Wedding Planning
Wedding Planning
Raise a Glass
How to Write the Perfect Speech for a Wedding Reception or Rehearsal Dinner
By Dayna Engberg
So you ’ re planning to take the mic at an upcoming wedding . Congratulations ! Speaking at one of life ’ s most important events is a huge honor . It can also come with a side of anxiety . But don ’ t worry , we ’ ve got you covered with these essential tips for writing the perfect speech .
DO : Prepare in Advance
Whether you ’ re speaking at a wedding reception or a rehearsal dinner , there ’ s one piece of advice you must follow : Don ’ t wing it . Remember the last wedding when Uncle Tim took the mic for 15 cringeworthy minutes ? Don ’ t be Uncle Tim . Avoid making a speech that ’ s memorable for all the wrong reasons by preparing in advance . Record yourself practicing , rehearse in front of a friend and keep it concise . A good speech should be around two to five minutes .
DO : Be Authentic
If you ’ re sharing a story or anecdote , don ’ t try too hard to be funny . There ’ s nothing more awkward than a joke that lands flat . Instead , connect with the audience by speaking from the heart . When you choose a topic you genuinely want to share , you ’ ll feel more relaxed speaking about it and come off more confident , too .
DO : Check Yourself
It ’ s easy to start rushing your words , especially if you are nervous . Remember to slow down and speak clearly . If you plan to bring notes to the mic with you , use them sparingly . Don ’ t feel like you have to stay planted in the same place ; your speech can be more interesting if you walk around a bit , making eye contact with the couple and the audience as you do .
DO : Keep it Clean
It ’ s a toast , not a roast ! Remember that , especially at the reception , your audience may include older relatives , plus-ones and colleagues . Don ’ t embarrass the newlyweds with crude jokes or stories they wouldn ’ t want grandma hearing . If you ’ re not sure if it ’ s appropriate , err on the side of caution and save the juicy stuff for the rehearsal dinner .
Example Outline
1 Introduce yourself . Greet the audience and briefly explain how you know the bride or groom .
2 Be vulnerable . Share a short personal story or anecdote that illustrates who that person is to you .
3 Pivot to talking about the couple . Express your admiration for the newlyweds and explain why you think they are a good match .
4 Show gratitude . Don ’ t forget to thank the couple and also the parents , especially if they have hosted the event .
5 Raise your glass . Wrap up your thoughts with any wishes or advice for the new couple before making your final toast .
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