How to Deliver an Unforgettable Wedding Speech with Confidence

October 16, 2023

How to Deliver an Unforgettable Wedding Speech with Confidence

Expert Tips, Heartfelt Examples, and a Step-by-Step Template

The Importance of a Great Wedding Speech

Being asked to give a wedding speech is an honor, but it also comes with a fair amount of pressure. Whether you’re the best man, maid of honor, father of the bride, or a cherished friend, your words hold weight. A great speech can bring laughter, evoke tears, and leave a lasting impression on everyone in the room.

But let’s be real—public speaking can be nerve-wracking. You might wonder: What should I say? How long should it be? What if I mess up? Don’t worry! With the right preparation, a bit of practice, and a genuine message from the heart, you’ll deliver a speech that people will talk about for years to come.

This guide will walk you through the process of crafting and delivering an amazing wedding speech. You’ll find expert-backed tips, a foolproof template, and expanded real-life examples that bring warmth, humor, and emotion to your words. Whether you’re aiming for sentimental, funny, or a perfect mix of both, you’ll find everything you need here.

And because a wedding is not just about the speech but the entire experience, we’ll also touch on other essential wedding aspects—like matching wedding bands, relationship advice for newlyweds, and trending wedding ideas—to help you make the most of this beautiful celebration.

Step-by-Step Wedding Speech Template

Welcome and Introduction

Every speech needs a solid opening. Avoid starting with self-deprecating jokes like “I’m terrible at public speaking” or “I promise to keep this short.” Instead, begin with an engaging and warm greeting.

For example, you could say:

"Good evening, everyone! I hope you’re all having a fantastic time celebrating this incredible couple. It’s truly an honor to stand before you today as we toast to two amazing people who have found their forever person."

Next, introduce yourself and your relationship to the couple. Many guests might not know who you are, so take a moment to establish context.

"For those of you who don’t know me, I’m Sarah, Rachel’s best friend. We met in college when we were randomly assigned as roommates. Little did I know, that random pairing would give me a sister for life."

This simple introduction sets a warm and inviting tone, making guests feel connected to you right away.

Congratulate the Couple and Express Your Joy

Once you’ve introduced yourself, shift the focus to the couple. Express how happy you are for them and acknowledge the significance of the day.

"Marriage is a beautiful journey filled with love, laughter, and the occasional disagreement over what to watch on Netflix. But if there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s that Rachel and Jake have found something truly special. Seeing them together, it’s clear that they bring out the best in each other. Their love is effortless, and their partnership is inspiring."

This moment allows you to set the emotional foundation of your speech before diving into personal stories.

Speaking of lifelong partnerships, one key decision couples make is choosing their wedding bands. If you're debating between matching wedding bands or picking unique styles, check out our guide: Matching Wedding Bands? Here’s How to Decide.

Share a Meaningful Story About the Couple

The heart of your speech should be a personal story. Choose a memory that highlights the couple’s personalities, their love for each other, or something that makes them stand out as a perfect match.

If you’re the maid of honor, you might tell a story about how the bride first mentioned her future spouse.

"I still remember the first time Rachel told me about Jake. She was supposed to be studying for finals, but instead, she was gushing about this amazing guy she had just met. ‘He’s funny, he’s smart, and he makes me feel like the most important person in the world,’ she told me. And when I finally met Jake, I understood exactly what she meant. From day one, he treated her with the kind of love and respect that every person deserves. It wasn’t long before I realized that this wasn’t just another college romance—this was the real thing."

If you’re the best man, you could tell a lighthearted story about your friendship with the groom and how his partner changed his life.

"David and I have been best friends since high school, and let me tell you, he was never the ‘romantic’ type. He once thought that surprising a date with a coupon for half-off burgers was a grand romantic gesture. But then he met Emily, and suddenly, he was writing love notes, planning date nights, and even—get this—learning how to cook. That’s when I knew he had met someone truly extraordinary. She brought out a side of him I had never seen before, and it was clear that she was the one."

A story like this not only entertains but also shows how the couple complements each other.

Strong relationships are built on trust, compromise, and love. If you’re looking for timeless relationship wisdom, check out our expert tips: 12 Pieces of Relationship Advice You’ll Ever Need.

Acknowledge Both Partners and What Makes Their Love Special

Even if you’re closer to one half of the couple, make sure to recognize both partners. This part of your speech should highlight their strengths as individuals and as a couple.

"Rachel has always been the kind of person who lights up every room she walks into. She’s kind, thoughtful, and always goes out of her way to make people feel special. And Jake? Jake is the steady, unwavering support that everyone dreams of in a partner. He makes her laugh, he listens when she needs it, and most importantly, he loves her completely. They are the perfect balance—Rachel is the dreamer, and Jake is the one who helps make those dreams come true."

Acknowledging both individuals shows respect and appreciation for their relationship.

