Wedding Speech Tips

Make a note of the main guests who will be there - close friends and immediate family - so that you can familiarise yourself with the type of people you will be speaking to. Remember, wedding guests consist of varying age groups and types; therefore, be careful that your material does not offend anyone - particularly children or the older members of the group.

Jot down any interesting or amusing stories or characteristics about the happy couple or any of the guests who you know will be there. However, exercise extreme caution here - avoid anything embarrassing, demeaning or of a sexual nature.

Avoid "in" jokes or stories that only one or two people would understand. Design your wedding speech to be of interest to all of the guests.

Make a list of everyone who will be involved in organising and conducting the wedding ceremony and reception, so that you can include them in your tributes, where applicable.

The opening / greeting should be informally spoken without script. However, you don't need to memorise your wedding speech word for word. Take it with you as it is perfectly acceptable to read from it, but do look up at the guests as often as possible.

Prepare, read through and finalise your wedding speech well in advance of the event, so that you are confident and fully conversant with what you are going to say.

Do not try to be too polished or smart - you are among family and friends who know you are not a professional speaker, so keep it friendly and easy going - otherwise it would sound false.

Do keep it as brief and entertaining as possible. It is the content of your material that is important. If you attempt long, drawn out meandering stories, you could get lost and your guests will get bored.

Do NOT ever disclose any family / friends' secrets - leave all skeletons firmly in the closet.

Do NOT mention previous spouses, girlfiends or boyfriends of the bride and groom.

Keep a clear head and save the alcohol until after your speech.