Weddings can be complex events that have more much “going on” than is evident at the surface. This is part of the reason that the groom’s wedding toast is more important than many might initially find it to be. The groom must remember to thank a wide-array of people ranging from his guest to, of course, his wife. The wedding speech process can be all the more daunting for those who are afraid of public speaking. Not to worry, however, as there are some easy and simple ways that any groom can write a great groom’s wedding toast. With a little planning and thought your groom’s wedding speech can make you look like a funny and original guy who also has a sense of humor!
In general a groom’s toast should focus on thanking family and friends, and of course, letting everyone know how much he loves his new wife. Traditionally, the groom’s speech comes after the father of the bride’s speech. This, of course, means that a great groom’s wedding toast will affirm all the wonderful remarks made by your father-in-law moments earlier. If your father-in-law didn’t have anything good to say about you, well that is a different problem altogether.
Keep in mind that the groom’s speech really needs to focus on expressing gratitude to all those people that made your wedding a success. One way to make sure you are appropriately and effectively thanking all those who need to be thanked is to consider who contributed the most to your wedding. When writing your groom’s toast, think about any contributions that were funny or particularly funny or stood out in some other way. These contributions may very well make for great stories. Of course, timing, as always, is everything. With this in mind, your speech should not exceed five minutes. There are going to be many speeches and toast at your wedding, and the last thing you want is for people to remember your wedding as a boring one.
Of course, try not to leave anyone out of your speech. Wedding mistakes of this nature can often wound ego, but no pressure.
The Guests. Some of your guests likely traveled just to see you get married. Keep this in mind when you are thanking people for their time. Also many of your guests have given you some pretty nice gifts, so why not thank them?
Thank Those Who Lent An Extra Hand. A special thanks to individuals such as your best man or bridesmaids is always a good idea. More than likely were instrumental in making certain that your wedding was a success.
Thank Those Who Went the Extra Mile. Anyone who lent an extra hand in making sure that your wedding was a success should receive a special thank you as well. Often those who fall into this category include your best man and maid of honor, but may also include groomsmen, bridesmaids and even wedding planners. Any funny or poignant moment revolving around these contributions should be acknowledged and will make your speech all the more personable.
Some Other Tips:
Basic Tips:
-Absolutely thank everyone!
-Make a detailed list of all of those who must be thanked.
-It’s a great idea to make a “cheat sheet” of your speech and keep it handy.
-Write your speech out and practice!
Milton Kelly lives in Virginia where he writes from his home office on topics important to the modern man such as wedding toasts, grooming and groomsmen gifts.