The Best Man's Guide To Wedding Speech Success

The best man's speech is a big moment, not just for the groom, but for the bride too. It's an opportunity to make the bride feel special and welcome her into the groom's circle. It's also a chance to paint a picture of who she is and why she's so special.

The best man's speech should be well-crafted, with a mix of humour and sincerity. It should also be practised in advance to ensure it's delivered with confidence and clarity. While it's fine to be a little cheeky, the speech should also consider the audience, as some older relatives may be present.

In addition to the speech, the best man has a number of other important duties, including planning the stag do, helping to choose the groomsmen's attire, and keeping the wedding rings safe on the big day.

Thank the couple, family, and guests

Thanking the couple, their family, and guests is a crucial aspect of the best man's speech. It is an opportunity to express gratitude and set a positive tone for the celebration. Here are some ideas to craft this section of your speech:

Thanking the Couple

Begin by directly addressing the newlyweds and expressing your gratitude for their presence and the honour of being their best man. You can say something like, "Thank you, Alex and Julie, for having me as your best man. It means a lot to be a part of this special day and to stand by your side as you exchange your vows." This simple act of appreciation will make the couple feel valued and set the right tone for the rest of your speech.

Thanking the Family

The best man's speech is also an excellent opportunity to acknowledge the couple's families and express gratitude for their support and contribution to the wedding. You can say something like, "I'd like to thank the parents of the bride and groom, Fran and Andy, and John and Mary, for their unwavering support and for raising such incredible children. Their love and guidance have played a significant role in who Alex and Julie are today, and I know they will continue to be a source of strength for them in their married life." By thanking the families, you honour their role in the couple's lives and acknowledge the importance of family in this celebration.

Thanking the Guests

Expressing gratitude to the guests for their attendance and well wishes is another essential aspect of the best man's speech. You can say, "To all the guests who have joined us today, thank you for being here. Your presence means a lot to Alex and Julie, and I know they are grateful to have you share in this joyous occasion. We especially want to acknowledge those who travelled long distances to be with us today. Your effort and support are truly appreciated." This part of the speech makes the guests feel valued and creates a sense of community among everyone present.

Adding a Personal Touch

While thanking the couple, family, and guests, you can also add a personal touch by sharing a brief anecdote or experience. For example, you could say, "I remember when Alex and Julie first started dating, and the joy and excitement they brought back to their families. It was clear from the beginning that their love would be a source of happiness for those around them. So, thank you, Alex and Julie, for bringing us all together today and for letting us share in your joy." This adds a layer of sincerity and warmth to your words of gratitude.

Transitioning to the Next Section

After thanking everyone, you can smoothly transition to the next part of your speech by saying something like, "Now, I'd like to take you back to where it all began for Alex and Julie. It was at Buzz nightclub, where a subtle pinch on the bottom left a lasting impression..." This way, you seamlessly move from gratitude to sharing a humorous or heartfelt story about the couple, keeping the audience engaged and entertained.

Share funny stories about the couple

Sharing funny stories about the couple is a great way to make your speech memorable and engaging. Here are some ideas to get you started:

How They Met

You could share the story of how the couple met, adding in humorous details to make it entertaining. For example, if they met at a nightclub, you could talk about how the bride-to-be pinched the groom on the bottom, leaving a bruise that lasted for weeks! Or, if they met online, you could joke about their first awkward date and how it took a while for the spark to truly ignite.

Their Unique Habits

Another idea is to talk about some of the couple's unique habits or quirks. For instance, you could mention how the groom has developed an interesting habit of wearing women's clothing on certain weekends, and how the bride-to-be has her work cut out keeping him away from her wedding dress! It's a light-hearted way to show that the couple has fun together and embraces their quirks.

Childhood Memories

If you know the bride or groom from childhood, sharing a funny story from those days can be a great way to add a personal touch. For example, you could talk about how the bride used to be sent to bed with a dummy, and how some things never change! Or, if the groom was a fussy eater as a child, you could joke about how he's come a long way since then, even if he still has his mother cut up his food.

Their Dating Adventures

Recounting a funny story from one of their dates is another way to add humour to your speech. For instance, you could talk about how nervous the groom was on their first date, and how his hands were shaking so much it took him an hour to eat his meal. Or, if there was a mix-up with the food order, you could recount how they handled it with laughter and good humour.

Their Interactions with In-Laws

Sharing a story about the couple's interactions with their in-laws can also be entertaining. For example, you could talk about how the groom's parents made a lasting impression on the bride, and how her big brown eyes reminded them of a deer in the headlights! Or, if the groom has a unique relationship with his in-laws, you could joke about how he's now gained a second family, for better or worse.

Remember to keep the stories light-hearted and avoid anything that could be seen as embarrassing or hurtful. Test your material with someone beforehand to ensure it's "public funny" and not "privately embarrassing."

Highlight the groom's positive qualities

As the best man, your speech is an opportunity to highlight the groom's positive qualities and share stories that showcase his character. Here are some tips to help you craft a speech that does just that:

Highlight His Positive Qualities

Think about the groom's best qualities and share specific examples that paint a picture of who he is. Is he kind, always willing to lend a helping hand? Does he have a great sense of humour that can lighten up any room? Is he loyal and reliable, always there for his friends and family?

