Introduction to Wedding Speeches
The speeches at the wedding reception are an enjoyable part of the day, giving all family and friends the opportunity to have some light fun as the snippets into the back-ground and lives of the couple are being delivered.
If you are one of the privileged parties to be honoured with delivering a speech and are a little apprehensive about giving a public talk, take heed with good preparation and practice you will be successful in your endeavor on the day.
Order of Wedding Speeches
Traditionally, the bride's father's is first to make a speech followed by the groom's father, the groom and lastly, the best man speech. It is also common for the best man or groomsmen to read messages or telegrams. Invited guests may also make a speech.
These days, tradition need not be followed. In many weddings, speeches are made by both parents of the bride and groom, typically the father of the bride, then the mother of the bride followed by the father of the groom and then the mother of the groom.
It is also common for the bride to make a speech. Bridesmaids are also welcome to make a speech.
The order in which speakers deliver their speech should be considered by the bride and groom. For example, the father of the groom or a member of the bridal party may be an experienced public speaker, and be allowed to speak first, settle the guests down, handle any loud guests and set the mood for the following speeches.
Some people may find public speaking to be daunting. Take this into consideration. If a member of the bridal party politely refuses to make a speech, don't force them in to making a speech which may turn out badly or create an awkward moment. This will not only spoil your wedding night, but also that of the unwilling speaker.
Writing/Delivering a Wedding Speech To begin with, make some notes about stories and experiences that you’ve enjoyed with the bride, groom or couple.
You need take into consideration several aspects of the audience, cultural back-ground, age, familiarity.
If you need to talk to other family (parents and siblings are an excellent source) and friends to help you with background material or humorous moments of the person/persons your speech is for.
When you’re ready to put your speech together be thoughtful, considerate whilst entertaining and stimulating your audience with your experiences.
Your speech should be from the heart, people will appreciate your sincerity.
You should consider 3-5 minutes for your speech; this is ample time in front of an audience. If you lack confidence, a good rule of thumb is ‘short but sweet’.
When your have written up your speech, practice it out loud several times and make adjustments where necessary. And if you can, run the speech by a trusted family member or friend. You could even stand in front of a mirror to do this paying attention to your posture.
Stay away from crude and smutty material, you would not want to offend or embarrass anyone.
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