how to write a speech for special occasion

Special Occasion Speech

Special occasion speech generator.

Crafting the perfect Special Occasion Speech can transform any event into a memorable experience. This detailed guide, interspersed with various speech examples , provides you with the tools to create speeches that resonate deeply with your audience. Whether you’re preparing a heartfelt toast, a motivational speech, or a solemn eulogy, this guide covers all aspects of special occasion speech-making. Learn to articulate your thoughts eloquently and appropriately, ensuring your words become an integral part of every special moment.

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A speech is a talk addressed to a particular audience. It can be to inform, to persuade, or to pay tribute or praise. A general speech is often delivered during formal gatherings such as conventions and special occasions. Special occasion speeches, such as birthday and wedding speeches , don’t necessarily follow a set of rules in public speaking. There is no need for a speech exercise or strict formats for one to follow when it comes to writing a good speech. They are shorter than the standard types of speeches as they are simply intended to introduce, dedicate, or praise an individual.

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Short Special Occasion Speech

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What Is a Special Occasion Speech?

As the name implies, special occasion speeches are delivered during special occasions. They are sometimes given to commemorate a legacy or to celebrate an achievement. A special occasion speech is short and straight to the point, possibly lasting for ten minutes or less. A mood is often set through these speeches, enough to change everyone’s spirit. Some special occasion speech examples include a eulogy, a toast, and an award speech.

How to Give a Special Occasion Speech

To give a good special occasion speech, you need to know your topic well. Do your research agenda , especially when you’re dealing with names and titles of significant people. There’s nothing more insulting than delivering a speech that has the wrong information and no factual basis whatsoever. From there, you’ll be able to add your own words and ideas to the speech.

Use an optimistic tone. Even when you are presenting a eulogy, you need to be able to set a positive vibe that celebrates a person’s time here on earth. For introducing significant individuals, a good presentation speech that depicts honor and gratitude would definitely do the job. Keep in mind that a special occasion speech is meant to relay a positive message to an audience.

Short Speech for Special Occasion

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Farewell Speech

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Sample Special Occasion Speech

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Types of Special Occasion Speech

Special Occasion Speeches are a pivotal part of various events and ceremonies, each with a distinct purpose and tone. Whether it’s a formal gathering or a casual celebration, understanding these different types of speeches helps in crafting the right message for the occasion. Here, we explore various forms of special occasion speeches, such as Speeches of Introduction, Presentation, Acceptance, Dedication, along with Toasts, Roasts, and Eulogies.

Speeches of Introduction

Speeches of Introduction are designed to introduce a speaker or a key person at an event. The goal is to establish a connection between the audience and the speaker, highlighting their credentials and relevance to the topic or event. These speeches should be brief, engaging, and informative, setting the stage for the main speaker.

Speeches of Presentation

These speeches occur during the presentation of an award or honor. The focus is on the significance of the award and the merits of the recipient. A Speech of Presentation should be gracious and celebratory, often highlighting the achievements and contributions of the awardee.

Speeches of Acceptance

When an individual receives an award or honor, they often deliver a Speech of Acceptance . This speech is an opportunity to express gratitude, acknowledge the support of others, and sometimes, to speak on the award’s significance. It should be humble, succinct, and heartfelt.

Speeches of Dedication

Speeches of Dedication are delivered during the dedication of buildings, memorials, or other significant items. These speeches honor the purpose and significance of the item or place being dedicated. It’s a moment to reflect on its importance and to pay homage to those who contributed.

Toasts are short speeches given in honor of a person or an occasion, often during a meal or a social event. The key to a successful toast is brevity, warmth, and sincerity. It’s a gesture of goodwill and celebration, usually ending with an invitation for the audience to raise their glasses.

Roasts are humorous and entertaining speeches meant to playfully ‘poke fun’ at an individual, usually in a light-hearted manner. The key is to balance humor with respect, ensuring that the roast remains enjoyable and does not offend.

A Eulogy is a speech given in memory of someone who has passed away, usually at a funeral or memorial service. It’s a tribute to the deceased, reflecting on their life, values, and impact on others. Eulogies are deeply personal, respectful, and aim to offer comfort to the audience.

Incorporating these different types of speeches into special occasions adds depth and meaning to the events. Whether celebrating achievements, honoring individuals, or remembering loved ones, each speech type serves a unique and important role in conveying sentiments aptly suited to the occasion.

What Is the Importance of Special Occasion Speech?

Typically, a presentation speech is necessary for individuals to learn and interact with one another. Speakers learn from their research while the audience, as listeners, learn from the speaker’s speech. For special occasion speeches, it usually relates to the personal aspect. You may also see thank-you speech examples & samples .

A special occasion speech can often give pride to the individual being honored. It is a good way to recognize one’s effort. For instance, a welcome speech gives thanks to the audience for being present despite various circumstances. The speech is a means of showing one’s appreciation through words of praise and gratitude. You may also like launch speech examples .

Tips for Special Occasion Speech

A good special occasion speech comes from the power of words. It needs to leave a lasting impact to your audience for it to be effective. Here are some tips for a good speech:

• Tell a story. It could be something funny or inspiring, as long as it remains relevant. You may also check out dedication speech examples .
• Address the individual being honored or celebrated.
• Organize your words. Use speech templates to help you properly sort various ideas and thoughts.
• Avoid using explicit language. Keep in mind that your audience is a diverse group. Not everyone will be thrilled about your choice of words. You might be interested in leadership speech examples & samples .

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How to Write and Deliver A Perfect Special Occasion Speech

• The Speaker Lab
• July 17, 2024

Table of Contents

Speeches for special occasions are like magic ingredients that can transform any gathering into a moment everyone will remember. Whether you’re toasting at a wedding, giving a eulogy , or accepting an award, your words have the power to move hearts and minds. But let’s be real: crafting the perfect special occasion speech isn’t easy. It takes finesse, creativity, and more than a little courage to stand out from the crowd.

But fear not! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the art of creating a special occasion speech that leaves a lasting impact. From understanding your audience to structuring your speech for maximum effect, we have you covered. So grab a pen and paper, because your next speech is about to be a game-changer.

What Is a Special Occasion Speech?

Special occasion speeches mark the significance of a specific event. For example, you might give one at a wedding, a birthday party, graduation ceremony, funeral, farewell, award ceremony, etc. Ultimately, these speeches address and engage the audience’s emotions on a specific occasion. The goal is to honor, celebrate, appreciate, acknowledge, commemorate, or eulogize. Like informative or persuasive speeches, special occasion speeches communicate a clear message. However, the manner of speaking used is typically different.

Types of Special Occasion Speeches

Unlike informative and persuasive speeches, special occasion speeches are much broader and allow for a wider range of topics, events, and approaches to be employed. Since you are likely to give many special occasion speeches in your life, let’s look at the different types.

Speeches of Introduction

The first type of special occasion speech is the speech of introduction . Typically, a host of a ceremony will give this mini-speech to introduce another speaker and what that person plans to talk about. Few things are worse than when the introducer of a speaker stands up and says, “This is Wyatt Ford. He’s going to talk about stress.” While we did learn the speaker’s name and the topic, the introduction falls flat.

Speeches of Acceptance

An acceptance speech is a speech given by the recipient of an award or honor, usually at an awards ceremony or another special event. The speech typically expresses gratitude for the recognition and may also reflect on the recipient’s journey or the significance of the award.

Speeches of Dedication

A dedication speech is a speech given to mark the opening or dedication of a new building, monument, or other structure. The speech often reflects on the significance of the structure and the efforts that went into its creation.

Speeches for Commencements

A commencement speech is a speech given at a graduation ceremony, typically by a notable figure or alumnus of the school. The speech often offers advice and inspiration to the graduating class as they embark on the next chapter of their lives. Valedictorian speeches also fall under this category.

After-Dinner Speeches

An after-dinner speech is a speech given at a formal dinner or banquet, often to entertain the audience or to mark a special occasion. The speech may be humorous or reflective, depending on the tone of the event.

Motivational Speeches

A motivational speech is a speech designed to inspire and encourage the audience to take action or to persevere in the face of challenges. Motivational speeches are often given at conferences, workshops, or other events where the goal is to energize and empower the audience.

Speeches of Farewell

A farewell speech is a speech given to mark the departure of an individual from a group or organization. The speech often reflects on the individual’s contributions and expresses gratitude for their time with the group.

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Key Parts Of An Effective Special Occasion Speech

When it comes to delivering a special occasion speech that truly resonates with your audience, there are a few key ingredients you’ll want to keep in mind. These elements can make all the difference in ensuring your speech is engaging, memorable, and effective.

Adapting to the Occasion and Your Audience

First and foremost, it’s crucial to adapt to the occasion at hand. Whether you’re giving a toast at a wedding or delivering a commencement address, understanding the context and purpose of the event is essential. This will help you tailor your message and tone to fit the occasion perfectly.

Equally important is adapting to your audience. Consider who will be listening to your speech and what they might be interested in hearing. What are their backgrounds, ages, and experiences? By understanding your audience, you can craft a message that resonates with them on a personal level. For example, if you’re speaking at a graduation ceremony, you might focus on themes of perseverance, growth, and future possibilities. On the other hand, if you’re giving a eulogy, you may want to emphasize the impact and legacy of the person being honored.

Being Mindful of the Time Limit

Another key ingredient for a successful special occasion speech is being mindful of the time limit. No one wants to listen to a speaker who drones on and on, so it’s important to keep your remarks concise and to the point. Aim for a speech that’s no longer than 10-15 minutes, depending on the occasion.

If you’re given a specific time limit, make sure to practice your speech and time yourself to ensure you stay within the allotted timeframe. This will help you avoid rushing through your remarks or getting cut off before you’ve had a chance to deliver your key messages.

Structuring Your Special Occasion Speech Effectively

Finally, structuring your speech effectively is crucial for keeping your audience engaged and ensuring your message is clear and memorable. A typical speech outline includes an introduction, body, and conclusion.

In your introduction, grab your audience’s attention with a relevant anecdote, quote, or question. Then, preview the main points you’ll be covering in your speech. In the body of your speech, develop each of your main points with examples, stories, and evidence. Finally, in your conclusion, summarize your key messages and leave your audience with a call to action or memorable takeaway.

By incorporating these key ingredients into your special occasion speech, you’ll be well on your way to delivering a speech that informs, inspires, and entertains your audience.

Tips for Writing a Memorable Special Occasion Speech

Now that you understand the key ingredients for delivering an effective special occasion speech, let’s dive into some tips for writing a memorable one. After all, the words you choose and the way you structure your speech can make all the difference in how your message is received.

Choosing an Appropriate Topic

When it comes to choosing a topic for your special occasion speech, it’s important to consider the purpose of the event and the interests of your audience. For example, if you’re giving a toast at a wedding, you might focus on the couple’s love story and what makes their relationship special. If you’re giving a commencement address, you might speak about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the graduates.

Whatever topic you choose, make sure it’s relevant to the occasion and the audience. You want your speech to be meaningful and memorable, not generic or forgettable.

Crafting a Strong Opening

The opening of your speech is your chance to grab your audience’s attention and set the tone for the rest of your remarks. A strong opening might include a relevant quote , a personal anecdote, or a thought-provoking question.

For example, if you’re giving a speech at a retirement party, you might open with a funny story about the guest of honor’s early days on the job. Or if you’re giving a toast at a wedding, you might start with a quote about love and commitment.

Incorporating Personal Anecdotes

One of the best ways to make your special occasion speech memorable is to incorporate personal anecdotes and stories. These can help illustrate your points, create an emotional connection with your audience, and make your speech more relatable and engaging.

For example, if you’re giving a eulogy, you might share a story about a special moment you shared with the person being honored. Or if you’re giving a commencement address, you might talk about a challenge you faced and overcame during your own education or career.

Using Humor Effectively

Humor can be a great way to engage your audience and make your special occasion speech more memorable. However, it’s important to use humor effectively and appropriately. Make sure any jokes or humorous anecdotes you include are relevant to your topic and appropriate for the occasion and audience. Avoid offensive or insensitive humor, and don’t rely too heavily on jokes at the expense of your overall message.

Ending on a High Note

Just as important as your opening is your closing. You want to end your special occasion speech on a high note, leaving your audience feeling inspired, moved, or encouraged.

One effective way to close your speech is with a call to action or a memorable takeaway. For example, if you’re giving a commencement address, you might encourage the graduates to pursue their passions and make a positive impact on the world. Or if you’re giving a toast at a wedding, you might offer a piece of advice or well-wishes for the happy couple.

By incorporating these tips into your special occasion speech writing process, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a speech that is both memorable and effective.

Preparing to Deliver Your Special Occasion Speech

You’ve crafted a killer special occasion speech—congratulations! But now comes the hard part: delivering it in a way that captivates your audience and leaves a lasting impact. Whether you’re presenting an acceptance speech, a commencement address, or a heartfelt farewell, the way you deliver your message can make all the difference.

So, how do you make sure your speech is ready for prime time? It all comes down to preparation and practice. You’ll want to spend ample time rehearsing your speech, not just to memorize your lines but to get comfortable with the flow and pacing of your delivery.

Practicing Your Special Occasion Speech

When it comes to practicing your speech, there’s no such thing as too much. The more you run through your material, the more natural and confident you’ll feel when it’s time to take the stage. But don’t just recite your speech in front of the mirror. Instead, try to simulate the actual speaking environment as much as possible. Stand up, move around, and use the same gestures and body language you plan to use during your presentation. This will help you get a feel for how your speech will flow and allow you to make any necessary adjustments before the big day. Finally, don’t forget to time yourself. Make sure your speech fits within the allotted time limit, leaving room for any unexpected pauses or audience reactions.

Managing Nerves and Anxiety

Even the most seasoned speakers can get butterflies before a big speech. But there are plenty of ways to manage your nerves and keep your anxiety in check. One effective strategy is to practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation before you take the stage.

You can also try visualizing yourself delivering your speech with confidence and ease. Picture the audience responding positively to your message and imagine yourself feeling calm and in control. And remember, a little bit of nervousness is totally normal—it just means you care about doing a good job.

Engaging with Your Audience

No matter how well-written your speech may be, it won’t have the desired impact if you fail to connect with your audience. That’s why it’s crucial to engage with your listeners throughout your presentation. Make eye contact, use facial expressions and gestures to emphasize key points, and speak in a clear, confident voice.

You can also try incorporating interactive elements into your speech, like asking rhetorical questions or encouraging audience participation. This will help keep your listeners engaged and make them feel like they’re part of the conversation. Just be sure to read the room and adjust your approach as needed. After all, what works for one audience may not work for another.

Using Appropriate Body Language and Gestures

Your body language and gestures can speak just as loudly as your words, so it’s important to use them effectively during your special occasion speech. Stand up straight, make eye contact with your audience, and use natural, expressive gestures to emphasize your points.

Avoid crossing your arms or hiding behind the podium, as this can make you appear closed off or nervous. Instead, keep your posture open and welcoming, and use your hands to help illustrate your message. Just be sure not to go overboard with the gesticulations. Too much movement can be distracting and take away from the impact of your words.

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Examples of Inspiring Special Occasion Speeches

Need some inspiration for your own special occasion speech? Look no further than some of the most memorable and impactful speeches throughout history. From heartfelt acceptance speeches to powerful commencement addresses, these examples showcase the art of special occasion speaking at its finest.

Famous Acceptance Speeches

Winning an award is a special occasion in itself, and the acceptance speech that follows can be just as memorable as the achievement being recognized.

Take, for example, Halle Berry’s emotional acceptance speech at the 2002 Academy Awards, where she became the first African American woman to win the Best Actress Oscar. In her speech, Berry acknowledged the significance of the moment and paid tribute to the trailblazing actresses who came before her. “This moment is so much bigger than me,” she said through tears. “This moment is for Dorothy Dandridge, Lena Horne, Diahann Carroll. It’s for the women that stand beside me, Jada Pinkett, Angela Bassett, Vivica Fox. And it’s for every nameless, faceless woman of color that now has a chance because this door tonight has been opened.”

Memorable Commencement Addresses

Commencement speeches are a staple of graduation ceremonies, offering words of wisdom and inspiration to the next generation of leaders. And few commencement addresses are as memorable as Steve Jobs’ 2005 speech at Stanford University .

In his speech, Jobs shared three personal stories that shaped his life and career, from dropping out of college to being fired from Apple to facing a cancer diagnosis. Through these anecdotes, he encouraged graduates to follow their passions, trust their instincts, and make the most of every moment. “Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life,” he urged. “Have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become.”

Heartfelt Farewell Speeches

Saying goodbye is never easy, but a well-crafted farewell speech can help bring closure and celebrate the memories shared. Take, for example, Peyton Manning’s farewell speech in 2016 , where he bid a heartfelt goodbye to the team and fans he had played for over the past 18 years.

In his speech, Manning thanked his teammates, coaches, and family for their support and reflected on the highs and lows of his legendary career. “When someone thoroughly exhausts an experience they can’t help but revere it,” he said. “I revere football. I love the game. So you don’t have to wonder if I’ll miss it. Absolutely. Absolutely I will.”

FAQs on Special Occasion Speeches

What is an example of a special occasion speech.

A toast at a wedding or a keynote address at graduation ceremonies are classic examples.

How do you start an occasion speech?

Kick off with a hook. Share a quote, fact, or brief story that ties to your theme.

What are the 2 types of special occasion speech style?

The two main styles are formal and informal. Your choice depends on the event’s vibe and audience.

How do you speak on special occasions?

Know your audience, stay true to the event’s tone, mix in personal stories, and keep it concise.

Special occasion speeches may seem daunting at first, but with the right approach, you can create a speech that resonates with your audience and leaves a lasting impression. Remember to tailor your message to the occasion, keep it concise yet impactful, and infuse it with your unique voice and perspective.

The key is to speak from the heart while keeping your audience’s needs and expectations in mind. Whether you’re aiming for laughter, tears, or a standing ovation, your special occasion speech has the power to create a shared moment of connection and meaning.

So go forth and embrace the opportunity to speak on those special occasions. Your words have the ability to inspire, comfort, and celebrate the moments that matter most. And who knows? You might find yourself falling in love with the whole special occasion speaking scene before you know it.

• Last Updated: July 14, 2024

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• Speech Crafting →

How to Write a Special Occasion Speech: Tips and Examples

You’re excitedly prepping for the big event – the guest of honor is upcoming, the food is prepped, and the decorations are delightful – but don’t forget one of the most important aspects of any special occasion: the speech. Whether you’re the keynote speaker, best man/maid of honor, or even one of the parents in the audience – chances are you’ve been asked to buckle up and grab the mic at some point and come up with the perfect speech. Crafting speeches and giving them in front of a live audience can seem like a daunting task, especially if you have no idea where to begin. Fear not! Today, we’re providing the perfect guide to giving a knockout special occasion speech that will for sure make all your audience members fuzz with happiness. Read on for tips, tricks, and examples – you’ll have a heartfelt showstopper ready to go in no time.

Understand the Event and Your Audience

When writing a special occasion speech, it is important to understand the event and the audience. Take some time to get to know the event, what type of tone and atmosphere will be created in the room, and who your audience is expected to be. Knowing the context will help you shape the content of your speech. It is particularly crucial to identify who your audience is composed of and their expectations. Ask yourself: What do they want to hear? How long do they want to listen? Are there any sensitive issues or topics that need to be avoided? Keeping these questions in mind will ensure you are meeting their needs. For example, an important takeaway for an address at a business-focused conference would likely differ from one given at a graduation ceremony . You also need to decide which points you want to emphasize during your speech. It can be helpful to brainstorm some ideas in advance. Brainstorm topics that are both relevant and meaningful, such as offering advice on how to navigate current obstacles or other useful knowledge your audience may be able to benefit from. Additionally, if applicable, identify areas where debate could be sparked and try to anticipate opposing points of view. This will help prepare for a balanced discussion in case someone brings up an argument challenging any claims or statements you make in your speech. With this knowledge at hand, you can begin the research process with confidence. Next we’ll discuss how researching the occasion can further inform and enhance your special occasion speech.

Research the Occasion

Researching the occasion should be a priority when preparing a special occasion speech. Understanding the tone, audience, and purpose of the occasion is fundamental to writing an effective and motivating speech. Additionally, it is essential to consider the expectations for the speech and what kind of content will be most effective in meeting those expectations. For example, research guidance from the event organizers can inform topics or stories that are particularly relevant to the occasion. This ensures the main points of the speech stay on-point for the event’s purpose. It may also be helpful to research similar events or special occasion speeches for ideas or inspiration. It’s important to note here that it isn’t advisable to copy or use someone else’s words; rather take time to brainstorm your own ideas and recognize topics that you have unique knowledge or experience in talking about. When researching a special occasion speech, there is a debate between using scripted versus unscripted material. Some speakers prefer scripting out their entire speech so they can make sure all key points are covered in an organized way. On the other hand, other speakers rely more heavily on improvisation and speaking without a script. These two approaches both involve advantages and disadvantages; in general, which one is more suitable depends on various factors including personal preference, as well as understanding of how much practice is needed for either approach to come off smoothly and professionally. Once you’ve completed your research of the special occasion, you are ready to move onto preparing your speech . Creating an outline at this stage can help organize your thoughts and ideas, setting the groundwork for writing your full draft of the speech . Now you’re ready for the next section – preparing your special occasion speech.

Prepare Your Special Occasion Speech

Preparing your special occasion speech is a key factor in its success. It’s important to gather all the facts and resources necessary for you to be able to effectively communicate your message. Here are some tips for preparing your special occasion speech: 1. Set realistic goals. Establish what you want to achieve with your speech, then make sure that those goals are achievable and relevant to the setting and audience of the special occasion. 2. Research thoroughly. Once you have established the goals for your speech , research the topic in-depth so that you can include any pertinent facts or figures. 3. Brainstorm ideas. An effective way to come up with content for your speech is to brainstorm ideas – think about who or what you want to talk about and what experiences or topics it would be interesting to cover in your presentation. 4. Outline your speech. After coming up with ideas, create an outline of your speech with a beginning, body, and conclusion section. This allows you to organize the information clearly while ensuring that all of the points you wanted to discuss have been covered in an organized fashion. 5. Consider visuals and other materials. Incorporating visuals such as video clips , photographs, or slideshow presentations can enhance your speech by keeping the audience engaged and helping them to better understand your points more clearly. Additionally, prepare materials such as handouts which could help add value to your presentation if needed. Having taken these steps into consideration, you now have all the tools necessary for presenting an impactful special occasion speech. Now it’s time to decide on what content should be included in it – let’s move onto our next section about how exactly we will do just that!

Decide on Your Content

Deciding on the content of a special occasion speech can be daunting; knowing what to say and how to say it will leave many feeling overwhelmed. However, the speaker should consider the event, the audience, and their own comfort level with public speaking in order to determine what should be said. First and foremost, the speaker should understand the primary purpose of their speech; this will direct all other considerations like tone and timing. If a speech is meant as an award presentation, for instance, then it should remain focused on the honors being given or shared. Other speeches that may take place during a ceremony could include introductions, appreciations, or well wishes. No matter what content is chosen, a speech should aim to move the audience but also prioritize keeping within a certain time frame. A good rule of thumb is the ‘less is more’ approach of imparting valuable information within a few minutes . Keeping material concise will also ensure that all important points are addressed while also maintaining the audience’s attention throughout. When considering one’s own comfort level with public speaking, it’s important to note that some people feel more competent discussing certain topics than others. For example, those who may not feel very knowledgeable about honoring someone for their excellence in work or service may choose to focus on showcasing their own personal experience or connection with them instead. Whatever is decided upon should still keep with the intent of the occasion and create value for both speaker and listener alike. Finally, every good presentation relies heavily on connecting with an audience . Careful consideration of one’s content is essential in ensuring this meaningful connection between speaker and listeners going forward in the final section about “Connecting With Your Audience”.

Connect with Your Audience

Connecting with your audience is essential for delivering a special occasion speech that will be remembered. An important part of connection is understanding the purpose and history of the event. By understanding the context and how it’s linked to the audience’s values, beliefs, or identities, you can better relate to your listener. Additionally, connecting with an audience requires being mindful of their current emotions. Are they feeling excited, nostalgic, somber? Speak to that emotion through the use of anecdotes, stories, examples, or other tangible connections. Humor can also be used as a tool to make a connection with your audience. Everyone loves laughing, so if a joke is organic and appropriate within the context of your speech, don’t be afraid to include one. On the other hand, some may feel humor is inappropriate given the gravity of certain events; it’s important to use caution when deciding whether humor is necessary or not. The strongest speeches depend on the bond between speaker and listener alike. When there is an emotional connection, both parties are more likely to deeply digest and appreciate your words. To create stronger connections between yourself and audience members consider putting yourself in their shoes— How would they feel if hearing what you’re saying? You can then use emotive language when crafting your speech to bring out those same feelings from them as well. It is through making these connections that one can craft a moving and meaningful special occasion speech that resonates with its listeners. Next up in this article: Reaching for Your Audience’s Emotions – Learn how to activate listeners’ emotions by knowing which words to use in order to move them emotionally during a special occasion speech.

Reach for Your Audience’s Emotions

Whether you’re writing a speech for a wedding , toasts at a retirement party, or celebrating the successes of your classmates at a graduation ceremony, the goal is to provoke emotion and reach your audience in an impactful way. Crafting your speech to be memorable requires thoughtfulness and intentionality to ensure your audience will respond in the desired manner. The challenge lies in striking the right balance between sentimentality and sappiness. If it’s too saccharine, it could come off as insincere—but you don’t want it to be so dry that people stay disengaged. One theory suggests that you should undertake an approach that seeks to “surprise with familiarity” – use anecdotes and stories that are familiar enough to be relatable, but new enough to capture attention. You can also look for ways to entertain with humor, although this can get complicated if taken too far or if humor isn’t something you’re confident about doing. Ultimately, reaching for emotion in your speech is about finding the story underneath the occasion – drawing on why we’re all there in the first place. Whether its joy over a wedding couple, celebration of success for a graduate, or honoring decades of hard work at retirement party, the goal is to make clear why the moment matters and focus on that throughout your speech. No matter which tactic you take in attempting to reach your audience’s emotions, avoiding clichés and leaving room for creative storytelling is key to sentence-by-sentence craftsmanship. With thoughtfully crafted words in delicate balance with careful comedic timing, you’ll evoke emotion from every corner of your audience. Now let’s learn how deliver this masterpiece with confidence!

Deliver Your Speech with Confidence

It’s understandable to have some nerves when delivering a special occasion speech, but ultimately, the audience is there to hear what you have to say. You’ve worked hard writing your speech and practicing it, so now it’s time to let your words do their job. Starting off strong will help build confidence and increase the likelihood that you won’t forget a key part of your presentation or stumble over your words. Enunciating clearly and taking pauses when necessary are key elements to ensure that the audience is hearing what you are saying. Additionally, speaking at a moderate pace allows listeners enough breathing room to absorb the message. Make eye contact with members of the crowd intermittently – not everyone in the room all at once- as this will convey genuine engagement with them and make the environment more inviting. On the other hand, intonation of your speech must also be taken into consideration in order for its impact to be effective. A slow yet passionate monotone can feel dull compared to dynamic pitch changes and enthusiastic volume levels. This will allow listeners to focus more on the content being discussed while still captivating their interest. Now that you’re armed with tips for confidently delivering an unforgettable special occasion speech, it’s time to hone its meaningful message.

