemen, to the happy couple!"
• "They say you don't marry the person you can live with, you marry the person you can't live without. That sums up [Groom] and [Bride] perfectly. To the happy couple."
• "Here is a toast to a perfect couple – to a long life together filled with happiness, adventure, and lots of wonderful memories."
• "To [Groom] and [Bride] – here is to a lifetime of love and happiness."
• "Raise your glass and join me in a toast to [Groom] and [Bride] – may you always be friends as well as lovers."

Reference an anecdote about the groom

The best man's speech is a chance to share a few stories about the groom and his life, and it's a great opportunity to get everyone laughing. It's important to keep things lighthearted and positive, and to avoid any stories that might embarrass the groom or upset the bride.

• A story about how you met: This is a great way to introduce yourself and your relationship with the groom. It can be funny or heartfelt, and it will give the audience some context for the rest of your speech. For example, "I first met John when we were both working at a summer camp during college. I was immediately drawn to his sense of humour and his incredible talent for impressions. Little did I know that years later, I would be standing here as his best man."
• A story about a shared interest or hobby: This could be anything from sports to video games to cooking. It will show the audience a different side of the groom and give them a glimpse into your friendship. For example, "One of my favourite memories with John is when we attempted to bake a cake together. We followed the recipe to a T, but somehow, the cake ended up tasting like soap. We had to throw it out, but we still had a lot of fun trying to salvage it."
• A story about a trip or vacation you took together: This is a great opportunity to share a funny travel story or a memorable adventure you had with the groom. For example, "A few years ago, John and I went on a road trip across the country. We had some unforgettable experiences, like the time we got lost in the woods and had to rely on our scouting skills to find our way back to civilisation."
• A story about the groom's accomplishments or achievements: This could be a story about his career, a personal goal he achieved, or even a silly bet he won. For example, "John has always been determined and hardworking. I remember when he set his mind to running a marathon, and despite facing some challenges along the way, he trained consistently and completed the race with an impressive time."
• A story about the groom's impact on others: This could be a story about how he has helped or inspired others, or how he has made a positive difference in your life or the lives of those around him. For example, "John has always been there for me through thick and thin. When I was going through a difficult time, he offered his support and helped me get through it. His kindness and generosity have made a lasting impact on me, and I know he will continue to be a source of strength for his wife as well."

Remember to keep your anecdotes brief and focus on highlighting the groom's positive qualities. Your speech should be a celebration of his marriage and a reflection of your friendship.

Wish the couple happiness and a bright future

Ending your best man's speech with a wish of happiness and a bright future for the couple is a great way to leave a lasting impression on the newlyweds and the guests. Here are some ideas to help you craft a meaningful and memorable conclusion:

Express Gratitude and Appreciation

Begin your closing remarks by expressing gratitude towards the couple, their families, and the guests. A heartfelt "thank you" is a simple yet powerful way to show your appreciation and set a positive tone for the rest of your ending.

Offer a Toast to the Couple

Transition into a toast, inviting all the guests to raise their glasses to honour the newlyweds. This is a traditional and effective way to signal that your speech is coming to an end. You can simply say, "Please join me in raising a glass to the happy couple."

Wish Them a Bright Future

Conclude by offering your sincere wishes for the couple's future together. You can speak about their love, happiness, adventure, and all the wonderful experiences you hope they will share. Here are some examples:

• "Here's to a lifetime of love, joy, and cherished memories for [Couple's Names]."
• "May your marriage be filled with laughter, love, and endless adventures. Cheers to the wonderful couple!"
• "To a future filled with love, happiness, and all the best life has to offer. Congratulations, [Couple's Names]!"
• "May your love continue to grow and flourish. Here's to a lifetime of blessings, joy, and wonderful memories for [Couple's Names]."
• "To [Couple's Names], may your marriage be as strong and enduring as the drinks in your hands. Cheers!"
• "To the happy couple, may your love be as enduring as time itself, and may your journey together be filled with joy, laughter, and all your heart's desires."

Keep it Short and Sincere

Remember to keep your ending concise and heartfelt. Speak from the heart, and your words will leave a lasting impression. Avoid marriage advice, especially if you're single, as it may come across as insincere. Instead, focus on offering your support, well-wishes, and a positive send-off for the newlyweds.

Raise a toast to the couple

The best man's speech is one of the highlights of a wedding, and ending it with a toast to the newlyweds is a great way to send the couple off with the audience's blessings. Here are some tips and examples to help you craft a memorable and effective toast:

Keep it Brief and Snappy

Toasts should be short and to the point. A snappy toast will ensure that you leave a lasting impression on the couple and the audience. Focus on delivering a clear and concise message that captures the essence of your wishes for the couple.

Be Heartfelt and Positive

Speak from the heart and offer your sincere support and well-wishes for the couple's new life together. You can wish them a lifetime of love, happiness, adventure, and cherished moments. It's essential to maintain a positive tone throughout your toast, even if you've included light-hearted jokes earlier in your speech.

Reference the Couple

Direct your toast specifically to the couple. You can use their names and even include a playful reference to an inside joke or a theme from your speech. This will make the toast more personal and engaging. For example, "To Peter and Paul, may your marriage be filled with laughter and love, and may your senses of humour never fail you!"

Call for a Toast

Indicate to the audience that your speech is coming to a close by asking them to join you in a toast. This can be as simple as saying, "Please join me in raising a glass to the happy couple." If you prefer a more subtle approach, you may choose to omit this explicit call and simply pause, pick up your glass, and direct your final words to the couple.

Examples of Toasts

"Here's to a lifetime of love and happiness for the two of you. May your marriage be filled with joy, laughter, and everlasting love. Cheers to the beautiful couple!"

"To the happy couple, may your love endure and flourish. May your lives together be filled with wonderful adventures, shared dreams, and everlasting friendship. Congratulations and cheers to the newlyweds!"

"To the bride and groom, may your love be the anchor that steadies you through life's storms. May your marriage be a source of strength and joy for both of you. Raise your glasses and join me in toasting the new Mr. and Mrs. [Couple's Last Name]!"

"It's been an honour to stand here today as the best man and share in this special day. I wish the newlyweds all the best in their future together. May your love be as strong as the drinks in your hands, and may your marriage be filled with laughter and lasting memories. Cheers to the happy couple!"

Frequently asked questions