Wedding Speeches
Ideas and Tips
Given the fear many people have of public speaking it's not surprising that the thought of giving a wedding speech can cause even the strongest personality to break out in a cold sweat! However it really isn't that bad.
I remember my one and only experience as best man and it was truly scary giving the
speech. Fortunately everything went well - and it probably will for you as well. It sounds
trite but try to relax, the chances are that everyone in the room is there to enjoy
themselves. They're all on your side.
Perhaps the best piece of advice I was given: offend nobody.
It's considered traditional for the best man to make some embarrassing comments about the groom's past but think carefully about these. The revelations might be funny to you, but how will the bride receive them? Will your blue joke about the stripper go down well with the groom's grandmother? What about the young bridesmaids in the room? If in doubt, err on the side of caution and self-censorship.
Buying Speeches
There are many books and databases you can buy with best man and other wedding speeches to adopt. Some of these are very good but I'd suggest not just taking them directly, they're unlikely to sound natural coming from you. Instead treat them as sources of inspiration and ideas to put together your own unique speech. A good speech sounds like you're just speaking naturally.
Oh, and a final thought: it might be a good idea to avoid resorting to "Dutch courage" to help you get through!