Give the Speech a Meaningful Message

Giving a speech at a special occasion is more than just telling your story: it is also about giving the occasion itself some thought and meaning. Consider the event’s purpose and the audience, and craft a message that speaks to both. Doing so will ensure that your message resonates with the attendees and leaves them feeling inspired or enlightened. When it comes to creating your meaningful message, there are two ways you can approach it. You can either focus on the time-honored ideals associated with the occasion, or you can tailor your message to be relevant in the present moment. For example, if you are giving a speech at a wedding, you could talk about the virtues of marriage such as companionship and mutual respect, or about how modern couples are forging their own paths in marriage that don’t necessarily align with traditional values. Both approaches have their merits, and depending on your audience’s interests, one may work better than the other. Ultimately, do whatever feels most natural for you. The key to giving a meaningful speech is to make sure your message emotionally connects with your audience. Many times this can be achieved by being honest and vulnerable; people respond better to heartfelt stories that convey raw emotion rather than generic platitudes. A meaningful message should also leave an uplifting and positive impression on those listening. Even if the occasion centers around something troubling or negative, try to bring a sense of hope and optimism in how you frame and deliver your remarks. No matter what kind of special occasion you are speaking at, remember to clearly articulate what makes it unique while still tying it back to larger themes that resonate with everyone in attendance. This way, when you finish speaking, everyone in the room will have been touched by your words in some meaningful way. With these tips in mind for crafting a meaningful message for a special occasion speech, it’s now time to learn about remembering the most important moments when delivering it.

Remember the Most Important Moments

When writing a special occasion speech, it is important to remember the most significant moments of the event. Taking the time to reflect back on what makes this occasion unique and meaningful will help to ensure that you capture all of the most important aspects of the day. When reflecting on these moments, think about what makes them so special, who was there, and how did they make an impact? If writing a speech for a wedding, consider any milestones in the couple’s relationship or details about how they came to be together. If writing for a retirement party, speak about specific incidents or memories with colleagues that made an impression on you, as this will be more personal and will show that you appreciate their hard work over the years. If applicable, take time to discuss both sides of an argument. For instance, if giving a speech at a graduation, consider individual stories from students that had different experiences during their studies – some may have overcome difficult circumstances to succeed while others may have had an easier journey but learned much along the way. Highlighting these diverse paths taken shows that you acknowledge everyone’s personal experience and accomplishments. Finally, remember to tie together your speech by closing with strong sentiment that sums up the importance of this occasion. This can end with a toast or closing remarks that bring everyone together in celebration and appreciation of the special moment shared amongst friends and family.

End with a Toast or Closing Remarks

At the conclusion of your speech , it is important to leave your audience with a memorable impression. End with a toast or closing remarks that are meaningful and set the tone for the celebration. Here are some tips for choosing a suitable toast or closing for your special occasion speech. Toast: A toast is an appropriate way to bring your speech to a close. Toasts honor or congratulate those around the table and express optimism for their future. You may want to incorporate a quote or popular phrase from literature or another source, such as: “May you have a lifetime of health, happiness, and success” or “Live long and prosper”. In addition, you could add a humorous quip or witty remark if it fits the tone of the occasion. Closing Remarks: If a toast does not make sense in the context of your speech, consider making closing remarks instead. Closing remarks can summarize what was said during the course of the special occasion speech and express well wishes before they depart. Additionally, they might suggest actions people should take going forward if applicable. An example of this would be “Now that we’ve celebrated our achievements, let’s continue working together to achieve even greater heights in the future.” When deciding on either a toast or closing remarks for your special occasion speech it’s important to take into consideration who you are speaking to and what type of message you would like to convey about them or the event at hand. For instance, give serious consideration to how well-known quotations might affect your audience depending on cultural background and beliefs. Whichever route you decide to take ensure that it complements the occasion and resonates with those listening.

Answers to Common Questions with Explanations

What are effective techniques for delivering a special occasion speech.

The most effective techniques for delivering a special occasion speech can be broken down into four key components: 1. Focus on the Audience: Every audience is different, so it’s important to tailor your speech to their needs. Think about their background, experiences and interests when crafting your content. 2. Clear Structure: It’s easy to get lost in anecdotes throughout an engaging speech. Stick to an organizational structure with a beginning, middle and end that allows you to maintain momentum and keeps the audience engaged . 3. Brevity: The more concise your message is, the more likely it is that people will remember it after the event. Craft short stories and powerful statements into your delivery rather than discourse-style speeches. 4. Rehearsal: Make sure you practice your speech several times before you arrive at the event! That way you are less likely to make mistakes or stumble through difficult passages. You should also be mindful of your flow – perfecting your pacing and pauses for effect .

What type of information should be included in a special occasion speech?

The type of information that should be included in a special occasion speech will vary depending on the purpose of the speech and the audience it is being delivered to. Generally speaking, however, a special occasion speech should include facts and figures related to the special occasion, as well as anecdotes and personal stories . For example, if delivering a celebratory speech for a company’s 10th anniversary, the speaker may want to provide some background on how the company was started and its history over the past decade; notable milestones or successes achieved; recognition of people or groups who have contributed greatly to the company’s success; gratitude for those who have supported throughout; and aims or goals for the future. Additionally, a special occasion speech should offer messages of congratulation or celebration, thoughtful reflections on the momentous event, inspirational words of hope and encouragement, humor to engage the audience, as well as any other relevant details about the occasion itself. Ultimately, it is important to ensure that all information shared during a special occasion speech is interesting and appropriate for the audience at hand.

What are the important guidelines to follow when writing a special occasion speech?

When writing a special occasion speech, there are certain guidelines to follow in order to deliver an effective and memorable speech. First and foremost, be sure to plan in advance. Take the time to research your topic and create an outline for your speech so you can organize your ideas. Be sure to craft a clear and concise message. Make sure it’s engaging and memorable! Second, practice your speech several times. Speak slowly and clearly , ensuring that you enunciate every word. Try to anticipate questions from the audience and incorporate answers into your presentation. Finally, it’s important to keep the audience in mind when creating a special occasion speech. Focus on creating a positive atmosphere and think about how the speech will impact both the audience and those it is commemorating. Focus on stories, analogies, jokes and quotes that will connect with them emotionally. By following these simple guidelines, you’ll have all the tools you need to write a winning special occasion speech!

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Special Occasion Speech

Understanding Special Occasion Speech: Types, Steps, Examples and Tips

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Have you ever been asked to give a special occasion speech and felt completely lost?

Your speech needs to be perfect, but how can you ensure that it touches hearts and leaves a lasting impact?

But don't worry—this blog is here to help. We offer practical tips, clear examples, and proven techniques to guide you in creating a speech that resonates.

So, let’s find out how!

• 1. Special Occasion Speech Definition
• 2. Types of Special Occasion Speech
• 3. How to Write a Special Occasion Speech?
• 4. Special Occasion Speech Outline Example
• 5. Special Occasion Speech Topics
• 6. Ideas for Special Occasion Speeches
• 7. Special Occasion Speech Examples - H2
• 8. Tips for Writing A Good Special Occasion Speech

Special Occasion Speech Definition

A special occasion speech is a speech given to mark a significant event or moment. These types of speeches are meant to celebrate, honor, or remember the occasion and the people involved. They can vary greatly depending on the event, but they always aim to connect with the audience on an emotional level.

Special occasion speeches include toasts at weddings, eulogies at funerals, acceptance speeches at award ceremonies, and farewell speeches at retirements. Each type follows its style of speech writing according to the audience, purpose and nature of the event.

These speeches are typically concise, targeted, and customized to suit the event. They often highlight the importance of the occasion, express gratitude, and share personal stories or reflections. By doing so, they help to make the event more meaningful for everyone involved.

Watch this video to become more familiar with the special occasion speech.

Types of Special Occasion Speech

There are many special life events that require special occasion speaking. People show their gratitude, appreciation, and condolence through their speeches. As the list of events grows, the list of speeches grows simultaneously. 

The list of special occasion speeches is very long, so for simplicity, we have grouped them into two different categories: 

• Ceremonial Speaking
• Inspirational Speaking

Let’s discuss these special occasion speech types in detail. 

Ceremonial Speeches

Ceremonial speeches are given at ceremonies by the observance of formality and decorum. The ceremonies are special occasions that people arrange to celebrate something. There are eight common types of ceremonial speaking. Let's examine them one by one.

• Speech of Introduction

An introduction speech is a mini-speech given by the host of an event to introduce the upcoming speaker. This speech is very precise and short, given only to familiarize the audience with the speaker going to deliver a speech. 

A good introduction speech could be like this:

This introduction has creatively introduced the speaker and her topic while making the audience interested in her speech.

Acceptance Speech

The speech of acceptance is given by a person who has just received an award, a prize, or an honor. The speaker usually starts by thanking everyone and ends with expressing appreciation. The speech of acceptance basically has three main components:

• A special thanks to the prize or award giver.
• Other special thanks to those who have helped in achieving the goal
• The prize or the award needs to be put into perspective.

When you prepare for an acceptance speech , you need to think of the people you want to thank. List down their names in the order you want to thank them. Take a look at the acceptance speech example given below:

Acceptance Speech Example

• Presentation Speech

The presentation speech is given while presenting an award, prize, or honor. The basic purpose of the presentation speech is to recognize the person’s accomplishments about the honor or award. These speeches provide the following components:

• Highlights the award’s significance that is being given
• Highlights the merits of the award recipient
• Enhance the credibility of the award and the event by personalizing the speech

Have a look at the following presentation speech example and learn to make the award/prize and the person being honored center of the attention.

Presentation Speech Example

• Dedication Speech

Speech of dedication is delivered to dedicate something to someone. It is usually given at an inauguration ceremony, a building named after someone, a new shop opens, and so on. 

The dedication speeches are intended to highlight the importance of a project and to whom it has been dedicated. When preparing for a dedication speech, you need to consider the following factors:

• How you are involved in the dedication
• Explain what is being dedicated
• Explain who was involved in the project
• Explain the importance of the project

Here is a dedication speech example for you.

Dedication Speech Example

A toast is a kind of brief tribute to a particular person or a specific event. It is designed to appreciate and congratulate the people being toasted. It allows the speaker to recognize the person’s achievements and give the best wishes for the future.

While delivering a toast, keep these key points in mind:

• Keep it brief and specific to the event.
• Focus attention on the person being toasted
• Avoid any inside joke which is not accessible to all of the audience as toasts are public.
• End the toast by praising the person being toasted

Check out this amazing special occasion speech toast example:

Toast Speech Example

A roast is an interesting and funny speech because it is designed to praise and humorously insult the person being toasted. It is usually delivered at the end of a banquet to honor a person's life achievements.

Follow these tips to write an interesting toast:

• Think about the person who is being roasted.
• Look for any amusing story or a strange habit of the person being roasted.
• Poke fun at them but avoid targeting a specific person.
• Avoid the things that are truly private or might hurt the specific person’s emotions.
• Choose the jokes and stories that work best with all of the audience.
• Make your speech as humorous as possible.
• Leave with a positive note and appreciate the person. 

Here are a few funny special occasion speech topics for you: 

• Roast of the Office Prankster
• A Funny Tribute to the Family Tech Guru
• A Roast for the Coffee Addict
• Roast of the Social Media Star
• A Tribute to the Eternal Latecomer

Make sure you follow all these tips so that you can easily write an amazing toast.

A eulogy speech is a special occasion speech given in honor of a person who has died. It is delivered to pay tribute to the departed soul. It is given by the priest, imam, or any other religious leader. 

When preparing a eulogy, the speaker needs to do the following things:

• Get a lot of information about the departed soul. It will help to personalize the eulogy.
• Remind the audience about the deceased person and his/her life achievements
• Tell the deceased’s story.
• Celebrate the deceased’s life and mourn their death

Eulogies can take various forms, and they often encompass three main types:

• Praise Eulogy: Celebrates the achievements, qualities, and positive impact of the deceased, aiming to inspire and uplift.
• Lament Eulogy: Expresses grief, sorrow, and loss, providing a cathartic outlet for those in mourning.
• Console Eulogy: Offers comfort and hope to the grieving audience, often with religious or spiritual elements, for strength and healing.

Look at the eulogy speech format in this eulogy example. 

Eulogy Speech Example

• Farewell Speech

It allows you to say goodbye to a current part of your life as you are moving to another part. The speeches are very common at college and university farewell parties. The graduating class says farewell to the institute as they are moving forward.

The goal of the farewell speech is to thank and appreciate the people who are currently a part of your life. As you move forward to the next position, pay tribute to the people who have helped you achieve your goals. A farewell speech gives you a chance to commemorate and remember the good times you have had. 

Here is a farewell speech example for you.

Farewell Speech Example

• After Dinner Speech

After-dinner speech is directed toward a specific group. It aims to entertain yet inform the audience about a particular issue. They are quite tricky because of their dual role, but with practice, anyone can deliver an effective speech.

As the name suggests, these speeches are delivered at dinners after they are done. A dinner speaker makes a serious point by efficiently using humor to make a significant mark on the audience and occasion.

Inspirational/ Motivational Speaking 

The goal of the inspirational speech is to inspire the audience to believe something or act upon something. It aims to inspire the audience to take a particular action regarding personal or professional growth.

Here are the few types of inspirational speeches:

• Goodwill Speech

Goodwill speeches are delivered to build a goodwill relationship with the audience. These speeches seek to introduce an entity or a person to another group, organization, or country.  These speeches are informative as well as persuasive in nature.

There are three types of goodwill speeches:

• Public Relations Speech - intended to enhance the speaker’s or the organization’s image.
• Justification Speech - attempts to defend why a particular action has taken or will be taken.
• Speech of Apology - given to accept the mistake, apologize, and ask the audience for forgiveness.

All of the goodwill speeches not just inform the audience but attempt to persuade them at the same time. 

• Commemorative Speech

Commencement or commemorative speeches are usually given at graduation ceremonies during which the degrees are being awarded to the students. 

It is a kind of celebration that marks an important milestone in graduates’ lives.  It is usually given by a well-known person who is recognized by many i.e. the president of the country.

The commemorative speech has these basic components:

• Highlight the importance of the day in the graduates’ lives
• Count the accomplishments of the graduating class
• Gives best wishes for the future endeavor
• Put the light on future goals. 

Here we have a good commemorative speech example for you.

Commemorative Speech Example

Pep talks are a type of inspirational speech designed to boost morale, instill confidence, and encourage perseverance among teams or groups.

These speeches are commonly used in sports, business, and educational settings where motivating a group is crucial for success. A well-crafted pep talk can energize the audience, helping them overcome challenges and maintain a positive attitude.

Here's a deeper look into what makes a successful pep talk:

Key Components:

• Positive Reinforcement: Highlight past successes and strengths of the team to build confidence.
• Clear Goals: Outline the objectives and emphasize the importance of each individual's role in achieving them.
• Emotional Appeal: Use passionate language and compelling stories to connect with the audience's emotions.
• Encouragement: Offer words of encouragement and support, stressing that obstacles can be overcome through teamwork and perseverance.
• Call to Action: End with a strong, motivating call to action, urging the team to give their best effort and remain focused.

Pep talks are effective because they tap into the collective energy and spirit of the group, reinforcing the belief that success is attainable through effort and unity. 

How to Write a Special Occasion Speech?

It is a well-known fact that there is no universal recipe for writing a perfect special occasion speech, yet we want to provide you with the basic process that keeps you inspired. 

Here is the step by step process of writing a special occasion speech:

Step 1 - Understand the Occasion

The first step in writing a special occasion speech is to thoroughly understand the event you’re addressing. Identify the nature of the event—whether it's a wedding, retirement party, award ceremony, or funeral. 

Knowing the specific occasion helps you tailor your speech to the context. Equally important is understanding your audience. Consider who will be listening to your speech and what their expectations might be. This insight will help you connect with your audience on a personal level.

Step 2 - Decide on Your Message

Next, decide on the central message you want to convey. 

This could be an inspirational message, a celebration of achievements, or an honoring of someone’s memory. Once you know the purpose of your speech, choose a central theme that ties everything together. 

For instance, at a wedding, your theme might revolve around love and commitment, while at a retirement party, it might focus on gratitude and accomplishments. Your message and theme will serve as the backbone of your speech.

Step 3 - Gather Content

With your message and theme in mind, start gathering content that supports them. 

Collect relevant stories, memories, or anecdotes that illustrate your main points. These personal touches make your speech more relatable and engaging. 

Additionally, consider using meaningful quotes or references that resonate with the occasion and audience. These elements can add depth and significance to your speech.

Step 4 - Create an Outline

Creating an outline helps organize your thoughts and ensures your speech flows logically. 

Start with a strong introduction that grabs the audience’s attention. Introduce yourself and explain your connection to the event or honoree. In the body of your speech, organize your main points in a logical order. 

Each point should support your central theme and be backed up with stories and examples. Finally, craft a memorable conclusion that summarizes your key points and leaves a lasting impression on your audience.

Step 5 - Write the Speech

Now it’s time to write your speech. Keep it concise and to the point—special occasion speeches are typically brief. It's usually good to start with a hook, so, find something that can grab your audience’s attention.

Use simple language that is easy to understand and avoids complex vocabulary and jargon. Write in a conversational tone that reflects your personality and suits the mood of the event. This will make your speech more engaging and easier to deliver naturally.

Step 6 - Revise and Edit

Once you’ve written your speech, take the time to revise and edit it. 

Read your speech out loud to see how it flows and to ensure it sounds natural. Seek feedback from trusted friends or family members who can provide valuable insights and suggestions. 

Based on their feedback, make necessary adjustments to improve clarity, engagement, and overall impact.

Step 7 - Practice and Rehearse 

Finally, practice delivering your speech multiple times. Focus on your tone, pace, and body language. 

Rehearse until you feel comfortable and confident. Visualize yourself giving the speech in front of the audience, which can help reduce anxiety and improve your delivery. The more you practice, the more polished and effective your speech will be.

By following these detailed steps, you can write a special occasion speech that is heartfelt, meaningful, and memorable. 

Special Occasion Speech Outline Example

There is no one perfect way to write a speech for a special occasion. However, we want to provide you with an example to help you get started.

Here is the special occasion speech outline template for your reference:

Special Occasion Speech Topics

As special occasion speeches are event-oriented, you might know about the topic already. Yet, it’s essential to ensure that you choose the best idea and turn it into a memorable talk. 

Here are some good special occasion speech topics for you:

• Prepare a special occasion speech on a famous person and remind the audience about his accomplishments.
• Give a maid of honor toast at your best friend’s wedding.
• Deliver an acceptance speech for winning an award.
• Present an employee of the year award.
• Give a roast when your best friend is leaving the organization.
• Deliver a keynote address at a company’s annual convention.
• Deliver the best man speech to a wedding couple
• Deliver a commemorative speech to mark an essential milestone in graduates’ lives.
• Give a good introduction to the new president of the United States.
• Prepare a farewell speech for your exit party.

Ideas for Special Occasion Speeches

Here are some basic examples of special occasion speeches you can use:

Special Occasion Speech Examples - H2

Check out these amazing special occasion speech samples and see how amazing they are written. You can also take help from speech examples to write your speech.

Short Special Occasion Speech Examples

Funny Special Occasion Speech Examples

Award Acceptance Special Occasion Speech - Example

Farewell Special Occasion Speech - Example

Special Occasion Introduction Speech - Example

Graduation Speech for College Students - Example

Need more examples? Find an extensive list of expertly written speech examples for inspiration!

Tips for Writing A Good Special Occasion Speech

Whether you’re giving a toast at a wedding, delivering an address at an awards ceremony, or speaking at any other special event, these tips will help your words ring true with your audience. 

• Plan Ahead: Research the topic and gather ideas for your speech. Set aside time to write, rehearse, and practice.
• Think About Your Audience: Consider their interests and what resonates with them. Tailor your content accordingly.
• Choose Your Words Carefully: Ensure your speech sounds natural and heartfelt. Use vivid imagery to enhance your message.
• Use Humor Sparingly: Add warmth and engagement with humor, but keep it tasteful and relevant.
• End on a High Note: Conclude with a strong, memorable closing that leaves a positive impression.

Once all these elements come together effectively then you'll be well on track for creating an unforgettable moment!

All in all , writing a good speech that is specific to the event and the audience is somehow tricky. But you don’t have to worry anymore, as this guide comprehensively covers all aspects and examples of occasional speech writing.

Still feel stuck? Do not worry!

MyPerfectWords.com, your go-to online speech writing service , offers exceptional help, crafting special occasion speeches at budget-friendly rates.

Get custom essay help from us today and wave goodbye to the anxieties of composing a stellar speech.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which best defines a special occasion speech.

A special occasion speech, by definition, is a type of ceremonial speaking. It involves delivering a speech specifically written to commemorate or signify the importance of a particular event, such as weddings, graduations, or funerals.

What's the purpose of a special occasion speech?

The purpose of a special occasion speech is to celebrate, honor, or recognize a particular event or individual. It aims to evoke emotions, inspire, or convey gratitude, depending on the nature of the occasion.

Why is it good to keep special occasion speeches short?

Keeping special occasion speeches short ensures that the audience remains engaged and attentive throughout the speech. It also respects the time constraints of the event and allows for a more impactful and memorable delivery.

What is another term for special occasion speaking?

Another term for special occasion speaking is ceremonial speaking, as it often involves delivering speeches at formal ceremonies or events.

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Special Occasion Speech Examples & Writing Tips

How to write an awesome special occasion speech: tips & example.

Special occasion speeches are given in a variety of situations: weddings, awards ceremonies, political events, retirement, and many more. Their purpose is to mark the significance of an important event. Usually, they take no longer than 10 minutes, and most such speeches serve the entertainment purpose, though, some of them also have an informative message. In this article, our speechwriters will share the secrets of writing great commencement speeches for college and for important events in your life.

Want to impress everyone with a relevant and emotional special occasion speech? Our experts are here to assist. At SpeechPaths, you can order an acceptance speech, wedding toast, or a commencement speech tailored to your event. The writer will work one-on-one with you until you are satisfied with the text. And if you're in a rush, a 12-hour delivery is available. Contact us to discuss the details of your speech and get a discount!

Examples of special occasion speeches

If you are not sure where to get started with your speech, take a look at two examples for different types of special occasions:

Awards acceptance speech

Source: https://www.examples.com/education/special-occasion-speech.html

This speech uses a formal tone, it starts and ends with gratitude. Although the main purpose of acceptance speeches is to thank the committee and those present for an award, this speech is also informative - the speaker expands on the theory of relativity and asks rhetorical questions. You can use such an approach and structure for informative or persuasive speeches.

Best man's speech

Source: https://www.sampletemplates.com/business-templates/wedding-speech-example.html

This best man's speech is less formal, a bit humorous, and starts with a touch of vulnerability. It also shares personal stories about the groom and congratulates the couple on their wedding. Such speeches appeal to emotions rather than logic, and their main goal is to amuse and entertain guests. If you write a best man's speech or a toast, try to use a conversational tone and add humor.

Special occasion speech types

Although special occasion speeches share some common traits, the writing style, tone, and content will vary depending on the speech type and the event. The toast of a maid of honor will differ from a retirement speech in a big corporation. Here are the most common special occasion speaking types:

Commencement speech

The commencement speech addresses the class graduating from high school or college. Its purpose is to recognize the achievements of the graduating class, share wisdom, and inspire graduates. A commencement speaker also motivates graduates to pursue great things in life. Usually, such a speech focuses on some central theme - common commencement speech themes include overcoming challenges, maintaining friendships, uncovering your potential, staying true to yourself, etc.

Toasts honor an important event or a person during a celebration. You can deliver a toast to congratulate someone for getting an award, finding a new job, or a marriage. Since a toast signifies a big moment, use it to express gratitude, share joy, and spark emotions in people around you. This type of speech is usually brief, it focuses on a person being toasted, and you may use some humor, but make sure it is easy for everyone to understand.

Commemorative speech

Commemorative speeches pay tribute to an important event, person, or organization in your life. The purpose of this brief speech is to recognize the importance of somebody or something in your life, reflect on its importance and celebrate the moment. Commemorative speeches include retirement speeches, nomination speeches (to recognize someone for an honor), retirement speeches, and a farewell speech when someone leaves a company or a group.

Acceptance speech

Speeches of acceptance are given by a recipient of a prize or a prestigious honor. In such a speech, the speaker thanks everyone who helped them achieve such outstanding results. The keynote speaker also thanks the committee who gave them an award. If this is a political speech, the person also thanks everyone who voted for them. It is also common for the speaker to explain why an award means so much to them.

Tips to write speeches for special occasions

If writing texts for special speaking occasions is new for you, take advantage of this checklist. You can use it for a variety of special occasion speeches ranging from work anniversaries to dedications and weddings:

• Understand your special occasion type. An after-dinner speech will differ in many aspects from an awards speech or public relations speech.
• Know your audience. To deliver speeches effectively, analyze your audience. Understand their age, background, and subject matter knowledge if you plan to deliver an informative speech.
• How much time will you have? Practice with a timer so that you don't exceed the time limit. Being concise is important for getting the audience interested and not boring them.
• Is this a formal or informal event? Can you use an informal, conversational tone?
• What is the purpose of your upcoming speech - to thank, amuse, entertain, express gratitude, or inform? Does your speech serve this purpose? If you doubt that your speech will meet the purpose, you can show it to our speechwriters and ask for feedback.
• Should you speak for yourself, or represent your employer or any other organization?
• Does the occasion and the speech type allow humor? If possible, try to make your speech humorous, but make sure your jokes are not offensive to anyone.
• Make sure that your speech has a clear structure: an introduction where you introduce yourself and briefly tell what your speech is about, the body section, and a conclusion that tops off everything you've said.

Polishing your special occasion speech delivery

After you've written and polished your text, work on delivering special occasion speeches. A poor delivery can spoil even a flawlessly written speech. Special occasion speeches tend to be concise, so be sure to keep your complete speech to 10 minutes. To strengthen your public speaking skills, follow the tips below:

• Practice so that you don't need to read from paper. Whether you deliver a speech commemorating an event, an introductory speech, or a traditional persuasive speech, reading the text won't help you grab the audience's attention.
• Work on your vocal delivery. Make sure that you speak loud enough and practice working with a microphone, if necessary. Don't rush and make pauses so that the audience could follow you easily. Record yourself to understand how you sound and improve your delivery, if necessary.
• Pay attention to your body language. Deliver the speech's content in front of the mirror, paying attention to your posture, facial expressions, and gestures. Use them to articulate your main points and build an emotional connection with your listeners.

Get help with all types of special occasion speeches

Whether you need a special occasion speech for your class or a real-life situation, it requires much preparation. You need to consider the audience, the type of event, and the timing, and come up with an engaging, heartwarming speech that will impress the audience.

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Special Occasion Speech Writing Instructions and Handy Tips

08 November, 2020

13 minutes read

Author:  Donna Moores

If you have earned a reputation as one of the best high-school or college students, you may be assigned to write some special occasion speech dedicated to an event or a person. The first thing you need to do after assuming this challenge is to pat yourself on the back because of the honor entrusted to you. However, your happiness is at risk of ending soon, as this may be your first time dealing with this type of paperwork. So, try to calm down and take control over your feelings and emotions. This assignment is not as complicated as it may seem.

That’s why we have prepared a full guide to writing a perfect special occasion speech of any type and complexity. Learn the general concept of the speech, its types, topic samples, and check on the inspiring examples that may provide you with a great deal of motivation. Stay positive and get ready to present a brilliant special occasion speech!

What is a Special Occasion Speech?

Generally, special occasion speech definition is quite simple. It is a speech given on some special occasions or events. Before you start working on the content, it is crucial to find out about the type of the occasion. It may be some school or college event, wedding, birthday, graduation, retirement, anniversary, etc.

