how to introduce yourself in a wedding speech sample

How to Begin a Wedding Speech: Great Opening Lines

Handy one-liners to get your speech off to an amazing start.

how to introduce yourself in a wedding speech sample

If you've read our post on how to make a great wedding speech , you'll know that it's really important to start strong! Well, here we're showing you how to do exactly that, with a list of the best wedding speech opening lines . The beauty of this list is that it works for any kind of wedding speech, whether you're the bride, groom, best man, bridesmaid, father-of-the-bride, or even the flower girl or the groom's granny!

We've made sure to include lots of different options so there's something to suit every style of speech, whether you want to keep it simple, bring the audience to tears, or give them a giggle with a joke . Some of our wedding speech opening lines can be customised, too, to help you make your speech even more personal. So, let's dive in!

Our Favourite Wedding Speech Opening Lines

To help you find what you're looking for, we've split our sample opening lines into three categories; simple and sincere opening lines, funny opening lines and opening lines with quotes from famous people.

Note: (name) can indicate yourself, the bride/groom, the couple as a whole, or another member of the wedding party.

Wedding Speech Opening Lines: Simple and Sincere Opening Lines

"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen, and thank you (name) for the kind introduction."

"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. As (name's friend/relative), I'm delighted to welcome you all here tonight."

"Thank you so much, (name), for such a wonderful introduction. I only hope I can live up to your kind words!"

"Hello everyone. I hope you're all having a great night so far."

"Hello, I'm (name) and, for those of you who don't already know me, I'm (relation to couple)."

"Hi everybody, I'm (name), and I'm here to talk a little bit about my good friend (name)."

"Hi everyone, I'm (name), and I'm going to talk a little bit about (name). When I was writing this speech, I asked myself how I could sum up (X) years of friendship, laughter and adventures in one speech, and I decided that I can't. We'd be here all night."

"Hello everybody and welcome. I think we can all agree that it's been a wonderful day so far. (Couple names), you should be really proud of the amazing day you've put together. We're all very lucky to be a part of it."

"Hello everyone. I hope you're all having a great night so far. My life changed completely on (date, year), when (name) came into my life, and it changes again today, as they embark on their latest adventure with (name)."

"Hi everybody. Thank you for the warm welcome. Mark Twain once said that 'there are only two types of speakers in the world. 1. The nervous and 2. Liars.' I'm definitely in the former category, so I hope you'll forgive me if I'm a little bit shaky this evening."

wedding speech opening lines funny opening lines sincere opening lines (9)

Wedding Speech Opening Lines: Funny Opening Lines to Make Guests LOL

"Hi everyone, I'm (name), and before any of you ask, yes I am single."

"Hi everyone, I'm (name), and I'll be your speaker for the next 95 minutes."

"Hi everybody. If you don't know who I am... well, you're probably at the wrong wedding! But stick around, we need extra people for the conga line."

"Hi everyone. You're probably wondering why I gathered you here today. I've got a once-in-a-lifetime investment opportunity that I know you're going to - sorry, wrong speech!"

"Hello everyone! Thank you all for being here on such an exciting night. Yes, the rumours are true, I will be debuting some new choreography on the dance floor this evening. But in the mean time, I suppose I should talk a little bit about (couple names)."

"Hello, and welcome. You may know me as (name's friend/relative), but tonight, I go by the title, (name), Lord of the Dance."

"Hi everyone. Just in case you don't already know, I'm (name) and I'm the best man. There are some really successful, good-looking, charming men in the room tonight, but now that it's written on the ceremony program in black and white, it's official - I am the best."

"Hi everyone, I'm (name), and I'd like to begin my speech with a quote from the great Seamus Heaney/Maya Angelou/Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr./Mother Teresa... but unfortunately I left my speech in my other jacket. So you'll have to make do with me!"

“Hi everyone. If I could just say a few words … I’d be a better public speaker! That gag was actually stolen from Homer Simpson, which should give you an idea of the caliber of speech you can expect from me tonight.”

"Hi everyone, and welcome. Webster's dictionary describes a wedding as, 'The process of removing weeds from one's garden'. That's a Homer Simpson quote, which should give you an idea of the caliber of speech you can expect from me tonight.”

"Hello everyone, I'm (name.) According to most studies, people’s number one fear is public speaking. Number two is death. Death is number two. Does that sound right?"

"Hi everyone. When I was preparing this speech, (name) gave me a list of topics that were strictly off-limits, so I'd like to start with those."

"Hi everyone. I'm (name). Anyone who knows me knows that I'm (name)'s biggest fan. So much so, that I was actually quite hurt when I learned that I wasn't going to be involved in the first dance!"

"Hi everyone. I just want to take a few minutes to talk about my good friend (name). I first met (name) when we were 13, and since then, I've always looked up to him. He was, after all, the only 6ft 2' student at (school name)!"

"Good evening everyone. To our English speakers, I'd like to say welcome, we're delighted that you could be with us today to celebrate the marriage of (couple names). To our (other language) speakers, I'd like to say (use Google Translate or ask a native speaker to translate, 'My llama is very handsome. I hope my translation is correct.')"

Wedding Speech Opening Lines: Beginning with a Quote

"Hi everyone. I'd like to begin my speech with a quote from Dr. James Dobson, who said, 'Don't marry the person you think you can live with; marry only the individual you think you can't live without.' "

"Hi everyone. I'd like to begin my speech with a quote from Franz Schubert, who said, 'Happy is the man who finds a true friend, and far happier is he who finds that true friend in his wife.' "

"Hi everyone. I'd like to begin my speech with a quote from The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who said, 'There is no more lovely, friendly, and charming relationship, communion, or company than a good marriage.' "

"Hi everyone. I'd like to begin my speech with a quote from Franklin P. Jones, who said, 'Love doesn't make the world go 'round; love is what makes the ride worthwhile.' "

"Hi everyone, I'm (name.) I hope you're all having a wonderful day so far. When I got married to my partner (name), somebody told me, 'Don't just be husband and wife, be president of each other's fan clubs,' and I'd like to pass on that same advice to (couple)."

"Hello everyone. I'd like to begin with a quote from Mignon McLaughlin, who said, 'A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person.' Over the past (x) years, I've had the pleasure of watching (name) fall in love with (name) over and over again."

Click herefor a handy checklist of people to thank in your wedding speech , plus how to keep the speeches from being too long !

Image credits

Adam and grace, via one fab day, see more in:.

Public Speaking Experts Share Their Top Tips for Giving an Amazing Wedding Speech

Check out their best examples and advice to learn how to knock it out of the park.

Photo by Kurt Boomer

In This Article

Most people would agree that public speaking isn't easy, and this is especially true when you're feeling the added pressure that comes along with giving a speech at a loved one's wedding. Not only do you have the attention of dozens (if not hundreds!) of guests you probably don't know, but you're also trying to appeal to a group of people in a wide range of ages from all different phases of the couple's lives. What's more, you want your speech to delight the couple of the hour and be as appealing to your group of friends as it to the newlyweds' grandparents. All in all, it's a tough task.

Before you panic, know that we're here to help. Ahead, we're sharing a comprehensive guide on what you should include in your speech , how to nail your delivery, and questions to consider to get the brainstorming process started—all from noteworthy speakers, well-established speechwriters, and wedding planners (who have seen it all).

Wedding Speech Template

Every great wedding speech has one thing in common: the right flow. Factor in these guidelines to help you find your own organic rhythm.

Open With a Statement or Question

Don't lead with a joke or a reference to how nervous you are. "The goal is to engage your audience, not make it a boring one-way message," says award-winning motivational speaker Jaime Pfeffer . "You'll lose them if you do this."

Introduce Yourself

After your opener, introduce yourself, says Fallon Carter , a wedding planner, even designer, and professional speaker. "A lot of times, people don't know who is speaking, and they don't know their relationship to the bride or the groom," she says. "It's really important to identify yourself, so make sure you've prepared something."

Address Your Audience

As speaker and life strategy coach Mark Black, CSP , points out, focusing on yourself only enhances nerves. "Instead, concentrate on your audience and how you want them to feel. This will help you to speak from the heart, allowing your speech to do what it's supposed to do: Make the couple feel special while also engaging the audience."

Focus on a Few Points

Seasoned speaker Susan Bender Phelps, CEO of Odyssey Mentoring & Leadership , says her top guideline is to select one to three aspects of the newlyweds that you love and appreciate, along with no more than three short stories to illustrate each of these points (or that one point). "The simple, succinct story or stories where the bride and groom are the hero will work best." This is an excellent way to structure your speech and keep your message focused.

How Long Wedding Speeches Should Be

The ideal length for a speech is three to five minutes, with five minutes being the absolute maximum you should speak for. That's it. "I’ve never been to a wedding where anyone said, 'That was a great wedding, but the best man speech was just too short and that ruined it,'" says David Litt , the speechwriter for former President Barack Obama and author of Thanks, Obama .

Carter agrees: "I always say anywhere between two and five minutes—and no more than five minutes," she says. "You want to keep things short and sweet." It's just as important to keep in mind when the speech will take place when determining length, since toasts are often timed with meal courses: "Be mindful of how long a course generally takes or how long it takes people to eat," Carter adds, noting that most courses last between 15 and 20 minutes and that several speeches have to fit inside each window. "If there are other people speaking, you want to be mindful and give them space."

Wedding Speech Tips

Now that you've established the right framework for your words, take note of these essential tips for acing the delivery from a few speaking pros.

Rehearse Regularly

The better prepared you are, the more confident you'll be and the better your speech will be, says author and professional speaker Barry Maher . A good rule of thumb is to practice the speech enough that you can remember the points you want to make and the order in which you want to make them. That way, you can look out to the crowd and make eye contact every so often.

Record Yourself Practicing

Use your phone to take a video of yourself practicing, suggests Kate Kenfield , speaker and sex educator. "It can be a little uncomfortable to watch yourself, but you'll be able to identify distracting mannerisms, such as the verbal pauses 'um,' 'uh,' and 'like'." It's also a good idea to practice your speech in front of someone else. "A second opinion can help you craft your piece and make it that much stronger," she says.

Don't forget body language! Rehearse the speech in front of a mirror and notice things like your facial expression, eye contact, and hand position.

Avoid Alcohol

Although it may be tempting to look for some liquid courage, alcohol definitely won't do you any favors, warns keynote speaker Amy Morin , author of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do . "It may cause you to slur your speech and forget your lines, so wait until after your toast to celebrate," she advises. If you need a drink to loosen up the nerves or can't refrain from participating in a toast without being rude, stick to one glass of Champagne before you address the crowd.

Use Nerves to Your Advantage

A little nervousness can actually liven up your speech. "I get worried if I'm not a little nervous," says Maher. "I'll actually try to make myself a little tense to get my energy level up." The key is to harness that energy and communicate it in a positive, genuine way; tensing up to the point that you forget your words or panic won't make for a great presentation.

Be Yourself

Keep in mind that you're not putting on a show, only sharing your personal perspective. Trying too hard to force the funny can yield the opposite of the desired effect, cautions Matt Dalley, co-founder of Simply Eloped . "I've noticed that keeping it short and sweet, heartfelt and warm, and coming across as authentic and focused on the couple is something we are all capable of and generates some very wonderful moments," he says.

Never Embarrass the Newlyweds

It's a wedding toast, not a roast. While this should go without saying, keep the bachelor or bachelorette party jokes out of it, and remember that grandma and possibly a few colleagues are in the audience, notes Laurie Battaglia , a keynote speaker and workplace strategist. "It's okay to look back at childhood and refer to something funny, but ask yourself if you'd like 200-plus of your closest friends knowing that story about you."

Use Your Notes

Reading your speech straight from a piece of paper is a big no-no. However, having a couple of note cards handy is encouraged. "You're likely to be nervous, excited, and exhausted, which can make you forget your lines," explains Morin. "The audience won't care if you glance at your notes. In fact, there's a good chance they won't even notice."

Wedding Speech Brainstorm Ideas

Need some inspiration? Ask yourself these questions to get the brainstorming process going.

Who will speak before you? After you? How will this affect the content of your toast? (Perhaps you want to include a reference to their speech, thank them for an introduction, or introduce the next speaker).
Is there someone you should thank for making the event possible and inviting you to speak?
What would you want to hear in this speech if you were in the audience?
Is there a favorite story or memory that the couple would want you to share with their friends and family?

Wedding Speech Examples to Make Your Own

So, what does it look like when all these elements come together? Wedding vow and speechwriter Katelyn Peterson , owner and creator of Wedding Words , offered us three examples of successful toasts to inspire your own.

Maid of Honor Wedding Speech Example

"Hi, I’m Maya, the bride’s older sister . With Lucy being three years younger, we fell right into our respective roles as sister-rivals growing up. We constantly fought over stolen clothes, monopolizing the phone back when landlines were a thing, and what boy band to blare from the car speakers. I’m still Team Backstreet Boys while Lucy is forever indebted to NSYNC.

Looking back on those memories, I should have stepped up and granted Lucy permission to wear my favorite sweater for picture day, to hand her the phone once in a while, and to let her play, 'Bye Bye Bye.' Even I can admit that’s a good one. But despite Lucy being the younger sister, she has always been more patient, more accommodating, and more thoughtful than me. And that’s because when it comes to the people she loves, she’s all in.

She’s the one to prioritize their desires. She’s the one to compromise first. And, she’s the one to support their dreams as if they were her own.

This is why it makes me so happy to know that Lucy has found a home in David. He matches her in compassion, thoughtfulness, and warmth. And I know he’ll spend his life prioritizing her desires, being ready to compromise, and supporting her dreams as his own.

Cheers to Lucy and David! May you always feel loved because you always put each other first."

Best Man Wedding Speech Example

"Hello, everyone. My name is Luke and I’m the best man . I met Robert eight years ago when I became his neighbor. His reputation preceded him as I had heard about the 'Block Party King' before my closing papers were inked.

Rob has never been the guy to wear fancy clothes. In fact, I’m still in shock seeing him in that tux tonight. And he’s never been the guy to show off even though the work he’s put into his vintage Mustang could make Henry Ford himself envious.

But when it comes to cooking, he should receive an award. His pulled pork is a staple at our summer block parties and his homemade barbeque sauce has remained our neighborhood’s best-kept secret. But the most satisfying part about his delicious dishes is that there’s always plenty to go around. And Rob makes sure your plate is never empty. I have no idea how he pulls it off, but Rob has a covert ability to scoop seconds onto your plate without you ever seeing him do it. I hope you all came hungry tonight, folks. You’ve been warned!

The first time I met Jasmine I could immediately tell she was an amazing person. She laughed at his jokes which I never thought anyone would get. She supported his career and the nonstop travel involved. But most importantly, whenever we’re all hanging out, Jasmine is the one always topping off Rob’s plate with more pasta, more chicken, more of everything. When she’s around, it’s never empty.

And that’s when I saw what a perfect match they were for each other. I know they will always put each other first, make sure their needs are met, and will never allow the other to go hungry.

So let’s raise our glasses to toast the newlyweds! As you begin this next chapter together, may your plates and your hearts always remain full."

Father of the Bride Wedding Speech Example

"Good evening, family, and friends. I’m Daniel Lee, the father of the bride. I’d like to welcome you to this special occasion where we get to celebrate the love between my daughter Allison and her new wife, Kristin.

Standing up here today, I’m reminded of all the moments that led to this significant one. The dance recitals that ended with standing ovations and the soccer games that concluded with winning scoreboards.

But, while those were fun and rewarding times, those aren’t the moments I cherish most with Allison. The memories that make me smile the brightest are those in-between the big stuff moments. It’s the makeshift magic shows in our living room using a bedsheet that Allison confiscated from our linen closet to convert into a curtain. It’s the countless tea parties she hosted with exclusive invitations just for me and her beloved stuffed bear, Buttons. And it’s the way she’d beg to stay up for just five more minutes but was asleep on the couch by minute number two.

Those everyday, blink-and-you’ll-miss-them moments with Allison are the ones that gave color to my life and filled my heart with a happiness I never knew could exist.

So, my beautiful daughter, as you begin your life with Kristin today, I have one wish for you: May your warmest memories come from the ordinary moments throughout your marriage, and may those moments give you a reason to smile brighter every day. Cheers! I love you both." —Daniel

What Not to Say in a Wedding Speech

Your job when delivering a wedding speech is to keep things light—tell an anecdote, make an emotional connection, then wish the couple well before you close out. Anything that doesn't feel definitively positive should be avoided. "I would advocate against bringing up negative details, specifically past relationships or past spouses," says Carter. "Skip anything that you wouldn't want to be physically recorded and played over and over again—this is a rule of thumb."

Keep it light, delicate, and present- and future-focused, Carter adds. "If you're going to go into the past, make those stories really intentional," she says. "Bring those stories back to who they are now. Your mission is to create a great environment and vibe and to potentially give some information about one of the newlyweds, so that it's enlightening for all guests."

A Guide to Wedding Reception Toasts

Who Gives a Speech at a Wedding Reception?
How to Write a Wedding Toast
Tips for the Father of the Bride Speech
How to Write a Best Man Toast
Advice for the Maid of Honor Speech
What to Know About a Newlywed Toast
currently on Public Speaking Experts' Wedding Speech Tips
60 Quotes to Use for Your Wedding Toast

How to Start a Wedding Speech – Perfect Opening Lines

May 19, 2024 moneyspeech Wedding Resource

Embarking on the journey of delivering a wedding speech can often stir up a mix of excitement and nerves. Knowing how to start a wedding speech can set the tone for the entire delivery, making it a crucial step in speech preparation. Whether it’s captivating wedding quotes, humorous wedding jokes , or heartfelt stories, the opening lines play a key role in connecting with the wedding guests and honoring the wedding couple. Crafting a message that resonates with the wedding day’s celebration, aligns with the wedding style, and embraces wedding traditions can transform a simple speech into a memorable highlight.

This article endeavors to guide readers through crafting a personalized introduction, setting a strong tone right from the beginning, incorporating effective body language, and managing stage nerves for a confident delivery. It will also explore ways to conclude with impact, ensuring the speech for the wedding leaves a lasting impression. From selecting the perfect wedding quotes to navigating through wedding nerves, this guide provides a roadmap for delivering a speech that not only aligns with the wedding celebration’s spirit but also resonates with the wedding audience, making your message an integral part of the ceremony’s joy and the couple’s story.

Table of Contents

Understand Your Audience

Assessing the crowd.

