Choosing Your Wedding Speakers: A Guide

Planning a wedding involves a lot of work, and one of the most important tasks is deciding who to invite to speak at the event. The right speaker can be a real attention-getter and elevate the entire occasion. But how do you go about inviting someone to speak at your wedding? This guide will take you through the process, from finding potential speakers to crafting a compelling invitation.

Who to invite to speak at your wedding

When it comes to deciding who to invite to speak at your wedding, there are a few traditional options to consider, as well as some more modern alternatives. Here are some ideas to help you choose:

The Best Man and Maid of Honour

Traditionally, the best man and maid of honour give a toast at the reception, usually just before dinner is served. These speeches typically include an introduction, an explanation of the speaker's relationship to the groom, congratulations to the newlyweds, a funny story or anecdote, and a toast to the couple's future. If either the best man or maid of honour is uncomfortable with public speaking, you can ask them to speak at the bachelor or bachelorette party instead and choose someone else to speak at the wedding.

Parents of the Couple

It is also common for at least one parent to give a speech at a wedding. Traditionally, this would be the father of the bride, as he is often seen as the host, especially if he is paying for the wedding. However, modern couples may choose to have one parent from each side speak or even have the parents give a joint speech. This speech usually includes a welcome, a heartfelt anecdote about the couple, and perhaps some words of wisdom.

The Couple

The bride and groom may also choose to give a speech, either individually or together. This is a chance to thank guests for attending and to express their appreciation for everyone's presence and support.

Other Wedding Party Members

If you have other wedding party members, such as bridesmaids or groomsmen, you may want to consider asking them to speak, especially if the best man or maid of honour is unable or uncomfortable with public speaking.

Other Family Members and Friends

You may also want to invite other family members or close friends to speak at your wedding, especially if they have played a crucial role in your life. This could include siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, or anyone else who has supported you on your journey to this milestone.

Remember, the choice of speakers is ultimately up to you and your partner. You can follow traditions or create your own unique lineup of speakers to make your wedding day memorable and special.

How to find free speakers

When it comes to finding free speakers for your wedding, there are a few approaches you can take. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Determine the Purpose and Topics of Your Wedding

Before you begin your search, it's essential to have a clear understanding of the purpose and themes of your wedding. This will help you create a speaker profile that outlines the ideal candidate's knowledge and expertise. For example, if you want to include a speech about your love story, you might look for someone who is an expert on relationships or has experience in public speaking. This will ensure that your speaker can provide valuable insights and engage your guests effectively.

Reach Out to Local Public Speaking Groups

Contact public speaking groups in your area, such as Rotary or Toastmasters. These organisations often have members who are willing to share their experiences and expertise at events, and they may be happy to do so for free. It's a great way to find local speakers who are passionate about your wedding themes and can connect with your guests on a personal level.

Utilise Your Network and Word-of-Mouth Recommendations

Tap into your network by sending emails to your contacts within different organisations. Ask if they can provide any recommendations or leads on free speakers. Word-of-mouth referrals can be powerful, as these speakers often have relevant knowledge, and your community is more likely to respond positively to someone they know or who comes recommended.

Online Searches and Speaker Platforms

The internet is a valuable resource for finding free speakers. Explore websites like GigMaster, American Speakers, Brooks International, and Speaker Match Speaker's Bureau. These sites allow you to search for speakers by location, topic, and fee. Even if you come across speakers who usually charge a fee, it's worth reaching out to explain your situation and the impact their presence would have. They may be open to waiving their fee for your special day.

Offer Something in Return

Remember that even if a speaker agrees to speak for free, it's only fair to offer them something in return. This could be in the form of covering their travel expenses, providing accommodation if they are from out of town, or assigning a personal assistant to take care of their needs during their time at your wedding. Speakers will appreciate knowing that their efforts are valued and that they will be well taken care of.