As a rule, special occasion speeches are much shorter than, for example, informative ones. When being delivered, this speech should last no more than 5-10 minutes and be strictly to the point. Depending on the event, the speech may be extremely emotional, evoking a strong reaction of the audience. The broad usage of pathos in such types of speeches is quite justified as the main goal of the author is to make listeners feel happy or reflective depending on the nature of the occasion.

Sometimes, special occasion speech conveys an informative message. Thus, wedding speeches may be delivered to tell some romantic stories about the bride and groom. As you can see, the nature of every special occasion speech is very specific and needs to be considered individually in the context of the forthcoming event.

For you to choose the right outline and mood of your future special occasion speech, check the checklist of questions you would need to get answers to before you start working on your assignment.

Points to consider before writing special occasion speech

• What type of occasion do you need to dedicate your speech to?
• What role do you assume on this occasion?
• Who is your audience? Are there any professionals in some specific fields?
• When is your deadline? How much time do you have to complete a task?
• Should your speech convey a formal or informal message?
• What is the main goal of your speech?
• Is the occasion sensitive? What issues do you need to avoid while preparing your speech?
• Should you speak on behalf of yourself or some organization?
• Will the personal experience or some funny stories be appropriate to share with the audience?

This checklist will help you address your special occasion speech ideas properly and consider all the key details while elaborating on a speech.

Types of Special Occasion Speeches

The mood of the special occasion speech directly depends on the event it is dedicated to. There may be hundreds of various occasions, but we’ll consider only the most common ones to give you an idea of how to write a special occasion speech and succeed. Each type of speech features its specific rules and norms that should be obeyed in case you want to convey a proper message to your audience.

Ceremonial Speeches

This type of speech is usually delivered during the ceremonies and requires the etiquette norms and all the formalities to be observed. In their turn, the ceremonial speeches are divided into presentations, introductions, dedications, toasts, acceptances, farewells, eulogies, and roasts.

Presentations

Speeches for presentations are usually delivered when you need to present the winner of some prize or express honor to somebody. This type of special occasion speech needs to be very brief, as usually, occasions like this have very strict time limits.

Introductions

The introduction speech is delivered by the host of the event who wants to introduce another speaker or present the brief content of their speech. Despite being short enough, the introductory speech should also have its intro, body part, and conclusion. The main goals of the introductory speakers are to:

• make their speech last not more than 3 minutes;
• keep the audience intrigued about the speaker that is being introduced.

Ponder over the hook you would need to integrate into your speech to make your listeners feel excited about it.

Dedications

The speeches of dedication are delivered to stress the importance of some event – the opening of a new monument, square, museum, library, etc. The dedication speech needs to reflect your relation to this specific event and the way you are involved in this particular dedication.

Many people hate to deliver toasts. It happens because of their natural shyness or inability to talk a good game. If you are asked to tell the toast, try to identify what message you want it to convey – congratulations, appreciation, or maybe a tribute to someone’s memory. Keep your speech brief and emotional not to make your audience fall asleep.

Acceptances

Someone who is lucky to get an award or a prize for their achievements is honored to deliver a speech of acceptance. As a rule, this type of speech should express gratitude to some people who have contributed to your success and helped you achieve your goals.

These are the so-called “good-bye” speeches dedicated to people who finish one part of their life and move to another one. They may change their job, move from their hometown, graduate from college, etc. The farewell speech usually expresses gratitude to a person for their presence in your life, sincere appreciation, and best wishes for the next stage of their life.

This type of speech is delivered in honor of a person who has passed away. Eulogies usually require sharing your memories about the person who died. You can tell some touching stories about the deceased in case you have been close enough.

Roast speeches are the most controversial ones. Their goal is both to praise and to slightly insult the person you are talking about. However, this insult should be good-natured and very amiable. As a rule, the roasts are delivered at the end of some celebrations dedicated to someone’s success or achievements.

Inspirational Speeches

If you have been asked to make an inspirational speech, your main task is to motivate and inspire your audience. Usually, speeches have a persuasive nature and require you to share some personal experience, facts, figures, and ideas with the listeners to make them accept your point of view and start acting. Despite its nature, this special occasion speech shouldn’t be too complicated, but emotional enough to inspire the audience and let people trust you.

If you are still unsure on whether you can cope with your task – you are in the right place to get help. Our pro essay writers will always answer to the question “Who can write my speech?”

Special Occasion Speech Topics

Choosing the topic for your speech may turn out to be a real challenge. Check the most common special occasion speech topics to come up with brilliant ideas and make the whole writing process easier.

Informative

Briefly introduce your theme to give your audience an idea of what it is about. Be clear but don’t make your speech too extensive. Mention the reasons why all of you have gathered on such a special day. Share some facts and support them with your own experience or research. Don’t forget to introduce some opposite opinions to make your speech sound fresh and complete. The conclusion should be made based on the key points stated in the body paragraphs of your speech.

This speech is delivered when someone is leaving the place of living or a job. This speech is always full of gratitude and appreciation. Thank a person for the friendship and great emotions you have shared and wish all the best in the next stage of their life.

Specify what is so special about this occasion and how you relate to it. Highlight the importance of the tribute and let the audience ask you some questions.

Birthday parties, weddings, Christmas, New Year, Easter – make your speech sound entertaining and touching. Focus on the importance of the event and stress how crucial it is to share it with the closest people. If it is someone’s birthday, make the hero of the occasion feel special and loved. When delivering a speech at the wedding, mention some funny and embarrassing facts about the couple. This will help create a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Special Occasion Speech Outline

When we talk about special occasion speech outlines, there is no universal scheme that would suit any type of speech. However, like all other pieces of the paperwork, it should have an introduction, body section, and a conclusion.

Introduction

Make sure it contains an attention-getter that is a brief hook, as well as a thesis that represents the main concept you would like to share with the audience. There is no need to stuff your speech with several significant aspects – select only one that seems crucial to you. It is better to make your focus as narrow as possible to deeply develop and convey your idea. The thesis should be delivered in very simple words, so don’t make it sound too formal or stuffy.

Body section

Here is the part of the speech where all your ideas should be expanded. Share a couple of the in-depth cases that support the aspect mentioned in the introduction. Include some personal experiences and confirmed research. Make your speech as emotional as possible but make sure you don’t sound artificial and speak from your heart.

Conclude your special occasion speech with the words that would leave your audience with the proper aftertaste. Try to make the final phrases of your speech memorable and logical.

Special Occasion Speech Examples

To inspire yourself with brilliant ideas as to your creative assignment, check every special occasion speech example provided below. This will help you define the type of speech you need to focus on, choose the topic, and make an outline:

• President Bill Clinton. Presentation of the Congressional Gold Medal to the Little Rock Nine.  
• Russell Conwell. Acres of Diamonds.  
• Thomas L. Friedman. Listen to Your Heart.  
• Theodore Roosevelt, Duties of American Citizenship . 
• John F. Kennedy. The Decision to Go to the Moon.

An Extra Bit of Speech Writing Help

Now you know everything and even more about special occasion speech writing. But what to do in case you don’t have time or have lost your inspiration? Don’t sink into despair and stop bracing yourself for the worst. Refer to us so we could help you elaborate on a brilliant special occasion speech of any type and complexity. All you need is just provide the writing experts with all the information on the forthcoming event.

In case your deadline is tight, no worries – our experts have great experience working in stressful situations with no harm to the quality of the creative work.

Should you need only a couple of writing services such as editing and proofreading, you can order them without overpaying for the full package.

No need to beat yourself up. All you need is remember about your goal to create a brilliant speech to impress your audience and be proud of yourself. And all’s fair in love and war, as well as special occasion speech writing.

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Guide to Creating a Special Occasion Speech That Is Memorable 

Hrideep barot.

• Speech Writing

Welcome to the guide on crafting a special occasion speech that truly leaves a mark. Special occasions are moments in life that hold significant meaning, whether it’s a wedding, graduation, or a tribute to a loved one. At the heart of these occasions are the speeches—the heartfelt words that capture the essence of the moment and resonate with everyone present.

In this guide, we’ll explore the art of creating special occasion speeches that are not just memorable but also impactful. We’ll delve into what constitutes a special occasion speech, why it matters in various social settings, and the strategies individuals can employ to engage their audience and make a lasting impression. Additionally, we’ll examine key elements that contribute to the memorability of a speech, provide examples of successful speeches, and discuss common pitfalls to avoid.

Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or facing the daunting task of delivering a special occasion speech for the first time, this guide is here to help you navigate the process with confidence and grace. So, let’s dive in and uncover the secrets to crafting a speech that will be remembered long after the applause fades away.

Why Is A Special Occasion Speech Important And What Defines It?

How to engage your audience and make an impactful special occasion speech.

• What Are The Key Elements That Contribute To Making A Special Occasion Speech Memorable?

Examples Of Successful Special Occasion Speeches And What Made Them Impactful?

•  What Are The Common Pitfalls To Avoid When Crafting A Special Occasion Speech?
• Conclusion 

A special occasion speech is like a spotlight shining on a particular moment in life that’s worth celebrating or acknowledging. Think of it as that heartfelt toast at a wedding, the inspiring graduation speech, or the touching eulogy at a funeral. These speeches are a way for people to express their thoughts, feelings, and well-wishes during important events.

Now, why are they so important ? Well, imagine attending a wedding without hearing those touching words from the best man or maid of honor. It’s like missing a key ingredient in a recipe; the event just doesn’t feel complete. Special occasion speeches add depth and meaning to these gatherings. They’re like the glue that binds everyone together, creating a sense of unity and shared experience.

These speeches have a magical quality to them because they capture the essence of the moment. They allow speakers to reminisce about shared memories, offer words of encouragement, or simply express gratitude. And in doing so, they create a lasting impact on the audience. After all, who doesn’t remember a particularly moving speech that brought tears to their eyes or made them burst with laughter?

So, in essence, special occasion speeches are like the heartbeats of these events, pulsing with emotion and significance. They have the power to uplift spirits, strengthen bonds, and immortalize precious moments in our memories. And that’s why they’re such an integral part of various social settings.

To engage their audience and leave a lasting impression during a special occasion speech, individuals can employ several effective strategies:

Know Your Audience:

Understanding who you’re speaking to allows you to tailor your message effectively. Consider their interests, values, and expectations when crafting your speech.

Start Strong:

Begin your speech with a captivating opening that grabs the audience’s attention. This could be a powerful quote, a personal anecdote, or a thought-provoking question.

Tell Stories:

People love stories because they resonate on a personal level. Incorporate relevant anecdotes or narratives that connect with the theme of the occasion and evoke emotions in your audience.

Use Humor Wisely:

Humor can lighten the mood and make your speech more engaging. However, be mindful of the occasion and avoid inappropriate jokes. Aim for tasteful humor that brings smiles without offending anyone.

Be Authentic:

Audiences appreciate sincerity and authenticity. Speak from the heart and let your genuine emotions shine through. Avoid overly rehearsed or scripted delivery that feels robotic.

Involve the Audience:

Make your speech interactive by asking questions, inviting participation, or encouraging applause. This helps create a sense of connection and involvement among listeners.

Use Visual Aids:

Incorporating visual aids such as slides, photos, or props can enhance your message and make it more memorable. Just ensure they complement your speech and don’t overshadow your words.

Maintain Eye Contact:

Establishing eye contact with members of the audience builds rapport and conveys confidence. It shows that you’re speaking directly to them and engaging with their reactions.

Keep it Concise:

While it’s important to convey your message effectively, avoid rambling or going off on tangents. Keep your speech focused and concise to maintain the audience’s attention.

End with Impact:

Finish your speech on a high note by delivering a memorable closing statement or leaving the audience with a powerful takeaway. This final impression will linger long after you’ve finished speaking.

By implementing these strategies, individuals can captivate their audience and ensure their special occasion speech is both engaging and memorable.

What Are The Key Elements That Make A Speech Memorable?

Several key elements contribute to making a special occasion speech memorable:

1. Personalization:

Tailoring the speech to the specific event, audience, and individuals involved adds a personal touch that resonates deeply with listeners . Incorporating personal anecdotes, inside jokes, or references to shared experiences helps create a connection and makes the speech more memorable.

2. Emotional Impact:

Emotions are powerful drivers of memory, so evoking genuine emotions in the audience can leave a lasting impression. Whether it’s joy, nostalgia, gratitude, or inspiration, tapping into the audience’s emotions through storytelling, heartfelt expressions, or poignant reflections enhances the memorability of the speech.

3. Clear Structure:

A well-organized speech with a clear beginning, middle, and end is easier for the audience to follow and remember. Structuring the speech around a central theme or message, and using transitions to guide the flow of ideas, helps maintain coherence and ensures key points are effectively communicated and retained.

4. Vivid Imagery :

Painting vivid pictures with words helps bring the speech to life and creates memorable mental images for the audience. Using descriptive language, sensory details, and vivid metaphors or similes engages the audience’s imagination and enhances their recall of the speech long after it’s over.

5. Engagement:

Engaging the audience actively involves them in the speech, making it more interactive and memorable. Encouraging participation through questions, prompts, or interactive activities fosters a sense of involvement and investment in the speech, increasing its impact and memorability.

6. Authenticity:

Authenticity breeds authenticity. Being genuine, sincere, and true to oneself resonates with the audience and leaves a lasting impression. Authenticity fosters trust and connection, making the speaker and their message more memorable and impactful.

7. Memorable Moments:

Incorporating memorable moments or standout elements into the speech helps make it more memorable. Whether it’s a surprising twist, a poignant revelation, a heartfelt gesture, a call to action or a memorable quote, including elements that stand out from the ordinary leaves a lasting impression on the audience.

By incorporating these key elements into their speeches, speakers can create memorable experiences that resonate deeply with their audience and leave a lasting impression.

Here are examples of successful special occasion speeches along with an analysis of what made them impactful:

1. Barack Obama’s Inaugural Address (2009):

What made it impactful: Obama’s inaugural address captivated millions worldwide with its powerful rhetoric, inspiring message, and historical significance. He employed soaring language, invoking themes of unity, hope, and change. His call to action resonated deeply with the American people, instilling a sense of optimism and possibility for the future. Additionally, Obama’s journey and identity as the first African American president added emotional weight to his words, making the speech a defining moment in American history.

2. Steve Jobs’ Stanford Commencement Speech (2005):

What made it impactful: Steve Jobs’ commencement speech at Stanford University is renowned for its simplicity, authenticity, and profound insights. He shared personal anecdotes from his life, including his struggles and successes, which made his message relatable and inspiring. Jobs’ emphasis on following one’s passion, embracing failure, and staying hungry for knowledge resonated with graduates and audiences worldwide. His storytelling prowess and ability to distill complex ideas into simple, memorable messages made the speech timeless and impactful.

3. Malala Yousafzai’s Nobel Peace Prize Acceptance Speech (2014):

What made it impactful: Malala Yousafzai’s acceptance speech for the Nobel Peace Prize was a testament to her courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to education and human rights. Despite facing adversity and violence, Malala spoke with poise, grace, and conviction, amplifying her message to a global audience. Her powerful storytelling, rooted in her own experiences as a young activist, shed light on the importance of education in empowering girls and promoting peace. Malala’s authenticity, humility, and unwavering determination touched the hearts of millions and made her speech a rallying cry for change.

4. Ellen DeGeneres’ Oscars Opening Monologue (2014):

What made it impactful: Ellen DeGeneres’ opening monologue at the Oscars was praised for its humor, inclusivity, and lightheartedness. She engaged the audience with witty jokes, playful banter, and clever observations, creating a sense of camaraderie and joy. Ellen’s ability to address sensitive topics with warmth and humor, such as diversity in Hollywood and the power of storytelling, made her speech both entertaining and thought-provoking. Her natural charisma and genuine rapport with the audience made the Oscars ceremony memorable and enjoyable for viewers worldwide.

These examples demonstrate that successful special occasion speeches share common elements such as authenticity, storytelling, emotional resonance, and relevance to the audience. By connecting with listeners on a personal level and delivering a message that inspires, entertains, or enlightens, speakers can create impactful speeches that leave a lasting impression.

What Are The Common Pitfalls To Avoid When Crafting A Special Occasion Speech?

When crafting a special occasion speech, there are several common pitfalls to avoid. Here are some, along with strategies to mitigate them:

Lack of Preparation:

One of the biggest pitfalls is not preparing adequately for the speech. This can result in a disorganized or rambling presentation that fails to engage the audience.

Mitigation: Prepare well in advance by researching the occasion, understanding the audience, and outlining key points . Rehearse your speech multiple times to ensure smooth delivery and confidence on the day of the event.

Overwhelming Length:

Another common pitfall is delivering a speech that is too long, leading to audience fatigue and loss of interest.

Mitigation: Keep your speech concise and focused on the most important points. Practice editing out unnecessary details or tangents to ensure a clear and succinct presentation.

Lack of Audience Connection:

Failing to connect with the audience on a personal level can result in a speech that feels generic or impersonal.

Mitigation: Tailor your speech to the specific occasion and audience by incorporating personal anecdotes, relevant references, and engaging stories. Make eye contact, use inclusive language, and consider the audience’s perspective when delivering your message.

Inappropriate Content:

Using humor or language that is offensive, insensitive, or inappropriate for the occasion can detract from the overall impact of the speech.

Mitigation: Exercise caution when incorporating humor or anecdotes, ensuring that they are tasteful and respectful of the audience and occasion . Consider seeking feedback from trusted individuals to gauge the appropriateness of your content.

Lack of Structure:

A speech that lacks a clear structure or organization can confuse the audience and diminish the impact of the message.

Mitigation: Create a logical flow for your speech, with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Use transitions to guide the audience through each section and reinforce key points for emphasis.

Ignoring Time Constraints:

Ignoring time constraints and exceeding allocated speaking time can disrupt the event schedule and inconvenience attendees.

Mitigation: Practice timing your speech during rehearsals to ensure it fits within the allotted timeframe. Be mindful of cues from event organizers or hosts regarding the duration of your speech and adjust accordingly to respect the schedule.

Lack of Authenticity:

A speech that lacks authenticity or sincerity can fail to resonate with the audience and come across as insincere or superficial.

Mitigation: Speak from the heart and share genuine thoughts, emotions, and experiences that reflect your true feelings about the occasion. Avoid using overly rehearsed or scripted language, and strive to connect with the audience on a personal level.

By being aware of these common pitfalls and employing strategies to mitigate them, speakers can craft special occasion speeches that are engaging, impactful, and memorable for all the right reasons.

In conclusion, crafting a special occasion speech that is memorable requires careful consideration of various elements and potential pitfalls. Understanding the significance of special occasion speeches and their role in various social settings is essential, as they serve as emotional anchors that bind people together during important life events. Employing effective strategies such as personalization, storytelling, and audience engagement can enhance the impact of the speech and leave a lasting impression on listeners.

Key elements that contribute to the memorability of a special occasion speech include emotional resonance, clear structure, vivid imagery, and authenticity. Drawing inspiration from successful examples like Barack Obama’s inaugural address, Steve Jobs’ commencement speech, Malala Yousafzai’s Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech, and Ellen DeGeneres’ Oscars opening monologue can provide valuable insights into crafting impactful speeches.

However, it’s crucial to be mindful of common pitfalls such as lack of preparation, overwhelming length, and inappropriate content. By mitigating these pitfalls through careful planning, audience connection, and authentic delivery, speakers can ensure that their special occasion speeches resonate deeply with their audience and create cherished memories for years to come.

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16 Special Occasion Speeches

Speaking to Inspire, Entertain, or Honor

In this chapter . . .

Special occasion speeches are the umbrella term for all speeches that don’t fall into either informative or persuasive. As such there is a lot of diversity within speeches of this style. These speeches are often more personal. Additionally, they are more likely to use elements of storytelling and personal reflection. We cover the four ingredients of special occasion speeches, types of speeches in this category, and tips for delivering a special occasion speech.

Sometimes the speaking opportunities that life brings our way have nothing to do with specifically informing or persuading an audience; instead, we are asked to speak during special occasions in our lives. Whether you are standing up to give a speech at an awards ceremony or a toast at a wedding, knowing how to deliver speeches in a variety of different contexts is the nature of special occasion speaking. In this chapter, we are going to explore what special occasion speeches are as well as several types of special occasion speeches ranging from humorous to somber.

In broad terms, a special occasion speech is designed to honor, celebrate, appreciate, acknowledge, commemorate, or eulogize. Like informative or persuasive speeches, special occasion speeches should communicate a clear message, but the manner of speaking used is typically different. The word “special” in the term “special occasion speeches” is subjective in that while some speaking occasions truly are special occasions (e.g., a toast at a wedding, an acceptance speech at an awards banquet, a eulogy at a funeral for a loved one), they can also be given at more mundane events, such as the hundreds of public relations speeches that big companies give every day. The goal of a special occasion speech is to stir an audience’s emotions and make them feel a certain way in response to the situation or occasion.  The general purpose of a special occasion speech might be “to inspire,” “to celebrate,” “to honor,” or “to entertain.”

To help us think through how to be effective in delivering special occasion speeches, let’s look at four key ingredients: preparation, adaptation to the occasion, adaptation to the audience, and mindfulness about the time.

Four Key Ingredients of Special Occasion Speeches

Be prepared.

First, the biggest mistake you can make when standing to deliver a special occasion speech is to under-prepare or simply not prepare at all. We’ve stressed the need for preparation throughout this text, and special occasion speeches are no exception. You must think through the speech before you stand up and speak out. If the situation is impromptu, like a toast, even jotting down some basic notes on a napkin is better than not having any plan at all for what you are going to say.

Adapt to the Occasion

Not all content is appropriate for all occasions. Wedding toasts are often humorous. If you are asked to deliver a speech commemorating the first anniversary of a school shooting, then obviously telling a joke wouldn’t be appropriate. Commencement speeches at graduation are usually full of energy as they celebrate and inspire the audience. A eulogy, on the other hand, is typically solemn. Being a competent speaker is about being both personally effective and socially appropriate. Different special speaking occasions require different content, but also appropriate levels of formality, seriousness, tone, and demeanor.

Adapt to Your Audience

Be mindful of the time, types of special occasion speeches, speeches of introduction.

A speech of introduction is a short speech given by the host of an event or ceremony that introduces another speaker and their speech. Few things are worse than when the introducer of a speaker stands up and says, “This is Wyatt Ford. He’s going to talk about stress.” While we did learn the speaker’s name and the topic, the introduction falls flat. Just like any other speech, a speech of introduction should be a complete speech and have a clear introduction (beginning), body, and conclusion.

For the introduction element of a speech of introduction, think of a hook that will make your audience interested in the upcoming speaker. Did you read a news article related to the speaker’s topic? Have you been impressed by a presentation that you’ve heard the speaker give in the past? You need to find something that can grab the audience’s attention and make them excited about hearing the main speaker.

The body of your speech should be devoted to three main points.

• First, tell your audience in general terms about the overarching topic of the speech.
• Next, tell the audience why the speaker is a credible presenter on the topic. Has the speaker written books or articles on the subject? Has the speaker had special life events that made them qualified?
• Lastly, you need to briefly explain to the audience why they should care about the upcoming speech. This outline can be adjusted; for example, you can give the biographical information first, but these three areas should be covered.

The conclusion for this type of speech welcomes the speaker to the platform. Many introducers will conclude by saying something like, “I am looking forward to hearing how Wyatt Ford’s advice and wisdom can help all of us today, so please join me in welcoming Dr. Wyatt Ford.” At this point, you as the person introducing the speaker are “handing off” the speaking duties to someone else, so it’s common to end your speech of introduction by clapping as the speaker comes on stage or shaking the speaker’s hand.

Speeches of Presentation

• First, explain what the award or honor is and why the award is important, significant, or special.
• Second, explain what the recipient has accomplished to earn the award. Why is this person the best person for this award? Did the person win a race? Did the person write an important piece of literature? Did the person mediate conflict? Whatever the recipient has done, you need to clearly highlight their work.
• Lastly, if the race or competition was conducted in a public forum and numerous people didn’t win, you may want to recognize those people for their efforts as well. While you don’t want to steal the show away from the winner, you may want to highlight the work of the other competitors or nominees.

Speeches of Acceptance

• First, thank the givers of the award or honor, thank those who helped you achieve your goal, and put the award or honor into perspective. You want to thank the people who have given you the award or honor and possibly those who voted for you.
• Second, you want to give credit to those who helped you achieve the award or honor. No person accomplishes things in life on their own. We all have family members, friends, and colleagues who support us and help us achieve what we do in life, and a speech of acceptance is the time to graciously recognize those individuals.
• Lastly, put the award in perspective. Tell the people listening to your speech why the award is meaningful to you. If you know you are up for an award, the odds of your winning are high. In order to avoid blubbering through an acceptance speech, have one ready. A good rule to remember is: Be thankful, be gracious, be short.

At one time or another, almost everyone is going to be asked to deliver a toast. A toast is a speech designed to congratulate, appreciate, or remember. Toasts can be delivered for the purpose of congratulating someone for an honor, a new job, or getting married. You can also toast someone to show your appreciation for something they have done. Often, we toast people to remember them and what they have accomplished.

When preparing a toast, the first goal is always to keep your remarks brief. Toasts are usually given during the middle of some kind of festive event (e.g., wedding, retirement party, farewell party), and you don’t want your toast to take away from those festivities for too long. Second, the goal of a toast is to focus attention on the person or persons being toasted—not on the speaker.

As such, while you are speaking, you need to focus your attention on the people being toasted, both by physically looking at them and by keeping your message about them. You should also avoid any inside jokes between you and the people being toasted because toasts are public and should be accessible for everyone who hears them. To conclude a toast, simply say something like, “Please join me in recognizing Gina for her achievement” and lift your glass. When you lift your glass, this will signal to others to do the same and then you can all take a drink, which is the end of your speech.

• Praise. Remind the audience what made that person so special. Praise them and their accomplishments. This can include notable achievements, personal qualities or anecdotes and stories.
• Lament. To lament means to express grief or sorrow, which is what everyone at a funeral has gathered to do. You will want to acknowledge that everyone is sad, and that the deceased’s passing will be difficult to get through.
• Console. The last step in a eulogy is to console the audience, or to offer comfort in a time of grief. What you must remember (and many people often forget) is that a eulogy isn’t a speech for the person who has died; it’s a speech for the people who are still living to try to help them deal with the loss. You’ll want to end your eulogy on a positive note. Offer some hope that someday, things will get better. If the deceased was a religious person, this is where you might want to incorporate elements of that belief system.

Speeches of Farewell

Speeches for commencements.

• If there is a specific theme for the graduation, make sure that your commencement speech addresses that theme. If there is no specific theme, come up with one for your speech. Some common commencement speech themes are commitment, competitiveness, competence, confidence, decision making, discipline, ethics, failure (and overcoming failure), faith, generosity, integrity, involvement, leadership, learning, persistence, personal improvement, professionalism, reality, responsibility, and self-respect.
• Talk about your life and how graduates can learn from your experiences to avoid pitfalls or take advantages of life. How can your life inspire the graduates in their future endeavors?
• Make the speech humorous. Commencement speeches should be entertaining and make the audience laugh a bit.
• Be brief! Nothing is more painful than a commencement speaker who drones on and on. Remember, the graduates are there to get their diplomas; their families are there to watch the graduates walk across the stage.
• Remember, while you may be the speaker, you’ve been asked to impart wisdom and advice for the people graduating and moving on with their lives, so keep it focused on them.
• Place the commencement speech into the broader context of the graduates’ lives. Show the graduates how the advice and wisdom you are offering can be utilized to make their own lives better.

Special Occasion Delivery

Your delivery for a special occasion speech will skew in favor of manuscript speaking rather than extemporaneous. While it’s still vital to establish eye contact with your audience and to not sound like you are reading, it’s also important to get the words exactly right because the occasion is special.