Add a Touch of Humor (But Keep It Classy!)

Weddings are celebrations, and a little humor can make your speech more engaging. However, avoid inside jokes or embarrassing stories that might make the couple uncomfortable. Instead, go for lighthearted, universally relatable humor.

"They say marriage is about compromise, and I’ve already seen Rachel and Jake master that. For example, Jake has learned that when Rachel says she doesn’t want fries, she actually does. And Rachel has learned that Jake’s ‘five more minutes’ on a video game actually means twenty."

A humorous moment like this keeps the speech fun and engaging without crossing any lines.

End with a Heartfelt Toast

Your speech should conclude on an uplifting and memorable note. Offer your well wishes and invite everyone to raise their glasses.

"As Rachel and Jake begin this new chapter, my wish for them is that they always find joy in the little things—like late-night ice cream runs, silly inside jokes, and dancing in the kitchen when no one is watching. May their love grow stronger with each passing year, and may they always be each other’s greatest adventure. So let’s raise our glasses to Rachel and Jake—may your life together be filled with endless love, laughter, and, of course, perfectly shared fries!"

Ending with a heartfelt and joyful sentiment leaves a lasting impression on the audience and makes for a perfect closing moment.

Weddings are evolving with new and exciting trends every year. If you're planning a wedding or helping with one, be sure to check out: Top 20 Wedding Trends for 2023 for fresh and stylish ideas!

13 Expert-Approved Wedding Speech Tips

Now that you have the structure, here are some expert-backed tips to elevate your speech and ensure your words leave a lasting impact on the couple and guests.

1. Just Start Writing

Getting started is often the hardest part, and many people overthink the first step. Instead of waiting for the perfect words to come to you, begin with a brainstorming session. Jot down memories, stories, and adjectives that describe the couple. Think about how they met, what makes their relationship special, and any heartwarming or humorous moments you've shared with them.

According to public speaking expert Dr. Matt Abrahams, a Stanford lecturer and author of Think Faster, Talk Smarter, starting with a "stream of consciousness" approach can help overcome writer’s block. He suggests writing without judgment for a few minutes to allow ideas to flow freely. Once you have a list of ideas, patterns and themes will emerge, making it easier to craft a cohesive and meaningful speech.

2. Use Specific Examples

A great speech isn’t built on generic compliments—it thrives on vivid storytelling. Instead of saying, "Jake is a great guy," describe a specific moment that proves it. Did he stay up all night helping a friend in need? Did he plan a thoughtful surprise for his partner? The more detailed and specific your examples, the more engaging and memorable your speech will be.

Research on cognitive psychology suggests that storytelling helps people retain information better than facts alone. Dr. Jennifer Aaker, a professor at Stanford University, found that messages delivered as stories can be up to 22 times more memorable than plain facts. Use this to your advantage by crafting a compelling narrative that illustrates your point.

3. Practice Out Loud

Reading your speech in your head may seem sufficient, but spoken words often feel different than written ones. Practicing out loud will help you identify awkward phrasing, unnatural pauses, and areas that need tweaking. It also helps you get comfortable with the rhythm of your speech.

Public speaking coach Carmine Gallo, author of Talk Like TED, advises practicing at least three times before the actual event. He suggests standing in front of a mirror or recording yourself to assess body language and voice modulation. Repetition builds confidence and ensures your speech feels natural and conversational.

4. Record Yourself

A quick video or audio recording of yourself can reveal surprising insights about your delivery. You may notice nervous habits like fidgeting, swaying, or excessive use of filler words such as "um," "uh," and "like." Awareness of these tendencies allows you to make necessary adjustments before the big day.

Speech pathologists recommend a technique called "self-modeling," where watching or listening to recordings of yourself can reinforce positive behaviors and reduce anxiety. According to a study published in the Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research, repeated exposure to one’s own successful attempts at speaking leads to greater fluency and confidence over time.

5. Don’t Wing It

Some people assume they can rely on improvisation, but even the most confident speakers benefit from preparation. While you don’t need to memorize your speech word-for-word, having a structured outline prevents rambling and ensures you stay on track.

Executive speech coach Patricia Fripp emphasizes that rehearsing reduces anxiety and improves clarity. She recommends outlining your speech in key points rather than full paragraphs, allowing flexibility while maintaining a clear structure.

6. Keep It Short

Three to five minutes is the sweet spot for a wedding speech. Anything longer risks losing the audience’s attention. If in doubt, shorter is always better—leave them wanting more rather than checking their watches.

According to a study by Microsoft, the average human attention span is about eight seconds, meaning your speech should be concise and impactful. The best speeches follow the "Rule of Three"—choose three key points to focus on, making it easier for listeners to retain your message.

7. Avoid Alcohol (Until After)

A drink might seem like a good way to calm your nerves, but alcohol can impair speech clarity, increase the likelihood of rambling, and make you forget key points.