Create a Compelling Invitation

Craft a formal and personalised invitation that grips the reader and showcases your appreciation for their potential contribution. Explain why you have chosen them specifically, outlining how their presence will enhance your wedding and benefit the guests. Be sure to include all the necessary background information, such as the date, time, location, and any other relevant details. A well-crafted invitation will increase the likelihood of a positive response.

How to write a proposal/invitation for speakers

Writing a proposal or invitation for a speaker to attend your wedding can be a challenging task. Here are some tips and guidelines to help you craft a compelling and effective invitation:

Identify the Purpose and Topics of Your Wedding

Before inviting speakers, it is crucial to determine the purpose and themes of your wedding. This will help you define the criteria for your ideal speaker. Consider what type of expertise or perspective you want the speaker to bring to the event. For example, if you're planning a wedding with a specific theme or unique elements, you might want to find someone who specialises in that area. Understanding the purpose and topics of your wedding will make your search for the right speaker much easier and more targeted.

Find the Right Speaker

There are several strategies you can use to find potential speakers for your wedding:

• Look for well-known individuals in your local area. This could include local celebrities or experts in their field who have knowledge of weddings and can offer unique insights.
• Reach out to public speaking groups or organisations in your community, such as Rotary or Toastmasters. These groups often have members who are experienced speakers and may be willing to speak at your wedding.
• Tap into your network and utilise word-of-mouth recommendations. Ask your contacts if they know of any good speakers who would be a good fit for your wedding. This approach can help you find speakers who are not only knowledgeable but also come highly recommended.
• Conduct online searches. The internet is a vast resource for finding speakers. Explore websites like GigMaster, American Speakers, Brooks International, and Speaker Match Speaker's Bureau, which allow you to search for speakers by location, topic, and fee.

Craft a Compelling Invitation

When inviting a speaker to your wedding, it's essential to send a well-crafted, formal invitation. Here are some key elements to include:

• Outline the reasons why you've chosen them: Explain why you believe they are the best person to speak at your wedding. Highlight their expertise, experience, or unique perspective that aligns with your wedding's purpose and themes.
• Reflect your values: Ensure that the invitation reflects the values of you and your partner, as well as your wedding's overall theme or atmosphere. This will give the speaker a sense of what to expect and how to tailor their message.
• Provide clear and easy-to-read content: Make sure your invitation is concise, clear, and respectful. Include all the necessary background information about your wedding, such as the date, time, location, and any relevant themes or topics you want the speaker to address.
• Offer something in return: It is considerate to offer something to a speaker who is willing to speak at your wedding for free. This could be in the form of covering their travel expenses, providing accommodation if they are from out of town, or assigning a personal assistant to take care of their needs during their time at the wedding.

Sample Invitation

> Dear [Formal Title and Name of Speaker],

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> We hope this invitation finds you well. We are honoured to invite you to be the guest speaker at [Wedding of Bride's Name and Groom's Name] on [Date] at [Venue] in [Location]. We believe that your expertise and experience in [Relevant Field or Topic] will greatly enhance our wedding celebration.

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> Our wedding will be a joyous occasion attended by [Expected Number of Guests], including family and friends from near and far. We want to create a memorable experience for everyone present and believe your contribution will be invaluable.

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> We understand that you generously offer your speaking services without charge. However, as a token of our appreciation, we would be delighted to cover any travel expenses you may incur. Additionally, we will assign a member of our wedding party to be your personal assistant for the day, ensuring that your needs are met and that you have everything you require.

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> Please let us know by [Date] if you would be able to honour us with your presence and share your wisdom at our wedding. We have attached additional details about the wedding, including an itinerary and background information about us and our families.

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> Thank you for considering our invitation, and we eagerly await your response.

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> Warm regards,

>

> [Your Names]

Remember to personalise the invitation to fit the speaker's style and your wedding's unique details. This sample invitation can be a great starting point, and you can adjust it to match your specific needs and tone.

What to offer a speaker

When inviting a speaker to a wedding, it is important to offer them something in return for their time and effort. Here are some ideas on what you can offer:

Clear Communication and Organisation

Ensure that you are the primary contact person for the speaker and are readily available to answer any questions they may have. Provide them with a single point of contact for all their needs and be responsive to their queries. This will make the speaker feel valued and respected.