You will need to practice your special occasion speech as much as or even more than you did for your informative or persuasive speeches. You need to know what you are going to say and feel comfortable knowing what is coming next. Knowing your speech will also allow you to counteract the flow of adrenaline into your system, something particularly important given that special occasion speeches tend to be very emotional, not just for the audience, but for you as well. Basically, knowing your speech well allows you to incorporate the emotion that a special occasion speech is meant to convey, something that is hard to do when you read the entirety of your speech. In this way your audience will sense the pride you feel for a graduating class during a commencement speech, the sorrow you feel for the deceased during a eulogy, or the gratitude you have when accepting an award.

Special occasion speaking is the most varied type of speaking to cover; however, there are some general rules to keep in mind regardless of what type you are engaged in. Remember that using good, evocative language is key, and that it’s important that you deliver your speech in a way that both conveys the proper emotion for the occasion as well as allows you to give the speech exactly as you wrote it.

Public Speaking as Performance Copyright © 2023 by Mechele Leon is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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18.2 Special-Occasion Speeches

Learning objectives.

• Identify the different types of ceremonial speaking.
• Describe the different types of inspirational speaking.

M+MD – Birthday Speech – CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.

Many entertaining speeches fall under the category of special-occasion speeches. All the speeches in this category are given to mark the significance of particular events. Common events include weddings, bar mitzvahs, awards ceremonies, funerals, and political events. In each of these different occasions, speakers are asked to deliver speeches relating to the event. For purposes of simplicity, we’ve broken special-occasion speeches into two groups: ceremonial speaking and inspirational speaking.

Ceremonial Speaking

Ceremonial speeches are speeches given during a ceremony or a ritual marked by observance of formality or etiquette. These ceremonies tend to be very special for people, so it shouldn’t be surprising that they are opportunities for speech making. Let’s examine each of the eight types of ceremonial speaking: introductions, presentations, acceptances, dedications, toasts, roasts, eulogies, and farewells.

Speeches of Introduction

The first type of speech is called the speech of introduction , which is a minispeech given by the host of a ceremony that introduces another speaker and his or her speech. Few things are worse than when the introducer or a speaker stands up and says, “This is Joe Smith, he’s going to talk about stress.” While we did learn the speaker’s name and the topic, the introduction falls flat. Audiences won’t be the least bit excited about listening to Joe’s speech.

Just like any other speech, a speech of introduction should be a complete speech and have a clear introduction, body, and conclusion—and you should do it all in under two minutes. This brings up another “few things are worse” scenario: an introductory speaker who rambles on for too long or who talks about himself or herself instead of focusing on the person being introduced.

For an introduction, think of a hook that will make your audience interested in the upcoming speaker. Did you read a news article related to the speaker’s topic? Have you been impressed by a presentation you’ve heard the speaker give in the past? You need to find something that can grab the audience’s attention and make them excited about hearing the main speaker.

The body of your introductory speech should be devoted to telling the audience about the speaker’s topic, why the speaker is qualified, and why the audience should listen (notice we now have our three body points). First, tell your audience in general terms about the overarching topic of the speech. Most of the time as an introducer, you’ll only have a speech title and maybe a paragraph of information to help guide this part of your speech. That’s all right. You don’t need to know all the ins and outs of the main speaker’s speech; you just need to know enough to whet the audience’s appetite. Next, you need to tell the audience why the speaker is a credible speaker on the topic. Has the speaker written books or articles on the subject? Has the speaker had special life events that make him or her qualified? Lastly, you need to briefly explain to the audience why they should care about the upcoming speech.

The final part of a good introduction is the conclusion, which is generally designed to welcome the speaker to the lectern. Many introducers will conclude by saying something like, “I am looking forward to hearing how Joe Smith’s advice and wisdom can help all of us today, so please join me in welcoming Mr. Joe Smith.” We’ve known some presenters who will even add a notation to their notes to “start clapping” and “shake speakers hand” or “give speaker a hug” depending on the circumstances of the speech.

Now that we’ve walked through the basic parts of an introductory speech, let’s see one outlined:

Specific Purpose: To entertain the audience while preparing them for Janice Wright’s speech on rituals.

Introduction: Mention some common rituals people in the United States engage in (Christmas, sporting events, legal proceedings).

Main Points:

• Explain that the topic was selected because understanding how cultures use ritual is an important part of understanding what it means to be human.
• Janice Wright is a cultural anthropologist who studies the impact that everyday rituals have on communities.
• All of us engage in rituals, and we often don’t take the time to determine how these rituals were started and how they impact our daily routines.

Conclusion: I had the opportunity to listen to Dr. Wright at the regional conference in Springfield last month, and I am excited that I get to share her with all of you tonight. Please join me in welcoming Dr. Wright (start clapping, shake speaker’s hand, exit stage).

Speeches of Presentation

The second type of common ceremonial speech is the speech of presentation . A speech of presentation is a brief speech given to accompany a prize or honor. Speeches of presentation can be as simple as saying, “This year’s recipient of the Schuman Public Speaking prize is Wilhelmina Jeffers,” or could last up to five minutes as the speaker explains why the honoree was chosen for the award.

When preparing a speech of presentation, it’s always important to ask how long the speech should be. Once you know the time limit, then you can set out to create the speech itself. First, you should explain what the award or honor is and why the presentation is important. Second, you can explain what the recipient has accomplished in order for the award to be bestowed. Did the person win a race? Did the person write an important piece of literature? Did the person mediate conflict? Whatever the recipient has done, you need to clearly highlight his or her work. Lastly, if the race or competition was conducted in a public forum and numerous people didn’t win, you may want to recognize those people for their efforts as well. While you don’t want to steal the show away from winner (as Kanye West did to Taylor Swift during the 2009 MTV Music Video Awards, for example http://www.mtv.com/videos/misc/435995/taylor-swift-wins-best-female-video.jhtml#id=1620605 ), you may want to highlight the work of the other competitors or nominees.

Speeches of Acceptance

The complement to a speech of presentation is the speech of acceptance . The speech of acceptance is a speech given by the recipient of a prize or honor. For example, in the above video clip from the 2009 MTV Music Video Awards, Taylor Swift starts by expressing her appreciation, gets interrupted by Kanye West, and ends by saying, “I would like to thank the fans and MTV, thank you.” While obviously not a traditional acceptance speech because of the interruption, she did manage to get in the important parts.

There are three typical components of a speech of acceptance: thank the givers of the award or honor, thank those who helped you achieve your goal, and put the award or honor into perspective. First, you want to thank the people who have given you the award or honor and possibly those who voted for you. We see this done every year during the Oscars, “First, I’d like to thank the academy and all the academy voters.” Second, you want to give credit to those who helped you achieve the award or honor. No person accomplishes things in life on his or her own. We all have families and friends and colleagues who support us and help us achieve what we do in life, and a speech of acceptance is a great time to graciously recognize those individuals. Lastly, put the award in perspective. Tell the people listening to your speech why the award is meaningful to you.

Speeches of Dedication

The fourth ceremonial speech is the speech of dedication . A speech of dedication is delivered when a new store opens, a building is named after someone, a plaque is placed on a wall, a new library is completed, and so on. These speeches are designed to highlight the importance of the project and possibly those to whom the project has been dedicated. Maybe your great-uncle has died and left your college tons of money, so the college has decided to rename one of the dorms after your great-uncle. In this case, you may be asked to speak at the dedication.

When preparing the speech of dedication, start by explaining how you are involved in the dedication. If the person to whom the dedication is being made is a relative, tell the audience that the building is being named after your great-uncle who bestowed a gift to his alma mater. Second, you want to explain what is being dedicated. If the dedication is a new building or a preexisting building, you want to explain what is being dedicated and the importance of the structure. You should then explain who was involved in the project. If the project is a new structure, talk about the people who built the structure or designed it. If the project is a preexisting structure, talk about the people who put together and decided on the dedication. Lastly, explain why the structure is important for the community where it’s located. If the dedication is for a new store, talk about how the store will bring in new jobs and new shopping opportunities. If the dedication is for a new wing of a hospital, talk about how patients will be served and the advances in medicine the new wing will provide the community.

At one time or another, almost everyone is going to be asked to deliver a toast . A toast is a speech designed to congratulate, appreciate, or remember. First, toasts can be delivered for the purpose of congratulating someone for an honor, a new job, or getting married. You can also toast someone to show your appreciation for something they’ve done. Lastly, we toast people to remember them and what they have accomplished.

When preparing a toast, the first goal is always to keep your remarks brief. Toasts are generally given during the middle of some kind of festivities (e.g., wedding, retirement party, farewell party), and you don’t want your toast to take away from those festivities for too long. Second, the goal of a toast is to focus attention on the person or persons being toasted—not on the speaker. As such, while you are speaking you need to focus your attention to the people being toasted, both by physically looking at them and by keeping your message about them. You should also avoid any inside jokes between you and the people being toasted because toasts are public and should be accessible for everyone who hears them. To conclude a toast, simply say something like, “Please join me in recognizing Joan for her achievement” and lift your glass. When you lift your glass, this will signal to others to do the same and then you can all take a drink, which is the end of your speech.

The roast speech is a very interesting and peculiar speech because it is designed to both praise and good-naturedly insult a person being honored. Generally, roasts are given at the conclusion of a banquet in honor of someone’s life achievements. The television station Comedy Central has been conducting roasts of various celebrities for a few years.

In this clip, watch as Stephen Colbert, television host of The Colbert Report , roasts President George W. Bush.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BSE_saVX_2A

Let’s pick this short clip apart. You’ll notice that the humor doesn’t pull any punches. The goal of the roast is to both praise and insult in a good-natured manner. You’ll also see that the roaster, in this case Stephen Colbert, is standing behind a lectern while the roastee, President George W. Bush, is clearly on display for the audience to see, and periodically you’ll see the camera pan to President Bush to take in his reactions. Half the fun of a good roast is watching the roastee’s reactions during the roast, so it’s important to have the roastee clearly visible by the audience.

How does one prepare for a roast? First, you want to really think about the person who is being roasted. Do they have any strange habits or amusing stories in their past that you can discuss? When you think through these things you want to make sure that you cross anything off your list that is truly private information or will really hurt the person. The goal of a roast is to poke at them, not massacre them. Second, when selecting which aspects to poke fun at, you need to make sure that the items you choose are widely known by your audience. Roasts work when the majority of people in the audience can relate to the jokes being made. If you have an inside joke with the roastee, bringing it up during roast may be great fun for the two of you, but it will leave your audience unimpressed. Lastly, end on a positive note. While the jokes are definitely the fun part of a roast, you should leave the roastee knowing that you truly do care about and appreciate the person.

A eulogy is a speech given in honor of someone who has died. (Don’t confuse “eulogy” with “elegy,” a poem or song of mourning.) Unless you are a minister, priest, rabbi, imam, or other form of religious leader, you’ll probably not deliver too many eulogies in your lifetime. However, when the time comes to deliver a eulogy, it’s good to know what you’re doing and to adequately prepare your remarks. Watch the following clip of then-Senator Barack Obama delivering a eulogy at the funeral of civil rights activist Rosa Parks in November of 2005.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pRsH92sJCr4

In this eulogy, Senator Obama delivers the eulogy by recalling Rosa Parks importance and her legacy in American history.

When preparing a eulogy, first you need to know as much information about the deceased as possible. The more information you have about the person, the more personal you can make the eulogy. While you can rely on your own information if you were close to the deceased, it is always a good idea to ask friends and relatives of the deceased for their memories, as these may add important facets that may not have occurred to you. Of course, if you were not very close to the deceased, you will need to ask friends and family for information. Second, although eulogies are delivered on the serious and sad occasion of a funeral or memorial service for the deceased, it is very helpful to look for at least one point to be lighter or humorous. In some cultures, in fact, the friends and family attending the funeral will expect the eulogy to be highly entertaining and amusing. While eulogies are not roasts, one goal of the humor or lighter aspects of a eulogy is to relieve the tension that is created by the serious nature of the occasion. Lastly, remember to tell the deceased’s story. Tell the audience about who this person was and what the person stood for in life. The more personal you can make a eulogy, the more touching it will be for the deceased’s friends and families. The eulogy should remind the audience to celebrate the person’s life as well as mourn their death.

Speeches of Farewell

A speech of farewell allows someone to say good-bye to one part of his or her life as he or she is moving on to the next part of life. Maybe you’ve accepted a new job and are leaving your current job, or you’re graduating from college and entering the work force. Whatever the case may be, periods of transition are often marked by speeches of farewell. Watch the following clip of Derek Jeter’s 2008 speech saying farewell to Yankee Stadium, built in 1923, before the New York Yankees moved to the new stadium that opened in 2009.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HJrlTpQm0to

In this speech, Derek Jeter is not only saying good-bye to Yankee Stadium but also thanking the fans for their continued support.

When preparing a speech of farewell, the goal should be to thank the people in your current position and let them know how much you appreciate them as you make the move to your next position in life. In Derek Jeter’s speech, he starts by talking about the history of the 1923 Yankee Stadium and then thanks the fans for their support. Second, you want to express to your audience how much the experience has meant to you. A farewell speech is a time to commemorate and think about the good times you’ve had. As such, you should avoid negativity during this speech. Lastly, you want to make sure that you end on a high note. Derek Jeter concludes his speech by saying, “On behalf of this entire organization, we just want to take this moment to salute you, the greatest fans in the world!” at which point Jeter and the other players take off their ball caps and hold them up toward the audience.

Inspirational Speaking

The goal of an inspirational speech is to elicit or arouse an emotional state within an audience. In Section 18.2.1 “Ceremonial Speaking” , we looked at ceremonial speeches. Although some inspirational speeches are sometimes tied to ceremonial occasions, there are also other speaking contexts that call for inspirational speeches. For our purposes, we are going to look at two types of inspirational speeches: goodwill and speeches of commencement.

Speeches to Ensure Goodwill

Goodwill is an intangible asset that is made up of the favor or reputation of an individual or organization. Speeches of goodwill are often given in an attempt to get audience members to view the person or organization more favorably. Although speeches of goodwill are clearly persuasive, they try not to be obvious about the persuasive intent and are often delivered as information-giving speeches that focus on an individual or organization’s positives attributes. There are three basic types of speeches of goodwill: public relations, justification, and apology.

Speeches for Public Relations

In a public relations speech, the speaker is speaking to enhance one’s own image or the image of his or her organization. You can almost think of these speeches as cheerleading speeches because the ultimate goal is to get people to like the speaker and what he or she represents. In the following brief speech, the CEO of British Petroleum is speaking to reporters about what his organization is doing during the 2010 oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cCfa6AxmUHw

Notice that he keeps emphasizing what his company is doing to fix the problem. Every part of this speech is orchestrated to make BP look caring and attempts to get some amount of goodwill from the viewing public.

Speeches of Justification

The second common speech of goodwill is the speech of justification, which is given when someone attempts to defend why certain actions were taken or will be taken. In these speeches, speakers have already enacted (or decided to enact) some kind of behavior, and are now attempting to justify why the behavior is or was appropriate. In the following clip, President Bill Clinton discusses his decision to bomb key Iraqi targets after uncovering a plot to assassinate former President George H. W. Bush.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6mpWa7wNr5M

In this speech, President Clinton outlines his reasons for bombing Iraq to the American people and the globe. Again, the goal of this speech is to secure goodwill for President Clinton’s decisions both in the United States and on the world stage.

Speeches of Apology

The final speech of goodwill is the speech of apology. Frankly, these speeches have become more and more commonplace. Every time we turn around, a politician, professional athlete, musician, or actor/actress is doing something reprehensible and getting caught. In fact, the speech of apology has quickly become a fodder for humor as well. Let’s take a look at a real apology speech delivered by professional golfer Tiger Woods.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xs8nseNP4s0

When you need to make an apology speech, there are three elements that you need to include: be honest and take responsibility, say you’re sorry, and offer restitution. First, a speaker needs to be honest and admit to doing something wrong. The worst apology speeches are those in which the individual tries to sidestep the wrongdoing. Even if you didn’t do anything wrong, it is often best to take responsibility from a public perception perspective. Second, say that you are sorry. People need to know that you are remorseful for what you’ve done. One of the problems many experts saw with Tiger Woods’s speech is that he doesn’t look remorseful at all. While the words coming out of his mouth are appropriate, he looks like a robot forced to read from a manuscript written by his press agent. Lastly, you need to offer restitution. Restitution can come in the form of fixing something broken or a promise not to engage in such behavior in the future. People in society are very willing to forgive and forget when they are asked.

Speeches for Commencements

The second type of inspirational speech is the speech of commencement , which is designed to recognize and celebrate the achievements of a graduating class or other group of people. The most typical form of commencement speech happens when someone graduates from school. Nearly all of us have sat through commencement speeches at some point in our lives. And if you’re like us, you’ve heard good ones and bad ones. Numerous celebrities and politicians have been asked to deliver commencement speeches at colleges and universities. One famous and well-thought-out commencement speech was given by famed Harry Potter author J. K. Rowling at Harvard University in 2008.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkREt4ZB-ck

J. K. Rowling’s speech has the perfect balance of humor and inspiration, which are two of the main ingredients of a great commencement speech.

If you’re ever asked to deliver a commencement speech, there are some key points to think through when deciding on your speech’s content.

• If there is a specific theme for the graduation, make sure that your commencement speech addresses that theme. If there is no specific theme, come up with one for your speech. Some common commencement speech themes are commitment, competitiveness, competence, confidence, decision making, discipline, ethics, failure (and overcoming failure), faith, generosity, integrity, involvement, leadership, learning, persistence, personal improvement, professionalism, reality, responsibility, and self-respect.
• Talk about your life and how graduates can learn from your experiences to avoid pitfalls or take advantages of life. How can your life inspire the graduates in their future endeavors?
• Make the speech humorous. Commencement speeches should be entertaining and make an audience laugh.
• Be brief! Nothing is more painful than a commencement speaker who drones on and on. Remember, the graduates are there to get their diplomas; their families are there to watch the graduates walk across the stage.
• Remember, while you may be the speaker, you’ve been asked to impart wisdom and advice for the people graduating and moving on with their lives, so keep it focused on them.
• Place the commencement speech into the broader context of the graduates’ lives. Show the graduates how the advice and wisdom you are offering can be utilized to make their own lives better.

Overall, it’s important to make sure that you have fun when delivering a commencement speech. Remember, it’s a huge honor and responsibility to be asked to deliver a commencement speech, so take the time to really think through and prepare your speech.

Key Takeaways

• There are eight common forms of ceremonial speaking: introduction, presentation, acceptance, dedication, toast, roast, eulogy, and farewell. Speeches of introduction are designed to introduce a speaker. Speeches of presentation are given when an individual is presenting an award of some kind. Speeches of acceptance are delivered by the person receiving an award or honor. Speeches of dedication are given when a new building or other place is being opened for the first time. Toasts are given to acknowledge and honor someone on a special occasion (e.g., wedding, birthday, retirement). Roasts are speeches designed to both praise and good-naturedly insult a person being honored. Eulogies are given during funerals and memorial services. Lastly, speeches of farewell are delivered by an individual who is leaving a job, community, or organization, and wants to acknowledge how much the group has meant.
• Inspirational speeches fall into two categories: goodwill (e.g., public relations, justification, and apology) and speeches of commencement. Speeches of goodwill attempt to get audience members to view the person or organization more favorably. On the other hand, speeches of commencement are delivered to recognize the achievements of a group of people.
• Imagine you’ve been asked to speak before a local civic organization such as the Kiwanis or Rotary Club. Develop a sample speech of introduction that you would like someone to give to introduce you.
• You’ve been asked to roast your favorite celebrity. Develop a two-minute roast.
• Develop a speech of commencement for your public speaking class.

Stand up, Speak out Copyright © 2016 by University of Minnesota is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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13 Chapter 13: Special Occasion Speaking

Tammera Stokes Rice, College of the Canyons

Adapted by William Kelvin, Professor of Communication Studies, Florida SouthWestern State College

Figure 13.1: “The 86th Annual Academy Awards ” 1

Introduction

“And, the Oscar goes to…!” You have probably caught those famous last words anytime someone wins at the Academy Awards. You’ve probably also heard speeches given at special occasions like graduations, wedding receptions, birthday parties, funerals, corporate meetings, etc. All of these speeches are very common, so you will probably hear them several times throughout your life. You may even need to present one yourself, so it is important to learn how to prepare them.

Special Occasion Speaking

Unlike informative speeches that inform an audience and persuasive speeches that persuade the audience, a special occasion speech is given by a speaker at a unique or special event that dictates the specific purpose. These speeches are also unique because each one of them is generally shorter in length than informative and persuasive speeches and is presented to a specific audience for a specific purpose. These special occasion speeches will be given in either a topical or chronological (temporal) order.

Nine Types of Special Occasion Speeches

In this chapter, we will cover nine different types of special occasion speeches and provide the guidelines to follow for each of them. Although there are other types, these are the most common speeches and might be part of your course assignments. The nine speeches are a speech of introduction, presentation speech, acceptance speech, toast, eulogy, speech to secure goodwill, dedication speech, commencement speech, and farewell speech.

Speech of Introduction

This is a speech introducing the featured speaker to the audience. Its main purpose is to gain attention and create interest for the upcoming speaker. It is like an informative speech because you are informing the audience about the main speaker, so you will follow the general pattern of informative speeches (topical or chronological/temporal). The guidelines to follow for this type of speech are:

• Make sure your remarks about the main speaker are accurate!
• Adapt your remarks for the occasion. If it is a formal occasion, then it requires a formal speech.
• Adapt your remarks to the main speaker. Make sure the style and manner of your introduction are consistent with the main speech that will follow.
• Adapt your remarks to the audience, so they want to hear the main speaker’s speech that follows your introduction.
• Try to create a sense of anticipation. You can build excitement by holding off and giving the name of the speaker at the climax of the introduction.

Example: Introducing Ms. Oprah Winfrey at a Lifetime Achievement Television Awards banquet.

Find a sample online: Stanford University President’s introduction of Oprah in 2008. You can find the full text of the speech from June 15, 2008.

Presentation Speech

This speech is given when someone is publicly receiving a gift, an award, or some other form of public recognition. In this speech, you want to highlight the reason for the award or recognition by providing specific details. These speeches are most often heard at award show ceremonies. You can find videos from the Grammys, Tonys, Oscars, etc., and easily find good samples of presentation speeches. Here are the basic guidelines to follow for this type of speech:

• State the reason for the presentation.
• State the importance of the award.

Example: Presenting an award for technical merit in a film at the Academy Awards.

Figure 13.2: Academy Awards 2

Acceptance Speech

If there is going to be a presentation of an award, then someone must accept it, right? This speech is given to say thank you for a gift, award, or some other form of recognition. The guidelines to follow for this type of speech are:

• Thank the people responsible for giving the award.
• Acknowledge those who helped you achieve the award.
• Explain what the award means to you currently and what it might mean to you in the future.

Example: Accepting an Oscar for Best Female Performance in a motion picture or an award for Employee of the Year.

Find a sample online: You can find the full transcript for when the cast and crew of the film CODA accept their award for Best Picture in 2022.

This speech is designed to celebrate a person(s) or an occasion. You will often hear them at anniversary parties, weddings, dinner parties, etc. The guidelines to follow for this type of speech are:

• Place focus on the person(s) you are celebrating.
• Avoid inside jokes, so you do not offend or confuse others.
• Do not get intoxicated before your speech.
• Most cultures have an “ending action,” so incorporate it into the speech. For example, in the United States, we tend to raise our glass as the ending action, so make sure the audience knows your speech has ended by raising your glass and signaling to drink. Make sure you research the cultural significance of the event.

Example: Toasting the couple at their wedding.

Find a sample online: You can find the full transcript of President Obama’s White House Correspondents’ Association dinner toast in 2015.

Figure 13.3: Wedding Hands 3

The word eulogy is from Greek origins that means “to praise,” so this tribute speech is given to praise the life of someone who has passed away. The guidelines to follow for this type of speech are:

• Research the history of the person.
• Think about who this person was in relation to the audience to have the greatest impact.
• Give accolades about the person who passed to showcase the personality and legacy of the individual.
• Think about how to incorporate emotional elements and humor to help the audience celebrate their life.

Example: Praising the life of someone dear to you who has passed away.

Find a sample online: You can find the full transcript of the eulogy for Rosa Parks. On October 31, 2005, at the Metropolitan AME Church in Washington D.C., Oprah Winfrey delivered a memorable eulogy of Rosa Parks. In it, she repeatedly stated, “We shall not be moved.” This famous line is indicative of Rosa Park’s refusal to give up her seat on the bus.

Figure 13.4: Rosa Parks 4

Speech to Secure Goodwill

This speech informs the audience about a particular product, company, profession, institution, person, etc. while trying to heighten the image of that product, company, profession, institution, person, etc. Online influencers do this all the time. They are hired by companies to “sell” their products or garner goodwill from new customers. The guidelines to follow for this type of speech are:

• Establish credibility by explaining why the audience should listen to you speak about this product, company, etc. Be transparent about your affiliations and experience. Do you work for the company? Have you tried the product?
• Always show the audience how they may benefit from whatever it is you are speaking about.
• Stress the uniqueness of it.
• This is an informative speech, while slightly hinting at the persuasive speech. Don’t be obvious about trying to persuade by saying “You should buy this product.” Rather, use your language to highlight the benefits of the product.

Example: Giving a speech to local high school seniors about their local community college and its incredible programs. In this example, you are informing the audience of the programs with the hope of getting them to enroll in community college, but the speech is not to persuade them to register. The speech is to tell them about the programs in hopes of their consideration for registering. See, it’s an informative speech with a hint of persuasion.

Dedication Speech

This speech gives special meaning to something being presented to the public. It is usually given at a ceremony of an official opening or the completion of something. You may have heard about a ribbon-cutting ceremony in your town celebrating the opening of a new business, or a new building at your college. Typically, a dedication speech is given by the developer, college president, mayor, etc. The guidelines to follow for this type of speech are:

• You want to state the reason you are giving the dedication.
• Explain exactly what is being dedicated.
• Tell the audience who is responsible for the item that is being presented.
• Explain why this item is significant.

Figure 13.5: Baltimore Holocaust Memorial 5

Example: Elie Wiesel’s dedication speech at the opening of the US Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington D.C.

Find a sample online: You can find the full transcript of Elie Wiesel’s Remarks at the Dedication Ceremonies for the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum on April 22, 1993.

Commencement Speech

This speech is given to graduating students at a high school, college, university, or military academy. It is generally the main speech at the celebration providing the speaker the opportunity to offer experience and advice to the new graduates. The guidelines to follow for this type of speech are:

• Research the event and people involved.
• Consider a chronological (temporal) organizing pattern to recognize students’ journeys.
• Make the speech about the audience, not just your own story.
• Time the speech so it is appropriate for the event.
• Offer a motivational message, guidance, or suggestion.
• Congratulate those that finished the training and offer them best wishes.

Example: The Valedictorian at your university giving a speech to the new college graduates at the Commencement ceremony.

Figure 13.6: Florida SouthWestern State College student at Commencement ceremony 6

Farewell Speech

This speech is meant to say goodbye or give tribute to a person because they are retiring or taking a new position. You could give the speech because you are leaving your current position, or someone could give the speech to you because you are leaving the position. The guidelines to follow for this type of speech are:

• Provide praise towards the person.
• Acknowledge their role in the position.
• Describe how they benefitted the group and the challenge of going on without them.
• Say “thank yous” where appropriate.
• If you are the one leaving, explain how much you care for the group and will miss interacting with them.