Before diving into the heart of your wedding speech, take a moment to gauge the audience. Understanding the general mood and expectations of the crowd is crucial. If the guests lean towards a more serious demeanor, aim for a conservative and tasteful speech. On the other hand, a relaxed audience might appreciate a bit more playfulness and a few calculated risks. This initial assessment will guide you in choosing the right tone and content for your speech, ensuring it resonates well with everyone present.

Familiarizing Yourself with Guests

Getting to know the guests can significantly enhance the connection you establish during your speech. A helpful tip is to read the wedding website ahead of time. Often, couples share their love story, details about the bridal party, and other fun facts that can serve as excellent conversation starters or even elements to incorporate into your speech. This background knowledge not only helps in personalizing your message but also in making the guests feel seen and appreciated. Remember, a wedding speech is not just about addressing the couple but also about engaging with the entire gathering.

Adjusting Tone Based on the Audience

The tone of your speech plays a pivotal role in how well it is received. The “Grandmother Test” is a simple yet effective way to ensure appropriateness. If an anecdote or joke you plan to share wouldn’t be appreciated if heard by the couple’s grandmother, it’s probably best left unsaid. Moreover, keep your speech concise—aim for no more than five minutes—to maintain the audience’s attention. Making eye contact with the couple and various guests throughout your speech can help create a more intimate and engaging experience. Remember, the goal is to complement the joyous atmosphere of the wedding day, not to overshadow it.

Incorporating these strategies into your preparation will not only help you better understand your audience but also empower you to deliver a speech that’s memorable, respectful, and engaging.

Crafting a Personalized Introduction

Creating a personalized introduction for a wedding speech requires a blend of authenticity, humor, and a deep understanding of your relationship with the couple. It’s the perfect opportunity to set the tone for your speech, making it memorable and engaging for all the guests. Below are key strategies to craft an introduction that stands out and resonates with everyone present at the wedding celebration.

Breaking Away from Cliches

To make your wedding speech memorable, start by moving away from overused phrases and generic quotes. Instead of relying on terms like “soulmate” or describing the couple as “beautiful,” try to find unique descriptors that truly capture their essence. For instance, comparing your friend to a blend of Audrey Hepburn’s elegance and Debbie Harry’s cool factor not only avoids cliches but also adds a personal touch that’s both vivid and endearing. Remember, the goal is to wake the audience up with fresh language that paints a clear picture of the couple’s unique qualities.

Incorporating Humor and Warmth

Humor is a fantastic way to connect with the audience and break the ice. Opening with a light-hearted joke, such as a playful set of “rules” for the guests or a humorous observation about the wedding day, immediately engages the audience. However, it’s essential to balance humor with warmth to ensure your speech feels genuine and heartfelt. Sharing a funny story about your first impression of the couple or a memorable moment you’ve shared with them can beautifully blend humor with warmth, showcasing your affection for the couple while keeping the mood light and joyful.

Highlighting Your Relationship to the Couple

Your relationship with the couple is the cornerstone of your speech. Begin by clearly introducing yourself and explaining your connection to the bride, groom, or both. This not only helps set the context for your speech but also personalizes your message. Sharing anecdotes that highlight the couple’s qualities, such as their shared love for board games or how they’ve supported you during a tough time, further personalizes your introduction. These stories not only entertain but also deepen the guests’ understanding of the couple’s character and the bond you share with them.

By focusing on these aspects, your introduction will not only capture the audience’s attention but also pave the way for a speech that’s both memorable and deeply meaningful. Remember, the best wedding speeches are those that reflect your genuine feelings for the couple and your excitement to celebrate their love and union.

Setting the Tone with a Strong Opening

Setting the tone with a strong opening is crucial for a memorable wedding speech. It’s your opportunity to capture the attention of the wedding guests and set the stage for your message. Here are some strategies to achieve that:

Using Anecdotes or Quotes

Incorporate Memorable Quotes : Begin your speech with a famous quote that resonates with the theme of love and marriage. For example, “It’s so great to find that one special person you want to annoy for the rest of your life.” — Rita Rudner. This can immediately engage your audience and set a lighthearted tone.
Share a Personal Anecdote : Relate a brief story about your relationship with the bride or groom, or a moment you witnessed between the couple that left an impression on you. This personal touch can create a connection with the audience and add depth to your speech.

Starting with Gratitude or Compliments

Express Your Gratitude : Acknowledge the couple for inviting you to play a significant role in their special day. A simple expression of thanks can warm the hearts of the couple and the guests.
Compliment the Couple : Highlight the qualities you admire in the bride and groom. For instance, “I’ve always admired [bride’s] strength and [groom’s] sense of humor. Together, they make an unstoppable team.”

Incorporating Humor Appropriately

Choose Humor Wisely : Humor is a fantastic way to engage your audience, but it’s essential to tread lightly. Opt for light-hearted jokes that are inclusive and won’t offend anyone. A safe bet is self-deprecating humor, such as, “I’m the guy who hasn’t gone 4 feet from the bar all evening. I’m also the best man, but mostly the guy at the bar.”
Avoid Sensitive Topics : Steer clear of jokes about the couple’s past relationships or anything that might cause discomfort. Remember, the goal is to celebrate and uplift, not embarrass.
Test Your Material : If you’re unsure about a joke or story, run it by someone close to the couple. They can provide valuable feedback on what will resonate well with the couple and their guests.

By starting your wedding speech on the right note, you can create an atmosphere of warmth, celebration, and inclusivity. Whether you choose to open with a poignant quote, a heartfelt anecdote, or a tasteful joke, the key is to be authentic and speak from the heart. This approach will not only set the tone for your speech but also contribute to the joy and love that defines the wedding day.

Incorporating Body Language and Eye Contact

When delivering a wedding speech, the power of body language and eye contact cannot be overstated. These non-verbal cues play a significant role in how the message is received by the audience, making them essential tools for a speaker. Below are strategies to effectively use body language and make eye contact to connect deeply with wedding guests.

Engaging with the Audience through Body Language

Body language is a powerful aspect of communication, conveying emotions and intentions beyond what words can express. When standing before an audience, holding the microphone in one hand and a toasting glass in the other can seem like a balancing act. However, this setup can actually work to your advantage. By holding the mic in one hand and placing the toasting glass on a nearby table, you free up one hand to gesture. This allows for more animated expressions, making your speech more engaging. Gesturing with your hands can help emphasize key points and make your stories more vivid and memorable. Remember, an active speaker who uses their body to communicate leaves a much stronger impression than one who remains static.

Making Eye Contact to Build Rapport

Eye contact is a crucial element in establishing a connection with your audience. It conveys confidence, sincerity, and engagement. When speaking, aim to make eye contact with different people throughout the room, including the wedding couple and guests. This practice not only personalizes the experience for each listener but also helps in managing nerves, as connecting with individuals can make the vast audience seem more approachable. Moreover, eye contact can intensify the emotional impact of your words, making your speech more impactful.

Utilizing Gestures for Emphasis

Gestures are a natural part of communication, enhancing the delivery of your speech. They can be used to highlight important points, convey emotions, and keep the audience engaged. For example, using open hand gestures can signify honesty and openness, helping to foster a connection with the audience. However, it’s important to use gestures that feel natural and are appropriate to the content of your speech. Overdoing gestures or using them inappropriately can distract from the message. Practice your speech and experiment with different gestures to find what works best for conveying your message effectively.

In conclusion, incorporating body language and eye contact into your wedding speech plays a vital role in how your message is received. These non-verbal cues enhance the overall impact of your words, making your speech more engaging and memorable. By engaging with the audience through body language, making eye contact to build rapport, and utilizing gestures for emphasis, you can deliver a wedding speech that truly resonates with the wedding guests and honors the wedding couple.

Managing Nerves and Delivery

Managing nerves and ensuring smooth delivery are critical aspects of giving a wedding speech that often go overlooked. However, with the right preparation and mindset, anyone can overcome these challenges and deliver a speech that is both memorable and impactful. Below are practical tips and strategies to help manage nerves, maintain an appropriate speaking pace, and deal with unexpected emotions during the speech.

Practical Tips for Calming Nerves

Understand the Source of Nerves : Recognize that the fear often stems from the possibility of embarrassment rather than the act of speaking itself. Knowing that the audience is supportive and not looking for you to fail can help alleviate some of this anxiety.
Prepare Thoroughly : Practicing your speech multiple times will boost your confidence. Familiarity with your speech allows you to focus on delivery rather than memorization.
Breathing Techniques : Learn diaphragmatic breathing to calm your nerves. Practicing the 4-7-8 breathing technique before going on stage can help relax your body and mind.
Positive Visualization : Imagine yourself delivering the speech confidently. Positive affirmations can transform your mindset and reduce negative thoughts.
Physical Preparation : Eating a banana before your speech can help with nerves due to its potassium content, which has a calming effect.

Speaking Pace and Pausing

Practice with a Timer : This helps you get a realistic idea of how long your speech will be and allows you to adjust your pace accordingly.
Mark Pauses in Your Speech : Identify moments in your speech where a pause for effect or for audience reaction would be appropriate. This helps in pacing your delivery and engaging with your audience.
Speak Slowly and Clearly : Nervousness can make you speak faster. Make a conscious effort to slow down, which will make your speech more understandable and impactful.

Dealing with Unexpected Emotions

Stay Grounded : Remember that feeling nervous is natural. Focus on the support you have from the ground beneath your feet and the room around you.
Allow Yourself to Be Authentic : It’s okay to show emotion. If you feel tears coming, let them. Authenticity resonates more with the audience than a perfectly delivered but emotionless speech.
Prepare for the Unexpected : Be open to deviating slightly from your prepared speech if the moment calls for it. Your preparation will give you the confidence to trust your instincts.
Connect with Your Audience : Making eye contact and connecting with the audience can help manage nerves. Seeing friendly faces in the crowd can reassure you and make the experience more personal.

By incorporating these strategies into your preparation and delivery, you can effectively manage nerves and deliver a wedding speech that is both heartfelt and memorable. Remember, the wedding guests are there to celebrate, and they are on your side. With the right mindset and preparation, you can turn your speech into a highlight of the wedding celebration.

Concluding with Impact

Concluding a wedding speech with impact not only leaves a lasting impression on the couple but also on all the guests. It’s the final chance to encapsulate your feelings, wishes, and hopes for the newlyweds in a memorable manner. Here are strategies to ensure your conclusion resonates with everyone.

Ending on a Memorable Note

To leave your audience with something to remember, consider ending with a powerful quote or a personal anecdote that highlights the couple’s journey or your relationship with them. For instance, using a quote like, “May ‘for better or worse’ be far better than worse,” not only adds a touch of humor but also conveys heartfelt wishes for the couple’s future. Alternatively, sharing a personal memory that reflects the couple’s love and resilience can deeply touch the hearts of the listeners, making your speech unforgettable.

Encouraging Applause or a Toast

Inviting the guests to join you in a toast is a traditional and effective way to conclude. This gesture not only signals the end of your speech but also unites everyone in a shared moment of celebration. You might say, “Let’s raise our glasses to the happy couple and wish them a lifetime of love and happiness.” This encourages a collective participation, turning your concluding words into an interactive and inclusive celebration of the couple’s love.

Wrapping up with Well-Wishes for the Couple

Concluding with well-wishes is a heartfelt way to wrap up your speech. Expressing hopes and dreams for the couple’s future not only leaves them with your blessings but also resonates with the guests’ sentiments. Phrases like, “May all your hopes and dreams come true, and may the memory of this day become dearer with each passing year,” beautifully encapsulate the essence of your wishes for the newlyweds. This not only provides a touching end to your speech but also reinforces the joyous atmosphere of the occasion.

By incorporating these elements into the conclusion of your wedding speech, you ensure that your final words are impactful, memorable, and filled with warmth. It’s a beautiful way to honor the couple’s journey, celebrate their love, and wish them well as they embark on their new life together.

Key Takeaways and Next Steps

A truly good wedding speech is one that is heartfelt, engaging, and memorable. To achieve this, certain elements are crucial, including a personal touch, a blend of emotions, a well-structured format, and appropriate humor. Additionally, warmth, positivity, and thorough practice play significant roles in delivering a speech that resonates with the wedding guests and honors the couple. Keeping the speech concise and engaging the audience further ensures that your message is well-received. Here, we summarize these main points and provide encouragement and inspiration for making your wedding speech uniquely memorable.

Summarizing Main Points

Personal Touch : Share personal anecdotes and memories that highlight your unique relationship with the couple. This adds authenticity and depth to your speech.
Emotion : Balance humor with sentimentality and sincerity. A mix of emotions keeps the audience engaged and makes your speech more impactful.
Structure : Organize your speech with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. This helps in delivering a coherent and compelling message.
Humor : Use light-hearted jokes and funny anecdotes judiciously to entertain the audience without overshadowing the essence of the occasion.
Warmth and Positivity : Express your genuine love and support for the couple, sharing hopes and best wishes for their future.
Practice : Rehearse your speech multiple times to enhance your confidence and ensure smooth delivery on the big day.
Respectful Length : Aim for a speech duration of 3 to 5 minutes to respect the event’s flow and other speakers.
Engage the Audience : Make eye contact, speak clearly, and use appropriate body language to connect with your listeners.

Encouragement to Practice and Personalize

To ensure your speech is both memorable and impactful, practice is key. Begin crafting your speech early, allowing ample time for revisions and rehearsal. Use tools like recording yourself to identify and improve upon any distracting mannerisms. Practice in front of a mirror or with a friend to gain feedback and make necessary adjustments. Remember, the more familiar you are with your speech, the more confidently you can deliver it, making eye contact and engaging with your audience effectively.

Inspiration to Make the Speech Unique

Incorporating unique elements into your speech can make it stand out. Consider reversing the chronological order of your storytelling, starting from the present day and moving backward to when you first met the couple. Utilize music snippets from significant years, modify well-known songs with personalized lyrics, or include interactive elements like a quick-fire quiz about the couple. Embracing your personal style, whether it’s humorous or sincere, ensures your speech reflects your genuine sentiments. Always aim for authenticity, focusing on the couple’s journey and your relationship with them.

By keeping these key takeaways and next steps in mind, you’re well on your way to delivering a wedding speech that not only captures the essence of the couple’s relationship but also leaves a lasting impression on all the guests. Remember, this is a celebration of love, and your speech is a tribute to the couple’s special day. With preparation, personalization, and a touch of creativity, you can create a speech that is both meaningful and memorable.

Through the journey from starting a wedding speech to its impactful conclusion, this guide has walked readers through every crucial aspect, ensuring a speech that not just resonates but warmly lingers in the memories of the couple and guests alike. By weaving together personal anecdotes, a balanced tone of humor and sincerity , alongside a well-structured format, speakers are equipped to deliver messages that harmonize perfectly with the joyous essence of the occasion. The emphasis on thorough practice and engaging storytelling serves as the backbone for delivering a speech that stands out as a highlight of the wedding celebration.

As we reflect on the elements that contribute to a heartfelt and memorable wedding speech, it’s clear that authenticity, emotional intelligence, and a keen understanding of the audience play pivotal roles. Encouragement to personalize your message, paired with the inspiration to infuse your unique style, underlines the importance of making each word count. With this foundation, speakers are poised to not only capture the essence of the couple’s story but to also enhance the celebratory atmosphere of the day, leaving an indelible mark on this significant chapter of their lives.

How Should I Kick Off a Wedding Speech?

To initiate a wedding speech on a high note, consider beginning with a heartfelt greeting such as, “Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. As [name’s] friend/relative, I’m thrilled to have you all here tonight.” Alternatively, if you’re responding to an introduction, you might say, “Thank you so much, [name], for such a wonderful introduction. I only hope I can live up to your kind words!”

What Are the Best Ways to Start a Wedding Ceremony Introduction?

When it comes to the opening words of a wedding ceremony, you have a few options depending on the tone and style you prefer:

For a Generic Introduction : “Dear friends and family of the Bride and Groom, we welcome and thank you for being part of this significant occasion.”
For an Intercultural Setting : “Today is a day to celebrate.”
For a Religious Ceremony : “Dear family and friends, we are here to witness [Name Of Bride] and [Name Of Groom], as they exchange their vows of marriage.”

What Makes an Ideal Welcome Speech at a Wedding?

An excellent welcome speech for a wedding warmly greets the bride and groom along with their families, expressing gratitude to everyone for their presence. It highlights the joy of the occasion and the efforts of the couple in organizing a memorable ceremony, with a message like, “A warm welcome to the bride and groom and their families. We thank you all for being a part of this celebration. I hope everybody enjoys the ceremony, lovingly prepared by the wonderful couple we’re here to celebrate today.”

What Should Be Said at the Start of a Wedding Ceremony?

The beginning of a wedding ceremony traditionally involves seating the guests, followed by the bridal party’s entrance. A common opening statement is, “Dearly beloved, we are gathered here in the presence of God, family, and friends to witness a joyous occasion—the union of [Name] and [Name] in holy matrimony. Who gives [Name] to be married to [Name]?” This sets the stage for a solemn and celebratory union.

How To Write A Wedding Speech: The Ultimate Guide For Do’s, Don’ts, and Delivery PART 1/3: Do’s

Holiday Wedding Pros And Cons

How To Write A Wedding Speech: The Ultimate Guide For Do’s, Don’ts, and Delivery PART 2/3: Don’ts

best man speech
bridesmaid speech
how to write a wedding speech
wedding planning
wedding speech

how to write a wedding speech dos

Someone you love is getting married, and you’ve just been asked to give a speech at the wedding. What an honor! But also, if you’re not used to giving speeches, what a nightmare! Public speaking can be scary , which is why many people prefer to avoid it. But when your bestie asks you to make a speech at his or her wedding, it’s time to rally. But now you’re wondering if you even know how to write a wedding speech! What makes some wedding speeches fun and memorable, and what makes others cringy and fall flat? We’ve got you. We’ve put together the ultimate guide for how to write a wedding speech, focusing on things you definitely should do, things you definitely should NOT do, and then how to deliver your killer wedding speech like a pro.

If you’re wondering how to write a wedding speech, here are a few “Do’s” to keep in mind.

Start planning early
Introduce yourself and how you know the bride and groom
Thanks to hosts, guests, and wedding party; congratulate the couple
Make it personal
Think of 3 traits with 3 stories
Talk about the couple
Have a beginning, middle, and end
Consider your audience
Keep it short and sweet
It’s okay to be simple and meaningful

1. Start planning early

If you don’t know how to write a wedding speech but the bride just asked you to give one, this is not a time to procrastinate. Public speaking is one of the number one fears many people have, so it’s likely you’ve avoided giving too many public speeches before this. And unless you’re a performer or a veteran improv comedian, you might not do too well winging this one. If you get nervous in front of an audience (as most of us do), the best defense against freezing up when you take the mic is being prepared.

