Plenty of brides are are grabbing the mic – or asking their bridesmaids or mother to do the honours.
In a recent survey*, it was revealed that more than a fifth of women were planning on giving a speech on their big day.
Whatever the running order, speeches need to be well planned. The good news is that women do tend, to be more organised.
Bride speech subjects
If a bride chooses to make a speech, the first thing she should do is discuss what subjects with her husband-to be, so they don’t go over the same ground in terms of their thank-yous.
So, after thank-yous, what should you be talking about? Your beloved, of course! Their quirks are a welcome topic, especially if it come with a healthy dollop of humour.
Things that should never be said? Never use it as an opportunity to air laundry. It might only last a few minutes, but people can remember speeches forever.
Although tradition dictates that the groom toasts the bridesmaids, it’s likely that a bride will want to talk about her friends too.
The most important thing to remember is to speak slowly, with poise and purpose. Dispel any anxiety by focusing on your new spouse; they’re the reason you’re making a speech in the first place.
And remember, you’re not an actor or comic – you’re you, on the best the day of your life. Speak from the heart and you won’t go far wrong!
The dos and don’ts of speech making
- Don’t make ‘in jokes’ that are alienating to the majority of your guests
- Do speak slowly and take your time
- Don’t feel you have to make ‘gags’ with a punchline
- Do keep your speech sub-10 minutes. No matter how good it is, you don’t want to run the risk of boring the wedding party and guests
- Don’t just list people you’d like to thank – add texture to your speech with anecdotes