Example: Saying goodbye to FSW after working in your position for 28 years.

Find a sample online: You can find the full transcript of Ronald Reagan’s farewell address to the nation on January 11, 1989.

In this chapter, we discussed nine different types of special occasion speeches. Each one is organized for a specific audience within a particular context. They are all unique and the speaker must follow the particular guidelines to make an impact on the audience.

All you need to do is listen to the speeches during an awards show like the Academy Awards, and you will hear introductory, presentation, and acceptance speeches for sure. Always keep in mind that each culture celebrates people in different ways, so be sure to analyze the audience before preparing the content of the speech. If you are the next valedictorian at your college or university or are delivering a speech at a friend’s wedding, we hope that you will reflect on all that you have learned in this chapter so that you deliver a memorable speech!

Reflection Questions

• What occasions in your life could you foresee using a special occasion speech? How do you feel about those potential opportunities and why?
• How would you begin the process of developing a special occasion speech?
• What methods might you use to research the information you need for this type of speech? Offer specific online search strategies as well as other ideas besides searching online.
• What stylistic differences might you employ that are different from your previous informative speeches?

Introduction Speech

Introduction to Public Speaking Copyright © by Jamie C. Votraw, M.A.; Katharine O'Connor, Ph.D.; and William F. Kelvin, Ph.D. is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Special Occasion Speech: Definition, Types, Topics, and Examples

Special occasion speeches are vital in commemorating significant events, celebrating milestones, and honoring individuals. Whether delivered at weddings, graduations, retirement parties, or award ceremonies, these speeches uplift, inspire, and unite audiences in shared moments of joy, reflection, or recognition. 

In this article, we will explore the types of special occasion speeches, discover special occasion speech topics, and analyze special occasion speech examples that characterize these memorable moments. By understanding the nuances of special occasion speeches, we can better appreciate their significance and impact in marking life's most cherished occasions.

What Is a Special Occasion Speech

A special occasion speech is a type of address delivered during significant events or milestones, such as weddings, graduations, retirement parties, or award ceremonies, to commemorate, celebrate, honor, or inspire. These speeches are tailored to the specific occasion and audience, aiming to evoke emotions, convey appreciation, share anecdotes, or impart wisdom.

Special occasion speeches often blend humor, sentimentality, and sincerity as speakers seek to create memorable moments that resonate with their listeners. Whether delivered by family members, friends, colleagues, or dignitaries, special occasion speeches serve as poignant reminders of the significance of the event and the value of shared experiences. You can rely on our essay writer service to deliver a first-class oration if you need to deliver a speech.

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Types of Special Occasion Speeches

In this section, we offer you the 11 most common types of speeches, including marker words for writing a particular speech and vivid examples to help you understand the material in practice. 

Introduction Speech

Speeches of introduction acquaint an audience with a speaker or guest of honor, providing relevant background information, highlighting achievements, and establishing a connection between the speaker and the audience. These speeches typically precede the main address or presentation and aim to set the tone for the event while building anticipation for the speaker's remarks. Marker words and phrases in introduction speeches often include expressions of welcome, such as "It is my pleasure to introduce," or "Please join me in welcoming." 

Additionally, they may feature compliments or accolades to enhance the speaker's credibility and rapport with the audience. For instance, phrases like "renowned expert in the field" or "accomplished leader" can help to establish the speaker's authority and expertise. Here's a brief example: "Ladies and gentlemen, it is my honor to introduce our keynote speaker for this evening. [Speaker's Name] is a distinguished scholar whose groundbreaking research in [field] has revolutionized our understanding of [topic]. With numerous publications and accolades to their name, [Speaker's Name] brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to our event. Please join me in extending a warm welcome to [Speaker's Name]." If you want to learn how to write a speech about yourself , check out our guide!

Presentation Speech

Speeches of presentation are delivered to introduce and highlight individuals, awards, or achievements during formal ceremonies or events. These speeches aim to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of the recipient, often providing context or background information to underscore their significance. Marker words and phrases in presentation speeches typically include expressions of recognition and praise, such as "It is with great pleasure that I present," or "I am honored to introduce." 

In addition, they may feature anecdotes, quotes, or anecdotes to illustrate the impact or importance of the presented award or achievement. For instance, phrases like "This award acknowledges [recipient's] exceptional contributions to [field or community]" or "Their dedication and commitment have truly made a difference in [area of impact]." Here's a brief example: "Ladies and gentlemen, it is my privilege to present the Employee of the Year award to [Recipient's Name]. Their unwavering dedication, outstanding performance, and exemplary leadership have set a new standard of excellence within our organization. Please join me in congratulating [Recipient's Name] for their exceptional contributions and commitment to excellence." If you are pressed for time to manage your current academic workload, simply say, ‘ write a speech for me ,’ and our skilled speech writers will help you shortly. 

Acceptance Speech

Speeches of acceptance are delivered by individuals who have been honored or awarded recognition during formal ceremonies or events. These speeches allow the recipient to express gratitude, acknowledge supporters, and reflect on the significance of the award or achievement. Marker words and phrases in acceptance speeches often include expressions of thanks and appreciation, such as "I am deeply honored to accept," or "This recognition humbles me." 

Moreover, they may feature acknowledgments of the contributions of others, expressions of humility, and reflections on the journey that led to the award. For instance, phrases like "I am grateful for the support of my colleagues and mentors," or "This award is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our team." Here's a brief example: "Thank you. I am truly honored to accept this award. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the selection committee for this recognition, as well as to my colleagues and mentors whose guidance and support have been invaluable. This award is a testament to the collective effort and dedication of our team, and I am privileged to be a part of it. Thank you."

To honor someone or something, a toast is a brief speech or expression of good wishes, typically delivered during a social gathering or celebratory event. It serves as a gesture of respect, admiration, or congratulations and is often accompanied by raising glasses and clinking them together. Marker words and phrases in a toast often include expressions of celebration and well-wishes, such as "Here's to," or "Let's raise our glasses to." 

Toasts may feature sentiments of gratitude, reminiscence, or optimism, depending on the occasion. For instance, phrases like "May you always," or "I would like to propose a toast to," help set the tone and convey the speaker's intentions. Here's a brief example: "Ladies and gentlemen, if I may have your attention please. I would like to propose a toast to the newlyweds, John and Emily. May your love grow stronger with each passing day, and may your lives together be filled with joy, laughter, and endless blessings. Here's to a lifetime of happiness and love. Cheers!" We’ve also drawn up a list of entertainment speech topics , so be sure to consult it after you read this article.

A eulogy is a spoken tribute delivered at a funeral or memorial service to honor and celebrate the life of a deceased individual. It serves as a heartfelt remembrance, offering reflections, anecdotes, and sentiments that capture the essence of the person being remembered. Eulogies are special occasion speeches providing an opportunity for family members, friends, or colleagues to express their love, respect, and appreciation for the deceased, as well as to offer comfort and support to those in mourning. 

Marker words and phrases in a eulogy often include expressions of fondness and admiration, such as "We gather here today to remember," or "I would like to share some memories of." Additionally, they may feature anecdotes, stories, or qualities that highlight the impact and legacy of the deceased. For instance, phrases like "They will be remembered for," or "Their kindness and generosity touched the lives of everyone they met," help convey the speaker's sentiments and create a poignant tribute. Here's a brief example: "Today, we gather to celebrate the life of [Deceased's Name]. They were a loving spouse, a devoted parent, and a cherished friend. Their laughter was contagious, their kindness boundless, and their presence a gift to us all. Though they may no longer be with us, their spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved them. May we find comfort in the memories we shared and solace in the knowledge that their legacy will endure for generations to come. Rest in peace, dear friend."

A roast is a comedic tribute or speech delivered in a lighthearted and humorous manner to honor and gently poke fun at a guest of honor, typically during a social event or celebration. Unlike other types of speeches, a roast is characterized by its playful and teasing tone, with the intention of entertaining the audience while also showing affection and appreciation for the individual being roasted. Marker words and phrases in a roast often include expressions of jest and good-natured ribbing, such as "I'm here to roast," or "Let's take a moment to roast." 

Roasts may feature humorous anecdotes, inside jokes, or exaggerated praise and exaggerations that highlight the guest of honor's quirks, foibles, or eccentricities. For instance, phrases like "They're the kind of person who," or "I'll never forget the time when," help set the comedic tone and engage the audience. Here's a brief example: "Ladies and gentlemen, tonight we gather to roast our dear friend [Guest of Honor's Name]. Where do I begin? Well, let's start with the fact that they're always fashionably late. I heard they invented a new time zone just for them! But in all seriousness, [Guest of Honor's Name] is not just fashionably late, they're also fashionably fabulous. From their questionable fashion choices to their even more questionable dance moves, they never fail to entertain us. So here's to [Guest of Honor's Name], may they always be fashionably fabulous and fashionably late! Cheers!"

Farewell Speech

A farewell speech is a formal or informal address delivered by an individual who is departing from a group, organization, or community, typically to bid farewell, express gratitude, and reflect on shared experiences. These speeches serve as an opportunity for the speaker to convey appreciation, offer words of encouragement, and express sentiments of farewell to colleagues, friends, or loved ones. Marker words and phrases in a farewell speech often include expressions of gratitude and appreciation, such as "I would like to express my heartfelt thanks," or "It has been an honor and privilege." 

Writing a special occasion speech to say farewell may involve reflections on shared experiences, anecdotes, or memorable moments highlighting the impact of the speaker's time with the group. For instance, phrases like "I'll never forget the time when," or "Together, we have accomplished," help convey the speaker's sentiments and create a meaningful farewell. Here's a brief example: "Dear colleagues, as I prepare to bid farewell to this wonderful team, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the support, camaraderie, and friendship you have shown me over the years. Together, we have faced challenges, celebrated successes, and created lasting memories that I will cherish forever. Though I may be moving on to new opportunities, I will always carry with me the lessons learned and the bonds forged during my time here. Thank you for the laughter, the camaraderie, and the countless memories. Farewell, and may our paths cross again in the future."

Commencement Speech

A commencement speech is a keynote address delivered at a graduation ceremony to inspire, motivate, and impart wisdom to the graduating class as they embark on the next chapter of their lives. These speeches often reflect on the occasion's significance, offer encouragement and advice, and celebrate the accomplishments of the graduating students. Marker words and phrases in a commencement speech often include expressions of congratulations and encouragement, such as "Congratulations to the graduating class of," or "As you embark on this new journey." 

Commencement speeches imply reflections on the challenges and opportunities ahead, as well as anecdotes or personal stories that illustrate the speaker's message. For instance, phrases like "I remember when," or "As you navigate the road ahead," help convey the speaker's insights and create a memorable address. Here's a brief example: "Good morning, graduates, faculty, and distinguished guests. Today marks a significant milestone in your lives, and I am honored to address you on this momentous occasion. As you stand on the threshold of the future, remember that the journey ahead will be filled with both challenges and opportunities. Embrace uncertainty, pursue your passions, and never lose sight of your dreams. Remember that success is not defined by the accolades you receive but by the impact you make on the world. Congratulations, class of [year], and may your future be filled with boundless possibilities and endless opportunities for growth. Go forth and make your mark on the world!" Our custom essay writing service can be used to produce any type of speech that you have to deliver in front of an audience.

After-Dinner Speech

An after-dinner speech is a light-hearted, entertaining address delivered following a formal meal or banquet, typically to entertain and engage an audience. These speeches aim to provide relaxation and amusement after a formal event, often featuring humor, anecdotes, and storytelling to captivate the audience's attention. Marker words and phrases in an after-dinner speech often include expressions of gratitude for the meal, such as "I would like to thank our hosts for," or "Now that we've enjoyed a delicious meal." 

This type of special occasion speech usually contains humorous anecdotes, witty remarks, or amusing observations that resonate with the audience's experiences. For instance, phrases like "I'll never forget the time when," or "Let me share a funny story," help set the comedic tone and engage the audience's attention. Here's a brief example: "Ladies and gentlemen, I hope you all enjoyed that delightful meal as much as I did. Now that our stomachs are full and our spirits high, allow me to share a few words of entertainment to cap off the evening. They say laughter is the best medicine, so let's indulge in a healthy dose of humor, shall we? I'll never forget the time when I attempted to cook dinner for my family and ended up setting off the smoke alarm. But enough about my culinary mishaps, let's raise our glasses and toast to good food, good company, and unforgettable memories. Cheers!"

Motivational Speech

A motivational speech is an uplifting and inspiring address delivered to encourage, motivate, and empower individuals or groups to pursue their goals, overcome challenges, and achieve success. These speeches aim to ignite passion, instill confidence, and foster a sense of determination and resilience in the audience. Marker words and phrases in a motivational speech often include expressions of encouragement and empowerment, such as "You have the power to," or "Believe in yourself." 

Moreover, motivational speeches may include personal anecdotes, inspirational quotes, or examples of perseverance and triumph to reinforce the speaker's message. For instance, phrases like "I've faced challenges too," or "Let me share a story of resilience," help to connect with the audience and illustrate the speaker's message. Here's a brief example: "Good morning, everyone. Today, I want to remind you that each and every one of you has the potential to achieve greatness. Yes, it won't be easy, and there will be obstacles along the way. But remember, every setback is an opportunity for growth, and every failure is a stepping stone to success. Believe in yourself, trust in your abilities, and never lose sight of your dreams. As Nelson Mandela once said, 'It always seems impossible until it's done.' So let's rise to the challenge, embrace the journey, and make our dreams a reality. Together, we can accomplish anything. Thank you." Here are some brilliant motivational speech topics for you to get inspired by.

Goodwill Speech

A goodwill speech is a warm, friendly, and positive address delivered with the intention of fostering goodwill, camaraderie, and positive relations among individuals or groups. These speeches aim to create a sense of unity, cooperation, and mutual respect, often emphasizing common goals, shared values, and the importance of collaboration. Marker words and phrases in a goodwill speech often include expressions of appreciation, such as "I would like to express my sincere gratitude for," or "Let us come together to celebrate." 

Goodwill speeches may be complemented by sentiments of friendship, inclusivity, and support to reinforce the speaker's message. For instance, phrases like "We are stronger together," or "Let's work hand in hand," help to emphasize the importance of unity and cooperation. Here's a brief example: "Dear friends and colleagues, it is truly a pleasure to be here today among such wonderful individuals. As we gather together, let us take a moment to appreciate the bonds of friendship and camaraderie that unite us. Each of us brings something unique to the table, and together, we are capable of achieving remarkable things. Let's continue to support and uplift one another, to celebrate each other's successes, and to lend a helping hand in times of need. Together, we can create a community built on trust, respect, and goodwill. Thank you for your friendship and support."

Special Occasion Speech Outline

Here's a basic outline for writing a special occasion speech successfully:

Introduction

• Greetings and acknowledgment of the occasion.
• Establishment of connection with the audience.
• A brief overview of the purpose and tone of the speech.

Segment 1: Reflection on the Occasion

• Share personal experiences or memories related to the occasion.
• Express the significance or importance of the event.

Segment 2: Acknowledgment and Appreciation

• Recognize the organizers, hosts, or individuals responsible for the event.
• Express gratitude to the audience for their presence.

Segment 3: Celebration or Tribute

• Highlight the achievements, milestones, or qualities being celebrated.
• Share anecdotes, stories, or examples to illustrate the occasion's significance.

Segment 4: Looking Forward

• Offer words of encouragement, inspiration, or advice for the future.
• Express optimism and excitement for what lies ahead.
• Summarize key points and themes of the speech.
• Reiterate gratitude and appreciation to the audience.
• Close with a memorable and uplifting statement or quote relevant to the occasion.

Optional: Toast or Closing Remark

• Raise a toast or offer a final remark to conclude the speech on a positive note.

How to Write a Special Occasion Speech

Writing a special occasion speech involves careful consideration of the event, audience, and purpose. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you craft an effective and memorable speech:

Understand the Occasion

• Research the event and its significance.
• Consider the tone, theme, and expectations of the occasion.
• Determine the key message or purpose of your speech.

Know Your Audience

• Consider the demographics, interests, and preferences of the audience.
• Tailor your speech to resonate with the audience and their expectations.
• Use language and examples that are appropriate and relatable to your listeners.

Structure Your Speech

• Follow the special occasion speech outline offered in the previous section of this article.
• Start with a strong introduction to grab the audience's attention and set the tone for your speech.
• Organize your speech into coherent sections or segments, each focusing on a specific aspect of the occasion.
• Use transitions to guide the audience smoothly from one point to the next.

Personalize Your Content

• Incorporate personal anecdotes, stories, or experiences related to the occasion.
• Make connections between the event and the audience's experiences or values.
• Use humor, emotion, or sincerity to engage and connect with your listeners.

Keep it Concise and Focused

• Be mindful of the time allotted for your speech and aim to keep it within the designated timeframe.
• Focus on the most relevant and impactful points, avoiding unnecessary details or tangents.
• Use concise language and avoid verbosity to maintain the audience's interest and attention.

End with a Memorable Conclusion

• Summarize the key points of your speech and reiterate the main message or theme.
• Leave the audience with a memorable closing statement, quote, or call to action.
• Consider ending with a toast or well wishes to conclude the speech on a positive note.

Practice and Refine

• Rehearse your speech multiple times to ensure fluency, confidence, and clarity.
• Seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors and make any necessary revisions.
• Pay attention to your delivery, including tone, pace, and body language, to effectively convey your message.

Special Occasion Speech Topics

Here’s a list of compelling special occasion speech topics for college students you can use to fulfill your writing assignment:

• Welcoming freshmen to campus.
• Farewell speech for graduating seniors.
• Convocation address for the incoming class.
• Recognition of academic achievements.
• Commemorating the founding anniversary of the college.
• Celebrating diversity and inclusion on campus.
• Honoring outstanding student leaders.
• Remembering a beloved faculty member or administrator.
• Reflecting on the college's history and legacy.
• Acknowledging student organizations and their contributions.
• Marking milestones in student life (e.g., first-year anniversary).
• Encouraging participation in community service and volunteerism.
• Promoting mental health awareness and support resources.
• Recognizing athletic achievements and sports teams.
• Highlighting cultural heritage months or awareness days.
• Addressing environmental sustainability initiatives on campus.
• Celebrating academic excellence through dean's list recognition.
• Promoting campus safety and wellness programs.
• Commemorating national holidays or observance days.
• Encouraging voter registration and civic engagement.
• Addressing social justice issues and advocacy efforts.
• Celebrating artistic and creative achievements (e.g., art exhibitions).
• Recognizing international students and global perspectives.
• Promoting campus traditions and spirit events.
• Reflecting on the impact of technology on education.
• Honoring alumni achievements and success stories.
• Encouraging responsible alcohol consumption and campus safety.
• Celebrating achievements in STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, mathematics).
• Recognizing the importance of lifelong learning and personal growth.
• Addressing campus sustainability and environmental conservation efforts.
• Promoting financial literacy and responsible money management.
• Recognizing the contributions of student volunteers and community partners.
• Addressing mental health and wellness resources for students.
• Celebrating the achievements of student entrepreneurs and innovators.
• Recognizing the importance of diversity and inclusion in higher education.
• Addressing the importance of internships and experiential learning opportunities.
• Celebrating student achievements in the arts, music, and performing arts.
• Addressing campus safety and security measures.
• Recognizing the contributions of faculty and staff to student success.
• Encouraging students to pursue their passions and dreams, despite challenges.

Need more topics? These graduation speeches ideas will definitely boost your creativity!

Special Occasion Speech Examples

Here, we’d like to offer two examples of special occasion speeches prepared by our expert writers. If you enjoy the quality of the text, feel free to order a custom-tailored speech. We’ll follow all your instructions and provide speaker notes, too!

Learning how to write special occasion speeches is important for students because it helps them develop crucial communication skills they'll use throughout their lives. These speeches teach students how to speak confidently in front of others, organize their thoughts effectively, and connect with their audience. Whether giving a toast at a wedding, delivering a eulogy at a funeral, or presenting an award at a ceremony, knowing how to write a special occasion speech allows students to express themselves meaningfully during important life events. Plus, mastering this skill boosts their confidence and ability to communicate persuasively in various social and professional settings. Is your submission date soon? Then buy a speech and deal with other tasks on the to-do list more effectively!

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How to Write a Special Occasion Speech?

What is the importance of special occasion speech, what are the tips for special occasion speech.

Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

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Create a Special Occasion Speech in 2021

The act of delivering an address before an audience can be quite difficult. But, if you are hosting a special event it is possible for people to be expecting you to deliver an address. You might also be required to write a special speech by your teacher as part of your education. You will be given the option of creating an appropriate speech for a special occasion during your life.

This is why we've prepared an entire guide on how to write the perfect speech for special occasions of any kind and level. Get familiar with the fundamentals of your speech's forms topics, examples of the speech and then look through the inspirational examples that will provide you with a huge amount of motivation. Be positive and prepare to deliver a memorable speech for your special event!

Speeches for special occasions are thrilling and fun, but the writing process for speeches may be a challenge. When writing speeches for any occasion, it is important to be aware of the specific significance of the event since speeches are designed to serve the purpose of the occasion.

In contrast to the other speeches you've prepared to date the special occasion speech, are, as the name implies are crafted around an event such as graduation and weddings, farewells and award ceremony, welcoming speech, etc. If you're looking to deliver an impressive speech at an upcoming event or have been asked to write a speech for your class, you will get all the necessary information on the subject here.

What is a Special Occasion Speech?

Generally speaking, the speech for special occasions is very easy. The speech is usually given at particular occasions or events. Before you begin to work on the speech it is essential to know the event. It could be a college or school event such as a wedding, birthday celebration or graduation and retirement, anniversary and so on.

In general speeches for special occasions are less lengthy than, say informative speeches. If they are given, the speech should not last more than 5-10 minutes and remain completely clear and concise. The event may be so dramatic that the speech can be extremely emotional, and trigger a powerful reaction from the audience. The use of pathos in these kinds of speeches is very justified because the primary purpose of the speaker is to make the audience feel content or reflective based on the theme of the event.

Sometimes, a special occasion speech is a way to convey a message. Wedding speeches can be given to tell romantic tales about the groom and bride. As you can see, the style of each ceremony is specific and must be considered separately with respect to the event that is coming up.

To help you choose the best outline and the tone of your upcoming special event speech, go through the list of questions you'll have to answer prior to beginning work on your project.

Special Occasion Speech Outline

When you are preparing a special event speech, you must organize the speech around an appropriate outline to ensure maximum impact. The outline of a speech for special occasions could also differ slightly depending on the kind of special event speech. However, the structure remains much or identical. The outline for the special occasion speech comprises the following components:

Introduction:

Based on the event, it is important to structure the opening of your speech to convey the subject for the listeners. The introduction for the wedding toast is definitely likely to differ from those delivered on a day of farewell. In all speeches, there must be an opening line at the start in the intro. A few background information about the subject (i.e. the event) as well as the primary argument that is the reason of the speech.

Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs in the speech should cover a variety of points that are in support of your main theme in the text. Based upon the duration and content of your speech, you must decide on the number of paragraphs that you'd like to incorporate into the speech. Three paragraphs is ideal for the body part that makes up the text. It is also important to introduce new ideas in each paragraph rather than overlaid points from various paragraphs.

Conclusion:

The conclusion of the essay should be as effective as the introduction. It must examine how the ideas included in the body section support the thesis that was mentioned in the intro. It is advised not to introduce any new idea in the closing sentence of the essay. The conclusion paragraph should summarize the essential elements discussed in the body section and end on a high note by speaking to the audience or perhaps the most important person at the time.

If you're planning to write a special speech, it's best to first sketch out the outline. This will assist you in organizing the entire content more efficiently.

Types of Special Occasion Speeches

The mood of a special occasion speech is directly related to the occasion it's committed to. There could be many different occasions to consider that we'll only consider the most popular ones to provide you with an understanding of how to craft an event-specific speech and make it a success. Every kind of speech comes with specific rules and guidelines that must be followed when you wish to communicate a clear communication to an audience.

Ceremonial Speeches

This kind of speech is typically delivered during ceremonies and is subject to the appropriate etiquette rules and all formalities to be followed. They are, in turn, ceremonies are divided into introductions, presentations, dedications, toasts and acceptances, farewells and speeches of eulogies and roasts.

Inspirational Speeches

If you've been asked to give an inspiring speech, your primary goal is to excite and inspire your audience. Most speeches are of a convincing nature, and you will need to share your personal story and facts, figures and concepts with your audience in order to convince them of your viewpoint and begin acting. However, it is a special occasion speech that isn't too difficult and yet emotion-driven enough to motivate your audience and allow them to believe in you.

Speech to Present an Award

An award presentation requires an award presentation, in the speech, a speaker will present the recipient the award, or a prize. The main purpose of this speech is to pay tribute to the recipient and highlight his accomplishments in connection with the award. While speeches that are presented to recipients may differ in both length and substance however, they should all contain some key components. The person who is presenting the award must not just emphasize the accomplishments of the person receiving the award, but also highlight the reason and significance behind the award given (O'Hair and Stewart 1999). Another aspect of the speech is personalizing the speech in order to make the award and the event more meaningful for the person who receives the award as well as the viewers.

Acceptance Speech

The award ceremony is typically followed by an acceptance speech that the awardee delivers following the moment of receiving the award. The speech is the opportunity to express appreciation for the award, as in addition to showing humility and dignity (O'Hair & Stewart, 1999). A speech like this should be planned ahead of time should it be it is possible. While preparing the person who will be receiving the speech will have a rough idea of whom to thank. This must not be overlooked at the occasion.

Keynote Address

Keynote addresses are the speech that outlines the primary or the common concept of a convention conference, or another large gathering. Conventions, expositions or conventions are typically arranged around a single idea and the keynote address is what sums up the primary message that is centered around the subject. For example, the organizers of a conference that has an overall theme of "Looking Forward--Looking Back" might wish for that the speaker who opens the event highlight the past of the organization as well as recount the achievements of the past and predict the future direction of the business and then invite the attendees to join in the new goal and vision. Similar to this example format, the majority of keynote speeches have basic elements.

After Dinner Speech

The speech after dinner is a distinct type of celebration speech. A speech after dinner has its main purpose to entertain, but also inform the audience of specific topics . This dual-purpose can make the speech after dinner difficult however with the right skills and practice, it can be a well-received speech can be delivered. Mark Twain made this type of speech very popular during his time and was a frequent speaker at numerous dinner parties. The dinners were long and were followed by hours of hilarious speeches (Patout 1978). These events are still held today and are usually planned prior to, during, or following the time of a civic or professional meeting (O'Hair and co. 2001) where food might be served.

Speech of Commencement:

A commencement speech is like a keynote speech which is delivered to mark the commencement ceremony at a school. These speeches are usually celebration-oriented and mark an important moment for the graduates. It is suggested to create speeches that are stimulating, entertaining and concise. Like the keynote speech the commencement speech must be delivered by someone who is well-known within the local community.

Speech of farewell:

Farewell speeches are usually given when a speaker is leaving a job or location. Although it is more popular for professionals but students can give a farewell speech the final day of college or school. These speeches typically reflect the memory of the speaker's time at the venue or event. It is the decision of the speaker to decide if he/she would like to disclose the reason of his departure within the message. But, the speaker must ensure that sensitive or private information is infringed upon.

Good Special Occasion Speech Topics for College Students

If you're unable to come up with any ideas for a special occasion speech then you can take a look at the various types of speeches for special occasions we have discussed. It is essential to identify yourself with a specific event and imagine yourself as an individual speaker. If you are able to do this you can make use of the tips above to create a great speech for special occasions on a variety of areas.

