How to Write a Good Best Man Speech

The best man's toast is important at a wedding reception.

The best man's speech is one of the most amusing and important parts of a wedding reception. The best man is usually someone who knows the groom almost as well as his new wife does and has the stories to prove it. Writing that best man speech can seem a little daunting, especially if you're feeling the pressure to make it perfect. It does not have to be a stressful endeavor. Here are some steps to make that best man speech the best it can be.

Instructions

Writing the Speech

1. Consider what is important to you about the couple and about the groom in particular. Write down the things that come to mind, in any format.

2. Organize this jumble of thoughts into memories about the groom first, and then him with his new wife. Share one or two stories with the guests. Keep it sweet; this is no place for inside jokes, debauchery anecdotes or sexual innuendo.

3. Write the final draft of the speech well in advance of the wedding. If you try to write it the night before or the day of the ceremony, you may encounter writer's block or the result may not be ideal.

4. Practice your speech on someone who knows the couple well. Share it with friends, other groomsmen, bridesmaids or family of the couple. By practicing the speech, you will know exactly how to perform it at the reception.

5. Keep it short. There is nothing worse than a lengthy speech that detracts from the heartfelt emotion you're trying to convey. The general rule of thumb is to keep the speech under three minutes; around two minutes is best.

References

• Brides: Give a Great Toast
• The Knot: Best Man: Best Man Duties in Detail

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish