Wedding speeches were once reserved for the father of the bride and the best man. These days, the speeches can be customized to the couple’s preferences. For example, while the bride doesn’t need to give a toast at her wedding, many will opt to say a few words of thanks during the reception. If you want to speak at your wedding but are intimated by the thought of getting up in front of a crowd, this simple guide will help you deliver a heartfelt toast your guests will love.
Who does the welcome speech at a wedding?
The welcome speech kicks off the wedding reception and is traditionally given by whoever is hosting the event. While this is often the new couple’s parents, in some cases, the bride (and/or their spouse) may opt to give the welcome speech instead.
How long is a wedding speech by the bride?
Three to five minutes is ideal for a bride’s speech. This gives you plenty of time to share your sentiments while also leaving space for speeches from the parents, the best man, and maid of honor, or your new spouse.
Tips for giving a bride wedding speech
First and foremost, plan ahead by writing your speech a few months before your wedding day. As you write, remember to keep the phrasing natural so you’ll feel comfortable speaking on your big day. Practice makes perfect! Read your speech aloud to get a sense of the flow and practice your delivery in front of your partner or a trusted friend or family member.
Although you’ll have practiced your speech ahead of time, don’t pressure yourself to memorize your lines. Instead, bring a print-out, plus an extra copy in case one gets lost. Finally, when the time comes to give your speech, you may feel tempted to indulge in a few sips of champagne to help you loosen up. Just be careful not to drink too much before you take the mic. You want to remain clear-headed, so you can deliver your speech with ease and stay in the moment!
Ideas for a bride’s wedding thank-you speech
Below are a few speech ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Give a solo speech: If you’re comfortable with public speaking, you may want to deliver your speech solo. However, keep in mind that if your spouse also plans to speak, you’ll want to keep yours on the shorter side at around two to three minutes.
- Share the spotlight: If you and your spouse opt for a joint wedding speech, you can deliver the speech together by taking turns speaking.
- Focus on giving thanks: For a simple and straightforward approach, format your speech around expressing your gratitude for the people who have supported you in the lead-up to your wedding day (see the outline below for a few ideas).
- Share a lighthearted story: Talk about the moment when you knew your spouse was “the one” or share a sweet or funny anecdote from the wedding prep.
Bride wedding speech outline
Use the following outline as a framework to organize your thoughts as you begin writing your speech:
- Start by saying a few words about your spouse and your new life together.
- Welcome your new in-laws into your family.
- Call out any loved ones who have helped make your wedding day possible. This can include your bridal party and any friends or family members who helped plan and prepare for the event.
- Thank your guests for celebrating with you.
- Give props to your vendors (such as your wedding planner, caterer, florist, DJ, photographer, etc.).
- Close on a cheerful note with a toast for everyone to enjoy the festivities.
Why should you hire a bride speechwriter?
Let’s face it: you already have a lot on your plate and writing your bride speech is probably the last thing you want to think about. I compose your bride speech with you, not for you, so your words will come straight from the heart, and you can focus on enjoying your special moment. Schedule a free consultation to collaborate on the perfect bride speech. We’ll even work together and practice the delivery too!
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