There are a variety of special occasion speeches you might encounter throughout your life. If you're looking to make a speech to your class, you could select one of the speeches listed above to impress your teacher.

Here are some suggestions for your speeches on special occasions:

• A toast to the wedding ceremony of a cousin
• An address to receive an award for sports.
• A hilarious roast at a birthday celebration of a friend.
• A speech to accept an award from the state government.
• A speech to commemorate the independence day of your local community
• An emcee's speech for the school's annual prize-giving ceremony.
• A farewell message on the last day of school
• A speech at the graduation day

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Ten Elements Every Special Occasion Speech Should Have

I often get asked whether there is a secret recipe for special occasion speeches. For a speech to make a positive impact, there are certain ingredients required. Blending these elements together in just the right way can mean the difference between a speech to remember and a speech you wish to forget. Here are the top ten elements every special occasion speech should have:

1. Structure. Each and every toast should have an introduction, a middle and a closing. This seems fairly straightforward, but think about how many times you have sat through a speech that was disorganized or rambling. Your introduction can be as simple as saying who you are and your relationship to the guest of honor. It should communicate how you feel about being part of the celebration (e.g., pleased, honored, joyous) and set up what you are going to address in your talk. The middle part should include more substantive material— personal stories and anecdotes that paint a picture of the guest of honor. The closing should be a meaningful way to wrap up the speech. Whether it’s a word of congratulations or something a bit more creative is up to you.

2. Solid transitions. Part of structuring your speech includes thinking about how you are going to transition from one idea to another. Set up each new idea or story you are sharing instead of just reciting a laundry list of memories. If there is a way to group the ideas by theme this will help you better organize your thoughts. Since this is a talk and not a presentation, try to avoid words like “first, next and last,” or verbalizing your outline (e.g., a, b and c).

3. Humor. Infuse your speech with appropriate humor. There is nothing like funny stories, jokes and laughter to loosen the crowd and make you feel more at ease. Just remember that humor should not cause the guest of honor embarrassment or reveal a secret that most people don’t already know. Keep it light and above all, keep it tasteful.

4. Sentimentality. The speeches that most often hit the mark are the ones that come from the heart. You can’t go wrong with using heartfelt sentiment to communicate how you feel about the guest of honor. The only possible exception is if you are not an overly expressive person, you may not want to lay it on too thickly. But as a general rule of thumb, addressing the guest of honor’s character with descriptive words and examples will find their way from your heart to theirs.

5. Personality. Don’t forget that the speech should reflect your personality. If you are typically funny or witty, make sure that your speech is too. If you are a person of few words, make your speech short and to the point. Put simply, it should sound like you.

6. Connection with audience. When you are selecting your material for the speech, think carefully about how this information will resonate with the audience. Don’t pick obscure stories or inside information to share with the guests. Instead, highlight information that everyone in the room, regardless of age, gender or length of relationship with the guest of honor, will appreciate. Stand tall, with your shoulders back and away from your ears, to assume a position of confidence. Make eye contact and smile.

7. Stories and anecdotes. The personal stories and memories you share in the speech make up the critical middle part of your speech. This is where you can paint a picture of what you want to communicate about the guest of honor. Funny and heartwarming stories that exemplify a person’s character or set up a theme you want to introduce will help your speech come alive. When deciding which stories to include, keep this rule in mind: if you would not share it with your own grandmother, leave it out.

8. Theme or tagline. When it is time to structure your speech, it’s important to think about the one or two key themes you want to weave into the speech. This could be the guest of honor’s love of art of cooking and using personal anecdotes to tie back into the theme. Nowadays, it seems like everything has a tagline or hashtag, and your speech is no different. Think about how you want people to feel as a result of your speech and how people would describe it in a short phrase. This catchphrase can be verbally communicated as part of your speech, or just serve as a silent framework for you.

9. Polish. Your speech should be akin to a polished conversation. You should write the speech down, rehearse it and feel comfortable with the words on the page. This doesn’t mean you need to use flowery prose and inspirational quotes unless you routinely talk that way. Remember that your speech will be spoken, even if there are written words in front of you. Jargon and idiomatic expressions are perfectly acceptable. But stick to your script. Too much adlibbing can derail your speech. Provided you have had ample time to prepare the speech, speaking completely “off the cuff” is unacceptable.

10. Time limit. Great special occasion speeches have a time limit. No exceptions. You can allot three to five minutes for your speech. Anything longer and you will lose people’s attention. Say what you want to say and gracefully let everyone return to the party.

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101 Special Occasion Speech Topics

Giving a special occasion speech can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not sure where to start. In this article, we will provide you with some special occasion speech topics that can help you craft a memorable and effective speech. From inspirational messages to funny anecdotes, we’ll give you the tools you need to make your speech a hit.

• Acknowledging the Achievements of the Celebrant
• The Power of Gratitude
• Finding Inspiration in Unexpected Places
• The Journey of Personal Growth
• Overcoming Adversity: Lessons from My Life
• Creating Lasting Impact
• Congratulatory Messages
• Embracing the Future: My Hopes and Dreams for the Next Chapter
• The Importance of Giving Back
• Finding Joy in the Journey
• The Meaning of Love: Reflections on [Occasion]
• The Journey of [Celebrants]: From [Beginning] to [Today]
• The Power of Positive Thinking
• The Value of Education
• The Strength of Community
• Having Fun and Celebrating Life
• Well Wishes to the Celebrant
• Being Present in the Moment
• Happy and Uplifting Stories
• The Heart of Leadership
• The Meaning of Friendship
• What It Means to be a Mentor
• How to Live a Life of Purpose
• Independence and Self-Empowerment
• The Art of Persuasion
• The Value of Diversity in the Workplace
• Power of Positive Habits
• Role of Communication in Building Strong Relationships
• Importance of Work-Life Balance
• The Value of Lifelong Learning
• Honoring [Name]: A Tribute to [Their Contributions/Accomplishments]
• Living Life to the Fullest
• Finding Your Voice: How to Speak Up and Make a Difference
• Exploring the Power of Resilience
• Living a Life of Gratitude
• Letting Go and Moving Forward
• Finding Happiness in the Little Things
• The Joy of Giving
• The Beauty of Self-Acceptance
• The Power of Kindness
• The Journey of Self-Discovery
• Cultivating an Attitude of Gratitude
• The Power of Forgiveness and Letting Go
• The Importance of Celebrating Life’s Milestones
• The Meaning of Generosity
• The Art of Listening
• Power of Self-Love
• The Journey of Self-Improvement
• Essence of Compassion
• The Importance of Living in the Moment
• The Strength of Character
• Power of Positive Attitude
• The Rewards of Self-Discipline
• The Beauty of Connection
• Value of Patience
• Living with Passion
• The Wonder of Mental Strength
• Power of Imagination
• The Beauty of Resilience
• The Meaning of Acceptance
• The Value of Making a Difference
• Being a Role Model
• The Power of Empathy
• The Joy of Being True to Yourself
• The Strength of Unity
• Finding Fulfillment in Life
• The Importance of Taking Risks
• Why It’s Okay to Dream Big
• Congratulatory Messages to the Celebrant
• The Journey of Personal Success
• The Meaning of Success
• Supporting Others on Their Journey
• Celebrating With the People We Love
• Having Fun and Letting Go
• The Value of Self-Reflection
• Giving Back to Our Communities
• The Power of Optimism
• Death and Dying: Celebrating Life
• The Power of Positive Reinforcement
• The Strength of Humility
• When Life Seems Unfair: How to Cope
• Living an Authentic Life
• How to Be an Effective Leader
• The Art of Simplicity
• Cultivating a Growth Mindset
• The Art of Balance
• The Magic of Momentum
• Timing is Everything
• Fostering Strong Relationships
• Learning from Our Mistakes
• Celebrating a Life Well Lived
• The Value of Honest Communication
• Celebrating the Moment
• How to Create a Positive Future
• Being Different is Beautiful
• The Magic of Friendship
• Creating a Positive Atmosphere
• Being Open to Change
• Saving for the Future
• Giving a Motivational Speech

Keep in mind that the specific topic you choose should be appropriate for the occasion and audience. It’s also important to tailor your speech to the individual or group being honored, and to consider their interests and accomplishments when crafting your speech. With the right combination of humor, emotion, and appreciation, you can craft an effective and memorable speech that will leave your audience inspired.

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Module 11: Speaking to Entertain and for Special Occasions

Preparing and delivering the special-occasion speech, learning objectives.

Identify the proper techniques for delivering a speech on a special occasion.

The good news is the basic form of a special-occasion speech is much like that of any other speech. It has an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. The better news is that because it is geared to a special occasion, you already have a purpose and, usually, the speech is brief! The challenge is to say what you need to say as clearly and effectively as possible. Here are some steps that can help with structuring this type of speech.

Research your occasion, your topic, and any persons or groups who are attending or who you will be introducing or mentioning. Find some interesting information about the audience, event, or person that is related to the speech topic and purpose.

Know Your Audience

Know your audience and decide what is appropriate based on age group and interest level. Several different groups may be present and you will want to connect with everyone; you will need to find the best angle to address their interests, catch their attention, and gain their support.

Let’s consider Cynthia’s award ceremony again. You were told that you have fifteen minutes to speak and introduce the awardee. You’ve learned that some of the attendees have a connection to the organization, but many don’t know much about the work it does. So, you decide to include the following:

• A brief history of the organization
• Cynthia’s role in the organization
• The story of how Cynthia got involved in this organization
• How the community can become involved

Writing (and Rewriting) the First Draft

For this speech type, you can lay out the speech in a way you find most comfortable. You can write using your computer, paper and pen, or flash cards. When writing your speech, you will need to keep timing in mind (is it a five-, 15-, or 30-minute presentation?). A typical special occasion speech will include the following components: start by introducing yourself. You can include a summary of your background and your connection to the event in two or three sentences. Then begin the body of the speech using your research you collected; don’t forget to cite any sources you may use. You can add any relevant examples or short stories that could build excitement in your speech. You will want to create a tone in the speech using language and literary devices like we talked about earlier. Finally, you will want to conclude in a memorable way. In special-occasion speeches, you do not always need to summarize all the speech points. It will depend upon what you learn in your audience analysis. You will want to thank the audience for their time and attention and conclude with a memorable closing statement!

Back to Cynthia’s award ceremony: as you begin to construct your speech, you find that it helps you to write an outline first. An outline gives you the framework you need. You look through your research and decide where you plan to include information by making notes in the outline. You then decide you want to use notecards and begin to write the speech on these cards using the outline.

Practice and More Practice

Now you have reached the best part: getting to perform the speech itself. Start by reading it aloud to yourself until you are anticipating the words as you read. Then underline the phrases you want to be sure to deliver verbatim to make your points, leaving yourself the flexibility to add and subtract content as you practice. A good method is to record your speech and play it back. When you listen to your recording, keep in mind that hearing yourself takes some time getting used to! Don’t judge your voice or the delivery at first, just concentrate on how the ideas flow (or not) and the timing and length of the piece and get used to listening to yourself. Make your changes and then find a person to watch your presentation. Don’t expect your performance to be perfect. Go easy on yourself and practice enough that you feel comfortable giving the speech. For the very first practice session, relax. It is important to get the words out and then ask for feedback on the ideas and delivery. Don’t skip this stage as it is essential to presenting an excellent speech. Remember in these practice sessions, you want to simulate how you plan to give the actual speech. Below are further tips on things to practice while preparing for your speech.

Voice and Delivery

It’s not only what you say, it’s how you say it! Time to polish this speech to make it shine! Rehearse the speech in a mirror, looking at how much eye contact you are making with yourself. A short speech will be easy to memorize partially, but something longer will need you to balance the amount of eye contact you and your audience will share. If it is a small group in a small room, it is particularly important to make eye contact. Be sure to scan the audience, to make sure they know that you are including everyone. That will allow you to respond to their reactions as a group while maintaining your presence as a speaker! You should speak slowly and allow time for the words to hit their ears. It is good to speak in short sentences and breathe frequently. Some speakers and many performers mark their breaths and especially their pauses in their notes. If you will be speaking in a larger room or auditorium, BE SURE to ask if you will have a microphone and get a time when you can practice with it! Speak directly into the microphone, and practice the distance you need between you and the microphone. The microphone will also affect how you can or can’t move during your talk—is it anchored or handheld? Wireless or wired? Your best efforts will be wasted if you are unprepared to deal with the equipment (or lack of it).

Look Good and Feel Good

Find a simple, comfortable outfit and shoes that you like and try it on ahead of the event. Double check with the organizers and ask if there are any dress codes or restrictions. It is okay to ask their opinion if you are not sure. Make sure to select a similar outfit as a backup choice. To feel good is a matter of doing your preparation and getting enough sleep. Even if you are not feeling great on the day of your speech, your preparation will carry you through! Match your movement to the speech and the venue. If you are someone who uses your hands in daily conversation, plan to use them in your speech, but practice to ensure the gestures are not distracting; some people like to note on their speech when they plan to use a gesture and practice so this looks very natural. Choose facial expressions that fit the event. Lastly, hit the bathroom, check yourself in the mirror, and take a deep breath. Be you. Be ready for anything. Feel confident because you are prepared and ready!

• Awards ceremony. Provided by : Texas State Library and Archives Commission. Located at : https://flic.kr/p/dAgewk . License : CC BY: Attribution
• Volunteering. Authored by : Mark C. Olsen. Provided by : New Jersey National Guard. Located at : https://flic.kr/p/USrifw . License : Public Domain: No Known Copyright
• Preparing and Delivering the Special Occasion Speech. Authored by : Patricia Atkinson with Lumen Learning. License : CC BY: Attribution
• Preparing and Delivering the Special Occasion Speech. Authored by : Sandra K. Winn with Lumen Learning. License : CC BY: Attribution

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230 Fantastic Special Occasion Speech Topics To Impress Audience

Are you facing the daunting task of crafting a special occasion speech that will leave a lasting impact on your audience? Whether you’re a student preparing for a class presentation, a best man gearing up for a wedding toast, or an aspiring public speaker looking to refine your skills, we’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we have compiled a remarkable collection of 230 original and high-quality special occasion speech topics to ignite your imagination and spark your creativity.

But that’s not all. We understand that crafting an exceptional speech involves more than just selecting the right topic. That’s why, in addition to the special occasion speech examples, we’ve also included a range of valuable tips and tricks to help you write the best speech ever. From capturing your audience’s attention with a compelling opening to incorporating storytelling techniques and infusing humor, we’ll guide you through the process of writing a great speech. Let’s get started!

Writing A Great Special Occasion Speech

So, what is a special occasion speech? A special occasion speech is a type of speech delivered during significant and memorable events or ceremonies. It aims to honor, celebrate, or commemorate a particular occasion, such as weddings, graduations, award ceremonies, birthdays, or anniversaries.

Aside from choosing excellent special occasion speech topics, there are some other things you can do to come up with special occasion speech ideas and write a great speech:

Know your audience. Understand the demographics, interests and expectations of the people attending the event. Start with a strong opening. Capture attention with a compelling hook or an engaging anecdote related to the occasion. Establish a clear purpose. Determine the main message or theme you want to convey in your speech. Structure your speech. Organize your ideas logically, using an introduction, body and conclusion. Keep it concise. Special occasion speeches are typically short, so focus on delivering your message succinctly. Use storytelling. Incorporate personal stories or anecdotes to make your speech relatable and memorable. Add humor. Inject appropriate humor to entertain and engage the audience, but avoid offensive jokes or excessive comedy. Find the best topics for a special occasion speech!

Easy Special Occasion Speech Topics

When it comes to delivering a speech for a special occasion, sometimes simplicity is key. Here are some easy special occasion speech topics that can help you express your thoughts with ease and clarity:

• The power of a smile: Spreading positivity in every occasion
• Gratitude: Appreciating the little things that make life special
• The importance of family bonds: Cherishing love and support
• Embracing diversity: Celebrating our differences and fostering unity
• Overcoming fear: Discovering courage within ourselves
• The joy of giving: Making a difference through acts of kindness
• The beauty of nature: Finding inspiration in the world around us
• Finding your passion: Pursuing what brings you fulfillment
• The value of friendship: Nurturing connections that last a lifetime
• The art of forgiveness: Healing and moving forward in life
• The power of perseverance: Turning challenges into triumphs
• Self-care: Prioritizing your well-being for a balanced life
• The impact of music: How melodies touch our souls
• Discovering your purpose: Unleashing your potential and finding meaning

Funny Special Occasion Speeches

Laughter is the best medicine, especially during special events. If you’re looking to add humor to your speech, check out these funny special occasion speeches that are sure to entertain your audience:

• Laughing at ourselves: Embracing funny quirks and mishaps.
• The art of awkward small talk: Finding humor in uncomfortable conversations.
• Office humor: Surviving workplace comedy.
• Joys of aging: Embracing wrinkles, forgetfulness, and “senior moments.”
• Humor in dating disasters: Sharing amusing love gone wrong stories.
• Cooking calamities: Laughing at culinary disasters.
• Online shopping fails: Unveiling hilarious purchase disappointments.
• Funny technology glitches: Dealing with autocorrect fails.
• Art of funny anecdotes: Sharing humorous stories that bring smiles.
• Ups and downs of DIY projects: Laughing at attempts to be handy.
• Humor in fashion faux pas: Celebrating questionable wardrobe choices.
• Comedy of misunderstandings: Reliving funny miscommunications.
• Hilarious pet antics: Exploring humorous furry companions.

Good Special Occasion Speech Topics

If you want to deliver a speech that leaves a positive impact, consider these good special occasion speech topics that focus on important values, experiences, and ideas worth sharing:

• Celebrating love: Toasting lifelong commitment
• Honoring achievement: Recognizing excellence in a specific field
• Milestone reached: Reflecting on [Number of] years of success
• Embracing diversity: Celebrating cultural unity and harmony
• A new chapter begins: Wishing success and happiness
• Commemorating resilience: Overcoming challenges with strength and courage
• Remembering the legacy: Honoring the contributions of a historical figure
• Uniting for a cause: Inspiring change through collective action
• Embracing hope: Celebrating recovery and second chances
• Embracing the future: Encouraging innovation and bold ideas
• A toast to friendship: Cherishing lifelong bonds and memories
• Celebrating family: Gathering of love, laughter, and unity
• Marking generosity: Recognizing acts of kindness and compassion
• A night of inspiration: Celebrating creativity and artistic expression

Special Occasion Speech Topics For College Students

College is a time of growth and exploration. If you’re preparing for a special occasion speech, these special occasion speech topics for college students will resonate with your peers and capture their attention:

• Celebrating academic achievements: Honoring excellence
• Embracing cultural diversity: Uniting through global festivals
• Commemorating graduation: Embracing the future
• Recognizing student leadership: Inspiring change on campus
• Reflecting on friendship: Toasting to lifelong bonds
• Commending sports achievements: Triumphs on the field
• Marking International Women’s Day: Empowering women
• Celebrating Earth Day: Nurturing our planet for generations to come
• Honoring veterans: Gratitude for sacrifice and service
• Commemorating Black History month: Empowering narratives
• Embracing LGBTQ+ Pride: Celebrating diversity and equality
• Remembering Martin Luther King Jr.: Dreaming of a better tomorrow
• Celebrating Diwali: Illuminating the campus with joy and tradition

Advanced Special Occasion Speech Ideas

For those seeking to go beyond the ordinary, these advanced special occasion speech ideas are designed to challenge and inspire you to deliver a powerful and thought-provoking speech:

• To love, laughter, and happily ever after!
• Celebrating the milestones that shape our extraordinary journey!
• A toast to the extraordinary achievements of our exceptional graduates!
• May your union be a symphony of love and lifelong harmony!
• In honor of the remarkable legacy that lights our path!
• Raising a glass to the indomitable spirit of resilience!
• Here’s to the bold dreamers who dare to change the world!
• Celebrating the heroes who selflessly serve and protect us all!
• To the timeless bond of friendship that knows no boundaries!
• In celebration of the boundless creativity that fuels our inspiration!
• To the unsung heroes who make our community shine brighter!
• Honoring the bright minds shaping the future of innovation!
• To the magical moments that make life a breathtaking adventure!
• Cheers to the unwavering love that builds strong families!

Eulogy Speech Topic Ideas

Paying tribute to a loved one is a delicate task. These eulogy speech topic ideas can help you honor their memory and share your heartfelt sentiments with grace and compassion:

• Remembering a life well-lived: Honoring [Name]’s enduring legacy
• Celebrating the cherished memories of our beloved [Name]
• A heartfelt tribute to a remarkable soul who touched our lives
• In loving memory of a kind-hearted soul who brought light
• Honoring the beautiful spirit that forever resides in our hearts
• Reflecting on the profound impact of [Name]’s journey on earth
• Paying tribute to a remarkable life filled with love and compassion
• Remembering the joy, laughter, and wisdom [Name] brought to us
• Celebrating the extraordinary resilience and strength of [Name]’s spirit
• In loving memory of a cherished friend who will never be forgotten
• Honoring the enduring legacy of a life lived with purpose and grace
• Remembering [Name] and the profound love they shared with the world
• Reflecting on the gifts of inspiration and wisdom [Name] leaves behind

Fun Special Occasion Speech Topics

Sometimes, it’s important to let loose and have fun while giving a speech. These fun special occasion speech topics are meant to add a touch of playfulness to your special occasion speech:

• Toasting to the wild adventures and unforgettable memories
• Celebrating a night of laughter, joy, and non-stop dance moves
• Raising a glass to the quirkiest and most amazing group of friends
• Cheers to the party animals who know how to have a blast!
• Embracing the spirit of fun and letting loose on this special occasion
• Honoring the champions of good times and endless smiles
• Celebrating the epic moments that make life a never-ending party
• Here’s to the moments that make us laugh until our sides hurt
• Toasting to the memories we’ll create tonight, and never forget
• Embracing the silliness and celebrating the weirdness that makes us unique
• Raising a glass to the legends who know how to turn any event into a party
• Celebrating the spirit of spontaneity
• Cheers to the joy, friendship, and unforgettable experiences

Special Occasion Speech Topics For High School

High school is filled with memorable moments. If you’re looking for speech topics that resonate with your peers, these special occasion speech topics for high school will capture their attention for sure:

• Celebrating the class of [year]: a journey of growth and achievements
• Honoring the resilience and perseverance of graduates
• Reflecting on defining memories and friendships in high school
• Embracing the future: inspiring dreams beyond high school
• Recognizing outstanding achievements of student athletes
• Celebrating high school artists and performers
• Paying tribute to dedicated teachers and staff
• Honoring diversity and inclusion in our community
• Embracing the spirit of service: student contributions to the community
• Commemorating academic excellence and scholarly pursuits
• Celebrating school spirit and unity
• Recognizing student leaders inspiring positive change
• Paying tribute to unforgettable moments and traditions
• Embracing lessons learned and growth in high school

Interesting Special Occasion Speech Ideas

To captivate your audience and leave a lasting impression, consider these interesting special occasion speech ideas that offer a fresh perspective on various aspects of life:

• Igniting passion and purpose: unleashing inner power
• Embracing ambition: turning dreams into reality
• Celebrating diversity: breaking barriers, building bridges
• Captivating hearts: inspiring minds through storytelling
• Harmonizing souls: creating lasting memories with music
• Embracing resilience: triumphing over challenges
• Exploring uncharted territories, discovering new horizons
• Unlocking secrets to a fulfilling life: the science of happiness
• Spreading joy, making a positive impact through kindness
• Celebrating food as art: savoring flavors, culinary journey
• Finding joy through dance: rhythm of life
• Nurturing the environment: embracing sustainability
• Embracing the beauty of imperfection

Engaging Special Occasion Speech Topic Ideas

Engage your audience and make your speech memorable with these engaging special occasion speech topic ideas that encourage interaction, reflection and meaningful discussions:

• Embracing change: navigating transformation with courage
• The power of connection: building meaningful relationships
• The art of adaptation: thriving in an ever-changing world
• Unleashing your inner superhero: tapping into hidden potential
• From struggle to triumph: overcoming obstacles, achieving greatness
• The gift of gratitude: cultivating appreciation and abundance
• Embracing the journey: finding purpose and passion in life
• The ripple effect: small actions, big impact
• The road less traveled: embracing adventure, following your path
• Unmasking creativity: power of imagination, innovation
• Power of positivity: transforming challenges into opportunities
• Discovering your authentic voice: self-expression, individuality
• Strength of unity: harnessing collaboration, cooperation
• Power of mindfulness: finding balance, inner peace in a busy world

Independence Day Speech Topics

Celebrate the spirit of independence with these Independence Day speech topics that focus on freedom, patriotism and the values that shape a nation:

• Celebrating freedom: honoring the spirit of independence
• Reflecting on Liberty: upholding democratic values
• Embracing Founding Fathers’ courage: preserving freedom’s legacy
• Inspiring patriotism: united we stand, divided we fall
• Power of independence: empowering individuals, enriching nations
• Embracing diversity: strength through unity
• Remembering sacrifices: honoring those who fought for freedom
• Preserving Liberty’s flame: passing the torch to future generations
• Celebrating the red, white and blue: a nation united in pride
• Embracing the American dream: opportunities for all
• Defending freedom’s principles: our duty and privilege
• Celebrating the land of the free: a beacon of hope
• Independence’s enduring spirit: a legacy to cherish

Creative Special Occasion Speech Topics

Unleash your creativity with these unique creative special occasion speech topics that will allow you to express yourself in a truly innovative and captivating way:

• Embracing the spark: igniting creativity in every endeavor
• Dancing with words: the magic of poetry and expression
• Harmonizing the senses: exploring the symphony of life
• Unveiling the brushstrokes: art as a window to the soul
• Journey of a thousand steps: embracing the path of growth
• The dance of light: capturing moments through photography
• Mindful living: cultivating joy and gratitude in everyday life
• The alchemy of ideas: transforming thoughts into innovation
• Celebrating curiosity: embracing the joy of lifelong learning
• The power of voice: amplifying stories that inspire change
• Nurturing nature: exploring the beauty of conservation
• Embracing the rhythm: discovering the healing power of music
• The dance of flavors: exploring culinary creativity and fusion
• The threads of culture: celebrating diversity and global connections
• Embracing the written word: crafting stories that move hearts
• The art of connection: building bridges through compassion

Appealing Topics For A Special Occasion Speech

These appealing topics for a special occasion speech are designed to appeal to a wide range of audiences, ensuring that your speech resonates with people from different backgrounds:

• Power of dreams: imagine, believe, achieve
• Symphony of friendship: celebrating the bonds that unite
• Navigating life’s crossroads: finding purpose in uncertainty
• Igniting hope: inspiring resilience and positivity
• Magic of kindness: making a big difference
• Challenges to triumphs: overcoming adversity with grace
• Celebrating parenthood: cherishing the gift of family
• Embracing wisdom of age: honoring lessons from experience
• Transformative power of forgiveness: healing hearts, freeing souls
• Cultivating inclusion: embracing diversity, fostering unity
• Nurturing innovation: empowering creativity and growth
• Gratitude in action: spreading joy through kindness
• Celebrating milestones: reflections on memorable achievements
• Embracing change: embracing the beauty of transformation
• Building bridges: connecting hearts, bridging divides
• The art of resilience: bouncing back with strength and courage
• Moments of inspiration: finding sparks in everyday life

Delightful Topic Ideas For A Special Occasion Speech

Bring joy and positivity to your special occasion speech with these delightful topic ideas for a special occasion speech that celebrate happiness, love and the beauty of life:

• Embracing the joy of celebration: let the festivities begin!
• Unleashing the power of laughter: the magic of shared smiles
• Inspiring acts of kindness: spreading joy, changing lives
• Cherishing precious moments: creating memories to last a lifetime
• The dance of gratitude: appreciating life’s abundance
• Embracing the spirit of adventure: exploring the unknown with wonder
• Celebrating love and togetherness: a journey of hearts entwined
• Nurturing the spirit of giving: making a difference in the world
• The symphony of friendship: harmonizing souls, creating lasting bonds
• Embracing the beauty of nature: finding solace in the great outdoors
• Celebrating milestones: reflections on remarkable achievements
• Inspiring dreams, igniting passions: embracing limitless possibilities
• The art of resilience: rising stronger, shining brighter
• Celebrating cultural diversity: embracing the richness of traditions
• Embracing the power of community: united for a greater purpose
• Gratitude in action: spreading kindness, cultivating positivity
• Celebrating the spirit of generosity: uplifting lives through giving

Stimulating Special Occasion Speech Topics

Challenge your audience’s thinking with these thought-provoking stimulating special occasion speech topics that delve into complex subjects and inspire intellectual discussion:

• The power of curiosity: igniting the spark of lifelong learning
• Embracing change: unlocking growth and transformation
• Breaking boundaries: pushing the limits, achieving greatness
• The art of resilience: overcoming challenges with strength
• Embracing diversity: celebrating the tapestry of human differences
• The journey within: exploring self-discovery, personal growth
• Ripple effect of kindness: spreading compassion, changing lives
• Navigating uncertainty: finding strength, opportunity in the unknown
• Science of success: unveiling secrets to achieving your goals
• Path of innovation: harnessing creativity for breakthrough solutions
• Power of collaboration: building stronger teams
• Embracing sustainable living: protecting our planet for future generations
• Celebrating authenticity: embracing true self, empowering others
• Art of communication: building bridges, fostering connection
• Entrepreneurial spirit: taking risks, pursuing passions
• Beauty of simplicity: finding joy in life’s small pleasures
• Legacy of leadership: inspiring others to lead with integrity, vision

Graduation Speech Topics

Graduation is a milestone worth commemorating. These graduation speech topics will help you craft a memorable speech that captures the spirit of achievement and future aspirations:

• Embracing the journey: celebrating graduation achievements
• Pursuing passion: following dreams beyond the diploma
• Navigating new horizons: embracing post-graduation change
• Power of perseverance: overcoming challenges on the path to success
• Finding purpose: discovering your calling in a vast world
• Building bridges: fostering connections for a brighter future
• Embracing resilience: bouncing back stronger from setbacks
• Leaving a legacy: making a meaningful impact in the world
• Lifelong learning: cultivating curiosity and growth beyond the classroom
• Creating your path: forging your own destiny after graduation
• Embracing possibilities: unlocking potential in the next chapter
• Celebrating milestones: reflecting on memorable academic achievements
• A world of opportunities: stepping into the realm of endless possibilities
• Embracing the unknown: embracing uncertainty with courage
• From students to leaders: empowering the next generation’s potential

Need Quick Speech Writing Help?

