Best Man Speech-Tips

by Anon

The best man speech is an important part of any wedding ceremony, and will be remembered long after the special day is over. The speech traditionally honors the groom, but the bride should also be recognized and the happy couple congratulated.

The position of best man in a wedding ceremony is a distinction of honor and responsibility. Best Man Speeches, also known as toasts, should be prepared well in advance, not simply improvised on the spot. To be successful the speech must be respectful, but also funny. Your comments about the bride and groom should also be personal and sincere, though it is also important to ensure your words are appropriate for a general audience.

In other words, best man speeches require you to walk a fine line between irreverence and respect; making personal observations, while ensuring they are understood and appreciated by an audience including both children and the elderly.

Before Writing Your Best Man Speech

Before you set ink to paper, consider the personality of the groom. Is the groom a "prankster," who laughs easily and appreciates a good joke at his own expense? If so, your speech should mirror the groom's personality, including funny comments and perhaps even "roasting" the groom a bit (you don't want to go too far with this -- remember it's all about balance).

Other grooms may be more traditional, serious or sentimental. Again, your speech should mirror these personality traits, including more complementary and respectful anecdotes. You can still include a few jokes, just balance them with plenty of sincere and respectful comments.

The Length of Your Best Man Speech

Many best man speeches go on way too long. But on the other hand, you don't want to simply rise and say a few words and then sit back down. As a general rule, shorter is usually better; just make sure the speech is long enough to show that you put some thought and effort into it. A 5 to 10 minute speech is plenty.

Before Standing to Speak

When the time is right, you will be called upon to deliver your speech, and it is extremely important that you do not drink too much before you stand to speak. Part of your responsibility as best man is to delay your own fun until you have fulfilled your responsibility to the groom and bride. There is no greater breach of etiquette than a best man who drinks heavily and delivers a slurred or incomprehensible speech.