As soon as you know you’ve been asked to give a speech at the wedding, begin jotting down notes immediately. Whenever you’re inspired by a thought of the couple or remember an anecdote that might be worth retelling, make note of it. This will help to give you a pool of ideas to draw from when you start writing down the speech.

Begin gathering ideas and writing the speech a couple of weeks to a month before the wedding. You’ll need time to edit, fine-tune it, and make it concise. And as wedding showers, bachelorette parties, and other wedding festivities begin, you might find there are entertaining stories from these events you want to add as well. If you want to write it all at once, you can do that too. However, make sure to sleep on it and come back with fresh eyes. You don’t want just “okay,” you want your speech to be heartfelt and meaningful.

You will also want to begin early to give yourself time to practice and rehearse your speech plenty of times.

2. Introduce yourself and how you know the bride and groom

No matter how large or small the wedding is, it’s likely you will not be familiar with many of the guests on one or both sides. And they won’t be familiar with you either. So don’t leave them guessing!

Make sure when you start to write a wedding speech to introduce yourself and mention how you know the couple. This will help them understand the context of your speech, which will also help it to be more well-received.

3. Thank hosts, guests, and wedding party; congratulate the couple

It’s also courteous to take this time to thank the hosts and other members of the wedding party for all the hard work that went into the event, and to thank guests for being there to support the newlyweds, especially those who had to travel far.

It’s also a good time to officially congratulate the newlyweds and offer them your personal well-wishes for their future. It is imperative that you don’t forget this part, because they are the whole reason you’re there and giving a speech!

4. Make it personal

Whether you are the maid of honor, the best man, father of the bride, or just a friend, you were asked to give a speech because of your close connection and relationship with either the bride or groom (or both).

And since you know your friend as well as you do, you probably have plenty of stories to share; so the next tip for how to write a wedding speech is don’t hesitate to make it personal and share those stories! This will also help guests get to know the other half of the couple they might not know as well or are just meeting for the first time. And those guests who do know them will love hearing some entertaining stories they might not have heard yet.

5. Think of 3 traits with 3 stories

If you’re finding it difficult to come up with anything, a useful approach for how to write a wedding speech is to think of 3 positive defining traits or qualities of the bride or groom and recount three stories or examples that illuminate a time they exhibited these traits. These stories could be comedic, heartwarming, or both. Just make sure they are relevant and entertaining!

6. Talk about the couple

If you’re the maid of honor and have been chatting up the bride for the whole speech, part of how to write a wedding speech is to make sure at some point it circles around to the groom, too, and to the two of them as a couple.

Recount the time you met him, or how you remember talking about him with the bride in the beginning stages of their relationship. If you don’t know the groom all that well, talk about how good they are as a couple and about how happy he makes her.

And If you’re not a fan of the groom, this is not the time to air your grievances. Always keep it positive.

7. Have a beginning, middle, and end

All good speeches have a good flow and take the audience along with it.

Don’t let your speech fall flat or jumble together in a haphazard confusion of disconnected anecdotes. Give it the structure of an overarching theme, with a beginning, a middle, and an end.

We are not talking about a novel here, just make sure there is a direction to where the speech is going, and that the destination, end, or sentiment is achieved. It doesn’t need to be Charlie Chaplin in The Great Dictator, but a three-act structure does help keep you grounded. Most people also follow a story easier when there is a clear direction for a story or speech.

8. Consider your audience

The next thing to keep in mind when considering how to write a wedding speech is to make sure you consider who your audience is.

This is not the bachelor or bachelorette party. There will be a wide range of people present from children to the elderly, and from close friends of the bride and groom to casual acquaintances and coworkers. Make sure your speech is free of any crudeness that might not be fit for such a varied audience. Also, this isn’t the time to take a shot at any of the religious cermonies.

Be considerate and keep it positive and use language everyone can relate to.

9. Keep it short and sweet

You want your speech to be meaningful and memorable; but the wedding is not about you, and yours is not the only speech.

No one ever complains about a speech being too short, but they do begin to grumble if it runs on too long. A good rule of thumb to keep in mind when figuring out how to write a wedding speech is to keep your speech between 2-5 minutes long. Any longer than 5 minutes and you’ll lose everyone to thoughts of cake and whether or not to Cupid Shuffle later.

10. Add humor

Don’t be afraid to be funny! Another tip for how to write a wedding speech is that if you’ve got a lighthearted, creative, joking side, use it and add humor to your speech! Everyone likes to be entertained.

This doesn’t mean you should scour the internet for generic wedding-themed jokes, but if you’ve got some good original material to use that helps relate a story about the bride or groom in a comedic way, do it. As long as you’re not making fun of the couple but having fun with them, jokes are great. Or you can even poke fun at yourself to illuminate a higher quality in your bestie. It’s all about making the newlyweds shine.

If you’re creative and have other talents, use them! If you are musical, bust out your instrument and/or vocal cords and make the speech in the form of a song! Use props, and get the other guests involved! The newlyweds will feel special because you created something for them, and the guests will love joining in the fun.

11. It’s okay to be simple and meaningful

If entertaining isn’t your thing, that’s okay! Don’t force it – just be yourself. It’s okay to be simple and meaningful with your speech. Always keep in mind when you go to write a wedding speech that what’s important is that you are genuine and speak from the heart.

Hopefully, you found these tips for how to write a wedding speech helpful, and can start writing today! And stay tuned to our blog for the next part in this ultimate guide for how to write a wedding speech where we highlight a few things you should definitely avoid.

Love this content and want more? Read more about weddings on our blog ! Involved in the wedding planning process and the bride is still looking for a venue ? Give us a call today and we’ll help you find the perfect place!

Jennings Trace

Answering Reader Questions

Saying “I Do” Under the Texas Sun: Dos and Don’ts for Your Summer Wedding

Crafting Your Dream with DIY Wedding Decor

I need an example of a good wedding speec for the bride.Its my first time.

[…] infusing genuine emotion into your wedding speech is essential for creating a heartfelt connection with the audience. Expressing warmth, sincerity, […]

Are traditional gender roles still relevant in modern weddings, and should the best man always be a man? Would a best woman speech be more inclusive and representative of the bride and groom’s relationships?

Is it appropriate for wedding speeches to include jokes or anecdotes that may offend certain guests in attendance?

How to Write a Great Wedding Speech

Being asked to deliver a wedding speech can feel equal parts humbling and terrifying! Not only is there the daunting thought of speaking in front of a crowd, there’s also the overwhelming task of writing a memorable speech that ticks all the right boxes, from humorous to heartfelt. No pressure, right?!

If you’re currently trying to prepare for your wedding speech duties but feeling stuck with writer’s block, we’re here to help. From etiquette tips to wording examples, keep reading for our top tips on writing an epic wedding speech that leaves a lasting impression.

How to Write a Great Wedding Speech: Etiquette Tips

Before you sit down to craft your speech, take a moment to think first about the bigger picture. Whether you’re a bridesmaid, best man or sibling, there are a few etiquette guidelines you should keep in mind to ensure your speech is memorable for all the right reasons. We’ve rounded up the most important “unspoken rules” for a wedding toast below:

A great wedding speech strikes the perfect balance between sentimental and light-hearted. If your speech is overly sentimental and gushy, it might feel uncomfortable amongst a large crowd. On the flipside, if it’s too light-hearted and silly, it might come across as disrespectful or insincere. A 50:50 ratio will ensure your speech hits the mark!
The sweet spot for any wedding speech is generally between 2-5 minutes. This is the perfect amount of time to deliver a meaningful speech without losing the interest of guests or impacting the reception timeline.
While funny anecdotes are a great way to personalise your speech, steer clear of any embarrassing stories (or mentions of ex-partners!) that could make anyone feel uncomfortable. Keep it clean!
On that note – some gentle teasing is completely fine if that suits your relationship with the couple, but don’t paint anyone in an unflattering light. Playful humour should only be used if you’re 150% sure it will be well-received!
Don’t copy a speech you found online word-for-word. Templates are a helpful starting point for ideas and inspiration, but the best wedding speeches are always personalised to reflect your relationship with the couple.
Make sure your speech is directed at both of the newlyweds. Even though you’ll probably have a closer relationship with one half of the couple, it’s important to address both parties instead of delivering a one-sided speech. This is their big day, after all!

Gather Your Material

Now that the etiquette guidelines have been set, it’s time to start crafting your speech! Staring at a blank page can be seriously intimidating, so we recommend taking the pressure off and using a brainstorming session to get those creative juices flowing instead.

Grab a notebook and pen and take a trip down memory lane with these helpful prompts below:

What are your favourite qualities and personality traits of the bride/groom?
What are some examples of those traits in action?
How did you meet both halves of the couple?
What was your first impression of them, and how has this evolved?
What are your favourite memories and experiences together?
What do you admire about their relationship?
What makes them such a great match?
What do you hope for them in the future?

You might find it helpful to look back on old photos or even chat amongst other close friends and family members for further inspiration. Brainstorming your way through these prompts will give you the bones of a memorable, fun and personal speech, with plenty of material to work with.

Structuring Your Speech

Now for the fun part – pulling your speech together! A great wedding speech will usually include the following key elements. You can use these elements as a simple outline to build your speech around:

Introduction

Words of thanks

Personal anecdotes

Praise for the relationship

Introduction:

Open your speech by introducing yourself and your relationship to the couple. Your opening line could be as simple as:

“Hi everybody! For those who don’t know me, I’m (name), and I’m (bride/groom name)’s (sister/best man/maid of honour/etc).”

If you’re going for a more humorous approach, you could follow your introduction by cracking a joke to break the ice, such as:

“Just a couple of rules before we begin. If you have a mobile phone – that’s fine, leave it switched on, entertain yourselves. And if anyone texts you any good jokes, could you send them my way?”

“When I first sat down and started reflecting on what I wanted to say here tonight, I kept thinking to myself, ‘I can’t believe (name) is getting married in less than an hour.”

Welcoming guests and sharing some words of appreciation is always a nice touch, especially if the couple isn’t planning on making their own speech. You might want to include a special thanks to guests who have travelled, or for those who have helped with the wedding planning. For example:

“I’d like to thank you all for being here today to celebrate the marriage of (name) to (name), especially for those who have travelled far and wide. I’d also like to thank everyone who has helped in the lead up to the wedding in whatever way possible, big or small – you’ve all played a part to make the day special.”

This is the heart and soul of your speech! Look back on your brainstorming session and pick out some of your favourite memories as you begin to address the couple more personally. You might want to kick things off by talking about your relationship with the person you’re closest to, before sharing a fun anecdote or highlighting their best qualities. For example:

“I’ve known (name) all my life – we’ve laughed together, cried together, and watched way too many episodes of Friends together. I’ll never forget the time we (insert a funny anecdote or favourite memory)”

“I’ve had the privilege of growing up with (name), and so I couldn’t go past this opportunity to share some of my favourite memories of them. We’ve certainly shared some interesting moments – from the time we (insert a funny anecdote), to the time we (insert a favourite memory)”

“For those who know (name) well, I think we can all agree that one of her best qualities is her spontaneous nature. This was definitely highlighted when we (insert a funny anecdote or two).”

Next, you’ll want to expand on your relationship with their partner. For example:

“When (name) introduced me to (name), I had a good feeling about him immediately. I couldn’t think of anyone better suited for my (sister/friend/etc) – he’s funny, kind, intelligent, and most importantly – shares our family’s love for bad jokes and boardgames”

“I remember when (name) returned from his first date with (name). I’m not joking when I say he couldn’t wipe the smile off his face for the next 3 days! And when I met (name) a few weeks later, it all made sense. (Name), you’re an absolute catch, and one of the sweetest people I know. Thank you for being such an amazing partner to my best mate”

“I’ve known (name) for a long time, and I can honestly say I’ve never seen him as happy as he’s been since knowing (name). (Name), you have such a big heart and you truly light up a room. You’ve fit so perfectly into our family and we couldn’t imagine our lives without you in it!”

Next, share some praise for the couple and what you admire about their relationship. This is where you’ll want to bring it back to what this day is all about! For example:

“I think everyone here will agree that you two are a perfect match. From the way (name) supports (name)’s online shopping addiction, to your shared love of dogs and the crazy adventures you take together, I’m so happy that you’ve each found your soulmate and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes you.”

“I’ve been lucky enough to watch your relationship grow from the very beginning, and I can honestly say I’ve never seen two people so in love. The way you support each other and experience life together is beautiful to witness, and I just know that your marriage will be filled with passion, happiness and adventure”

End your speech by asking guests to raise their glasses for a toast. This is a great time to include a meaningful quote, words of marriage advice, or wishes for the future. For example:

“So with that being said, I’d like to invite everyone to raise their glasses and toast the newlyweds as they embark on this exciting journey together. Here’s to the happy couple – we love you guys!”

“If everyone could please raise their glasses for the newlyweds – I’d like to wish you both a lifetime of love, happiness, romance and adventure together. Cheers!”

“As you embark on this new chapter together, I wanted to leave you with a quote: A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person. Ladies and gents, please raise your glasses and join me in toasting the newlyweds – cheers!”

Nailing Your Wedding Speech

Once you’ve crafted your wedding speech, remember: practice makes perfect, so alleviate those public speaking nerves by rehearsing your speech until you feel confident and comfortable with the material. Notecards are a great resource to keep you on track, but try not to rely on them – it’s okay not to follow your script word for word. Instead, allow yourself to be swept up in the moment and enjoy the experience!

While it might seem scary, being asked to deliver a wedding speech is actually an honour and shows just how much the newlyweds value your relationship. Simply follow our pointers above, and you’ll be sure to bring down the house with a memorable speech written from the heart.

Looking for more wedding guest tips? Check out our guide on exactly what to write in a wedding card here !

How to Find the Right Wedding Planner

Hiring the right wedding planner might be one of the best investments you’ll make. Here are some helpful tips for choosing the perfect wedding planner!

wedsites-blog-tips-using-pinterest-plan-wedding

4 Great Tips for Using Pinterest to Plan Your Wedding

Pinterest is a great source of inspiration and to get those creative ideas flowing. Here are some great tips for using Pinterest to plan your wedding!

wedsites-blog-9-time-saving-wedding-hacks-for-wedding-planning

9 Time-Saving Hacks For Wedding Planning!

Struggling to balance wedding planning with your other commitments? Read on for 9 of our favorite wedding hacks to start implementing right away!

Everything you need to plan a stress-free wedding—in one beautiful place.

One-time payment. Unlimited access.

Create and publish your own unique wedding website.

Send paperless invitations, capture online RSVP’s and manage your guest list.

Get your own personalized wedding planning dashboard to keep track of all your wedding tasks, budget expenses, and more.

See all plans

How to Write a Wedding Speech (with Examples)

by Ryan Hart | Updated on September 22, 2023 | Post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Writing a wedding speech can be a nerve-wracking experience, especially if you’ve never given one before. You want to make sure you honor the couple, entertain the guests, and avoid any embarrassing mishaps.

But don’t worry, with a little guidance , you can write a memorable wedding speech that will leave everyone feeling touched and inspired.

In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to write a wedding speech, along with examples to help you get started.

Whether you’re the best man, maid of honor, or a close friend or family member, we’ve got you covered. We’ll cover everything from how to structure your speech, to what to include, and even tips on how to deliver it with confidence.

What is a Wedding Speech?

A wedding speech is a way for family members and friends to honor the newly married couple, share their thoughts and memories, and wish them a happy future together.

It is a chance to express your gratitude for being part of their special day and to thank them for inviting you to share in their joy.

Wedding speeches are typically given at the rehearsal dinner , the day before the wedding, and toward the end of the reception dinner on the wedding day.

The best wedding speeches are heartfelt, sincere, and personal. They should reflect your relationship with the couple and your feelings towards them. A good wedding speech should be short, sweet, and to the point. It should not be too long, as it may become boring and lose the attention of the audience.

Knowing Your Role

When it comes to writing a wedding speech, it’s important to know your role in the wedding party. Here are some tips on how to approach writing your speech depending on your role:

Father of the Bride’s Speech

As the father of the bride , your speech should be heartfelt and emotional. Share stories about your daughter and the joy she has brought into your life. Welcome the groom into your family and express your love and support for the newlyweds.

Maid of Honor’s Speech

As the maid of honor, your speech should focus on the bride and your relationship with her. Share some funny stories or heartfelt moments that highlight her best qualities. Be sure to also thank the groom and his family for welcoming you into their lives.

Best Man’s Speech

As the best man, your speech should focus on the groom and your relationship with him. Share some funny anecdotes or stories that highlight his best qualities. Be sure to also thank the bride and her family for welcoming you into their lives.

Mother of the Bride’s Speech

As the mother of the bride, your speech should be heartfelt and emotional. Share stories about your daughter and the joy she has brought into your life. Welcome the groom into your family and express your love and support for the newlyweds.

Father of the Groom’s Speech

As the father of the groom, your speech should focus on the groom and your relationship with him. Share some funny anecdotes or stories that highlight his best qualities. Be sure to also thank the bride and her family for welcoming you into their lives.

Mother of the Groom’s Speech

As the mother of the groom, your speech should be heartfelt and emotional. Share stories about your son and the joy he has brought into your life. Welcome the bride into your family and express your love and support for the newlyweds.

Structuring Your Speech

When it comes to giving a wedding speech, structuring it properly is key. This will help you stay on track and deliver a memorable speech that hits all the right notes. Here are some tips on how to structure your wedding speech:


Opening	Introduce yourself, your relationship to the couple, and thank them for inviting you.
Body	Share a story or anecdote about the couple, offer words of wisdom or advice, and give a toast.
Closing	End with a final thought or sentiment about the couple and thank them for including you in their special day.

The opening of your speech is crucial as it sets the tone for the rest of your speech. Start by introducing yourself and your relationship to the couple. You can also thank the couple for inviting you to be a part of their special day.

If you’re nervous, it’s okay to start with a joke or a light-hearted anecdote to break the ice. Just make sure it’s appropriate for the occasion and doesn’t offend anyone.

The body of your speech is where you can share your thoughts and feelings about the couple. This is where you can tell a story or anecdote about the couple that highlights their love for each other.

You can also offer some words of wisdom or advice for the couple as they embark on this new journey together. This can be a great opportunity to share a quote or a poem that resonates with you.

