The Secret to Writing a Perfect Best Man Speech

January 27th, 2010 by

If you’re the best man at your friend’s wedding, then chances are you know the groom very well. Maybe you also know that at the wedding reception, you’ll be expecting to give a toast – a best man speech. To help you prepare for the speech, here are just a few things you should remember.

*Plan it! Don’t make it up on the fly. Even the most quick-witted and glib of people (like you, of course!) can go numb when they’re put on the spot. Take a lesson from the famous Mark Twain: “It usually takes me more than three weeks to plan a good impromptu speech.”

At the very least, write down a few key phrases and points to bring up if you don’t feel like writing the whole thing.

*Humor is good, but don’t forget to be serious. Sure those are conflicting elements, but it’s important to remember. Without a little humor, you risk boring the guests.

However, it’s imperative to remember that your best man speech is a tribute to a couple’s new life together. You can be sure that the two of them take their marriage very seriously, and they want to know that you honor that. While sarcasm might be fun in the right situations, it is very dangerous territory and should NEVER be used in a wedding speech.

*Be brief. Please don’t ramble on. Practice at least once in front of one other person!if their eyes start to glaze over, find something to cut!

*Watch the anecdotes. Whatever you do, avoid telling stories about old wives and girlfriends, and avoid reminding all the guests about something particularly embarrassing. This won’t endear you to your friend’s new wife. And trust me, if his wife doesn’t like you, you won’t be seeing much of your buddy after the wedding.

*Talk about something you like or admire about the bride– if it’s appropriate! Remember the part about wanting to endear yourself to her?

*Above all, be sincere. There’s a reason why you were chosen to be the best man. Your best man speech will be remembered with gratitude if you keep these points in mind and share in the joy of your friend’s happiness.