If you’re in need of speech writing help (or some more occasional speech topics), look no further. Whether you’re a student in school, college or even a graduate preparing for a momentous graduation speech, professional assistance is just a click away. Assignment writers who are experts in the field are available to offer their unique expertise and make your speech shine. With our assistance, you can be confident in receiving a custom, plagiarism free piece that captures your ideas and resonates with your audience.

Our online speech writing services and buy homework service provide a fast and reliable solution to your needs, ensuring you meet your deadlines without compromising on quality. Our native English writers understand the importance of crafting speeches that leave a lasting impact. Moreover, they offer their expertise at an inexpensive rate, making it accessible to students on various budgets.

Don’t let the pressure of writing a speech overwhelm you. Seek the help of professional writers, and watch your words come to life with eloquence and confidence. Get in touch with us today!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I start writing an occasion speech?

To begin, introduce yourself and acknowledge the significance of the event. Capture the audience’s attention with a captivating opening line or a relevant anecdote that relates to the occasion. This will set the tone and pique their interest from the start. You can get our assignment help writers to help you out with the start of your speech.

How can I engage the audience during my speech?

Engaging the audience is crucial for a memorable speech. Utilize storytelling techniques, incorporate well-timed humor, ask thought-provoking rhetorical questions, or involve the audience through interactive elements like surveys or brief activities. These strategies help maintain their interest and create a connection.

Should I memorize my entire speech?

While it’s not necessary to memorize your entire speech word for word, you should have a strong understanding of the main points and structure. Practice your speech multiple times, ensuring familiarity and comfort with the flow, and rely on notes or an outline to guide you during delivery.

How can I overcome stage fright before giving a speech?

Overcoming stage fright requires preparation and mindset. Practice your speech multiple times and visualize the positive reactions from the audience. Take deep breaths to calm your nerves before stepping on stage, and remember that the audience wants you to succeed. Consider seeking professional coaching to build confidence.

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Special Occasion Speech Writing Guide and Topic Ideas

Updated 16 Jul 2024

As high-school or college student, you may have been asked to write special occasion speech for an important event or person. In such case, it is not difficult as teacher or college professor usually provide with speech outline. Yet, what to do when it’s needed for work anniversary, retirement, birthday or an important event? Things may get complex as speech is always great responsibility and it is important to write it in a correct and original way!

Turning to our writing experience, we came up with special guide that will make you understand all types of special occasion speeches. Moreover, we also provide writing checklist together with classic outline to help amazing speech ideas flow!  

Special Occasion Speech Topics Checklist

Before starting with special occasion speech ideas or brainstorming options, you may already know topic well, yet it’s still important to ensure that you choose the best ideas and turn them into memorable talk. Below is a checklist of points to consider while preparing:

• What is an occasion you are getting ready for?
• What is your role in this particular occasion?
• Who is target audience? Should you turn to professionals in any field?
• How much time will you have?
• Should it be formal or informal in style?
• What is main purpose of your talk?
• Think about best time for your performance at an event. What would be the most appropriate moment?
• What should be avoided while speaking of sensitive occasion?
• Would it be better to speak on behalf of an organization or yourself?
• Would it be possible to include personal story or work-related anecdote?

Look through this speech writing checklist! Answering these basic writing questions, you will work on ideas and make sure that every important aspect is properly addressed!

Types of Special Occasion Speeches

While writing toast for birthday or special teacher who is retiring may seem clear. But there are many more special occasions that require particular attention. From informative speech ideas that deal with certain subject and help your audience understand facts and ideas to acceptance speeches, there are rules that should be followed to leave professional impression. In our writing guide, we will review five most complex types with a short definition for each.

• Commemorative Speech and Tribute - is ceremonial speech because it aims at paying a tribute and praise a person, an organization, institution, special occasion, great idea, or a group of people who did something special. Try to use one of our unique commemorative speech ideas . Speak about values and how much work or effort have gone into that.
• Commencement Speech - is for college or university students who graduate. During such an occasion, degrees and diplomas are being presented students, so it can include special definitions or talk of achievements. It usually concerns past, present, or assumptions towards future.
• Acceptance Speech - is given when someone is accepting praise, being honored or receives an award. So, it is advisable to speak of those who have made it possible with a special tribute and give words of thanks. Free your emotions!
• Farewell Speech - sometimes also called retirement, refers to an individual that leaves position or place. It is often addressed to public figures or educators. What has to be mentioned are career achievements and even reasons a person may have had for leaving. Ensure that no privacy or sensitive issues are violated.
• Toast Speech - best example would be best man's talk at wedding ceremony. As one raises a glass in honor of someone, such talk should be always to the point, engaging, and not too long to keep audience interested and entertained. It is a right place to tell short story and why a person or people in question are special. Remember to keep it brief!

Read also: Good Demonstration Speech Topics : 50 Best & Unique Ideas

Of course, these are far from all types of special occasion speeches, yet we tried to mention the most common and complex ones. Writing a special occasion speech can be daunting, but seeking assignment help can provide you with the guidance and support needed to craft a memorable and impactful speech. Let us proceed with topic ideas for any occasion now!

Need more help with your speech?

EduBirdie professionals can help you complete your writing assignment in no time.

Special Occasion Topics - Writing Details

Since you came here to learn how to write a special occasion speech, we decided to give you the writing details and samples for each speech type. Remember that these are only the basic examples and you can always turn to the pre written speech services or review free speech essays if you struggle to come up with excellent ideas.

• Farewell . If it is you who are leaving or retiring, thank fellow employees and the management for cooperation, their support, friendship, and the great ideas shared. Ensure to wish them all the best and tell of how much all the work has meant to you. Tell of your future plans and of how much you will rely on everything that you have learned as an employee. Now if someone else is retiring or leaving, start by thanking that person and include story that highlights traits of that individual.
• Tribute should tell of why a person or an occasion is special and what has moved you personally and inspired for a positive change. If you are talking to the audience, be sure to ask questions that you may answer on your own by highlighting the importance of a tribute. Tell of what you have learned and do not forget to tell that it is a common achievement.
• Informative . In this particular case, you have to start with an introduction for your audience, so that they know what your topic is about. Do not be afraid to be clear, but keep it short to 5-7 sentences. Next, tell of an occasion or a reason for gathering. Make an argument, support it with your own case study or research. Mention opposite opinions, conclude with main key points but in different words.
• Wedding Ceremony. Secret here is that it should not be too long. It is a good occasion to tell a story, mention a funny, but not embarrassing fact. Do not be generic and never focus on the usual wishes. Make it memorable instead and tell of true friendship and love by citing a movie or a book quote. Be funny and free!  
• Persuasive Speech. Start with an unusual fact or an assumption that will make your audience attentive. Continue by telling about your facts, ideas, conducted research results. If possible, use examples, pictures, tables, graphics to support your words. It is the best case to be creative. Do not make it too complex, but use emotions and logic to persuade the audience and make them trust you!
• Festive - From the birthday parties to Christmas celebrations, this talks should be funny, as well as entertaining. If you aim for younger audience, be sure to include traditions or customs. Tell of charity events, how much important it is to help everyone feel safe and warm. In case with birthday speech, tell what person means to you. Speak of his or her unique qualities, focus on what they can do best - good accountant, amazing teacher or talented musician. The key is to praise hero of occasion! He or she should feel special on this very day.
• Awards / Graduation talk may seem overly complex and it is where most college and university students in the United States usually get stuck. The secret here is to talk not only of achievements, but to start with a list of reasons why this or that major has been chosen. You can even talk of the freedom that American students have in terms of education compared to the rest of the world. Make it special, memorable, and do not forget to thank those who have made it possible.

Read also: Picking the Right Persuasive Speech Topics

Special Occasion Speech Outline Example

It is a well-known fact that there is no universal recipe for a perfect special occasion speech template, yet we want to provide you with an example to keep your brain and heart inspired!

Mrs. Jones - More Than an English Teacher (Awards and Tribute Speech)

• Introduction and the main thesis (underlined)

Why do I consider myself a good writer? I believe that it takes a good English teacher to inspire and teach a student how to write. Mrs. Jones, a wonderful lady with the kind eyes and a soft-spoken voice, is the one who walked an extra mile to inspire me because you cannot guide a student if he or she is not inspired. As I receive the writer's award, it is her award and I want to pay a tribute to a wonderful person, Mrs. Annie Jones. She is a sum of empathy, care, courage, and professionalism that started by making sure that you are interested and motivated before you start to learn. Thanks to her, I learned not only how to write, but how to feel total responsibility for what I write and why.

• Body Paragraphs (Main Thesis Statements)

A . She always started the lessons by asking the students about how they felt and if they could relate to the task.

She never discriminated the students by the level of skills and knowledge. She always told of her own life and frequently read aloud to make students listen.

B . Checking our assignments, she actually discussed the flaws with students, providing criticism but never hurting our feelings.

As a result, I learned how to be outspoken and sincere.

C . As I started to write professionally, she still treated me the same, always remembering each of my childhood question and concern.

Her attitude made me feel confident about my skills. Most of all, she has always been a true friend and a genuine supporter.

• Conclusion Paragraph

As I accept this award, I want to thank her and everyone of you for making it possible because I am learning by cooperation, by your feedback and sincerity. As we write, we communicate and work hard to become better. I shall do my best to be worthy of such high praise and will always remember of how it started and why I became an inspired writer. I thank you all, but first of all, thank you, dear Mrs. Jones!

Use this special occasion speech outline as an example to succeed in your own writing of a talk for any event!

An Extra Bit of Speech Writing Help

Even with all the topic ideas and outlines, most college students and casual people in the United States struggle while preparing for occasions! Well, even Hillary Clinton worries about her speech events and works days and nights with assigned experts. At EduBirdie, we provide the speech writing help  because it is tailored to every specific need. Every customer can choose an expert writer by subject who will know exact definition and terminology.

Let us not forget that writing of a good special occasion speech is something that you will be remembered by. So, why even risk when you can ask our experts for any service from proofreading to finding good toast ideas? Finally, turning to the EduBirdie experts, you can stop worrying about the deadlines and grammar, as we work 24/7 and provide editing and plagiarism check services, too. A special occasion speech has to be, well, special, and we always try our best to make every customer satisfied!

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Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

Special Occasion Speech Topics [With Setup Checklist]

Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class.

Special occasion speech topics checks for most particular roasts and toasts, for motivational speakers on the speakers podium and an easy method to outline this genre. Plus links to my ideas:

What actually is good exceptional and exclusive occasional speaking?

• Above all, there has to be a clear connection with the unique purpose of the occasion.
• lso the special occasional speech topics have to be both informational and persuasive.
• And third, share your thoughts for a better understanding of the goal and the context of the upcoming event.

No need to emphasize that you have to be fully aware of your audience. The key to find the right special speech topics is addressing five W’s and one H. Ask what, why, to whom, when, where, and how long. I will discuss these questions below.

In this article:

1. Why? What is the purpose of the event?

2. do you want to celebrate or praise, end of the year, christmas evenings, farewell address, special occasion speech outline, your checklist to find special occasion speech topics.

• What is the purpose of the meeting, event, conference or ceremony?
• What are the demands and wishes regarding your special occasional speech topics?
• Are there special requirements related to the singularity of the event?
• What was the first thing that comes into your mind when you were invited?
• Are you invited because of your expertise or professional abilities?
• What do you know about the character and ambiance?
• Why did you accept the honor to be public speaker?
• What do you want your public to remember, consider, support or believe in? That’s the special purpose of this public speaking assignment, your specific topic statement.
• To conclude: what’s the purpose?

Before you determine specific aims, first determine the general goal of your special occasional speech topics. Do you want to entertain or amuse, roasts and toasts perhaps?

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An  after dinner  speaker tries to ridicule the listeners by spoofing persons or to exaggerate familair situations.

Ask yourself: who or what is being honored or set in a positive light? Why? Accomplishments?

If it’s a person: how does the life and works of this person influence other people? Tribute speech topics stimulate and strengthen the audiences’ sentiments of adoration and excitement. Share joy over someone’s character, or over successes at the beginning or completion of a project or season.

Other input to celebrate or praise can be developed for weddings,  birthdays , and roasts and toasts.

Commemorative orals honor and strengthen the values of a person, group, institution, place, event, idea or subject. Focus on the values of life and past, present, and future of society.

The special occasion speech topics have to be symbolic. Eulogies honor a deceased person and praise the person’s virtues and character. Tell what we learned and why we are thankful.

3. Inspire your audience?  Inspirational  and motivational speakers base their talks on policy or value claims. Uplift the moral of an organization.

What do you want to accomplish? How can you persuade the audience to belief, feel or think the same? This is the core of that type of occasion speech topics.

With commencement special occasion topics you can offer insight and knowledge by revealing your own personal ideas and thoughts. List behavioral standards and indentify how the educational institution, company or other group could strengthen those standards.

4. Set a social agenda?  Keynote speeches reinforce or establish new goals in special occasional speech topics. Set the tone and arouse enthusiastic emotions for upcoming discussions.

Of course there are more other unique moments at which a bit more ceremonial special occasion speech topics are expected. E.g. introductions and announcements,  vote of thanks  speeches, stump speeches and events at which people are being welcomed, say farewell, retire, nominated or accept a special award.

5. Who or what do you address? What kind of organisation? In case of a celebration or honoring ceremony: who is being praised? What are her or his needs and expectations?

Is it a special group competition,  group discussion  or special event?

6. When will you speak?  Will a host introduce you and your notes? Prearrange that you don’t cover the same special occasion speech topic!

Are you the only public speaker? If there are more people, then bear in mind to wake up the audience if you have for example to deliver as speaker number seven.

7. Where are you speaking?  What is the ambiance, can you maintain the proper atmosphere? How big is the room? A public speakers podium? A microphone?

Can you get in touch with your listeners? All very important for developing tailor-made content.

8. How long are you requested to speak? If extemporaneously, then prepare notes with some keywords. Usually, these talks are short, for instance  self-introduction special occasion speeches .

Occasion Speech Topics – Detailed Instructions

Occasion speech topics and ideas for a public speaking speech on birthdays, end of the year celebrations, Christmas evenings, farewell addresses and retirement speech talks. These are a few examples of special events most people hesitate to accept an invitation to speak.

I help a little bit with some pleasing public speaking tips and rough ideas, accessible suggestions and general themes you can bring in.

In general, stick to one single highlight of the happy birthday person. That is often enough for a small one-way chat in two or three minutes. I would recommend you keep a sharp eye on the time.

Because there are other persons with other happy birthday texts perhaps. Following is a list of potential ideas for occasion speech topics.

See the samples below as a primer. Use your own fantasy. I have listed them in alphabetical order:

Think about a party, at the celebration dinner, even at an official ceremony or any other particular occasion you have to speak in public and need input.

Aunt   – List her funny habits and sayings. Or her contributions to the local community, charity or church.

Brother   – Tell about your interesting conversations full of keen and quick insight. and how you match perfectly with intuition.

Brother in Law   – Focus on his hobbies and sports activities, these are really ideal occasion speech topics, you can use them for another public speaking speech too.

Daughter   – Describe how she has grown up and why she is special to you. Or admire her attainments and accomplishments at high school or college.

Grandfather   – Mention his position as head of the family and praise his great advices and words of wisdom. Tell how he introduced you to treasures in museums when you were young.

Grandmother   – Let everybody know that she is a fabulous cooking queen. State that you appreciate her love and care in good and in bad times.

Take you time to speak out your occasion speech topics, due to the fact that older people wants to hear everything and easily are disturbed by general noise at a birthday party. Some goes for your grandfather too of course.

Or in case of a big surprise party with very noisy partygoers.

Father   – Emphasize he has always been – and for sure will be – your greatest supporter in life, thank him for the profitable tips he gave you, and for qualities of respect and self-esteem he taught you.

Friend   – Tell why she or he is special to you. Describe how you have helped each other through exams, holiday trips, parties, and so on.

There are a lot of special occasion speech topics to think of when it comes to speak at a birthday celebration of a friend.

Husband   – Tell why he is your soulmate. Retrospect a bit, refer back to the time you were just married. Do not tend to create a complete contemplation of the past, but bring in happy memories about adventures you shared together.

Mother   – Express gratitude for all the things your mother did for you, your relatives and friends. Be grateful for her kindness and support in the past year.

Perhaps you should thank her for babysitting for her grandkids? Think about one big thing you like to thank for.

Sister   – Let her know that your love for her is unconditional. Bring in a few vivid narratives about the time you were kids and played together in the playground near your home.

Sister in Law   – Mention her contributions to your family and what she means for your brother. Roast you brother if you like. About how his outfit and looks are improved; you see the hand of your sister in law 🙂

Son   – Come up with some funny anecdotes from his childhood. You could tell about the tasks in the household you have fixed together, or fishing days or the lazy nice days you spend at the cabin or cottage.

Uncle   – Say why you like him – his jokes? his humor? his advices, fishing trips? Mention and praise his productivity at home; his do-it-yourself efforts and achievements.

Wife   – Show your love and state that you always can trust and rely on her. There is a woman behind every successful man, the saying goes …

Sketch why this is perfectly fitting the two of you. Close with a kiss of course!

Your Own Birthday   – Thank all guests for coming. Show how much they mean to you. Thank them for all birthday gifts and presents they brought in.

Now for some other special occasion speech ideas. I refer you to my other, more specialized pages on these three types:

New Year’s resolutions, a short review of the past year, look forward and reveal the things you want to do in the new year.

The history of the Christmas evenings celebration, traditions, trees and decorations, carols.

If you leave   – Thank all for their cooperation, kindness, support, or even friendship. Wish them all the best. Use my checklists in this farewell occasion speech topics primer.

If someone else is leaving   – Tell that you will miss her or him. Thank for all friendship and love.

The boss to an employee or client   – Express thanks for the trust, loyalty and support. Find a gift that fits the future activities of the retirement and build a story around it.

A colleague, boss or client to a retiring co-worker   – Focus on his or her talents, achievements and successful projects. Mention some funny experiences and wonderful moments.

Your own retirement   – Announce what you will do from now on. Thank your boss and all colleagues for their support, lessons and friendship.

Dig and find very special occasion speech topics. And do not forget to list some milestones in your career.

Go back in history and perhaps you will discover charming or alluring information about collegues at some great events and meetings you attend 🙂 Who knows …

Here’s a simple and effective way to outline your speech topic ideas for your speech writing purposes:

THE INTRODUCTION  Wake up interest. State your specific statement. Relate it to your audience. List the main points of the body – your main occasional thoughts on the speakers podium.

THE BODY List the main special occasional speech topics and construct the successes, pros and cons, values, examples, funny remarks, narratives, anecdotes or insight stories.

THE CONCLUSION An amusing general remark, or joke or a toast are in general good and especially last, closing public speaking topics:

78 Agriculture Speech Topics

1 Minute Speech Topics : 8 Samples

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5 Tips on How to Write a Speech Essay

• Homework Tips
• Learning Styles & Skills
• Study Methods
• Time Management
• Private School
• College Admissions
• College Life
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• Distance Learning
• M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
• B.A., History, Armstrong State University

When figuring out how to write a speech, the essay form can offer a good foundation for the process. Just like essays, all speeches have three main sections: the introduction, the body, and the conclusion.

However, unlike essays, speeches must be written to be heard as opposed to being read. You need to write a speech in a way that keeps the attention of an audience and helps paint a mental image at the same time. This means that your speech should contain some color, drama, or humor . It should have “flair.” Make your speech memorable by using attention-grabbing anecdotes and examples.

Determine the Type of Speech You're Writing

Since there are different types of speeches, your attention-grabbing techniques should fit the speech type.

Informative  and instructional  speeches inform your audience about a topic, event, or area of knowledge. This can be a how-to on podcasting for teens or a historical report on the Underground Railroad. It also can relate to health and beauty, such as "How to Shape Perfect Eyebrows," or hobby-related, such as "Make a Great Bag Out of Old Clothing."​

Persuasive  speeches attempt to convince or  persuade  the audience to join one side of an argument. You might write a speech about a life choice, such as, "Abstinence Can Save Your Life," or getting involved in the community, such as "The Benefits of Volunteering."

Entertaining  speeches entertain your audience, and topics may not practical. Your speech topic could be something like, "Life Is Like a Dirty Dorm," or "Can Potato Peels Predict the Future?"

Special occasion  speeches entertain or inform your audience, like graduation speeches and toasts at celebrations.

Explore the different types of speeches and decide what speech type fits your assignment.

Craft a Creative Speech Introduction

Thoughtco.com / Grace Fleming

The introduction of the informative speech should contain an attention-grabber, followed by a statement about your topic. It should end with a strong transition into your body section.

As an example, consider a template for an informative speech called "African-American Heroines." The length of your speech will depend on the amount of time you have been allotted to speak.

The red section of the speech in the graphic provides the attention-grabber. It makes audience members think about what life would be like without civil rights. The last sentence states directly the purpose of the speech and leads into the speech body, which provides more details.

Determine the Flow of the Body of the Speech

Thoughtco.com / Grace Fleming

The body of your speech can be organized in a number of ways, depending on your topic. Suggested organization patterns include:

• Chronological: Provides the order of events in time;
• Spatial: Gives an overview of physical arrangement or design;
• Topical: Presents information one subject at a time;
• Causal: Shows cause-and-effect pattern.

The speech pattern illustrated in the image in this slide is topical. The body is divided into sections that address different people (different topics). Speeches typically include three sections (topics) in the body. This speech would continue with a third section about Susie King Taylor.

Writing a Memorable Speech Conclusion

The conclusion of your speech should restate the main points you covered in your speech and end with a memorable statement. In the sample in this graphic, the red section restates the overall message you wanted to convey: that the three women you've mentioned had strength and courage, despite the odds they faced.

The quote is an attention-grabber since it is written in colorful language. The blue section ties the entire speech together with a small twist.

Address These Key Objectives

Whatever type of speech you decide to write, find ways to make your words memorable. Those elements include:

• Clever quotes
• Amusing stories   with a purpose
• Meaningful transitions
• A good ending

The structure of how to write your speech is just the start. You'll also need to finesse the speech a bit. Start by paying attention to your audience and their interests. Write the words you'll speak with passion and enthusiasm, but you also want your listeners to share that enthusiasm. When writing your attention-grabbing statements, make sure you are writing what will get their attention, not just yours.

Study Famous Speeches

Gain inspiration from others' speeches. Read famous speeches and look at the way they are constructed. Find things that stand out and figure out what makes it interesting. Oftentimes, speechwriters use rhetorical devices to make certain points easy to remember and to emphasize them. 

Get to the Point Quickly

Remember to begin and end your speech with something that will gain and hold the attention of your audience. If you spend too much time getting into your speech, people will zone out or start checking their phones. If you get them interested immediately, they will be more likely to stick with you until the end.

Keep It Conversational

How you deliver the speech is also important. When you  give the speech , think about the tone you should use, and be sure to write the speech in the same flow that you'd use in conversations. A great way to check this flow is to practice reading it out loud. If you stumble while reading or it feels monotone, look for ways to jazz up the words and improve the flow. 

• Controversial Speech Topics
• 10 Tips for the SAT Essay
• 100 Persuasive Speech Topics for Students
• How to Write and Structure a Persuasive Speech
• How to Write a Graduation Speech as Valedictorian
• How to Write a Film Review
• Character Traits: Ideas for Your Short Story
• How to Stop Overthinking Tests and Projects
• How to Give an Impromptu Speech
• How to Tell If You Are Right-Brain Dominant
• Basic Tips for Memorizing Speeches, Skits, and Plays
• Study Group Tips
• Preparing for Final Exams
• 20 Tips for Success in High School
• Mock Election Ideas For Students
• College School Supplies List

18.2 Types of Special Occasion Speeches

Click below to play an audio file of this section of the chapter sponsored by the Women for OSU Partnering to Impact grant.

Unlike the informative and persuasive speeches you were required to give, special occasion speeches are much broader and allow for a wider range of topics, events, and approaches to be employed. However, while the following list of special occasion speeches is long, your instructor will have specific types of special occasion speeches that you will be allowed (or required) to do for class. Since you are like to give many special occasion speeches in your life, we want to cover everything you might need to know to give a good one.

Speeches of Introduction

The first type of special occasion speech is the speech of introduction , which is a mini-speech given by the host of a ceremony that introduces another speaker and their speech. Few things are worse than when the introducer of a speaker stands up and says, “This is Wyatt Ford. He’s going to talk about stress.” While we did learn the speaker’s name and the topic, the introduction falls flat. Audiences won’t be the least bit excited about listening to Wyatt’s speech.

Just like any other speech, a speech of introduction should be a complete speech and have a clear introduction, body, and conclusion—and you should try to do it all in under two minutes. This brings up another “few things are worse” scenario: an introductory speaker who rambles on for too long or who talks about himself or herself instead of focusing on the person being introduced.