The closing of your speech should be short and sweet. You can end with a final thought or sentiment about the couple and their future together. You can also thank the couple and their families for including you in their special day.

If you’re giving a toast , make sure to raise your glass and offer a heartfelt congratulations to the couple.

Example Wedding Speeches

Maid of honor speech example:.

Hello, everyone! I’m beyond thrilled to be here today as the Maid of Honor for these two incredible people. You know, when [Bride’s Name] asked me to be her Maid of Honor, my first thought was, ‘Does she really know me? Is she sure about this?’ But here I am, and I couldn’t be happier!

[Bride’s Name] and I have shared so many laughs, tears, and unforgettable moments over the years. We’ve been through thick and thin together. And when she introduced us to [Groom’s Name], it was like the missing piece of the puzzle just clicked into place.

Now, [Groom’s Name], I have to say, you’ve really brought out the best in [Bride’s Name]. You’ve filled her life with so much love, laughter, and joy. And I can’t thank you enough for that.

To the newlyweds, may your love continue to grow stronger with each passing day. May your journey together be filled with adventure, kindness, and endless inside jokes that only you two understand. And may your love story be as beautiful and inspiring as the two of you are.

So let’s raise our glasses to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], to love, laughter, and a lifetime of happiness! Cheers!"

Best Man Speech Example:

Hey, everyone, I’m honored to be up here as the Best Man for this fantastic couple. Now, when [Groom’s Name] asked me to be his Best Man, I was like, ‘Really? Me?’ But then I remembered all the adventures, mishaps, and laughter we’ve shared over the years, and I thought, ‘Yep, I’m the guy for this job!’

[Groom’s Name] and [Bride’s Name], you two are a perfect match. I’ve watched your love story unfold, and it’s been a privilege to witness the love and respect you have for each other.

[Groom’s Name], you’ve always been there for me through thick and thin, and I have no doubt you’ll be there for [Bride’s Name] in the same way. And [Bride’s Name], you’re not just gaining a husband today, you’re gaining the best partner in crime you could ever ask for.

So, here’s to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], to a lifetime of adventure, love, and laughter. May your journey together be filled with joy, shared secrets, and lots and lots of dancing. Cheers!"

Best Friend Speech Example:

“Hello, everyone! Wow, what a beautiful day to celebrate the love between [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. I’m not the Maid of Honor or the Best Man, but I am a close friend, and I’ve been lucky enough to witness the magic of their love story from the beginning.

[Bride’s Name], we’ve been through so much together – from school crushes to college shenanigans. And when you introduced me to [Groom’s Name], I knew he was something special. He brings out the best in you, and together, you make an incredible team.

[Groom’s Name], you’re not just gaining a wife today; you’re gaining an amazing friend and confidant in [Bride’s Name]. You two complement each other in the most beautiful ways.

So, here’s to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], to a love that’s as strong as it is genuine. May your journey together be filled with laughter, support, and all the adventures you can dream of. Cheers!”

Family Member Speech Example:

Good evening, everyone! My name is [Your Name], and I am [Your relation to the bride and groom]. I’m thrilled to be here tonight to celebrate the love and commitment of [Couple’s names].

When they asked me to give a speech tonight, I was a little nervous. I mean, what do you say about two people who are so perfect for each other? But then I remembered something that [Bride’s name] once told me: “ Love isn’t about being perfect , it’s about being perfectly imperfect together.”

And that’s exactly what these two are. They’re imperfect in all the right ways, and that’s what makes them so perfect for each other. So here’s to [Couple’s names], two imperfect people who are perfect for each other. Congratulations, you two!

Close Friend Speech Example:

Hello, everyone! My name is [Your Name], and I am [Your relation to the bride and groom]. I’m honored to be here tonight to celebrate the wedding of [Couple’s names].

When I first met [Bride’s name], I knew she was something special. And when she introduced me to [groom’s name], I knew he was the one for her. These two have been through thick and thin together, and they’ve always come out stronger on the other side.

And that’s what love is all about, isn’t it? It’s about being there for each other through the good times and the bad. So here’s to [Couple’s names], a couple who knows that love isn’t just a feeling, it’s a commitment.

Incorporating Personal Touches

When it comes to giving a wedding speech, it’s important to make it personal and meaningful. After all, you’re speaking in front of the couple’s nearest and dearest, and you want to make sure that your words come straight from the heart.

One way to do this is to incorporate personal touches into your speech. This can be anything from a funny story about the couple to a heartfelt message about your own relationship with them.

When choosing what to include in your speech, think about what makes the couple special. What are their unique qualities and what do you love about them? What are some of the key moments in their relationship that have brought them to this point?

Once you have some ideas, consider how you can weave them into your speech in a way that feels natural and authentic. Here are a few tips to get you started:

Keep it short and sweet: While it can be tempting to go on and on about how much you love the couple, it’s important to keep your speech concise. Aim for around 3-5 minutes, and focus on the most meaningful moments and messages.
Use specific examples: Instead of making general statements about the couple, try to use specific examples that illustrate their qualities and personalities. This will make your speech more engaging and memorable.
Get personal: Don’t be afraid to share your own experiences and feelings about the couple. Whether it’s a funny story about how you first met or a heartfelt message about what they mean to you, your personal touch will make your speech more meaningful.
Practice, practice, practice: Finally, make sure to practice your speech ahead of time. This will help you feel more confident and comfortable on the day, and ensure that your words come across as genuine and heartfelt.

Addressing the Audience

When it comes to giving a wedding speech, one of the most important things to keep in mind is your audience. After all, you are speaking to a room full of people who are there to celebrate the happy couple, so it’s important to make sure your speech is engaging, entertaining, and appropriate for the occasion.

First and foremost, you want to make sure your speech is inclusive of everyone in the audience.

While you may have a close relationship with the bride or groom, it’s important to remember that there are likely guests in attendance who may not know you or the couple as well. Make sure to introduce yourself and provide some context for your relationship with the couple.

It’s also important to consider the tone of your speech. While it’s okay to inject some humor and lightheartedness into your speech, you want to make sure it’s appropriate for the occasion.

Avoid making any jokes or comments that could be perceived as offensive or inappropriate.

If you’re addressing parents or family members in your speech, make sure to acknowledge their role in the couple’s lives and express your gratitude for their support.

Similarly, if you’re speaking as the best friend of the bride or groom, take some time to reflect on your friendship and share some heartfelt memories or anecdotes.

Keep in mind that you’re speaking to a room full of people who are there to celebrate the happy couple, so make sure your speech is a reflection of that joy and excitement.

Delivering the Speech

Now that you’ve written your wedding speech, it’s time to deliver it. Public speaking can be nerve-wracking, but with a little preparation, you’ll be able to deliver your speech with confidence. Here are some tips to help you deliver your speech like a pro:

Practice, practice, practice. Rehearsing your speech will help you feel more comfortable with the material and reduce your nervousness. Practice in front of a mirror or with a friend to get feedback on your delivery.
Take deep breaths. If you feel nervous before your speech, take a few deep breaths to calm your nerves. This will help you relax and deliver your speech more effectively.
Speak slowly and clearly. When you’re nervous, it’s easy to speak too quickly or mumble your words. Make a conscious effort to speak slowly and clearly so that everyone can hear you.
Make eye contact. Look at your audience as you deliver your speech. This will help you connect with them and keep their attention.
Use body language. Gesturing and moving around can help you convey your message more effectively. Just be sure to avoid any distracting movements.
Don’t be afraid to pause. If you need a moment to collect your thoughts or take a breath, don’t be afraid to pause. This will help you deliver your speech more effectively and give your audience time to absorb your message.

With a little preparation and practice, you’ll be able to deliver a wedding speech that will be remembered for years to come.

Dealing with Nervousness

It’s completely normal to experience nervousness when giving a wedding speech. After all, you want to do your best and make a positive impact on the happy couple and their guests. Here are a few tips to help you manage your nerves and deliver a memorable speech:

Practice, practice, practice : The more you practice your speech, the more comfortable you’ll feel delivering it. Practice in front of a mirror, with friends or family, or even record yourself and listen back to it.
Focus on the positive : Instead of dwelling on your nerves, focus on the positive aspects of the experience. You have the opportunity to share your love and well-wishes with the couple, and that’s something to be proud of.
Breathe deeply : Deep breathing can help calm your nerves and give you the energy you need to deliver your speech. Take a few deep breaths before you begin, and continue to breathe deeply throughout your speech.
Visualize success : Visualize yourself delivering a successful speech. Imagine the audience laughing at your jokes, nodding in agreement with your sentiments, and giving you a standing ovation at the end.
Project confidence : Even if you don’t feel confident, projecting confidence through your body language can help you appear more confident to your audience. Stand up straight, make eye contact, and speak clearly and slowly.

By following these tips, you can overcome your nervousness and deliver a wedding speech that you and the happy couple will remember for years to come.

Tips for a Memorable Speech

Writing a wedding speech can be intimidating, but with the right tips and tricks, you can deliver a memorable speech that will leave a lasting impression on the newlyweds and guests. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Tell the Couple’s Story

The most memorable speeches are the ones that tell a story. Start by brainstorming some memories or anecdotes about the couple that you can weave into your speech.

Think about the moments that defined their relationship, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the things that make them unique. By sharing these details with the audience, you’ll create a speech that feels personal and heartfelt.

Keep it Short and Sweet

While it’s tempting to share every detail about the couple, it’s important to keep your speech short and sweet. Aim for a speech that’s no longer than five minutes. This will give you enough time to share your message without losing the audience’s attention.

Practice Makes Perfect

The key to delivering a great speech is practice. Start by writing down your speech and then practice delivering it in front of a mirror or with a friend. This will help you get comfortable with the material and ensure that you’re able to deliver it confidently on the big day.

Focus on Friendship and Happiness

Weddings are all about celebrating love, friendship, and happiness. Make sure your speech reflects these themes by focusing on the positive aspects of the couple’s relationship.

Share stories that highlight their love for each other, their friendship, and the happiness they bring to each other’s lives.

Use Humor Wisely

Humor can be a great way to lighten the mood and engage the audience, but use it wisely. Make sure your jokes are appropriate for the occasion and that they don’t overshadow the message of your speech. Remember, the goal is to celebrate the couple and their love, not to steal the show.

Now that you’ve learned the basics of writing a wedding speech, it’s a good idea to read some real speeches to see how it all comes together.

Look for examples of speeches online or in books. Watching or reading other people’s speeches can give you inspiration and a better understanding of how to make your speech unique and special.

You might also want to check out books or articles about public speaking and storytelling, as they can help you improve your delivery and engagement skills.

And remember, it’s always a good idea to review some tips on wedding etiquette to make sure your speech is respectful and fitting for the occasion.

This newsletter is not just good - it delivers the best relationship advice to your inbox every morning Join thousands of subscribers discovering how to stop chasing emotionally unavailable people and start attracting true love.

Don't miss the chance to add your name to the list before the next edition goes live. If you want to take advantage of this opportunity, simply click the below to access our secure sign-up page.

Ryan Hart is a certified relationship coach and writer. His mission is to help make connections between people better, stronger, more meaningful, and longer lasting using technology.

Want to connect with Ryan? Click here to get his FREE daily dating advice newsletter

The best relationship advice — in your inbox — every morning.

PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
EDIT Edit this Article
EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Happiness Hub Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
Browse Articles
Learn Something New
Quizzes Hot
Happiness Hub
This Or That Game
Train Your Brain
Explore More
Support wikiHow
About wikiHow
Log in / Sign up
Education and Communications
Communication Skills
Public Speaking

How to Write a Wedding Speech

Last Updated: March 19, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Jenny Yi . Jenny Yi is the Founder of Chloe+Mint, an award-winning full service event planning company that specializes in wedding planning, design and floral design. Jenny has been in the industry for over 5 years, and also works closely with notable brands and celebrities on branding and events. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 608,754 times.

For most people, their wedding day will be among the most important days of their lives. As such, it is customary for a close friend or loved one to deliver a speech congratulating the newlyweds on their union. This can be a nerve-wracking prospect if you’re the one called upon to give a speech in front of a big, expectant crowd. As the speechwriter, it will pay off to make sure that you’re organized, keep it concise and practice extensively beforehand.

Things You Should Know

Professional wedding planner Jenny Yi says the wedding speech should be “impactful, short, and sweet.” Explain how you know the bride and groom, share a quick backstory on how they met, then wish them well as a couple.

Sample Speeches

Writing a Meaningful Speech

The best man and maid of honor are usually each asked to make a short speech on behalf of the wedding party. After that, the microphone is sometimes turned over to whoever would like to say a few words.
Saying your name and briefly summarizing your history with the bride or groom will be enough. Don’t talk about yourself too much. Remember, the focus of your speech is the married couple.

Use jokes judiciously to break the initial tension and keep the crowd relaxed. Try not to let your speech turn into a stand up comedy routine.
Keep your humorous stories and remarks appropriate. There will be people of all ages in your audience, including children.
Funny stories might include a funny story about the bride and groom's meeting, or an anecdote about one of them as a child.

Step 3 Share memories of the bride and groom.

Sharing unique memories or stories is much more effective than simply complimenting the bride or groom because it is a more personal touch.

Step 4 Offer advice or well-wishes for the future.

If you decide to use a quote for this segment of the speech, make sure it is short, relevant and not a cliche.

Acknowledging the people who helped make the wedding festivities possible will make you appear humble, as well as making them feel appreciated.
Express your gratitude in a couple sentences. There’s no need to go on and on thanking every person individually by name.

Making Sure You're Prepared

Step 1 Write the speech well in advance.

Treat your speech like you would a school assignment. Compose several drafts, check it for errors and have a friend proofread it to make sure it sounds good.

Step 2 Know when you’re expect to deliver the speech.

Familiarize yourself with the order of presentation if multiple speeches are to be given.
Don’t spend the entire ceremony fretting over your speech. If you’re sufficiently prepared, you won’t need to give it a second thought until it’s time for you to deliver it.

Know your speech word for word, but try not to sound like you’re simply reciting it from memory. Pace yourself and give every passage emphasis, emotion and clarity.

Put your entire speech on a couple note cards rather than a several large sheets of paper. Not only will this look better, it will help you keep your speech at the appropriate length.
Only look at your notes if you draw a blank or forget the next part. This will allow you to keep your eyes up and engage your audience. Even the most riveting speech will be a bore if the person giving it is reading off a note card the whole time.

Giving the Speech

Take a few slow, deep breaths. Think about what you’re saying and shut out all other distractions. Imagine that you’re giving your speech to one person instead of a room full of people.
Have a drink or two if it helps your nerves. Just don’t have too many—you want to be focused and clear-headed when it’s time for you to take the floor.

It’s perfectly okay to give a short speech. Simply say a few kind words, raise a toast and hand back the microphone.
Speak slowly and deliberately. It’s easy to start chattering too fast when you’re nervous. By talking slower than you feel like you need to, you’ll probably be going at just the right speed.
People who are underprepared or extremely anxious tend to talk aimlessly. Avoid this by sticking to what you’ve written and look to the crowd for cues about when their attention is evaporating.

Take a moment to speak to the bride and/or groom directly.
It’s normal to get a little choked up! As long as you can finish your speech, there’s no need to worry. It may even be flattering, as it will show the people you’re talking about how much you truly care.

It’s customary for the best man or groomsmen to toast the bride, and the maid of honor to toast the groom.

Expert Q&A

Keep quotes to a minimum, as other people's words can distract from what you're trying to say yourself. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 1
If you're stumped on how your speech should flow, approach it the way you would a story: give it a beginning, middle and end. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1
Ask an honest, objective friend to give you feedback on your speech after you've finished writing it. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

Never use a premade template you find on the internet to write a wedding speech. Your speech should be a product of your own unique thoughts, feelings and experiences. Thanks Helpful 6 Not Helpful 1
Don't drink too much before delivering your speech. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 1
Leave out especially embarrassing or offensive anecdotes. These are usually considered bad form. You're supposed to be honoring the married couple, not getting a laugh at their expense. Thanks Helpful 6 Not Helpful 3

↑ http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-2110745/Lost-words-Top-tips-write-winning-wedding-speech-deliver-like-pro.html
↑ https://www.theknot.com/content/wedding-toasting-tips-for-the-maid-of-honor
↑ https://www.presentationmagazine.com/the-structure-and-etiquette-of-wedding-speeches-1041.htm
↑ http://www.artofmanliness.com/2008/07/22/how-to-write-deliver-good-best-man-speech/
↑ https://www.theknot.com/content/wedding-toasting-tips-for-the-maid-of-honor/
↑ https://finley-h.schools.nsw.gov.au/content/dam/doe/sws/schools/f/finley-h/localcontent/how_to_write_a_speech.pdf
↑ https://mediacenter.toastmasters.org/2014-07-01-10-Tips-for-the-Perfect-Wedding-Toast

About This Article

To write a wedding speech, start by introducing yourself and explaining how you know the bride and groom. Then, share some fond memories, like stories from when you were kids or how you met. Next, offer well-wishes to the bride and groom, such as wishing them health, happiness, and prosperity. Alternatively, try opening with a joke or funny anecdote, but make sure that your remarks are appropriate for everyone in attendance. Finally, briefly thank everyone for coming and for making the celebration possible. For tips on how to memorize your speech so that it doesn’t sound rehearsed, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Brianna Carl

Feb 1, 2017

Did this article help you?

Sep 16, 2016

Mady Schlosser

Jun 22, 2017

Lindsay Hilman

Jun 10, 2017

Oct 28, 2016

Featured Articles

Watch Articles

Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
Do Not Sell or Share My Info
Not Selling Info

wikiHow Tech Help Pro:

Level up your tech skills and stay ahead of the curve

Best Tutorials On How To Write That Perfect Wedding Speech

Best Advices, Tips And Tricks On How To Pen The Ideal Wedding Speech For That Special Occasion If You Are The Father or Mother of the Bride or Groom, Maid of Honor, Best Man, Friend, Relative And So On…If You Want To Know How To Write A Very Good Funny Humoristic Or Serious Tone Wedding Speech That Will Amaze The Attendees At The Wedding Ceremony And Mesmerize The Invitees For Years To Come.

How to introduce yourself in a wedding speech

If you’re asked to speak at a wedding, you’ll find that you will need to work with a few notes to figure out what to say. The hardest part of the speech isn’t going to be the body, or even the conclusion, it’s going to be how you start things. You’re going to need to figure out how to start and introduce yourself overall. It’s something that can be difficult to manage, but you can take a few notes starting now to figure out what you want to say and how to say it.