For example: "John has always been the type of person to go out of his way to help others. I remember when he spent his weekends volunteering at the local soup kitchen or tutoring kids in the neighbourhood. His selflessness and compassion are truly inspiring. He's also the life of the party, always cracking jokes and making everyone around him smile. His positive energy is contagious, and I know Sarah will always have a good laugh by her side."

Share Heartwarming Stories

Choose anecdotes that showcase the groom's positive qualities. It could be a story about how he went out of his way to help someone in need, or a lighthearted tale about one of his quirky habits. Make sure the stories are appropriate for the audience and try to include a mix of humour and sentiment.

For example: "I remember when John and I were in college, he would always stay up late studying. Not because he was struggling with his courses, but because he was helping his classmates who were. He'd spend hours explaining complex concepts to them until they finally understood. That's the kind of person he is – always willing to go the extra mile for those around him. And let's not forget his infamous coffee-making rituals. John, your passion for finding the perfect brew and your extensive collection of mugs are legendary!"

Compliment His Relationship with the Bride

Take some time to praise the groom's choice in a partner and express how happy he is with the bride. You can share your observations about their relationship and the positive changes you've seen in the groom since they got together.

For example: "John, you and Sarah make an incredible team. The way you balance each other out and bring out the best in each other is truly heartwarming. I've seen you grow and mature since you met her, and it's clear that she brings out the best in you. Your love and respect for each other are an inspiration to all of us, and I wish you both a lifetime of happiness."

Honour His Family

The groom's family, especially his parents, have played a significant role in his life, and it's important to acknowledge their contribution. Share a story or two about the groom's relationship with his family, and express your gratitude for the values they instilled in him.

For example: "I want to take a moment to thank John's parents, who raised an exceptional son. Their love and support have shaped him into the man he is today. I remember when John's dad taught him the importance of hard work, taking him to his construction sites during summer breaks. And his mum, with her unwavering kindness and generosity, has always been there to lend a helping hand. John, you have an incredible family, and I know they will continue to be your rock as you start this new chapter with Sarah."

Compliment His Appearance

While the focus of your speech may be on the groom's inner qualities, it's also nice to acknowledge his efforts for the wedding. Compliment his choice of attire or simply acknowledge his happiness and how it radiates through his appearance.

For example: "John, you clean up nicely! That suit really brings out the colour of your eyes. But more importantly, I can see the joy and love radiating from you today. It's clear that you're thrilled to be marrying the love of your life, and your smile is contagious. I know this day will be etched in your memory forever."

Remember, when crafting your speech, it's important to be genuine and sincere. These tips will help you highlight the groom's positive qualities and create a heartfelt and memorable speech.

Compliment the bride's appearance

So, the bride – wow! She looks absolutely breathtaking today. I know I'm not the only one who gasped when she first walked down the aisle. That dress – she looks like a real-life princess. I don't know how you managed to keep your cool, mate. I would've been a blubbering mess!

Her smile lights up the whole room, and her happiness is infectious. I mean, just look at the way she's beaming at [Groom]. It's clear to see that these two are meant to be. And I have to say, [Bride], you did an incredible job with your look today. You truly are a vision.

I remember when I first met [Bride]. I thought, "Wow, [Groom]'s done well here!" But it's not just her stunning appearance that won him over. It's her kindness, her intelligence, her sense of humour – all of which have been on full display today. She's an incredible woman, and [Groom], my friend, you are so lucky to have her in your life.

I know that [Bride] put a lot of time and effort into planning this wedding, from the flowers to the favours, and every detail has been absolutely perfect. So, to the beautiful bride, I want to say thank you. Thank you for making today so special, and for creating a day that we will all remember forever. You look absolutely amazing, and your hard work and dedication shine through in every aspect of this celebration.

Give a shout-out to the supporting cast (family)

As the best man, your speech is a big deal, not just for the groom, but also for the bride. It's your chance to make her feel special and welcome her into your crew. It's also an opportunity to acknowledge the people who have been there for her through thick and thin, and who have helped make this beautiful wedding a reality. So, make sure to give a shout-out to the supporting cast, aka the family!

• Share a heartfelt story: Think of a time when the bride's family showed their love and support for her. It could be a funny anecdote or a heartfelt moment. For example, you could share a story about a camping trip with the bride's parents and how they welcomed the groom with open arms.
• Express gratitude: Take a moment to thank the bride's family for their contribution to the wedding and for raising such an incredible daughter. You can say something like, "I want to give a special thanks to the bride's parents, John and Mary, for their warmth and generosity. Their support has been invaluable, and we are all grateful for their role in making this day so special."
• Highlight their role in the couple's journey: Acknowledge the impact the family has had on the couple's relationship. You can mention how they welcomed the groom into their family, offered guidance, or provided a listening ear during challenging times. For example, "I'd like to thank the bride's sister, Jane, for always being there for the couple. Whether it was offering a shoulder to cry on or giving much-needed advice, she has been an integral part of their journey."
• Personalise your message: Try to share unique stories or anecdotes that showcase the family's dynamic and their relationship with the bride and groom. It could be a funny story about a family tradition or a heartwarming moment that demonstrates their love and support.
• Keep it genuine: Speak from the heart and let your sincerity shine through. Your words will be most impactful when they come from a place of authenticity and gratitude.

Remember, this is your opportunity to honour the people who have played a vital role in the bride's life and celebrate their contribution to her happiness. So, take the time to craft a thoughtful and meaningful shout-out that will leave a lasting impression.

Frequently asked questions