Eliminate Wedding Speech Jitters
Over a beer last night, your best friend told you his wonderful news; he will be getting married to the girl of his dreams in a few months’ time. You never thought you’d live long enough to see that happen, for him to take the plunge and settle down.
What did catch you by surprise when he told you about his wedding plans was that he wants you to make a wedding toast at the reception, one of your duties as his best man.
You feel honored to be asked but also so far out of your comfort zone that you can’t even picture your old security blankie! But you’re a take-charge kind of guy who always steps up to the mark. Where do you start when making a wedding toast?
Here are some pointers on making a superb wedding toast.
* It’s important to get started early when planning, writing, practicing delivery and everything else involved in making a wedding speech. Don’t be tempted to “play it by ear”. Trust me, the results wouldn’t be pretty. Hit the books for research and the web for tips too.
* Learn to like butterflies. Make them fly in formation by embracing and harnessing the energy that fear produces. That extra burst of energy will enhance your wedding toast.
* Allow for several drafts. We’re not talking beer here, but rewrites of your speech. Don’t expect to nail it right off the bat. Write the wedding speech, let it sit for a few days and look at it again with fresh eyes. Then make some changes. Repeat this process until you feel comfortable with the results.
* Use humor gently. Don’t use off-color remarks, or embarrassing stories that are better told at a stag than at a reception where people of all ages and backgrounds will hear your wedding toast.
* Share how you met the groom, how long you have known each other and one or two of your exploits. Talk about when he introduced you to his bride, how beautiful and talented and perfect for him she is and how you believe their marriage is bound to be wonderful. Make your wedding toast remarks tasteful and sincere.
* Short and sweet. Don’t be tempted to go longer than five minutes max for your wedding toast.
* Practice makes perfect. Practice your wedding toast in front of a full-length mirror and time it, allowing moments for audience response.
* Grab the mike. Not literally! Try to find a few moments and stand exactly where you will be giving the wedding toast. It will help you feel more comfortable when you take the mike for real.
* Extend arm. No, you are not shaking hands; you are preparing to give the actual wedding toast. Use a full glass, raise your arm from the shoulder, and look directly at the bride and groom when you toast them. This is the last part of the wedding speech.
* Move to the bride and groom and hug them when your wedding toast is complete. Then it’s back to your seat amidst well-earned applause.
Other Related Posts
« Teeth And Eating: Best Foods For A Great Smile | Home | Save Money And The Environment With Energy Efficient Appliances »
Leave a Comment