Top tips for making it fun
The father of the bride might be a mature gentleman, but that doesn’t mean your speech has to be dull. Here are some top tips to make it as enjoyable as possible for everyone involved.
Timing is everything
At many weddings, fathers of brides have been known to drone on for some time. And that’s only fair – after all, you’re the one that funded the party. However, to keep things fun, engaging and to avoid Aunty Doreen actually falling asleep in her soup, aim for a speech that lasts around six to seven minutes in total. Practice reading your speech through at your normal speaking pace to gauge how long this really is.
Keep it clean
Jokes are a great way to break the ice and loosen up the crowd, but don’t be too focussed on being funny. You’re the elder statesman of the speakers today, so you can afford to be a bit more conservative in your words. That doesn’t mean you have to be dull though; a few jibes at the expense of the wedding or your daughters love of spending money are fine, just don’t go to close to the bone.
Leave it to the best man to really roast up the groom, and focus on welcoming your new son-in-law to the family and toasting the happy couple.
Hold on to your emotions
This is such a big occasion for you and all of your family, it can be easy to get caught up in the emotion of it all. Do your best to keep things light and happy, as nobody likes to see a grown man in tears. If there are some personal things you would like to say to your daughter but don’t want to include in your speech, write them down for her to read on the day instead.