The Easiest Option

In order to start introducing yourself, you should focus on the easiest of solutions. The best way to work through this is to just state your name. This is an easy option to move forward with. Simply get up and say your full name, and why you’re going to be speaking. Going this route is going to help you gain the upper hand, but of course, it’s something simple to start with.

Making It Funny

Let’s say that you don’t want to go simple, but rather you want to go funny. You could always look online for videos of people’s opening lines from comedy routines. You could also look into other people’s speeches and how they started talking. You can then formulate an option that is similar to that solution. Making it funny is not a difficult thing to work with, if you just gather some ideas from existing videos and examples. There’s a lot of options that abound online, and can help you make things stand out. You don’t have to go with something cheesy, like, “hello ladies and germs”, as that usually doesn’t work too well, but you may make it work, depending on what you want to do with your introduction overall.

Trying Out Different Lines

Here’s something that you can do to make things a bit easier, and it’s simple, try out different lines. Get a piece of paper out and write out at least 10 ways to open up a speech. It’s that simple. If you can work with this, you will be able to get the upper hand in what you want to work with. If you have 10 different ways to work with an opening line, you can edit which ones work and which ones aren’t that good at all.

If you’re stumped, or you just have too many options, you’ll need to look into what other people think. Ask around, and see what other people think about opening lines and if they would open it with some of the ideas that you have. You want to get opinions and options so that you are able to work through a few options that could help you in regard to inspiration. Of course, this is something that takes time to build to, but if you work with it properly, you’ll be able to ask around and get the right solution overall. Just make sure that as you work with an introduction, you keep focused on the rest of your speech, etc.

AMERICAN WEDDINGS BLOG

Stay up to date with the latest wedding ceremony trends, script writing inspiration, tips and advice for first-time officiants, and news that matters to couples and wedding ministers.

BLOG CATEGORIES

Trending tags, share this article.

ceremony script ceremony writing first time officiants international officiants invocation wedding and ceremony planning

Personalized Wedding Invocation & Opening Words - Examples for First Time Officiants

Published Thursday, Jul. 1st, 2021

Writing a custom wedding ceremony script? Learn about the wedding welcome, also called the invocation, introduction, or opening words, along with examples for first time marriage officiants and ministers.

Y ou’re standing in front of a crowd of well-dressed guests, about to perform your very first wedding ceremony. Beside you, the two people about to get married smile with excitement, waiting for you to begin. You open your mouth to speak and… What do you say?

The opening words of a wedding ceremony are called the Invocation -- also known as the wedding welcome, introduction, or opening remarks. These are the first words an officiant says during a ceremony and immediately follow the procession. They set the tone for each part of the wedding that follows.

During the Invocation, the officiant greets the guests, introduces the couple, and announces the purpose of the gathering.

This can be short and sweet, accomplished with only a sentence or two, or it can last for several minutes. Invocations can be religious, non-religious, funny, heartwarming, formal, offbeat and quirky, and anything in between.

The short and sweet variety will certainly sound familiar:

“Dearly beloved, we’re gathered here today to celebrate the marriage of Tabitha and Charlie.”

A traditional religious invocation might sound something like this:

“Dearly beloved, we’ve gathered here today in this holy place, in presence of God and the spirits of our ancestors, to witness the joining of Tabitha and Charlie in eternal matrimony. We ask for God’s blessing …” (usually followed by a prayer.)

image is a photograph showing a wedding officiant writing a ceremony script in a notebook

Give guests a glimpse of what life and love are like for the couple.

Making the Invocation personal…

If you’ve been asked to perform a wedding for friends or relatives , or are creating a custom ceremony script, you may want to add a little of the couple’s energy and essense to the Invocation.

It’s helpful to divide a personalized Invocation into 3 parts as you begin:

The Welcome (Greeting): Welcome the guests and explain the purpose of the event

Words on Marriage: Describe what marriage and commitment mean to the couple

The Couple’s Story: Describe the couple’s life and relationship, milestones leading up to this day, what they love most about each other, and what they envision for their future as a married couple

A personalized Invocation might look like this:

(We’ve color-coded this to make it easier to understand. The welcome is written in green, words on marriage are in blue, and the couple’s story is in purple.)

“Hello and welcome, dear ones.

We’ve asked you here today to join us in this most spectacular of moments, as Tabitha and Charlie do something big, something powerful, something they’ve been threatening to do for years -- they’re finally getting hitched!

Now, if you know these two wonderful weirdos as well as I do -- and I know that most of you do -- you know that Tabby and Charlie don’t take this marriage business lightly. They’ve spent years rebelling against the concept of contracts and legal hocus-pocus when it comes to love. But getting older has softened them a little -- don’t tell Charlie I said that -- and their understanding of love, and marriage, has deepened, too.

They’ve come to see marriage not as some elaborate codified institution, but as a simple and transcendent spiritual bond. A connection that exists beyond the trappings of our world, beyond our sometimes jaded views of relationships and commitment, beyond even our most earnest attempts at language -- They’ve come to know marriage as something ethereal, eternal... Something spiritual.

These two have known they were destined for each other from day one, and have continued to grow together for over a decade, through joyful moments and mourning, a unified front in a sometimes uncertain world. Today, they celebrate their spiritual bond, one they’re happy to call marriage, as they face the future with open, full hearts.”

Notice in the example above that the words on marriage and the couple’s story flow naturally, and even blend together in some places. It’s loaded with personality, while still containing all of the elements of a standard invocation.

image is a photograph of a bride and groom standing in front of a minister on their wedding day, outdoors surrounded by friends and family

Ask questions before you begin

Set aside time to meet with the couple before you start writing the ceremony and gathering personal details to include in the Invocation. Ask questions, and get to know how they interact with each other. This is essential to creating a unique opening!

Start with these questions:

What does marriage mean to you? Why are you getting married… and why now?
How would you describe the course of your relationship, from the day you met until now?
What are one or two defining characteristics of your relationship?
What do you hope for in the future?
What do you want the tone and feel of the invocation (and ceremony) to be?

Once you have some insight into the couple’s relationship and an idea of their style, spend time looking at sample scripts and wedding templates online. (We have an entire library to browse.) Combine the parts you like, make some edits, and create your own custom opening!

Then, you can move on to the next part of the ceremony …

Need a full wedding ceremony script? Short Non Religious Wedding Ceremony With Heartfelt Invocation

Visit our wedding ceremony script library . .

Asked to Officiate is our most comprehensive guide for planning a wedding ceremony.

This step by step workbook will walk you through each part of the wedding ceremony, including the Invocation, the ‘end of aisle question,’ custom vows, special readings, unity ceremonies, completing the marriage license, and more. It was written by experienced wedding officiants to make your first ceremony a breeze.

Order a copy now!

Looking for ministry supplies and credentials? Head here .

Asked to officiate?

You only get one shot to deliver a perfect wedding ceremony..

There’s no ‘take-two’ when it comes time for a couple to say ‘I do’-- Wedding officiants only get one shot to perform a perfect wedding ceremony.

PROFESSIONAL WEDDING OFFICIANT CERTIFICATION COURSE

Give yourself the tools and training you deserve to succeed as a wedding officiant, so that you can stand beside the lucky couple with complete confidence on their big day.

Last Article:

Who Will Officiate Your Wedding?

Choose Your Officiant with our "Will You Marry Us?" Gift Package.

Signature Wedding Officiant Package

Our premiere package contains everyting you need to officiate like a pro.

The Book of Wedding Vows and Ceremonies

It's finally here! Timeless scripts and heartfelt vow inspiration to bring life to your ceremony.

Professional Wedding Officiant Certification Course

Learn from the Pros to Officiate with Confidence!

West Virginia Updates Age Requirements to Marry, Bans Marriage for Children U...

10 Lugares Únicos e Inusuales para Casarse en EE.UU.

This Czech Christmas Tradition Predicts When You’ll Get Married

Involve Children in Planning Your Microwedding Ceremony with Seasonal Crafts

A New Take on Wedding Expos -- Go Small or Go Virtual?

Forget black-tie! Wedding guest wears giant robot costume to cosplayer nuptials

Donate to amm.

Your generosity keeps American Marriage Ministries running.

Wedding Officiant Training

Everything you need to know to officiate.

Sample Wedding Ceremony Scripts

Need inspiration? Check out our free ceremony scripts!

Subscribe To Our Newsletter!

Become a Wedding Officiant with Our Free Online Ordination!

The Victorian
Hospitality
Lemnos Gallery
Victorian Gallery

3 Best Opening Words and Introduction of a Wedding Ceremony

wedding venues sydney - wedding venue near me

How do you decide on the opening words for your wedding ceremony?

Although they may not be a right or wrong way to deliver opening words and introductory remarks at a wedding ceremony , a good welcome speech is very essential. It makes a statement about the importance of the occasion and its significance to the couple getting married and everyone present. Here are three examples of a wedding ceremony introduction .

Table of Contents

Dear friends and family of the Bride and Groom, we welcome and thank you for being part of this important occasion. We are gathered together on this day to witness and celebrate the marriage of Name Of Bride and Name Of Groom.

Every one of us has a deep desire to love and to be loved. Your marriage today is a public and legal affirmation of the bonding that you had already begun. Marriage is a commitment to live that will allow you to share your lives together.

Marriage will stretch you as individuals, deepen your love for one another and bring out the best in each other. So, enjoy your marriage and let it be a time of waking each morning and falling in love with each other all over again.

2. Intercultural

Today is a day to celebrate. We are celebrating the love, commitment, and friendship of two people who love each other and wish to spend the rest of their lives together.

The marriage ceremony is a significant part of nearly every culture, religion, generation, and society. Despite all of our differences, we all share the love. Love is the great unifier, regardless of who we are, where we’ve come from or what we believe in.

We can all describe love in many ways and love can look different from one person to the other, but we all know love when we see it. And we can see love right here.

3. Religious

Dear family and friends, we have gathered here together to witness Name Of Bride and Name Of Groom, as they exchange their vows of marriage. We rejoice with them in their delight of finding love with each other, and support their decision to commit themselves to a lifelong relationship.

Marriage is like an umbrella that covers and protects love. As 1 Corinthians 13 says, we learn that love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful; it is not irritable or resentful, nor arrogant or rude.

Love does not seek self, nor does it rejoice in the wrong, but rejoices in the right. Love bears and believes in all things. Love hopes in all things endure all things and love has no end.

For more tips and advice make an appointment with Clarence House gurus

With over 30 years of experience hosting thousands of weddings, Clarence House wedding venues Sydney knows exactly how to make your wedding event unique, special and memorable. Call us today on (02) 9750 3555 or (02) 9789 1662 or send us an email at [email protected] to book a tour of our illustrious venues.

Corporate Events (1)
Engagement (1)
Engagement Venues (2)
Interior Design (1)
Real Weddings Blogs (1)
Uncategorized (1)
Wedding News (28)
Wedding Planning (68)
Wedding Reception (1)
Wedding Tips (109)
Wedding Venues (69)

Follow Us On

How did you hear about us* Google Word of Mouth Attended Function Radio Social Media

Room interested in* The Victorian (110 - 300 guests) The Lemnos Club (320 - 500 guests) Both

Arab Wedding Venues Sydney
Chinese Wedding Venues Sydney
Clarence House Bush fire Appeal
Croation Wedding Venues Sydney
Cultural Wedding Venues Sydney
Events & Functions
Find us on the Web
friday-wedding
Greek Wedding Venues Sydney
Indian Wedding Venues Sydney
Islander Wedding Venues Sydney
Landing Page
Macedonian Wedding Venues Sydney
Maltese Wedding Venues Sydney
Mediterranean Wedding Venues Sydney
Order Received
The Lemnos Club
Popping The Question
Promotion SOS
Promotion TGIF
Promotions page 2
Real Weddings
Registration
Samoan Wedding Venues Sydney
Serbian Wedding Venues Sydney
Services-page
Simon Contact Test
Submit Form
Subscription
The Hospitality
Tongan Wedding Venues Sydney
Vietnamese Wedding Venues Sydney
Wedding Venues Sydney

THE VICTORIAN

A space that is uniquely yours with every wedding we host, this is what we promise you when you book The Victorian .

454 Burwood Rd, Belmore, 2192

(02) 9750 3555

yourteam@clarencehousevenues .com.au

The Clarence House Is Creating A everlasting memories at the lemnos for all events hosted by club members. Enquire Today on how to become a Lemnos Club Member.

44 Albert St, Belmore, 2192

(02) 9789 1662

[email protected]

OFFICE ADMINISTRATIVE HOURS

Wanting to truly have a spectacular wedding but also looking to tighten up the budget? This is possible with the weekday, Friday & Sunday Discounts

Monday – Friday 11AM – 6PM

Saturday – Sunday 11AM – 4PM

VIEWING HOURS BY APPOINTMENT

Wednesday 10:30AM – 6PM

Thursday 10:30AM – 6PM

Friday 10:30AM – 5:30PM

THE VICTORIAN LOCATION

THE LEMNOS LOCATION

Clarence House provides premier settings in iconic and heritage listed spaces in the heart of Sydney. Your amazing day, our dedicated team, it’s a perfect match. Rated the best wedding venues in Sydney by guests and couples alike.

4.5/5 Stars Based on 262 Reviews on Google (4.4 of 5 stars overall)

Wedding Speech

Wedding speech generator.

What Is a Wedding Speech?

Download Wedding Speech Bundle

Wedding Speech Format

Introduction.

a. Greeting and Welcome: Start by greeting the audience and introducing yourself. Example: “Good evening, everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], [Bride’s Name]’s [relation] / [Groom’s Name]’s [relation].” b. Relationship to the Couple: Briefly explain your relationship to the bride and groom. Example: “I’ve had the pleasure of knowing [Bride’s Name] since we were kids, and it’s an honor to stand here today.” c. Expressing Gratitude: Thank the hosts, guests, and anyone who contributed to the wedding. Example: “Thank you to everyone who helped make this day so special, and to all of you for being here to celebrate this joyous occasion.”

a. Sharing Memories: Include personal anecdotes or stories that highlight the character and journey of the bride and groom. Example: “I remember the time when [Bride’s Name] and I… [insert a funny or heartwarming anecdote].” b. Highlighting Qualities: Talk about the qualities that make the bride and groom special individually and as a couple. Example: “What I admire most about [Groom’s Name] is his unwavering loyalty and kind heart. Together, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] are an incredible team.” c. Mutual Love and Respect: Emphasize their love story, how they met, and their journey to this day. Example: “From the moment they met, it was clear that [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] were meant to be. Their journey has been filled with love, laughter, and shared dreams.” d. Offering Advice or Wishes: Share some wisdom or advice for a happy marriage, if appropriate. Example: “Remember to always communicate openly, support each other through life’s challenges, and keep laughter at the heart of your relationship.”

a. Summarizing Key Points: Recap the main sentiments and highlights of your speech. Example: “To sum up, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], your love and commitment to each other are truly inspiring.” b. Raising a Toast: Invite everyone to join you in raising a glass to the couple. Example: “Now, if everyone could please raise their glasses… Here’s to a lifetime of love, happiness, and endless adventures together. To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]!”

Wedding Speech Example

Introduction: “Good evening, everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], [Bride’s Name]’s [relation, e.g., best friend, brother, sister, etc.]. It is an absolute honor to stand before you today on this wonderful occasion. I’d like to start by thanking all of you for being here to celebrate the marriage of [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. Whether you’ve traveled from near or far, your presence means the world to them.” Body: Sharing Memories: “I’ve known [Bride’s Name] for as long as I can remember. From our childhood adventures to late-night talks about our dreams, she has always been an incredibly important part of my life. One of my favorite memories is when we were [insert a funny or heartwarming anecdote, e.g., ‘when we were ten, we decided to bake a cake for our parents. It was a disaster, but we laughed so hard, and it’s a memory I cherish to this day.’]” Highlighting Qualities: “[Bride’s Name] is not only my best friend but also one of the most compassionate, thoughtful, and resilient people I know. She has always had a heart of gold, and she lights up any room she walks into. [Groom’s Name], from the moment I met you, I knew you were the perfect match for [Bride’s Name]. Your kindness, patience, and unwavering support have been evident from the start. Together, you bring out the best in each other, and it’s clear that your love is something truly special.” Mutual Love and Respect: “Their journey together began [insert how many years ago or how they met, e.g., ‘five years ago when they met at a mutual friend’s party’]. From that moment, it was clear that they were meant to be. Their relationship has been filled with love, laughter, and countless adventures. Watching your love story unfold has been a privilege, and I know that your future together will be just as beautiful.” Offering Advice or Wishes: “As you embark on this new chapter together, I want to share a few words of wisdom: Always communicate openly and honestly with each other. Be each other’s biggest supporters and celebrate each other’s victories. Keep laughter at the heart of your relationship, and never take each other for granted. Love is a living thing that grows and flourishes with care.” Conclusion: Summarizing Key Points: “To sum up, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], your love and commitment to each other are truly inspiring. Today is a celebration of your journey so far and the beautiful future that lies ahead.” Raising a Toast: “Now, if everyone could please raise their glasses… Here’s to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. May your marriage be filled with endless love, joy, and laughter. May you continue to grow together, building a life rich with beautiful memories and happiness. Here’s to a lifetime of love, companionship, and incredible adventures. Cheers!” Closing: “Thank you all for being here tonight, and let’s continue to celebrate this wonderful couple!”

Short Wedding Speech Example

Introduction: “Good evening, everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], [Bride’s Name]’s [relation, e.g., friend, brother, sister]. It’s an honor to stand here today and celebrate the love between [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name].” Body: Sharing Memories: “I’ve known [Bride’s Name] for many years, and one of my favorite memories is [insert a short anecdote, e.g., ‘when we went on a road trip together and ended up getting lost but had the best time laughing and exploring new places.’]” Highlighting Qualities: “[Bride’s Name], you are one of the most kind-hearted and joyful people I know. And [Groom’s Name], from the moment I met you, I could see how perfect you are for [Bride’s Name]. Together, you make an incredible team.” Offering Advice or Wishes: “As you embark on this new journey together, my advice is simple: keep communicating, keep laughing, and never stop supporting each other.” Conclusion: Summarizing Key Points: “Your love for each other is truly inspiring, and I know you have a bright and beautiful future ahead.” Raising a Toast: “Now, if everyone could please raise their glasses… Here’s to a lifetime of love, happiness, and wonderful adventures together. To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]! Cheers!” Closing: “Thank you all for being here to celebrate this special day!” This concise speech covers all the essential elements: introduction, personal anecdotes, compliments to the couple, advice, and a toast, making it heartfelt and memorable without taking up too much time.

