The speeches portion of a wedding is often one of the most entertaining and heartfelt parts of the evening. But, it can also turn into a long, dull segment if not planned properly. The key? It’s all about the speakers and preparation. Here’s a complete guide to help you plan wedding speeches that are as memorable as the rest of your big day.
Setting the stage for success
Speeches are an opportunity to bring laughter, tears, and heartfelt moments to your wedding. However, not everyone is cut out for public speaking. Never force someone into giving a speech if they’re uncomfortable. If they’re willing but nervous, keep their speech short and sweet—it’s better to leave guests wanting more than to lose their attention.
Preparation is Everything
Proper preparation is essential to ensure smooth and enjoyable speeches. Here are a few tips to set your speakers up for success:
Choosing the right MC
The MC is the glue that holds the speeches together. They can be a DJ, a professional MC, or even a family member or friend. The key is choosing someone who is confident, charismatic, and comfortable speaking in front of an audience.
Your MC's role includes:
Traditional Order of Speeches
While you can customize the order of speakers, the traditional sequence looks like this:
1. Father/Parents of the Bride
Typically emotional and filled with memories, this speech welcomes guests and thanks them for celebrating the couple’s special day. If the bride’s parents aren’t comfortable speaking, a sibling or close family friend can step in.
2. Parents/Family of the Groom
This speech focuses on sharing stories about the groom and welcoming the bride to the family. It’s a heartfelt moment that can include other family members if the parents aren’t comfortable speaking.
3. Maid of Honor's Toast to the Bride
Often an emotional rollercoaster, this speech is packed with anecdotes, heartfelt moments, and encouragement for the bride.
4. Best Man's Toast to the Groom
Typically lighthearted and humorous, the best man’s speech often highlights funny stories about the groom. While it’s usually less emotional than the maid of honor’s toast, it should still strike a balance between humor and sincerity.
5. Bride and Groom
Closing out the speeches, the couple thanks their guests, acknowledges those who helped with the wedding, and share messages of love to their families and each other. This is often the most heartfelt and emotional speech of the night.
Timing of Speeches
When you schedule the speeches is just as important as who delivers them. Here are a few options:
Keep the total speech time under 30 minutes to maintain your guests’ attention and energy.
Make it your Own
While traditions provide a helpful framework, your wedding speeches should reflect your personality and preferences as a couple. Want to skip certain speeches or add someone unexpected to the lineup? Go for it! It’s your wedding—create a speech schedule that feels right for you.
The Takeaway
Wedding speeches are a chance to create unforgettable moments. The keys to success are choosing speakers who genuinely want to participate, encouraging them to prepare, and ensuring they keep things respectful and concise.
Whether your speeches bring laughter, tears, or heartfelt toasts, the most important thing is to enjoy this special part of your wedding day. After all, it’s a celebration of your love—so have fun and make it meaningful!