A study by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism found that alcohol consumption negatively affects cognitive functions such as memory recall and articulation. Instead of relying on "liquid courage," focus on preparation and deep breathing techniques to manage nerves.

8. Speak Slowly and Clearly

Nerves often cause people to speed up their speech, making it harder for the audience to follow. Consciously slow down and enunciate each word.

Voice coach Roger Love, who has worked with celebrities and public speakers, suggests using deliberate pauses. He recommends pausing for two seconds after key sentences to allow the audience to absorb the message. This technique also makes you appear more confident and in control.

9. Engage the Audience

Making eye contact, smiling, and addressing the audience directly can transform your speech from a monologue into a conversation. Interacting with guests—perhaps by acknowledging shared memories or asking a rhetorical question—keeps people engaged.

Communication expert Vanessa Van Edwards, author of Captivate, highlights that people are more likely to stay focused if they feel included in the experience. Use open body language and a warm tone to draw the audience in.

10. Avoid Embarrassing Stories

Keep your wedding speech a toast, not a roast. Even if the couple has a great sense of humor, avoid sharing anything that could make them (or their guests) uncomfortable.

Dr. John Gottman, a leading marriage researcher, emphasizes the importance of positive sentiment override—the idea that couples thrive when they focus on each other’s best qualities. Your speech should reinforce love, admiration, and celebration rather than old mishaps or wild past stories.

11. Use Your Notes, But Don’t Read

Having notes is perfectly fine, but avoid reading directly from a piece of paper or your phone. Instead, glance at bullet points to stay on track while maintaining eye contact with the audience.

A study from Harvard University found that speakers who maintain eye contact are perceived as more trustworthy and engaging. Hold your notes in one hand and keep gestures natural and expressive.

12. End on a High Note

Your final words should be uplifting, optimistic, and celebratory. The closing is what lingers in people’s minds, so make it count.

For example, you could say:"As you embark on this new journey together, may your love grow stronger with each passing day. May your laughter be abundant, your adventures endless, and your love unwavering. Let’s raise our glasses to a lifetime of happiness for [Bride] and [Groom]!"

A well-crafted ending ensures your speech leaves a lasting impact.

13. Enjoy the Moment

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to celebrate someone you love. Take a deep breath, embrace the experience, and enjoy the moment.

Performance psychologist Dr. Amy Cuddy, author of Presence, advises using a "power pose" (standing tall, shoulders back, deep breaths) to boost confidence before speaking. She notes that our body language influences not only how others perceive us but also how we perceive ourselves.

Wedding Speech Brainstorming Questions

Need inspiration? Answer these questions to uncover great speech material:

What was your first impression of the bride/groom?

What’s a favorite memory you have with them?

What did they say when they first talked about their partner?

What’s one thing you admire about them as a couple?

What’s a funny, heartwarming, or meaningful story you can share?

How have they grown together?

What’s one wish or piece of advice you have for their future?

Wedding Speech Examples

Wondering how these elements come together? Here are three well-crafted examples to inspire your own.

Maid of Honor Wedding Speech Example

*"Hi, everyone! I’m Sarah, the maid of honor and proud best friend of the beautiful bride. From the moment I met Rachel in college, I knew she was someone special. She’s the kind of person who remembers the little things—your coffee order, your favorite song, the way you like your pancakes.

When Rachel met Jake, I noticed something amazing: she wasn’t just remembering the little things for him—he was doing the same for her. Whether it was making her tea when she was sick or knowing exactly how to cheer her up after a long day, Jake became her person.

And isn’t that what love is? A million little moments that add up to a lifetime of happiness. So, let’s raise our glasses to Rachel and Jake—may you always remember the little things that make your love extraordinary!"*

Best Man Wedding Speech Example

*"Good evening, everyone! I’m Mike, and I have the honor of being the best man tonight. I met David in high school, and from day one, I knew two things about him: he was terrible at math, and he had a heart of gold.

Then, he met Emily, and suddenly, he had a built-in calculator and a best friend for life. More importantly, she saw what the rest of us already knew—David is loyal, kind, and the kind of guy who will always be in your corner.

Emily, you’re getting a husband who will love you fiercely, laugh with you endlessly, and—if history is any indication—probably still struggle with tipping percentages.

So, let’s raise a glass to David and Emily—may your love be as strong as Emily’s patience for David’s math skills!"*

Own Your Moment and Enjoy It

Giving a wedding speech is a rare opportunity to publicly celebrate someone you love. Whether you go for humor, sentimentality, or a mix of both, the key is to be yourself and speak from the heart.

With this guide, you now have everything you need to create a speech that is memorable, meaningful, and—most importantly—true to you. So take a deep breath, enjoy the moment, and get ready to deliver a wedding toast that will be cherished for years to come.

Cheers! 🥂