Travel Expenses and Accommodation

If the speaker is travelling from out of town, it is considerate to offer to cover their travel expenses and provide free accommodation. This will reduce the financial burden on the speaker and ensure their comfort during their trip.

Personal Assistant

Offer the services of a personal assistant to take care of the speaker's needs. This could include airport transfers, hotel check-in, event itinerary management, and introductions to key people at the event, such as the wedding party, sponsors, or event management team. A personal assistant can ensure that the speaker feels supported and well-taken care of, allowing them to focus on their speech and enjoy the event.

Promotional Opportunities

Let the speaker know that their talk will be recorded and shared on your website and social media channels. This can provide them with exposure to a wider audience and help promote their personal brand or professional endeavours. It adds value to their participation in the wedding and can benefit them beyond the event itself.

A Memorable Experience

While the speaker may be focused on their task, it is still important to ensure they feel included in the celebration. Offer them an opportunity to socialise and connect with other guests. They may also appreciate small gestures such as a personalised thank-you note, a gift basket, or a special mention during the event.

Remember, showing gratitude and providing support to your chosen speaker can make a significant difference in their experience and contribution to your wedding.

How to convince a speaker to speak for free

Finding a speaker for your wedding can be a challenge, especially if you're on a tight budget. Here are some tips to help you convince a speaker to waive their fees and speak at your wedding for free.

Understand the Purpose of Your Wedding and the Topics to be Covered:

Before approaching potential speakers, it's essential to have a clear understanding of your wedding's purpose and the topics you want to be addressed. This will help you create a speaker profile and identify individuals who align with your vision. For instance, if you want to focus on romantic relationships, you might look for a speaker with expertise in that area.

Look for Local Speakers:

To minimize expenses, consider approaching local speakers who won't require travel and accommodation costs. Reach out to public speaking groups in your area, such as Rotary or Toastmasters. Local celebrities or well-known figures with knowledge of your wedding theme or topic can be excellent choices.

Tap into Your Network:

Utilize your connections and ask around. Send emails to your contacts, especially those involved in public speaking or with ties to potential speakers. Word-of-mouth recommendations can be powerful, as they often come with a built-in endorsement from someone trusted within the donor community.

Online Searches:

The internet is a valuable resource for finding speakers. Explore websites like GigMaster, American Speakers, Brooks International, and Speaker Match Speaker's Bureau. These sites allow you to search for speakers by geographic location, topic, and fee. Even if you find a speaker who typically charges a fee, it's worth reaching out and explaining your situation. They might be open to waiving their fees for a special occasion like a wedding.

Craft a Compelling Invitation:

Creating a well-crafted invitation is essential to convincing a speaker to participate for free. Write a formal email or letter that outlines why you've chosen them specifically and how their contribution will benefit your wedding. Include all the necessary background information, such as the wedding date, location, expected audience, and any other relevant details.

Offer Perks and Incentives:

It's important to offer something in return for the speaker's time and expertise. Provide them with a personal assistant who can take care of their needs, including travel arrangements, accommodation, and event itinerary. Additionally, let them know that their talk will be filmed and shared on your website and social media channels, providing them with exposure to a new audience.

Be Flexible and Adaptable:

Remember that potential speakers may have different preferences and requirements. Be open to making adjustments to accommodate their needs. For example, if they prefer to give their speech before or after a certain part of the wedding, try to accommodate their request.

Express Gratitude and Build Relationships:

Always express your gratitude, whether you receive a positive response or not. Thank potential speakers for considering your invitation, and if they accept, ensure you show your appreciation throughout the process. Building positive relationships can lead to future collaborations or referrals.

By following these steps, you'll increase your chances of convincing a speaker to waive their fees and contribute their talents to your wedding celebration. Just remember to be respectful, flexible, and appreciative throughout the process.

Frequently asked questions