Additional Tips for a Wedding Speech

Speak from the heart and be authentic in your words and emotions.
Aim for a speech that is between 5-7 minutes long to maintain the audience’s attention.
Mix heartfelt sentiments with light-hearted humor for an engaging and memorable speech.
Rehearse your speech multiple times to become comfortable with the content and delivery.
Focus on positive, celebratory aspects and avoid controversial topics or negative comments.

More Wedding Speech Examples and Samples

Best man speech
Father of the Bride Speech
Groom wedding speech
The Toast Speech on Wedding
Traditional wedding toasts
Bride to the bridesmaids toast
Maid of honour speech
Childhood stories Speech for Wedding
Mother of the bride Speech
Parents of the groom Speech
Tell anecdotes about the groom
Thank you for supporting our dreams Speech
The newlyweds toast Speech
Wedding Speech for Best Friend
Wedding Speech for Sister
Wedding Speech for Brother
Father of the Groom Speech
Mother of the Groom Speech
Bride’s Speech
Groom’s Speech
Groomsman Speech
Wedding Toast Speech
Sibling Speech for Wedding
Friend of the Couple Speech
Grandparent Speech for Wedding
Wedding Reception Speech
Emcee Speech
Thank You for coming Speech for Wedding
Wedding Welcome Speech
Vows Speech for Wedding
Pre-Wedding Dinner Speech
Wedding Planner Speech
Religious Leader Speech for Wedding
Cultural Ceremony Speech for Wedding
Destination Wedding Speech
Elopement Announcement Speech for Wedding
Wedding After-Party Speech
Engagement Party Speech
Renewal of Vows Speech for Wedding
Civil Ceremony Speech for Wedding

Wedding Welcome

Wedding Anniversary

Sample Wedding Speech

Groom Wedding Speech Guide (PDF)

Short Wedding Speech Guidelines

How to Write a Wedding Speech

Step 1: let the crowd know you, step 2: plan in advance, step 3: give thanks to everyone, step 4: practice your speech, tips for wedding speech.

1. Know Your Audience

Gauge the Mood: Understand the overall vibe of the wedding. Is it formal or casual? Tailor your speech to fit the atmosphere.
Consider Relationships: Acknowledge both sides of the family and mutual friends. Make sure to include remarks that will resonate with everyone present.

2. Start with a Strong Opening

Introduce Yourself: Briefly introduce yourself and explain your relationship to the couple.
Grab Attention: Use a captivating opening line, a heartfelt quote, or a light-hearted joke to draw in your audience.

3. Keep It Personal and Heartfelt

Share Memories: Include personal anecdotes that highlight your relationship with the couple. Make sure they are meaningful and appropriate.
Express Emotion: Be sincere in your words. Express your genuine feelings about the couple and their union.

4. Include Humor (But Keep It Tasteful)

Lighten the Mood: Incorporate some light-hearted jokes or funny stories. Ensure that the humor is appropriate for all ages and doesn’t offend anyone.
Balance is Key: Mix humor with heartfelt moments to keep the speech engaging.

5. Focus on the Couple

Highlight Their Qualities: Talk about the bride and groom’s best qualities and how they complement each other.
Their Journey: Mention significant milestones in their relationship and how they’ve grown together.

6. Offer Good Wishes

Future Wishes: Share your hopes and dreams for their future together. This can include advice, blessings, or simply well-wishes for their new journey.

7. Practice Your Delivery

Rehearse: Practice your speech several times before the wedding. This helps you become comfortable with the content and delivery.
Timing: Aim for a speech that is between 5-7 minutes long. This keeps it concise and avoids losing the audience’s attention.

8. Stay Calm and Confident

Breathe: Take deep breaths to calm your nerves before speaking.
Pace Yourself: Speak slowly and clearly. Pause for effect and to let your words sink in.
Eye Contact: Make eye contact with the audience to engage them and appear confident.

9. End with a Toast

Raise a Glass: Conclude your speech by inviting everyone to join you in a toast.
Simple and Sincere: Keep the toast short and sincere, wishing the couple happiness, love, and a bright future together.

10. Be Yourself

Authenticity: Speak from the heart and be true to your personality. Authenticity resonates well with audiences and makes your speech memorable.

Additional Tips:

Avoid Controversial Topics: Steer clear of any potentially divisive or controversial topics.
Stay Positive: Keep the tone of your speech positive and celebratory.
Hydrate: Drink some water beforehand to keep your throat clear.
Notes: It’s okay to have notes, but try not to read directly from them. Use them as a guide to keep you on track.

Uses of Wedding Speech

Expressing Gratitude : Wedding speeches are an opportunity to thank everyone who contributed to the wedding. This includes parents, family members, friends, and even vendors. Expressing gratitude helps acknowledge their efforts and support, making them feel valued.
Sharing Stories and Memories : Speeches at weddings allow speakers to share cherished stories and memories about the couple. These anecdotes can be humorous, touching, or inspiring, adding a personal and intimate element to the celebration.
Offering Blessings and Well-Wishes : Wedding speeches often include blessings and well-wishes for the couple’s future. This tradition reinforces the communal support and love surrounding the newlyweds as they embark on their life together.
Highlighting Relationships : Through wedding speeches, speakers can highlight the relationships they have with the couple. This could be the bond between parents and their children, the friendship shared with the best man or maid of honor, or the connection with extended family members.
Providing Entertainment : Wedding speeches often incorporate humor and heartfelt sentiments, providing entertainment for the guests. A well-delivered speech can evoke laughter and tears, enhancing the emotional impact of the celebration.
Setting the Tone for the Event : The tone of wedding speeches can influence the overall atmosphere of the wedding. Speeches that are warm, loving, and sincere can create a joyful and positive environment, contributing to the success of the event.
Capturing the Essence of the Couple : Wedding speeches offer a platform to celebrate the unique qualities and journey of the couple. Speakers can reflect on the couple’s story, their strengths, and what makes their relationship special, creating a lasting tribute.
Encouraging Social Interaction : Speeches can help break the ice and encourage social interaction among guests who may not know each other well. Personal stories and shared laughter can bring people together, fostering a sense of community.
Honoring Traditions : In many cultures, wedding speeches are a significant tradition that adds to the ceremonial aspect of the wedding. Participating in this tradition honors the cultural and familial heritage, adding depth to the celebration.
Contributing to Wedding Memories : Speeches are often remembered long after the wedding day. They become part of the couple’s cherished memories, and recordings of these speeches can be revisited in the future, preserving the sentiments expressed.

What is the purpose of a wedding speech?

A wedding speech celebrates the couple, expresses love, and shares memories, adding a personal touch to the wedding ceremony.

Who traditionally gives speeches at weddings?

Traditionally, the best man, maid of honor, bride’s father, and sometimes the couple themselves give speeches.

What is the best way to practice my wedding speech?

Practice your speech by reading it aloud multiple times, recording yourself, and rehearsing in front of friends or family.

How can I make my wedding speech memorable?

Make your speech memorable by being sincere, adding humor, and including personal stories that highlight the couple’s relationship.

What topics should I avoid in a wedding speech?

Avoid controversial topics, inappropriate jokes, ex-relationships, and anything that might embarrass the couple or guests.

How do I start a wedding speech?

Start with a greeting, introduce yourself, and mention your relationship to the couple before sharing your stories and sentiments.

What should be included in a wedding speech?

Include personal anecdotes, heartfelt wishes, gratitude, and a toast to the couple in your wedding speech.

How long should a wedding speech be?

A wedding speech should typically be 5-7 minutes long to keep the audience engaged and the event on schedule.

Can I include quotes in my wedding speech?

Yes, including meaningful quotes or poems can add depth and resonance to your wedding speech.

How can I manage my nerves during a wedding speech?

Manage nerves by practicing thoroughly, taking deep breaths, and focusing on the couple and your message.

Text prompt

Instructive
Professional

How to write a heartfelt Wedding Speech for a best friend

Crafting a Wedding Speech for your sibling's special day

How to write a wedding speech: The ultimate expert tips & examples to impress

Discover top examples and templates to help you master the perfect wedding speech.

Public speaking can be a daunting prospect at any time, but especially at a wedding , when you want to ensure it sets the tone for the occasion and is remembered for all the right reasons.

Perhaps you want to nail the perfect best man's speech , share your love and pride as father of the bride, or you may even want to break tradition and give a speech as the bride or maid of honour, just as Meghan Markle did at her 2018 wedding to Prince Harry . Regardless of your role in the nuptials, there are a few key things to consider when writing your speech and rehearsing ahead of the big day – from what to include (and the stories that are better left omitted).

But fear not, with our expert tips and wedding speech templates and examples you can not only learn how to write a wedding speech, but also deliver it with confidence.

How to write a wedding speech

Start your wedding speech writing process with a brainstorming session, jotting down anything you think you should include, any particular anecdotes that spring to mind, and thinking about your relationship to the soon-to-be newlyweds.

MORE: How many people should I invite to my wedding?

It may also be helpful to consider other factors, such as who will be speaking before or after you, as you may want to reference their speech, or introduce the next speaker. Think about who will be in the audience too; weddings typically host guests of all ages and backgrounds, so inside jokes and embarrassing stories that may make close friends and younger guests laugh could fall flat with older members of the congregation.

There are some formalities you may need to cover too, including thanking certain people for planning and hosting the wedding, for attending the big day, or paying a heartfelt tribute to loved ones who are missing from the occasion.

Wedding speech template

While the style and content of your speech will be unique to you, there are a few key things you may want to include from the template below.

Introduce yourself and explain your relationship to the couple. Of course, you won't need to do this if you are one of the newlyweds.
Thank guests for attending the wedding and joining the celebrations.
Share anecdotes about the couple – perhaps you may want to share a favourite memory of them, or tell a story about the bride or groom that guests would like to hear, before relating it back to the couple now.
Wrap it up by sharing your wishes for the newlyweds and invite guests to join you in a toast.
End by thanking the audience and introducing the next speaker if needed.

READ: Who should sit on the top table at your wedding? Dos and Don'ts

Wedding speech tips

Matthew Shaw , creative director and founder of sauveur. , shares his six top wedding speech tips to help you both when writing your speech and delivering it on the big day.

1. Stick to an angle

"Speeches can sprawl quite easily when you're trying to cover so much and this makes them difficult to follow. When you first start planning your speech it's definitely helpful to throw lots of ideas around but then try to focus on an overall theme or approach. This could be a personality trait, great jokes, or a more heartfelt approach, but it will help you, and the guests, if there is a clear angle to follow. In turn, this will help your guests follow along and you will be gifted with a better response from the room," he recommends.

"When it comes to content, remember to keep it clean and universal. By all means poke fun at your subject with a glint in your eye, but consider who may be present and keep the shaming stories for another time. Similarly, you should consider what your audience can relate to too. No one wants to sit through a five minute private joke they don't understand!"

A best man giving his speech at a wedding

2. Use notes rather than a script

"As much as possible, I suggest rehearsing enough so that you know the overall structure and points off by heart and then using notes as a guide on the day. Your speech will feel much more natural for this and it will also help you look up and out across the room.

"For our weddings we often stick these into a spare order of service so they look smart and are also easier to hold and turn the page. This will also help you with your eye contact. It will help your speech feel more personal if you make eye contact around the room instead of with the floor in front of you. Whatever works for you but whatever you do, don't read off your phone!"

RELATED: Pre-wedding jitters? 12 top sleep tips to feel rested and refreshed before your nuptials

3. Keep it short and sweet!

"A tale as old as time but I really cannot stress this enough! It is very difficult to distil a friendship or relationship into a couple of minutes but you will be thanked for this, I promise. I recommend three to five minutes and no more than eight," Matthew advises. "A clear, tight, structure will help you deliver a brilliant speech and leave everyone wanting more. This is equally important on the day itself; do not go off script and meander through your thoughts. If you lose your place you can pause and refer to your notes, but do not freestyle and make it up as you go along. I have never seen a long wedding speech that has been well received."

4. Best Speech Ever (B.S.E)

"This is my acronym for putting the finishing touches on an excellent speech. Body language, speed, and energy. Once you've written your speech, the crucial next step is to rehearse it so you are comfortable with your material and delivery."

Body language:

"Make sure you rehearse in front of the mirror so you can see how you deliver the speech. Keep an eye out for any nervous ticks you may have and what your hands are doing. Ask the couple if you will be using a microphone and, if so, practice with a hairbrush. You should hold it steady, a few centimetres from your mouth. If you wave it around as you speak you'll land up sounding like a train station announcement!"

"Remember to keep it slow. We have a habit of speaking fast when nervous, which will make it hard for your audience to follow. I suggest recording yourself so you can play it back and work out how much to slow down. It's also important to allow moments for you to pause for reaction, and to take your breath or a sip of water. If helpful, write these into your notes as a reminder. Don't try and rattle off the whole speech without any breaks."

Energy:

"To avoid monotone delivery, work out the energy of each section in your speech and practice moving between different registers. This will help keep it interesting as well ensuring your audience follows along. And PRACTICE! When ready, ask a couple of trusted friends/family members to have a run through too."

MORE: 60 ultimate first dance songs

How do you start a wedding speech?

Start your wedding speech by introducing yourself and explaining your relationship to the couple. There are many ways to do this, whether you want to keep it simple and to the point or make the audience laugh with a joke.

A bride and groom at their wedding reception

How do you make a short and sweet wedding speech?

Wedding speeches are notorious for over-running and going on for hours, so it's understandable that some people would prefer to keep theirs short and sweet. As long as you include the key elements from the wedding speech templates above you should have the formula for a memorable speech that will be loved by the happy couple and their guests alike.

Wedding speech examples:

Use these wedding speech introduction examples to inspire your own, and get your speech off to a great start.

"Hello, I'm XXX and I'm so happy to welcome you all here on this beautiful day."

"Hi, my name is XXX and it's an honour to be here today as XXX's best man/ maid of honour."

"Family and friends of XXX and XXX, thank you for being here today to celebrate their marriage."

"Hi everyone, I'm (Groom's name). You probably all already know who I am, and if you don't, well done for sneaking in."

"Good afternoon everyone, my name is XXX, but you can call me 'XXX-would-you-like-a-drink'."

"Welcome to the celebration of XXX and XXX's wedding."

Planning your wedding? Sign up to HELLO!’s Bride Guide newsletter for expert advice, budget help, wedding inspiration and real life stories delivered straight to your inbox.

Sign up to HELLO Daily! for the best royal, celebrity and lifestyle coverage

By entering your details, you are agreeing to HELLO! Magazine User Data Protection Policy . You can unsubscribe at any time. For more information, please click here .

Wedding Planning
Wedding Inspiration

More Weddings

Brides-to-be will love this wedding design website where you can get free digital wedding invites

Charlotte Tilbury's new mascara delivers 9 times more volume for your most glamorous lash look yet

Carole Middleton's dramatic wedding feature comes with a warning

5 reasons to rent your wedding dress – it won't just save you thousands

I’m a control freak but I am letting AI plan my wedding

Spring weddings are set to be bigger and bolder than ever: 'Kaleidoscope of colours', 'geometric patterns' & more

How to plan an eco-friendly wedding day that is elegant and environmentally friendly

How many people should i invite to my wedding, planned your wedding on king charles' coronation how not to be outshined, victoria beckham has convinced us to have a castle wedding – here's why, does a micro wedding really cut costs how much you can actually save.

⭐ Find vendors
New Reader?
Submissions

Search Offbeat Wed (was Offbeat Bride) For:

To search, type and and press enter.

Offbeat Wed (was Offbeat Bride)

Altar your thinking: alternative wedding planning

How to write a wedding speech that KICKS BUTT

I was in the wedding party for my best guy friend's wedding, and I was asked to make a speech. Being a writer and an attention fiend, I jumped at the chance to express my love for my man of honor, and, well, I killed it . There were jokes and laughs, sappy moments, and all that lovey-dovey stuff.

alternative wedding ideas from Offbeat Wed (formerly Offbeat Bride)

Sometimes we gossip with our wedding industry vendor friends. We like to get the scoop about things they're seeing more often at weddings (ring warmings!... Read more

But what if you've been asked to make a wedding speech and you have stage fright, or are getting writer's block, or are having nightmares about the experience — you know, the one where you're standing in front of the crowd wearing no pants — and kind of want to back out?

Well, grab a drink, calm down, and read this advice on how to craft a great speech. The lessons here will help you with best man speeches and wedding toasts both!

How to structure and outline your wedding speech

Introduce yourself: “Hello, I'm Guadalupe's brother.” “Hi, I'm Morgan's best friend.” Give your fellow wedding guests some context about who you are and how you relate to the newlyweds. This is your welcome.
Tell some entertaining anecdotes about your person: “I met Morgan in college after getting locked out of my dorm room wearing nothing but a Superman cape.” “Guadalupe and I bonded over underwater basket weaving, and I saved her life during a particularly dangerous session.”
Talk about them as a couple: “Until Guadalupe came along, we all thought Morgan was going to die alone and get eaten by cats.” “When Guadalupe contracted Avian Bird Flu from her horrible ornithologist ex, we thought she'd never let herself love again. It wasn't until these two met each other by bonding over their mutual love of cats and hatred of birds that they really came alive.”
Toast: “Let's raise our glasses and call out the Morgan-Guadalupe family motto “‘All birds must die!'” This can be a nice moment to raise a glass of champagne to the hosts of the wedding too — the venue, the family members paying, etc. A little gratitude goes a long way.

What NOT to do with your wedding speech

DON'T be hammered . Trust us, your humor won't translate if you're slurring.
DON'T tell embarrassing stories . Funny stories are great, but this is a wedding reception — NOT a bachelor party roast. This is their big day! Imagine telling the story one-on-one to the mother of the bride … if you wouldn't mention the story one-on-one, leave it out of your speech.

