The Secret to Writing a Perfect Best Man Speech

February 10, 2010 | By In Family |

Chances are, if you’ve been chosen as a best man, you know the groom pretty well. Maybe you also know that at the wedding reception, you’ll be expecting to give a toast - a best man speech. If you need help preparing this speech, here are a few tips to bear in mind.

*Be prepared! Don’t wing it. Even if you’re the most quick-witted and glib person around (and maybe you are!), you can’t rely on chance; anyone’s mind could go completely blank when it’s time to make a speech.

At least jot down a few points or key phrases if you don’t want to write it out word-for-word ahead of time.

*Humor is good, but don’t forget to be serious. Sure it sounds like an oxymoron, but it’s still important. You could bore the wedding guests if you don’t use a little humor.

But with that in mind, it’s crucial to remember that your best man speech is to be a tribute to the couple and their future. The bride and groom are taking their marriage seriously. They need you to acknowledge and respect that. And remember, sarcasm may be an appreciated form of humor in the right situation, but a wedding is NEVER the right situation.

*Keep it 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.

*Share something you like - something appropriate! - about the bride. Don’t forget, you want to be endearing yourself to her.

*Above all, be sincere. You were picked to be the best man for a reason. 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.