For an introduction, think of a hook that will make your audience interested in the upcoming speaker. Did you read a news article related to the speaker’s topic? Have you been impressed by a presentation you’ve heard the speaker give in the past? You need to find something that can grab the audience’s attention and make them excited about hearing the main speaker.

The body of your speech of introduction should be devoted to telling the audience about the speaker’s topic, why the speaker is qualified, and why the audience should listen (notice we now have our three main points).First, tell your audience in general terms about the overarching topic of the speech. Most of the time as an introducer, you’ll only have a speech title and maybe a paragraph of information to help guide this part of your speech. That’s all right. You don’t need to know all the ins and outs of the main speaker’s speech; you just need to know enough to whet the audience’s appetite. Next, you need to tell the audience why the speaker is a credible presenter on the topic. Has the speaker written books or articles on the subject? Has the speaker had special life events that make him or her qualified? Lastly, you need to briefly explain to the audience why they should care about the upcoming speech. The outline can be adjusted; for example, you can give the biographical information first, but these three areas should be covered.

The final part of a good introduction is the conclusion, which is generally designed to welcome the speaker to the platform. Many introducers will conclude by saying something like, “I am looking forward to hearing how Wyatt Ford’s advice and wisdom can help all of us today, so please join me in welcoming Dr. Wyatt Ford.” At this point, you as the person introducing the speaker are “handing off” the speaking duties to someone else, so it is not uncommon to end your speech of introduction by clapping as the speaker comes on stage or shaking the speaker’s hand.

Speeches of Presentation

The second type of special occasion speech is the speech of presentation . A speech of presentation is a brief speech given to accompany a prize or honor. Speeches of presentation can be as simple as saying, “This year’s recipient of the Lavache Public Speaking prize is Ryann Curley,” or could last up to five minutes as the speaker explains why the honoree was chosen for the award. An interesting example of a speech presenting an award is this one by Zoe Saldana for J.J. Abrams (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x03cGSszr8Q).

When preparing a speech of presentation, it’s always important to ask how long the speech should be. Once you know the time limit, then you can set out to create the speech itself. First, you should explain what the award or honor is and why the presentation is important. Second, you can explain what the recipient has accomplished in order for the award to be bestowed. Did the person win a race? Did the person write an important piece of literature? Did the person mediate conflict? Whatever the recipient has done, you need to clearly highlight his or her work. Lastly, if the race or competition was conducted in a public forum and numerous people didn’t win, you may want to recognize those people for their efforts as well. While you don’t want to steal the show away from winner, you may want to highlight the work of the other competitors or nominees.

Speeches of Acceptance

The complement to a speech of presentation is the speech of acceptance . The speech of acceptance is a speech given by the recipient of a prize or honor. There are three typical components of a speech of acceptance: 1) thank the givers of the award or honor, 2) thank those who helped you achieve your goal, and 3) put the award or honor into perspective. First, you want to thank the people who have given you the award or honor and possibly those who voted for you. We see this done every year during the Oscars, “First, I’d like to thank the Academy and all the Academy voters.”

Second, you want to give credit to those who helped you achieve the award or honor. No person accomplishes things in life on his or her own. We all have family members, friends, and colleagues who support us and help us achieve what we do in life, and a speech of acceptance is a great time to graciously recognize those individuals. Lastly, put the award in perspective. Tell the people listening to your speech why the award is meaningful to you. If you know you are up for an award, the odds of your winning are high. In order to avoid blubbering through an acceptance speech, have one ready. A good rule to remember is: Be thankful, be gracious, be short.

Speeches of Dedication

A fourth special occasion speech is the speech of dedication . A speech of dedication is delivered when a new store opens, a building is named after someone, a plaque is placed on a wall, a new library is completed, and so on. These speeches are designed to highlight the importance of the project and possibly those to whom the project has been dedicated.

When preparing a speech of dedication, start by explaining how you are involved in the dedication. If the person to whom the dedication is being made is a relative, tell the audience about your relationship and your relative’s accomplishments. Second, you want to explain what is being dedicated. If the dedication is a new building or a pre-existing building, you want to explain the importance of the structure. You should then explain who was involved in the project.

If the project is a new structure, talk about the people who built the structure or designed it. If the project is a pre-existing structure, talk about the people who put together and decided on the dedication. Lastly, explain why the structure is important for the community in which it is located. If the dedication is for a new store, talk about how the store will bring in new jobs and new shopping opportunities. If the dedication is for a new wing of a hospital, talk about how patients will be served and the advances in medicine the new wing will provide the community.

At one time or another, almost everyone is going to be asked to deliver a toast . A toast is a speech designed to congratulate, appreciate, or remember. First, toasts can be delivered for the purpose of congratulating someone for an honor, a new job, or getting married. You can also toast someone to show your appreciation for something he or she has done. Lastly, we toast people to remember them and what they have accomplished.

When preparing a toast, the first goal is always to keep your remarks brief. Toasts are generally given during the middle of some kind of festivities (e.g., wedding, retirement party, farewell party), and you don’t want your toast to take away from those festivities for too long. Second, the goal of a toast is to focus attention on the person or persons being toasted—not on the speaker.

As such, while you are speaking, you need to focus your attention toward the people being toasted, both by physically looking at them and by keeping your message about them. You should also avoid any inside jokes between you and the people being toasted because toasts are public and should be accessible for everyone who hears them. To conclude a toast, simply say something like, “Please join me in recognizing Gina for her achievement” and lift your glass. When you lift your glass, this will signal to others to do the same and then you can all take a drink, which is the end of your speech.

A roast is a very interesting and peculiar speech because it is designed to both praise and good-naturedly insult a person being honored. Because of this combination of purposes, it is not hard to argue that the roast is probably a challenging type of speeches to write given the difficult task of simultaneously praising and insulting the person. Generally, roasts are given at the conclusion of a banquet in honor of someone’s life achievements. The television station Comedy Central has been conducting roasts of various celebrities for a few years, and if you’ve ever watched one, you know that the “roasters” say some harsh things about the “roastees” even though they are friends.

During a roast, the roaster will stand behind a lectern while the roastee is seated somewhere where he or she is clearly on display for the audience to see, thus allowing the audience to take in his or her reactions. Since half the fun of a good roast is watching the roastee’s reactions during the roast, it’s important to have the roastee clearly visible to the audience.

How does one prepare for a roast? First, you want to really think about the person who is being roasted. Does he or she have any strange habits or amusing stories in their past that you can discuss? When you think through these questions, you want to make sure that you cross anything off your list that is truly private information or will really hurt the person. The goal of a roast is to poke at him, not massacre him.

Second, when selecting which aspects to poke fun at, you need to make sure that the items you choose are widely known by your audience. Roasts work when the majority of people in the audience can relate to the jokes being made. If you have an inside joke with the roastee, bringing it up during roast may be great fun for the two of you, but it will leave your audience unimpressed. Lastly, end on a positive note. While the jokes are definitely the fun part of a roast, you should leave the roastee and the audience knowing that you truly do care about and appreciate the person.

A eulogy is a speech given in honor of someone who has died (Don’t confuse “eulogy” with “elegy,” a poem or song of mourning). Not to sound depressing, but since everyone who is alive will someday die, the chance of your being asked to give a eulogy someday for a friend or family member is significant. However, when the time comes to deliver a eulogy, it’s good to know what you’re doing and to adequately prepare your remarks.

When preparing a eulogy, first you need to know as much information about the deceased as possible. The more information you have about the person, the more personal you can make the eulogy. While you can rely on your own information if you were close to the deceased, it is always a good idea to ask friends and relatives of the deceased for their memories, as these may add important facets that may not have occurred to you. Of course, if you were not very close to the deceased, you will need to ask friends and family for information. Second, although eulogies are delivered on the serious and sad occasion of a funeral or memorial service for the deceased, it is very helpful to look for at least one point to be lighter or humorous. In some cultures, in fact, the friends and family attending the funeral expect the eulogy to be highly entertaining and amusing.

Take, for example, Tom Arnold’s eulogy of Saturday Night Live actor Chris Farley. During his speech at Farley’s funeral, Arnold noted, “Chris was concerned about his size, and so he made sure that all of us who knew him well saw him naked at least once” (Glionna, 1998). Picturing the heavy-set comedian naked surely brought some humor to the somber proceedings, but Arnold knew Farley (and his audience) well enough to know that the story would be appropriate.

Knowing the deceased and the audience is vital when deciding on the type and amount of humor to use in a eulogy. It’s doubtful statements like Tom Arnold’s would fit many eulogies. But it would be appropriate to tell a funny story about Uncle Joe’s love for his rattletrap car or Aunt Mary’s love of tacky Christmas sweaters. Ultimately, the goal of the humor or lighter aspects of a eulogy is to relieve the tension that is created by the serious nature of the occasion.

If you are ever asked to give a eulogy, that means you were probably close to the deceased and are experiencing shock, sadness, and disbelief at your loved one’s passing. The last thing that you will want to do (or be in a mental state to do) is figure out how to structure your eulogy. To that end, here are three parts of a eulogy (i.e. main points) you can use to write one without worrying about being original with structure or organizational patterns: praise, lament, and consolation.

The first thing you want to do when remembering someone who has passed away is remind the audience what made that person so special. So you will want to praise them and their accomplishments. This can include notable achievements (being an award winner; helping with charities), personal qualities (“she was always willing to listen to your problems and help in any way she could”), or anecdotes and stories (being a great mother; how she drove to college to visit you when you were homesick).

The second thing you want to do in a eulogy is to lament the loss. To lament means to express grief or sorrow, which is what everyone at a funeral has gathered to do. You will want to acknowledge that everyone is sad and that the deceased’s passing will be difficult to get through. Here you might mention all the things that will no longer happen as a result of the death. “Now that Grandpa is gone, there won’t be any more Sunday dinners where he cooks chicken on the grill or bakes his famous macaroni and cheese.”

The final step (or main point) in a eulogy is to console the audience, or to offer comfort in a time of grief. What you must remember (and many people often forget) is that a eulogy is not a speech for the person who has died; it is a speech for the people who are still living to try to help them deal with the loss. You will want to end your eulogy on a positive note. Offer some hope that someday, things will get better. If the deceased was a religious person, this is where you might want to incorporate elements of that belief system. Some examples would include ideas like:

“Jim has gone home to be with the Lord and is looking down on us fondly today.” “We may miss Aunt Linda deeply, but our memories of her will live on forever, and her impact on this world will not soon be forgotten.”

Using the Praise-Lament-Console format for eulogies gives you a simple system where you can fill in the sections with 1) why was the person good, 2) why you will miss him or her, and 3) how you and the audience will get through this loss. It sometimes also helps to think of the three points in terms of Past-Present-Future: you will praise the deceased for what he did when he was alive (the past), lament the loss you are feeling now (the present), and console your audience by letting them know that things will be all right (the future).

With regard to a eulogy you might give in class, you generally have two options for how to proceed: you can eulogize a real person who has passed away, or you can eulogize a fictional character (if your instructor permits that). If you give a eulogy in class on someone in your life who has actually passed away, be aware that it is very common for students to become emotional and have difficulty giving their speech. Even though you may have been fine practicing at home and feel good about giving it, the emotional impact of speaking about a deceased loved one in front of others can be surprisingly powerful. Conversely, if you give a eulogy on a fictional character, you must treat your classroom assignment eulogy as you would a real eulogy. You wouldn’t make fun of or trivialize someone’s life at an actual funeral, so don’t do that in your eulogy for a serious speech assignment either.

Speeches of Farewell

A speech of farewell allows someone to say good-bye to one part of his or her life as he or she is moving on to the next part of life. Maybe you’ve accepted a new job and are leaving your current job, or you’re graduating from college and entering the work force. Periods of transition are often marked by speeches of farewell. When preparing a speech of farewell, the goal should be to thank the people in your current position and let them know how much you appreciate them as you make the move to your next position in life. Second, you want to express to your audience how much the experience has meant to you. A farewell speech is a time to commemorate and think about the good times you’ve had. As such, you should avoid negativity during this speech. Lastly, you want to make sure that you end on a high note.

Speeches for Commencements

A speech of commencement (or, as it is more commonly known, a “commencement speech”) is designed to recognize and celebrate the achievements of a graduating class or other group of people. These typically take place at graduation ceremonies. Nearly every one of us has sat through commencement speeches at some point in our lives. And if you’re like us, you’ve heard good ones and bad ones. Numerous celebrities and politicians have been asked to deliver commencement speeches at colleges and universities. A famous and well-thought-out commencement speech was given by famed Harry Potter author J. K. Rowling at Harvard University in 2008 (found at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkREt4ZB-ck). Rowling’s speech has the perfect balance of humor and inspiration, which are two of the main ingredients of a great commencement speech.

If you’re ever asked to deliver a commencement speech, there are some key points to think through when deciding on your speech’s content.

• If there is a specific theme for the graduation, make sure that your commencement speech addresses that theme. If there is no specific theme, come up with one for your speech. Some common commencement speech themes are commitment, competitiveness, competence, confidence, decision making, discipline, ethics, failure (and overcoming failure), faith, generosity, integrity, involvement, leadership, learning, persistence, personal improvement, professionalism, reality, responsibility, and self-respect.
• Talk about your life and how graduates can learn from your experiences to avoid pitfalls or take advantages of life. How can your life inspire the graduates in their future endeavors?
• Make the speech humorous. Commencement speeches should be entertaining and make an audience laugh.
• Be brief! Nothing is more painful than a commencement speaker who drones on and on. Remember, the graduates are there to get their diplomas; their families are there to watch the graduates walk across the stage.
• Remember, while you may be the speaker, you’ve been asked to impart wisdom and advice for the people graduating and moving on with their lives, so keep it focused on them.
• Place the commencement speech into the broader context of the graduates’ lives. Show the graduates how the advice and wisdom you are offering can be utilized to make their own lives better.

Overall, it’s important to make sure that you have fun when delivering a commencement speech. Remember, it’s a huge honor and responsibility to be asked to deliver a commencement speech, so take the time to really think through and prepare your speech.

After-Dinner Speeches

After-dinner speeches are humorous speeches that make a serious point. These speeches get their name from the fact that they historically follow a meal of some kind. After-dinner speakers are generally asked to speak (or hired to speak) because they have the ability both to speak effectively and to make people laugh. First and foremost, after-dinner speeches are speeches and not stand-up comedy routines. All the basic conventions of public speaking previously discussed in this text apply to after-dinner speeches, but the overarching goal of these speeches is to be entertaining and to create an atmosphere of amusement.

After-dinner speaking is an extremely difficult type of speaking to do well because it is an entertaining speech that depends on the successful delivery of humor. People train for years to develop comic timing, or the verbal and nonverbal delivery used to enhance the comedic value of a message. But after-dinner speaking is difficult, not impossible. What follows is the method we recommend for developing a successful after-dinner speech.

First, use all that you have learned about informative or persuasive speeches to prepare a real informative or persuasive speech roughly two-thirds the length of what the final speech will become. That is, if you’re going to be giving a ten-minute speech, then your “real” informative or persuasive speech should be six or seven minutes in length. This is the “serious message” portion of the speech where you will try to make a point of educating your audience.

Next, go back through the speech and look for opportunities to insert humorous remarks. Once you’ve looked through your speech and examined places for verbal humor, think about any physical humor or props that would enhance your speech. Physical humor is great if you can pull it off without being self-conscious. One of the biggest mistakes any humorist makes is to become too aware of what his or her body is doing because it’s then harder to be free and funny. As for props, after-dinner speakers have been known to use everything from oversized inflatable baseball bats to rubber clown noses. The goal for a funny prop is that it adds to the humor of the speech without distracting from its message.

Last, and probably most important, try the humor out on real, live people. This is important for three reasons. First, the success of humor depends heavily on delivery, and especially timing in delivery. You will need practice to polish your delivery so that your humor comes across. If you can’t make it through one of your jokes without cracking up, you will need to either incorporate the self-crackup into your delivery or forgo using that joke.

Just because you find something unbelievably funny in your head doesn’t mean that it will make anyone else laugh. Often, humor that we have written down on paper just doesn’t translate when orally presented. You may have a humorous story that you love reading on paper, but find that it just seems to drone on once you start telling it out loud. Furthermore, remember there is a difference between written and verbal language, and this also translates to how humor is interpreted. Third, you need to make sure the humor you choose will be appropriate for a specific audience. What one audience finds funny another may find offensive. Humor is the double-edged sword of public speaking. On one side, it is an amazing and powerful speaking tool, but on the other side, few things will alienate an audience more than offensive humor. If you’re ever uncertain about whether a piece of humor will offend your audience, don’t use it.

So you may now be asking, “What kind of topics are serious that I can joke about?” The answer to that, like the answer to most everything else in the book, is dependent on your audience and the speaking situation, which is to say any topic will work, while at the same time you need to be very careful about how you choose your topic.

Take, for example, the experience one of your authors had while he was attending a large university. One of the major problems that any large university faces is parking: the ratio of parking spaces to students at some of these schools can be 1:7 (one parking space for every seven students). In addressing this topic at a banquet, a student gave an after- dinner speech that addressed the problem of the lack of student parking. To do so, he camouflaged his speech as a faux-eulogy (fake eulogy) for the yellow and black board on the parking lot gates (see Image 15.1) that was constantly and consistently driven through by students wanting to access restricted parking. The student personified the board by noting how well it had done its job and lamented that it would never get to see its little toothpick children grow up to guard the White House. But underneath the humor incorporated into the speech was a serious message: this wouldn’t keep happening if adequate parking was provided for students on campus.

Motivational Speeches

A motivational speech is designed not only to make an audience experience emotional arousal (fear, sadness, joy, excitement) but also to motivate the audience to do something with that emotional arousal. Whereas a traditional persuasive speech may want listeners to purchase product X or agree with idea Y, a motivational speech helps to inspire people in a broader fashion, often without a clearly articulated end result in mind. As such, motivational speaking is a highly specialized form of persuasive speaking commonly delivered in schools, businesses, religious houses of worship, and club or group contexts. The Toastmasters International Guide to Successful Speaking (Slutsky & Aun, 1997) lists four types of motivational speeches: hero, survivor, religious, and success.

The hero speech is a motivational speech given by someone who is considered a hero in society (e.g., military speakers, political figures, and professional athletes). Just type “motivational speech” into YouTube and you’ll find many motivational speeches given by individuals who can be considered heroes or role models.

The survivor speech is a speech given by someone who has survived a personal tragedy or who has faced and overcome serious adversity. In the following clip, cancer survivor Becky M. Olsen discusses being a cancer survivor (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zuo1u_C9_3g). Becky Olsen goes all over the country talking with and motivating cancer survivors to beat the odds.

The religious speech is fairly self-explanatory; it is designed to incorporate religious ideals into a motivational package to inspire an audience into thinking about or changing aspects of their religious lives. The final type of motivational speech is the success speech, which is given by someone who has succeeded in some aspect of life and is giving back by telling others how they too can be successful.

As stated at the beginning of this section, you will almost certainly be limited by your professor with regards to which of these types of speeches you can give for your special occasion speech in class, but it is not unrealistic to think that you will be called upon at various points in your life to give one or more of these speeches. Knowing the types and basic structures will help when those moments arise.

This resource is available at no cost at https://open.library.okstate.edu/speech2713/

a mini-speech given by the host of a ceremony that introduces another speaker and his or her speech

a brief speech given to accompany a prize or honor

a speech given by the recipient of a prize or honor

a speech delivered to mark the unveiling, opening, or acknowledging of some landmark or structure

a speech designed to congratulate, appreciate, or remember

a humorous speech designed to both praise and good-naturedly insult a person being honored

a speech given in honor of someone who has died

to express grief or sorrow

a speech allowing someone to say goodbye to one part of his or her life as he or she is moving on to the next part of life

a speech designed to recognize and celebrate the achievements of a graduating class or other group of people

a humorous speech that makes a serious point

a speech designed not only to make an audience experience emotional arousal (fear, sadness, joy, excitement) but also to motivate the audience to do something with that emotional arousal

a motivational speech given by someone who is considered a hero in society

a speech given by someone who has survived a personal tragedy or who has faced and overcame serious adversity

a speech designed to incorporate religious ideals into a motivational package to inspire an audience into thinking about or changing aspects of their religious lives

Introduction to Speech Communication Copyright © 2021 by Individual authors retain copyright of their work. is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Special Occasion Speech: Definition, Types, Format, Topics And Examples

You are at an award ceremony, and you see people delivering motivational, acceptance and tribute speech. And you decide that you too will come up with a powerful special occasion speech someday. Well, you have arrived at the right spot, as here we will take an in-depth look into the special occasion speech outlines, the different types of speeches and much more.

In no time, you can write intriguing speeches yourself. The insight shared here will come in handy when you write special occasion speech for your high school assignment or real-life events.

What is a Special Occasion Speech?

If you observe carefully, you will notice that most students are not aware of the authentic special occasion speech definition. Well, speeches falling under the category of special-occasion speeches mark the significance of particular events. Notable events include weddings, bar mitzvahs, awards ceremonies, and funerals. In each of these occasions, speakers are asked to deliver speeches relating to the event.  

Typically, special occasion speeches are shorter than informative or persuasive speeches. The purpose of a special occasion speech is to remember, praise or humorously tease. Speeches may be aimed at convincing the audience to be happy, or reflective or informing them about a subject matter. Hopefully, you have an  answer to your query, "What is a special occasion speech?”

What are the Different Types of Special Occasion Speech?

Now, a question might arise, "What are the different types of special occasion speech?” Let us delve right into it.

Ceremonial Speaking

• Introductions

A speech of introduction is a small speech provided by the host of a ceremony introducing another speaker and his or her speech.

• Presentations

A presentation speech is a brief speech given to accompany a prize or honor.

• Acceptances

An acceptance speech is a speech given by the recipient of a prize or honor.

• Dedications

A dedication speech is delivered when a new store opens, a plaque is placed on a wall, a new library is completed, etc.

A toast is a speech for congratulating, appreciating, or remembering someone.

The roast speech is distinct as it both praises and insults a person being honored.

A eulogy is a type of speech given in honor of someone who has died.

A farewell speech allows someone to bid good-bye to one part of his or her life.

Inspirational Speaking

• Public Relations

The speaker provides public relations speech to enhance one’s own image or the image of his or her organization. 

• Justification

Justification speech is given when someone attempts to defend why certain actions were taken or will be taken.

In an apology speech, you have to be honest, take responsibility for the reprehensible act, and offer restitution.

• Commencement

It is designed to recognize and celebrate the achievements of a graduating class or other groups of people.

In the next section, we will take a look at the special occasion speech outlines.

The Authentic Special Occasion Speech Outlines

To be honest, there is no formula or a rigid rule for crafting special occasion speech. This is because special occasion speeches are of various types.  However, you need to abide by the following template. 

Introduction

If you are wondering , “How to how to start a special occasion speech?”   you will get your answer here. For instance, if you write a tribute speech, you have to set the mood. It need not be very formal. Next, you have to get to the thesis which can be along the lines, “If my father hadn’t been a constant support in my endeavors, I would probably be a dismal failure by now.”

Thus, you need to thank the guest or audience, specify the occasion, and mention the thesis as per the context of the speech.

Taking the same tribute speech, the body can be divided into further sections, such as the background of the person. You can highlight his or her upbringing (in this case, your father), accomplishments, values and morals, and struggles. Next, you mention instances where your father helped out other people.

Finally, end the body by stating how this person has shaped your personality or in what ways you can try to emulate this person.

In conclusion, you have to summarize the person's influence, i.e., with respect to the above-mentioned tribute speech. However, if you are writing an acceptance speech, you have to express your gratitude to the teachers and fellow students and also specify the role of the institution as a whole.

Finally, you can end your speech with a quote or a poem, etc. In the following section, we will take a look at the special occasion speech ideas.

Also Read - How To Craft An Awe-Inspiring Motivational Speech : A Detailed Guide

What Are Some Interesting Special Occasion Speech Topics and Ideas?

To set the ball rolling and start writing and narrating the speeches, let us take a look at some good special occasion speech topics.  

• Give a roast at a fellow employee’s retirement party
• Deliver a best man or maid-of-honor's toast to a couple at their wedding reception
• Deliver an award acceptance speech at a high school ceremony
• Give a eulogy for a supporting figure in your life
• Deliver an employee-of-the-year award introduction speech at a company meeting
• Deliver a speech as a newly appointed  CEO to employees
• Give an interesting speech on the use of humor during the keynote luncheon at an important annual convention
• Deliver an inspirational speech before the Finals match
• Give a retirement speech on the final working day at your company
• Deliver a birthday speech on your 50 th birthday

The more you read, it will become easier for you to come up with your own ideas and topics. Moreover, you need to attend various occasions to see how the speeches are delivered.

Special Occasion Speech Examples that You Should Refer to

Since there are countless topics for special occasion speech, the only way you can understand each of them is by going through examples. You will also have an in-depth understanding of the format for each type like wedding, memorial or acceptance speech.

In this section, certain special occasion speech examples are mentioned. Read them carefully.  

Example 1: Award Acceptance Speech

Dignitaries on the dais, fellow Laureates, friends, I am indeed honoured to be here today to receive this award in this august assembly in this historic city and cultural capital Of Europe. Bernardino Telesio and Galileo Galilei are both symbols Of resistance to authority. Therefore, it is apt that a key reason why the award is being given to me is for having pointed out Einstein's mistake, and for having corrected it—for Einstein is one Of the greatest figures Of scientific authority today. At the outset I would like to state that the issue is not so much the special theory of relativity, which is a very fine theory, even though it is counter to Newtonian intuition. There is no doubt at all that the theory was the work Of a genius. The question is who was that genius: Poincare or Einstein? The second question follows naturally from the first: compared to Poincaré, a mathematician, did Einstein, a non-mathematician, even understand the full mathematical implications Of the theory Of relativity?

The third question brings us back to the large mass Of people who blindly follow scientific authority: following in the footsteps ofEinstein, have they fully understood the special theory of relativity? If not, how should its understanding be corrected today? And what possible practical value does that correction hold for us tomorrow? Unfortunately, instead Of approaching these questions in the spirit Of scientific enquiry, people react to them emotionally. Einstein is, for them, the biggest symbol Of scientific authority, and they want to somehow hang on to the story they have heard about him from childhood. The less they know about the theory Of relativity and its history, the stronger their belief, and the greater their distress that this symbol of scientific authority is being attacked. The issues could be easily settled in many ways: for example, the historical issue could be settled by reading the papers of Poincare, Lorentz, and Einstein. Somehow, most people cannot or will not read those papers, and instead proceed in a roundabout way, by reliance on authority, and through dubious guesswork. They guess that scientific authority cannot make such a mistake, exactly as people in Galileo's time guessed that religious authority was infallible. They start questioning the motives Of the critic, and so on. Physics texts play their own role in propagating such myths. Most physics texts (fortunately, not all) maintain that the Michelson-Morley experiment proved the absence of ether The simple fact, which anyone can check (but most do not) is that the Michelson-Morley experiment was performed to discriminate between two ether theories: those of Fresnel and Stokes. The experiment came out in support Of Stokes theory, which involved a mathematical absurdity, and was hence rejected by Lorentz. The whole myth Of the Michelson-Morley experiment obscures the key point of relativity, which is that Newtonian physics never defined a proper clock; therefore it was impossible for the experiment to have measured the speed Of light! Why Newtonian physics never defined a proper clock is another story, and I won't go into that here.

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As you can see, the write-up changes as per the context, people involved, and place. Thus, it is essential that you find as many special occasion speeches as possible and go through them. 

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