What is the best speaking order at a wedding?

The general rule when speeches are given at a wedding are to include the important people in the room (the groom, best man, chief bridesmaid, parents, even the bride may speak if she wishes to).

THE SHORT VERSION OF THE TRADITIONAL ORDER OF SPEECHES

  1. The toast to the bride and groom – given by the bride’s father or a close family friend.
  2. The bridegroom’s reply on behalf of his wife and himself. He then proposes a toast to the bridesmaids.
  3. The best man’s speech on behalf of the bridesmaids. He then reads any emails or messages.

THE LONGER VERSION OF THE TRADITIONAL ORDER OF SPEECHES

  1. Welcome by the Master of Ceremonies.
  2. Introduction of the person proposing a toast to the bride and groom.
  3. Response from the groom and a toast to the bridesmaids.
  4. Response by the best man.
  5. Toast to the parents of the bride.
  6. Response by the father of the bride.
  7. Toast to the parents of the groom.

BREAKING TRADITION

You don’t have to stick to this format.  If someone would prefer not to speak at the wedding, send them to the Wedding Speech Specialists for one on one coaching.  If the bride or chief bridesmaid wants to speak, the speeches are traditionally placed after the groom’s speech.  Ensuring that the people who made an impact on the wedding are thanked, and that someone wishes the happy couple well, the speeches are simply a tool for making sure the room is filled with joy and laughter.

TIPS FOR A GREAT TOAST

  • Identify yourself. Open with a brief explanation of your relationship to the couple before beginning the toast.
  • Be prepared. The best toasts include an opening, a body and conclusion.
  • Stay on topic. Although you may be nervous, stay focused on the couple and their special day.
  • Get personal. A toast should be original, heartfelt and customized for the occasion.
  • Use humor, but avoid telling potentially embarrassing stories and using offensive language.
  • Be creative. Avoid cliches and consider using a relevant quote to illustrate your words.
  • Be brief. A toast should last no longer than three minutes.
  • Limit alcohol consumption. You’ll want to be in top form when delivering the toast.
  • Stand; lift your glass by the stem and say, “I’d like to propose a toast.” Pause to allow guests to shift their attention toward you and give them time to lift their glasses. When you start speaking, lower your glass to about waist height.
  • Practice makes perfect. Rehearse your message in advance in front of a group of friends.

 

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