Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Memorable Wedding Speeches - Ultimate Wedding Speech

< Back

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Memorable Wedding Speeches

Posted on Wednesday, 7th June 2023 by Matt

Wedding speeches are more than just words; they are a tribute to the couple, a celebration of their love, and an opportunity to make the event truly unforgettable.

Wedding speeches are more than just words; they are a tribute to the couple, a celebration of their love, and an opportunity to make the event truly unforgettable. Whether you're the best man, maid of honour, parent, or even the couple themselves, writing a speech can feel daunting. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, helping you craft a speech that is engaging, meaningful, and, above all, memorable.

Step 1: Understand the Purpose of Your Speech

Every role in a wedding comes with unique perspectives and stories about the couple. Are you sharing the journey of friendship with the groom as his best man? Celebrating the joy of seeing your child wed as a parent? Offering insights into the relationship from the perspective of the couple themselves? Define your role and the purpose of your speech. This will guide your narrative and ensure your words resonate with the audience.

Step 2: Brainstorm and Gather Ideas

Start by jotting down ideas, stories, or experiences about the couple. What unique and special traits do they possess individually and together? What anecdotes best illustrate their bond? Think about their journey, their shared dreams, their quirks, or even how they've grown over time. This process can help you find meaningful content for your speech.

Step 3: Organise Your Thoughts

Structure your speech into three main parts: the introduction, the body, and the conclusion.

Introduction: Start by introducing yourself and your relationship with the couple. Offer your thanks to the hosts and guests, if appropriate.

Body: This is where you share your stories, observations, or feelings about the couple. You can discuss their journey, share a humorous anecdote, express your pride or joy, and more.

Conclusion: Conclude by expressing your hopes and good wishes for their future together. This can lead seamlessly into a toast to the couple.

Step 4: Inject Personality and Emotion

A memorable speech is one that is heartfelt and personal. Don't be afraid to share your feelings, or to infuse your personality into your speech. Whether that means adding humour, including a meaningful quote, or expressing sentiment, this helps to engage the audience and make your speech more memorable.

Step 5: Keep it Brief and Engaging

A good speech should be concise and captivating. Aim for about 5-7 minutes, which typically equates to about 750-1000 words. Being brief helps maintain your audience's attention and ensures your message doesn't get lost in lengthy details.

Step 6: Practise and Polish

Practise delivering your speech aloud. This helps you become more comfortable with the flow and timing, and also allows you to adjust any parts that might not sound quite right. Remember, it's not just what you say, but how you say it, so pay attention to your tone, pacing, and body language.

Step 7: Get a Second Opinion

Share your speech with a trusted friend or family member. They can offer feedback, suggest improvements, and give you reassurance about your content.

Step 8: Prepare for the Big Day

Print out your speech, and consider using note cards as a backup. On the wedding day, remember to relax, breathe, and speak from the heart.

Wedding speeches are about love, celebration, and camaraderie. While it's important to plan and prepare, the most memorable speeches are those that are genuine and sincere. So speak from the heart, express your joy for the couple's union, and your speech is sure to be a hit!