Wedding day speech examples

Here's the speech I wrote for my best guy friend's wedding celebration…

Hi. I'm Megan, and I'm Erik's best girl friend. In fact, Erik was the Man of Honor at my wedding ceremony and he made an amazing speech. So I'm gonna try to beat him with this one… I first met Erik his freshman year of college. I was visiting a high school friend on campus and he told me, “You have GOT to meet my friend Erik. You're gonna love this guy.” He was right. I immediately LOVED Erik. But it wasn't until a year later that Erik and I became the very best of friends. Erik was going through a rough breakup at the same time as I was. We clung to each other, mostly because we were such miserable wrecks, no one else wanted to hang out with us anymore. In order to get through that rough patch we made a pact to call each other instead of calling our exes, and possibly ending up right back in terrible relationships. And, it should be obvious by the fact that we're all here today, it worked! We survived that break up together. And over a decade later, we survived many more “adventures” together. We survived more breakups, we survived college, and then graduation. We've gotten lost on the streets of San Francisco — just the two of us and an upright bass crammed into a Mini Cooper. He kicked ass at being the my man of honor. And we've even stared down the face of death together when we got held up at gun-point on his birthday. And after all those adventures, there's one thing I know about Erik — he's the Frodo to my Sam in this perilous journey through Mordor that we call life. The thing is… when you're a girl, and your best friend is a dude, you always worry about the women they date. Will they like me? Will you like them? Will our close relationship make them feel threatened? And pretty much the answers were always: No. No. And yes. Now, it's all great and well that Kimmy loves Erik, whoo hoo and all that. But that Kimmy loves ME? Holy shit, am I a lucky girl. I remember back when Erik and Kimmy first started hanging out with each other. Erik could NOT stop talking about Kimmy. “Dude, she's so hot. Dude, she's so cool. Dude, she's so funny. Do you think she'd go out with me? Do you think you could talk to her?” On and on. Until I finally did talk to her. Kimmy expressed that she did like Erik, she thought he was cute and funny and charming, but… he was just too short for her and that was that. I remember that the time thinking that it was going to be really funny when I eventually make her eat those words. How's it taste, Kimmy? Erik, you will always be the Frodo to my Sam. But if I can't be there to help you cross the fires of Mount Doom, there's no one else I'd want by your side more than Kimmy. I love the both of you. I love the both of you together. I love how the both of you love each other. And I can't wait to be there to watch and support the journey you too are going to continue to take together. So I'd ask you all to raise your glass in honor of the happy couple — two of the most wonderful adventure partners in the world. To Kimmy and Erik: Party forever!

Alternatives to giving a speech

Are you not great at public speaking, but awesome at other things? Utilize those other talents! You could easily substitute the speech all together for a heart-felt performance. For example…

My man of honor Erik, who is a professional musician, played a song for us.
Perhaps comedy is more your style. Write your speech in the form of a roast! (Just make sure the couple are ready for it.)
Are you a wiz at video editing or photography? Throw together a multi-media experience to be projected during the reception.

In essence: Let your particular talents do your talking.

Your turn! What is your best speech-writing advice? And please feel free to leave your own speeches as inspiration! We'd love examples of a groom's speech, too!

About the Author: Megan Finley Horowitz

When Megan's not writing, traveling, and sleeping, she's eating like the fate of the world depends on it. (You're welcome, world!) You can snoop into her personal life over on her website The Dash and Dine !

Meet our fave wedding vendors

5 Carat Diamond Engagement Ring by Estate Diamond Jewelry

Comments on How to write a wedding speech that KICKS BUTT

Thank you, all of our wedding speech givers (including me) wanted to give a speech but we weren’t sure how it should go. That simple speech structure is just what we needed.

great tips.i completely agree that introducing funny elements is important and also keeping the speech short. A long speech tends to be boring.

This is a great break down of what is needed for a standard speech. The examples are especially helpful. My maid of honour shouldn’t be so flustered about giving a speech anymore.

http://youtu.be/A6WuvNK8RrU My sister wrote her Maid of Honor speech in the style of Fresh Prince of Bel Air. It was a hit!

I think going with something reflective of the bride and groom, or your relationship with them, is great advice. As a maid of honor two years ago I was asked to give a speech, but knowing the bride hated being the center of attention and would have killed me if I made her cry, I wrote a limerick instead (after OK’ing with the groom that I was going to butcher his religious cultural language):

Weddings are all about love, Sent from the heavens above. So we gather today In friendship to say, Tara and Aaron, mazel…tuv.

Great article, this will help me out alot!

Comments are closed.

Tips For Introducing Speakers At A Wedding

Table of Contents:

How do you introduce a speaker at a wedding?

Place hesitant speakers early in the lineup, but have your MC introduce them, preferably with a joke or some words of support. Inform your MC of your feelings of apprehension so they can rally the crowd to welcome you with open arms. Cached.

A revised template and suggestions to ensure that the speeches go smoothly.

The correct order of speeches at a wedding is the one that fits you and your partner, your wedding style, and your chosen speechgivers. Of course, what couples really mean is, “What’s the traditional order of speeches at a wedding?” which is an easier question to answer, but we find the traditional order of speeches largely unhelpful when planning a modern wedding. Due to this, we have created a fresh, updated template for you to use, along with some suggestions on how to modify the list for your own special day.

When a couple asks us for the proper order of speeches at a wedding, they typically want the formal, customary, or traditional order of speeches at a wedding, which we have provided below. Nevertheless, it’s significant to note that this procedure is rather dated and does not take into account same-sex couples or parents, mixed-gender bridal parties, or brides or other female wedding party members who would like to speak. For those traditional couples out there, we’ve provided it here, but we highly encourage you to check out our updated version below!

When introducing guests at a wedding, how should you do it?

Traditional Bride and Groom Introductions Thank you for your time as we welcome the new Mr. and Mrs. I’d like to formally introduce Mr. and Mrs. Dot to you. Please give Charles and Carmen Carlysle your sincere applause as they are introduced for the first time as husband and wife.

Most weddings still follow the tradition of introducing the newlyweds, their bridal party, and significant family members at the reception, and it serves a very useful purpose. It serves as a formal introduction of the bride and groom as a married couple, along with the name they will use going forward.

The best introduction is the one that is personalized for the couple, whether it is conventional, contemporary, or creative. When introducing someone, inquire about and then confirm how they would like to be addressed. You can ask for a specific introduction if you and your partner are the ones looking for the ideal one. People put a lot of effort into obtaining their titles and degrees, and last names may be taken, compounded, merged, or retained. Therefore, try your best to get every detail accurate, including last names, titles, proper pronunciation, and the format in which they want to be introduced. It is very important to the couple.

Traditional introductions are popular among happy brides and grooms because they are practical and timeless. They basically use traditional language and imply that the bride is changing her name. It’s customary.

How should I introduce the speaker?

Begin by saying, “I welcome (the speaker’s name)” as the speaker enters the room. – Topic of discussion: speech title Speaker’s Name: Smile and look at the speaker while indicating with a gentle hand gesture that they should stand up. Lead the ovation.

A crucial communication skill for success in one’s career and public life is the ability to introduce speakers effectively. A keynote speaker is frequently introduced by executives, business leaders, and members of professional organizations. An introducer is expected to give an enlightening introduction to draw the audience’s attention to the speaker, the speech topic, and to acquaint them with the introducer.

An introducer must perform the procedural formality of speaker introduction before a speaker gives a speech. Speakers must be introduced before they can simply walk up to the podium and begin speaking. It is predicated on the idea that each speaker merits a considerate and beneficial introduction. An effective introduction forges a connection between the speaker and the audience and demonstrates the speaker’s authority and subject-matter knowledge, which encourages the audience to pay attention.

All introductions, though, are not created equal. When they are unprepared or uncertain of what to say, introducers might feel a little anxious and uneasy. The effectiveness of the speech and how the audience perceives the speaker can be significantly impacted by the introduction.

How do you say welcome to the audience?

Use a formal greeting, such as “Good evening, ladies and gentlemen,” to welcome the audience to a formal event. You can also use phrases like “It is my pleasure to welcome everyone to our beautiful venue tonight” when addressing the audience.

Everyone eagerly awaits the event’s opening remarks, of course. And the reason for this is that the opening speech for any event or function sets the mood for the entire event. A compelling first line and introduction can quickly grab the audience’s attention. Making a good first impression is thus crucial. and keep them engaged and enthusiastic throughout the entire event. We will examine various models of opening remarks for events in this article. There are two types of welcome speeches for events: long and short.

This kind of opening speech for an event is crucial if you want to welcome everyone and express gratitude for their contributions to the event’s success.

Good morning to all, and a warm welcome to the esteemed educators and outstanding parents. I’m incredibly happy to welcome our students to the commencement ceremony (please state the name of the occasion). I feel honored to be the one to start this event from this location, where many successful people whom I once admired and looked up to once sat.

Wedding reception welcome speech example

What happens during the speeches at a wedding?

The father of the bride, groom, best man, and other toasts are typically spoken before the wedding speech is concluded. Usually, both partners speak at same-sex weddings, but this does happen occasionally, says Marc.

The wedding speeches are typically delivered at the couple’s reception, either prior to or following dinner. A wedding’s smooth operation depends on the speeches’ delivery in the appropriate order.

If you’re looking for advice, we spoke to Marc Blakewill from All Write on the Night, who gave us a breakdown of when each speech should traditionally be, what it should include, and the best time to have your speeches during the reception. There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to the wedding speech order and who says what in wedding speeches, but if you’re looking for guidance, you can contact him at allwriteonthenight.com.

The order of the traditional wedding toasts is father of the bride, groom, best man, and other toasts. Usually, both partners speak at same-sex weddings, but this does happen occasionally, says Marc. You can choose the sequence that works best for your LGBTQ wedding. We have discussed all the various ways that same-sex couples can customize their wedding speeches.

How do you creatively introduce someone?

The person you are introducing should be identified by name. dot. 2. Tell them what you plan to do: “I want to meet with you. It’s a pleasure to welcome you. ” “Let me introduce myself. “I’d like to present.” Let me introduce you. I’d like to present This is. “My name is.”.

Using one-on-one coaching, webinars, and events, career coach Jamie Birt has five years of experience guiding job seekers through the job search process. The goal of assisting people in discovering purpose and belonging in their careers drives her.

Everyone can benefit from learning how to introduce themselves properly because it’s a crucial social and professional skill. You can feel more assured when it’s your turn to introduce someone, whether you’re introducing two or more people to each other, introducing a new idea or concept in a meeting, or simply introducing yourself to others. In this article, we go over some advice and examples for creating and delivering a strong introduction.

Introducing yourself to someone or two or more people you know who don’t know each other is a polite way to start a conversation and build a connection. In an introduction, you describe the person you are introducing and what the people you are introducing them to need to know about them.

How do you formally welcome guests at a wedding?

Here are some key phrases to keep in mind: “Thank you for coming. We are delighted that you could attend. ‘Enjoy the party,’ he said. circulate as soon as possible. The ideal time to introduce yourself to the aunts, uncles, and distant cousins you never see is during cocktail hour.

The new book, Stuff Every Groom Should Know by Eric San Juan, addresses the wedding (and marriage) from a male’s point of view, offering crucial advice for soon-to-be grooms. Here, he talks about how to socialize with each of your guests on the big day.

This task will be simple if you are naturally inclined toward politics. The bad news is that a sizeable portion of your wedding day will be spent chit-chatting with people you won’t see for at least another ten years if you weren’t born to press the flesh. It’s inevitable because you make up half of the show’s star. Here are some survival tips.

1. Some couples greet guests personally as they walk through a greeting line as they enter the reception hall. Do this — it’s the perfect way to get all your hellos and thank-yous over with in one fell swoop.

How does the MC at a wedding begin a speech?

Welcome to (name) and (name)’s wedding dinner. I’m (the emcee’s name), and I’m honored to be your emcee for this evening. I want to express my gratitude to each and every one of you on behalf of the couple and their parents for coming to share in this happy occasion as we celebrate the union of (name) and (name).”.

Your wedding will run smoothly and with the proper mood and tone thanks to a master of ceremonies or wedding emcee. A good emcee balances the formalities, introduces each segment of the wedding, and injects humor with relatable jokes and stories in between. For their wedding, some couples might decide to hire a qualified and skilled emcee. A close relative or relative may be chosen to act in place of one, though.

Remember to get in touch with Just Married Films for your wedding photography and articlegraphy needs on your big day.

It may be stressful to be given such responsibilities, but with the help of this guide, you’ll be able to ace your role and give the couple and all of the guests a memorable evening if you’re asked to be the couple’s wedding emcee.

How do you begin a speech by a guest speaker?

1) Thank the hosts and the audience. For more ideas, see 15 Ways to Begin a Speech.dot. 2) Make a positive statement to start. dot. 3. Thank the audience. dot. 4) Mention Recent Events at the Outset of Your Speech. dot. 5) Make a historical allusion. dot. 6) Mention a well-known individual. dot. 7) Make Reference to a Recent Conversation. dot. 8: Say Something Startling.

As the saying goes, “First impressions are everything; you never get a second chance to make a good one.”.

Concerning how to begin a speech, the same is valid.

The fact is that when you begin speaking, you must put all of your attention into impressing your audience members (especially if you are giving the presentation virtually). Let’s be careful to get this right to really hook the audience because the introduction is essentially the formal greeting for speeches.

What expressions are used in welcome speeches?

We are genuinely happy to have you here with us today. A warm welcome. With the aspirations, hopes, and dreams we all share, we are pleased to welcome you this morning. “Welcoming reception.” It gives us great pleasure to extend the warmest welcome possible. pleasant greeting. ” Hello guests! Please take a look around you. gratefully received.

The challenge of a welcome speech is to come up with alternative ways to convey your sincerity without using a string of meaningless, repetitive, and undifferentiated “same-old, same-old” words and phrases to welcome your guests.

There is also a further query regarding that. Your language choices will depend on whether the event is formal or informal.

What is the original way to introduce a speaker?

In your introduction speech, remind the audience why they find the subject important.Identify the speaker’s credentials to speak on the subject. Establish an upbeat tone to start the presentation off on the right foot. Make the speaker feel especially welcomed.

In order to make sure you know how to pronounce the guest speaker’s name and to let them know you’ll be introducing them, you should make it a point to introduce yourself to them first thing in the morning. You have the option to sit with the speaker at the head table if you’d like to get to know them a little better. Making notes is always a good idea when giving an introductory speech.

1. Remind the crowd of the significance of the subject to them.

2. Determine the speaker’s expertise in the area of discussion.

What’s the most effective way to introduce a speaker?

In your introduction speech, remind the audience why they find the subject important.Identify the speaker’s credentials to speak on the subject. Set a positive tone for the presentation to start off strong. Be extra welcoming to the speaker.

In order to make sure you know how to pronounce the guest speaker’s name and to let them know you’ll be introducing them, you should make it a point to introduce yourself to them first thing in the morning. To give you a chance to get to know the speaker a little better, you are welcome to sit with them at the head table. Never attempt to deliver an introduction speech entirely from memory; always take notes.

1. Describe why the subject is significant to the audience.

How should a speech by a guest speaker be introduced?

In your introduction, remind the audience why the subject is important to them.Determine the speaker’s credentials to speak on the subject. Establish an upbeat tone to start the presentation off on the right foot. Make the speaker feel especially welcomed.

If you’re supposed to introduce the guest speaker, you should make a point of introducing yourself to them first thing in the morning to make sure you know how to pronounce their name and to let them know you’ll be doing the honors. To give you a chance to get to know the speaker a little better, you are welcome to sit with them at the head table. Making notes is always a good idea when giving an introductory speech.

1. Remind the audience of the significance of the subject to them.

2. The speaker’s credentials to speak on the subject should be established.

What is the most effective way to introduce a speaker panel?

Following are some recommendations if you must introduce the panelists: Keep It Short. Just because the panelist sent you their long bio, or “cv” or resume, doesn’t mean you have to read it all. dot. Find out their names. dot. Bring Interest to It. Be on the lookout for bias. Maintain consistency. dot Recall it. dot. Establish a visual.

Let’s be clear: I’m not a big fan of panel introductions at all, even though there is a lot of disagreement among moderators regarding who should introduce the panelists. (And I should know; I have that “string of letters” behind my name.) Presumably, the biographies are already available (either in the program or the meeting app), 99 percent of the attendees already know the panelists, and/or nobody really cares about the credentials anyway. No. One. Cares. ).

The following advice will help you if you have to introduce the panelists.

Conclusion: In order to encourage attendees to listen and participate in the panel discussions, introductions should be succinct, educational, professional, and warm, with a similar length and style.

Tips For Introducing Speakers At A Wedding

What To Say When Introducing Divorced Parents At A Wedding Reception
How Much Does It Cost To Rent Speakers For A Wedding?
A Guide On How To Setup Dj Speakers Placement At Your Next Wedding Event, Dance Floor Qd003
How To Have A Wedding Ceremony Sound System With Battery Powered Speakers And Wireless Microphone.
Wedding Photography Tips: How Not To Suck (23 Tips)
How To Give A Great Wedding Speech Or Toast Speech Delivery Tips, How To Memorise A Speech, Tips Fo

How To Make Marriage With My Boyfriend A Reality

How To Annul A Marriage In Arkansas

In A Wedding, How Many Entourages Are There?

How I Became A Successful Event Decorator

How A Marriage Is Impacted By An Age Difference

What A Beginning Wedding Photographer Should Charge

Add comment, cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Latest publications

Wedding Ceremony Decorations : How To Decorate A Gazebo For A Wedding

Online Locations Where I Can View My Marriage Certificate

How To Style A Maxi Dress For A Wedding

How To Organize A Fun Wedding

Latest comments.

christina on I Completely Broke And Destroyed My Marriage And Don’T Know How To Fix The Damage
Jenna Francis on A Little History Of Weddings, Why I Didn’T Have One
TheMikZino on A Little History Of Weddings, Why I Didn’T Have One
Hownottoadult 101 on A Little History Of Weddings, Why I Didn’T Have One
Tamara Van Voorst on A Little History Of Weddings, Why I Didn’T Have One

Random post

Where Can I Purchase A Garter For My Wedding?

If it's about live entertainment, events, or my life as a professional MC, then it's here in my blog!

Write An Unforgettable Wedding Speech In 5 Simple Steps

Weddings are a beautiful event that brings people together in glorious celebration. But you already knew that. You’re here because you have been asked by the bride/groom (or perhaps someone else) to give a speech for a wedding. The one thing that a whopping 73% fear ! Yikes!

So where to begin? Any good wedding speech starts with calm research and reflection – do you think Winston Churchill, Martin Luther King, or Rocky Balboa wrote their speeches in a flurry of panic? (Ok, so maybe not the last one, still inspiring, though, have to admit!)

