How to Give a Best Man Speech

Though you may think the most important job for the best man is to plan and throw the bachelor party, it may not be quite as important as the speech at the reception. Giving a best man speech may not be nearly as popular or as exciting as the bachelor party, but it will be the first gesture you give your friend once he is married. While he may not remember the night before the wedding very well, he'll always remember what you said to him at the reception.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Stand up and face the groom. Most of the speeches that will be given that day will be directed to both the bride and groom as a couple, but yours should be directed mostly towards the groom. It's the maid of honor's responsibility to address the bride directly, so don't think that you'll be slighting her.
2. Take notes with you. Though you may be tempted to just do your speech off the cuff, it's really best if you are well prepared, since it's easy to get flustered when speaking in public. It's not likely that anyone will really notice that you are reading from index cards, as long as you keep the shuffling to a minimum.
3. Speak loudly and clearly. If you don't have a microphone to help you reach the people in the back of the room, make sure you raise your voice enough for everyone to share in the moment.
4. Wait until everyone is finished eating to begin your speech. No one likes his meal to be interrupted, even if it's for the most entertaining speech he's ever heard. Usually, there will be a key moment to take the spotlight once the champagne is passed around and just before the cake is cut.
5. Be considerate in sharing your memories. You may have had some wild times with the groom, but now is not the time to bring this to everyone's attention. The best man speech is the opportunity to express your affection and respect for the groom, so keep the trash talk for other celebrations and ballgames.
6. Stay sober until your speech is over. Usually, the toasts and speeches occur before the real party begins and everyone starts to relax, so you won't miss out on the drinks if you reserve them for after your speech. Drinking may help you relax, but it may also help you embarrass yourself as well as the groom.
7. Give yourself a moment to collect your thoughts and check your appearance before the speech. Excuse yourself and go to the restroom to make sure you look your best. Check your tie, your pants and your hair, and give your smile a once over before heading back out to take the floor.

Tips & Warnings

• Though you should direct your toast to the groom, it is nice to compliment his choice of a bride.

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