The Ultimate Guide to Giving a Memorable Wedding Speech 

So, you’ve been asked to give a wedding speech—first off, congrats! That means you’re important enough to stand up in front of everyone, grab a mic, and share how much you adore the couple. But let’s be honest, it can feel a little terrifying. You want it to be funny, sweet, and memorable, but also not drag on like a never-ending award acceptance speech. 

This guide will have you breezing through your speech like a pro, from brainstorming questions to a foolproof speech template. Get ready to have everyone raising their glass (and not checking their watches). 

Who Gives the Wedding Speeches (and How Many Are There)? 

Traditionally, a few key players step up to the mic. But if your wedding isn’t about following all the rules, you can mix it up. Still, here’s the usual lineup:

Father (or Parent) of the Bride: This speech usually kicks things off with a welcome and a few sweet words about the couple.

Best Man: You can bet on a funny, lighthearted speech here, filled with inside jokes and maybe a slightly embarrassing story or two. 

Maid of Honor: Time to get a little more emotional. She’ll likely talk about the bride, their friendship, and the love story with the groom.

The Couple: Sometimes, the bride and groom will share a joint speech to thank their guests and share the joy.

You might also get a speech from the Mother of the Groom, a sibling, or another close friend. Typically, 3-5 speeches are perfect. You want the room feeling entertained, not held hostage.

How to Give a Great Wedding Speech: Tips for Success 

1. Keep it short: Aim for 3-5 minutes. Long enough to tell a great story but short enough that no one’s thinking about the cake. 

2. Practice, practice, practice: You don’t have to memorize every word, but knowing your main points by heart will keep you from stumbling (or freezing!).

3. Use notes, but don’t read: Having some bullet points handy is smart, but try not to read it word-for-word. Eye contact = connection. 

4. Start with a story: Personal stories are gold. Kick things off with a memory—how you met the bride, that time the groom did something hilarious—anything that brings a smile to people’s faces.

5. Acknowledge their quirks: Everyone loves the little quirks that make us human. Highlight what makes the couple unique—maybe she sings terribly in the shower, or he’s obsessed with his dog.

6. End with a toast: Wrap it all up by raising your glass and giving them your best wishes for the future. Keep it light, loving, and celebratory! 

What NOT to Say in a Wedding Speech

Okay, before you start typing out your speech, let’s go over a few things to avoid. Seriously, don’t even think about these: 

Exes: No one wants to hear about past relationships. Not. The. Time.

Inside jokes no one else will get: It’s cool to sprinkle in a few, but too many and people will be lost. 

Embarrassing stories that go too far: Keep it light! There’s a fine line between funny and cringe-worthy. 

Anything negative: This is all about love, people. Save your roast for the bachelor or bachelorette party.

Politics or religion (unless it’s part of the wedding vibe): Steer clear of hot topics unless they’re central to the couple’s values.

Brainstorming Questions to Kickstart Your Speech 

If you’re staring at a blank screen, try answering these questions to get the creative juices flowing:

1. How did you first meet the bride or groom? 
2. What’s your favorite memory with them?
3. When did you know their partner was “the one” for them?
4. What advice or wishes do you have for their future? 

Template for a Wedding Speech (Your Lifesaver) 

If you’re still not sure how to piece it all together, here’s a foolproof template to follow: 

Introduction: Start by introducing yourself and how you know the couple.

Tell a Story: Share a memory that involves the bride, groom, or both.

Compliment Their Relationship: Highlight what makes their love special.

Best Wishes or Advice: Share your thoughts on their future together. 

End with a Toast: Raise your glass and toast to their love! 

Maid of Honor Speech Template: Sweet and Sentimental Example

“Hi, everyone! For those who don’t know me, I’m [Name], and I’ve had the honor of being [Bride’s Name] best friend since high school. When I first met her, I knew we’d be lifelong friends, and seeing her so happy today makes me feel so grateful to be here. 

There’s a moment I’ll never forget—[insert personal story]—and it was in that moment that I realized just how much joy she brings to everyone’s life. Then she met [Groom’s Name], and I saw her joy multiply in ways I never thought possible.

[Insert something sweet about their relationship, like: "They’re the perfect balance—he makes her laugh, and she keeps him grounded."] 

So, here’s to their forever. I know you’ll continue to make each other laugh, love deeply, and create an incredible life together. Cheers to the happiest couple I know!”

Best Man Speech Template: Funny and Playful Example

“Good evening, everyone! I’m [Name], and I’ve had the pleasure of being [Groom’s Name] best friend since college. Now, I know I’m supposed to stand up here and share some embarrassing stories about [Groom’s Name], but I promised I’d keep it PG… for now.

There was this one time—[insert funny or light-hearted story that ties into your speech]—and after that, I knew [Groom’s Name] was one of the best guys I’d ever know.

Then he met [Bride’s Name], and I saw a whole new side of him. [Groom’s Name], I’ve never seen you happier, more responsible, or more willing to watch rom-coms than when you’re with her. 

So let’s raise a glass to [Bride’s Name] for keeping him in line, and to both of you for finding your forever partner in each other. To the happy couple!” 

Father of the Bride Speech Template: Heartfelt and Reflective Example

“Good evening, everyone. I’m [Bride’s Name] father, and I want to start by thanking you all for being here to celebrate this incredible day. 

Watching [Bride’s Name] grow up has been one of the greatest joys of my life. She’s always been kind, determined, and full of life. And then, one day, she introduced me to [Groom’s Name]. I could see right away how much he cared for her. It wasn’t in the grand gestures, but in the little things—the way he looked at her, the way he listened to her. 

Today, I feel like I’m not losing a daughter, but gaining a son. [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], you have built something beautiful, and I have no doubt you will continue to love and support each other through all of life’s adventures. 

So, here’s to love, laughter, and a lifetime of happiness. To my beautiful daughter and her wonderful husband—cheers.”

Mother of the Groom Speech Template: Warm and Loving Example

“Hi, everyone! For those of you who don’t know me, I’m [Groom’s Name] mother, and it’s been such a joy watching him grow into the man he is today. 

I’ve watched [Groom’s Name] through all of life’s stages—his goofy childhood, his awkward teenage years (sorry, had to mention it!), and the confident, kind, and thoughtful person he is today. And then, he met [Bride’s Name]. From the moment they were together, I knew she was something special. She brings out the best in him, and he makes her laugh like no one else can.

As a mother, all you want is for your child to be happy, and seeing them together, I know they’ve found that happiness. So let’s raise a glass to [Groom’s Name] and [Bride’s Name]—to love, laughter, and a beautiful future together.”

PRO TIP: Need some help getting those perfect words together? CelebrateAlly’s free AI Wedding Speech Generator can help you craft the perfect speech, whether you’re aiming for something funny, sweet, or heartfelt. It’s fast, fun, and totally free. Give it a try—you’ll be thanking us when your speech kills it! 

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Wedding Speeches 

1. How long should a wedding speech be? 

Ideally, keep it around 3-5 minutes. Just enough time to share a story and make your toast, without dragging on. 

2. What should I avoid in a wedding speech? 

Avoid bringing up exes, embarrassing stories that go too far, or anything negative. Also, inside jokes are great—just make sure they don’t leave the room confused! 

3. How can I calm my nerves before giving a speech?

Practice your speech a few times, take deep breaths, and remind yourself that everyone is rooting for you. They’re not expecting perfection, just something heartfelt. 

4. Can I use the CelebrateAlly Wedding Speech Generator to customize my speech?

Absolutely! The CelebrateAlly Wedding Speech Generator is designed to give you personalized speeches that you can tweak as much as you like, to fit your style and relationship with the couple.