Start by spending some time reflecting on your relationship with the bride and groom. They wouldn’t have asked you to make a speech on their special day if you weren’t important to them or had NO notable experiences with them. Also, use this time to think about their special qualities and how they have impacted your life – it’s not all about them 😉

A quick note: It is quite common for people to assume you must give humorous wedding speeches for it to make an impact and be considered “good.” This is a common trap I witness all too often and it is as cringy as it feels just thinking back to the time you saw the “funny” uncle at that wedding 5 years ago make a speech you all still talk about – for all the wrong reasons.

If funny is your forté, go for it! Don’t force the comedy, simply let your pen and mind write as you would speaking to a friend.

The same goes if “funny” is the last thing people would describe you as. It’s really as simple as that! (No, I’m not being deliberately reductive. Think of any time you tried WAY too hard at anything – how many times did you ACTUALLY succeed the way you wanted to?)

With that in mind, let’s now break down this scary task of writing a “Bring Down the House” worthy wedding speech (may it be a tear-jerker, heart-warmer, or a side-splitter) in 5 simple steps.

1. Introduce yourself to the crowd

You will not believe how easy it is to forget this but it is the cornerstone of ANY speech made in public, let alone at a wedding. Why? Because not everyone knows who you are, that’s why! Even if the MC has made a formal introduction, making one yourself is a great way to start and the first thing you should write on your dauntingly blank piece of paper or Microsoft Word screen.

What this also does is set up the overall feel of your speech. In other words, it prepares your family and friends for what they’re about to experience and hear from you.

If you’re searching for wedding short speech examples, here are a couple of examples to get your creative juices flowing:

(Reverant/Heartfelt) – On behalf of both [Groom/Bride] and myself, I’d like to thank you all for coming here today to celebrate this momentous occasion. It’s a great pleasure to be with you all tonight. Tonight we celebrate [Bride/Groom]’s big day. I feel really privileged to be part of it.
(Funny) – “Hi everyone! I’d like to thank (Groom) for making me his best man. Sit back, relax, I’m now going to share some embarrassing details about them. Is that ok? (Pause) Ok then, let’s get started!”
(Light-Hearted/Casual ) – “Thank you all for coming out to help celebrate the wedding of George and Stella, it’s so great to see you all here dressed so well and in support of them on their special day.”
(Formal) – “Ladies and Gentlemen, dearly beloved friends of the wedding couple and family, over the years many of you have been involved in their lives and this most special of occasions is one more chance for us to get together, for them to celebrate their love, and for us to do a bit of reminiscing about old times.”

No matter which style you go with STICK WITH IT. That doesn’t mean you can’t incorporate humour into a wedding speech you opted to begin formally, for example. But it’s important not to mix speech styles too much throughout, otherwise it will come across as sloppy, inconsistent, and hard to follow.

2. Start with a story

Everyone LOVES a good story, better yet if that story is funny or reveals something either shocking or heartfelt about someone. Plus, it’s a fantastic time-filler for your wedding speech and is where the “meat” of your speech is.

Take a moment to brainstorm on a piece of paper any and all story ideas that you can come up with. Doesn’t matter what, the first thing that comes to mind, write it down. You never know which one will spark inspiration.

I recommend no more than 1-3 stories at most, and if you are going to opt for 3 make sure they are all relatively short and punchy. Remember: quality, not quantity, is essential.

And remember the most important parts of ANY good story worth telling – a clear beginning, middle, and end with some moment of intrigue, complication, and resolution at the end. Follow that method, any story you tell will be great!

3. Make a personal reflection of the couple’s relationship

Before you begin to wrap up your epic wedding speech, remember that this day is all about the man and woman of honour. You wouldn’t be standing there having to make that speech if it weren’t for them, after all! While you might be tempted to say something along the lines of “Well, thanks for making me do this fear-inducing speech today that took me hours to write and countless bouts of agony and anxiety!” I recommend something a lot more heartfelt and personal about how you feel about them.

This is actually the EASIEST part of the whole speech. Why? Because you obviously are important enough to them and have known them long and well enough to make a genuine comment or two on them as a couple!

Here are some examples, in case you’re still stuck or need some inspiration:

“Mark and Sarah, you are a beautiful couple who have been through so much and I am so proud of what you have achieved so far. I wish you both the very best in life together and all the love and happiness this new life and the world has to offer.”
“I am so proud of you two, in awe of the beauty and strength that you are both. This has been a long road, but your end result is worth it. A beautiful relationship is always built on hard work and perseverance and you both have demonstrated that time and time again.”
“The words of wisdom I have for you today are simply this: live fully, love completely, and always remember she is right. Every time!”

4. Keep the speech short and sweet

When delivering a wedding speech, it is always best to keep the speech short and sweet. A long, drawn-out speech can cause boredom and will likely result in less applause for you at the end (which never feels good, obviously). A short wedding speech is key, but not too short! The best wedding speeches are generally less than five minutes long. Seriously.

Anything longer (aside from inducing boredom and distraction in your audience) and you can have an adverse impact on the overall running of the evening. You must remember there are a LOT of other major parts of what is a chaotic (and expensive) public event and going significantly over time will place strain on the evening’s timeline.

(Cue visible sweat from all the vendors, the MC, and perhaps the bride and groom who are keen to make sure everything runs on time for a wedding they spent MONTHS planning just to have your looooooong and pointless story about the time you and the groom went fishing spoil it.)

Anything shorter , alternatively, and you risk simply not making the most of the task you have been asked to make it count. Whether or not YOU feel being asked to make a wedding speech is a big deal, THEY certainly feel it is important enough.

5 minutes goes a LOT quicker than you might imagine when making a speech, so don’t sweat the clock or make it seem you can’t wait for the speech to be over so you can resume drinking or literally anything else.

Give the moment what it deserves and the bride and groom will be VERY grateful (and you will feel good, too, which is always nice!).

5. Finish with a CLEAR ending

Now for the big finish – the ending. I will note here that if you ABSOLUTELY CANNOT think of anything else except “Thank you” then that’s acceptable. It’s not mind-blowing but it definitely lets everyone know you are done.

If, however, you are still here reading this hoping for WAY better than simply “Thank you” then never fear, I’m here to help! 😉

Finishing a wedding speech successfully can often be just as hard, perhaps even harder, than opening one. People typically only remember long-term two things out of any experience – the beginning and the end. (There is actually a technical term for this. It’s known as the ‘ Serial Position Effect .’)

You could go casual and humourous:

“Well, there you have it, folks! The hardest part of the speech is now behind me. I was tempted to end with a witty joke or something really funny to get everyone laughing, but then I realized that wasn’t why I was up here in the first place. It’s about Mark and Sarah’s love. Congratulations and cheers!

Or perhaps slightly more formally:

“ Ladies and gentlemen, may you join me in a toast as we celebrate Mark and Sarah’s union. Thank you for asking me to be your Maid of Honour, I can’t wait to see what the rest of your life together has in store!”

Ultimately, as long as it feels like it’s finished when you read it out loud then you’re on the right track! Speaking of reading out loud…

Practice makes perfect!

Now your wedding speech is finally complete, don’t let all of that hard work go to waste by committing the cardinal sin of speech-making: not practising! You’ll be surprised how many mistakes you’ll pick up simply by speaking it out loud in front of the mirror or in front of a friend/family member (if you’re feeling braver!). Plus, if you’re especially nervous about making the speech in front of SO many people I promise that practice ahead of time does absolute WONDERS for confidence. Trust me on this!

(And just so you know, that whole “imagine your audience naked” thing? Doesn’t work and it’s never nice ergh…)

Good luck! You’ll do great!

Making a great wedding speech is never easy, but with a bit of time spent preparing and following the steps above you’re well on your way to bringing the house down on the wedding day – might it be in a flurry of laughter or tears, you decide!

Have a tip that worked for you when writing your own speech? Know of a great example on the web or for your own wedding, perhaps? Feel free to comment below and let me know!

Or perhaps you need help with a speech you’re writing right now? Let me know below, happy to give some advice! Like/share and thanks for reading!

Like what you see? Nathan specialises in the ultimate Wedding MC experience that you and your guests will never forget.

Contact Nathan today to get started!

Owner/Live Event Extraordinaire

Nathan Cassar, Master of Ceremonies

Based in Sydney, Nathan Cassar Master of Ceremonies has for over 10 years (and counting) proudly done what he is most passionate about – creating 1000s of lasting memories through the power of live entertainment and a flair for the extraordinary. Weddings, corporate, festivals, gala evenings, award nights, charity events – no matter the event, Nathan specialises in delivering award-winning. dynamic, and one-of-a-kind live event experiences that always leave a lasting impression and go beyond all expectations.

This will be a very short (wedding) speech with my wife and I congratulating the then married couple being our 44 year old son and his 27 year old bride. What initially struck us is Maddy’s great spontaneous sense of humor and high intelligence level. She is a natural mixer and is very passionate about her job. We met her parents at Ulmarra NSW which is on the Clarence river just north of Grafton. It was a lovely time and the conversation flowed without difficulty.

We are extremely nervous about the wedding and are having difficulty phrasing the 5 minute speech.

Can you help?

Hey Colin and Bev,

Congratulations on the upcoming wedding! I would be more than happy to help 🙂 Please send me an email directly and we can set up a time to talk and go from there. Looking forward to it!

How to Write a Great Wedding MC Introduction Speech

Writing A Great Wedding MC Introduction Speech

If someone has asked you to be the Wedding MC at their reception, then you may be feeling a little nervous about the role. Even the most confident person may find themselves at a loss when standing in front of a room full of strangers, or even worse – your close friends and family.

If you’re not sure of what to do, we’ve broken down the basic components of being a wedding MC and preparing your introduction at the reception. Keep in mind that you may have to adjust this list slightly depending on the couple’s wishes but these are the primary parts that will be included.

Prepare for The Big Entry

The wedding MC’s duties typically begin after the guests are seated and after the cocktail hour, if this has been included on the run sheet. You’ll want to first make sure that the bridal party and the couple are ready to enter the reception area.

Have them stand up and line up in the order of entry and double check your list to make sure that you have each person’s name correct and you know how to pronounce them. Use notecards and write down pronunciations if needed.

The couples will typically dance into the reception and continue dancing (preferably on the dance floor) until the newlyweds have been introduced to a standing ovation, entered, and taken their seat at the head table. So let the wedding party this is going to happen before you announce them.

How To Write A Great Wedding MC Intro Speech

Venue: Thirroul SLSC Photo: BCSIMAGING

Introduce the Newlyweds into the Reception with a Wedding MC Introduction Speech

Let the DJ know that it’s time to go and step up to the plate! Ask for everyone’s attention then ask them to start cheering for each couple. Name each couple separately and space out the names to allow them to enter the room.

The end of the bridal party should be the best man and the maid of honour. Finally, introduce the happy couple and allow them plenty of time to walk into the room as the applause at this part should likely be the loudest. The wedding party will then make their way to their chairs and allow them to settle before you start your introduction speech.

Give the Wedding MC Introduction Speech

Although speeches are going to vary from person to person, you’ll have some of the same components for every speech. Start by thanking everyone for being present. Have the couple kiss and allow for cheering.

Wedding MC Introduction Speech and Housekeeping

After you’ve put the attention on the stars of the event, introduce yourself and state how you know the couple. Welcome people to the event and then take care of a few housekeeping items. This may not be intuitive for everyone so it’s a good idea to point out the bathrooms, exits, and any safety information. There may also be requirements by the venue so point these out as needed.

Reception MC Shoutouts

You can then give a shout out for any notable people who are attending but aren’t a part of the wedding party. This list of people should be included by the couple before the wedding. They usually include the grandparents, parents, siblings, and sometimes special friend groups who may be seated at different tables. Don’t spend too much time but make sure that they are pointed out as being special to the day.

Brief Relationship Recap

Finally, you’ll give a short recap of the couple’s events that have led everyone there tonight. This can be a brief overview of how they met and what their romance blossomed until they decided to make the decision to marry. Don’t spend too long on this as it can drag out the evening. Maybe 3 key moments, that’s it!

Introduce The First Speaker

Thank everyone once again and then introduce the first speaker. For the speakers, you should have a list of people who are going to be giving speeches and their order as well. Some people may want to give impromptu speeches.

Be prepared for this and only allow those designated people to actually have the microphone, unless the couple have approved it. Try and break up the speeches throughout the night so people can chat, drink and eat in between.

How To Write Great Wedding MC Introduction Speech

Venue: Grounds of Alexandria Photo: Samantha Heather

How To MC a Wedding

If you’re still nervous about being the Master of Ceremonies at a Wedding then you may want to check out our simple online course on How to be an Amazing Wedding MC. At Marry Us Gary, we offer a fantastic wedding MC course so visit https://marryusgary.com/mc-course to find out more.

Wether you are a one time MC for a friends wedding or you are in the wedding business looking to up skill, this Online MC Course is for you. This can be a fun and creative way to take on part-time or even full-time work so consider signing up for this fun and informative course.

WEDDING MC SPEECH

How to give a wedding speech.

How to Perform the Wedding MC Speech at a Reception
What NOT to Do as the Wedding Master of Ceremonies
How to Perform the First Dance Introduction as MC
How to Perform the Wedding Guard of Honour as MC
Microphone Tips For Officiants and Celebrants
Wedding Words Explained For Officiants and MCs
How to Perform a Wedding Rehearsal as Officiant

How To Be The Best Emcee at a Wedding

What Does a Wedding MC Do?

Terms and Conditions - Privacy Policy

Bridal Shower
Bachelor & Bachelorette Parties
Engagement Party
Rehearsal Dinner
Wedding Checklists
Wedding Hairstyle Ideas
Wedding Vows Readings
Wedding Music

In This Article

How To Prepare Wedding Officiant Speeches?

Best wedding officiant speeches, inspirational quotes and verses.

Wedding Ceremony Speeches Dos And Don’ts
Wedding Party & Reception

Wedding Officiant Speeches Ideas + Free Templates

aliceshootspeople via Instagram

Wedding officiant speeches could be a bit tough to put together, especially if the officiant is green at the ears. This poses the issue of anxiety, trying to over-impress, or flopping totally.

Well, there is no one size fits all wedding minister speeches, because you tailor your speech according to wedding style. The kind of relationship you have with the couple also matters in the structure of your speech.

Quick Navigation

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the officiant introduce themselves.

The wedding officiant does not necessarily have to introduce themselves as everyone would know who they are and why they are there. They could start with a few lines such as: ‘Welcome everyone and thank you for being here to witness the union of (bride) and (bride).’

How does the officiant introduce wedding vows?

There is no official line for introducing the wedding vows, but a generic and one goes like this: ‘We have come to the point of your ceremony where you’re going to say your vows to one another. But before you do that, I ask you to remember that love, which is rooted in faith, trust, and acceptance, will be the foundation of an abiding and deepening relationship.’

wedding officiant speeches arch ceremony bride groom

phuket_wedding_planner via Instagram

If you’re officiating wedding speeches, you must discuss with the couple on what types of wedding ceremony they desire. Know their ideas, length, tone, style, and order of ceremony.
Start of ceremony Begin your wedding minister’s speeches by welcoming the guests and passing on important information. Let them know if phones, pictures, or videos are prohibited.
The processional Let the audience know it’s time for the couple to come in. “All guests stand as you see fit.” After the processional, ask them to sit. At this point, some officiants ask “who gives out the other.”
The officiant’s speech Wedding ceremony speeches by officiants begin with a love story about the couple. You may also read a funny poem that makes meaning to the couple. Talk about love, commitment, and faithfulness.
Rings exchange Say lines on commitment and ask them to repeat after you. For instance… “I honor you with this ring as a sign of my love…”
Signing and pronouncements You’ll tell the guests what’s about to happen. After the couple signs, you’ll pronounce them as a couple.
Close remarks Tell the guests what’s next. If there will be a photo session, reception, or get-together. Then thank them for coming.

wedding officiant speeches arch ceremony bride groom beach

kandkphoto via Instagram

Traditional Wedding Officiant Speech Sample

Traditional officiant wedding ceremony speeches follow the age-long template and procedure. Although things are changing, there are parts of the structure that remains untouched. And many other speech styles have adopted parts of the template. Traditional speeches by officiant have depth and are particular about love, commitment, and faithfulness.

OPENING WORDS Friends, _____ and _____ have invited us here today, in the presence of God, to share in the celebration of their marriage. We who gather here today are separated by the many different experiences that we have had. Despite these differences, we gather here today in this place because we share something in common. We share a desire to affirm and support the relationship of _____ and _____. Marriage is an act of will. It requires a commitment to care for another person. By caring we show concern for the life and growth of those whom we love. Marriage requires a commitment to take responsibility for another person. By responding we experience the needs of that other person and try to help meet those needs. Today, guided by God’s love and wisdom, we affirm and celebrate _____ and _____ wedding day. [READINGS] THE QUESTION OF INTENT Before God, your friends, and your families, I ask you to affirm your willingness to enter the covenant of marriage and to share all the joys and sorrows of your lives and your relationship, whatever the future may hold. _____, do you take this woman to be your wife? Do you promise to love her, comfort her, honor and keep her, in sickness and in health as long as you both shall live? Groom: I do _____, do you take this man to be your husband? Do you promise to love him, comfort him, honor and keep him, in sickness and in health as long as you both shall live? Bride: I do Repeat after me. I take you, _____, this day as my wife/husband. I promise to walk by your side forever as your best friend and your soul mate. You are my beloved one and I am proud to marry you. I promise to support your dreams and to be there for you all our lives. EXCHANGE OF RINGS From the earliest times, the circle has been a symbol of completeness, a symbol of committed love. An unbroken and never-ending circle symbolizes a commitment of love that is also never-ending. This ring should be a reminder of the commitment to love each other that you have made today. Repeat after me. I, _____, give you _____, this ring as a symbol of my commitment to love, honor, and respect you. [THE UNITY CANDLE CEREMONY] BLESSING _____ and _____, you have now affirmed your love for each other before your family and friends. You have come from different background, have walked different paths. You are different individuals. Your love has transcended these differences. In the years before you may the richness of the traditions that have nurtured you enhance and brighten your lives as you help to create and shape the future. CLOSING WORDS May God bless you and keep you. _____ and _____, by the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. Groom, you may kiss the bride. PRESENTATION OF THE NEW COUPLE It is my pleasure to present to you _____ and _____ as husband and wife.

Wedding Officiant Speech For A Friend’s Wedding

If you’re officiating a friend’s wedding, then you’ll have a relaxed environment. Your tone should be playful and even comedic. Get creative by lacing your speech with fun stories of your years together. But you must study and understand your audience so you don’t come across as crass and unappealing.

INTRODUCTION Welcome everyone! On this beautiful day, _______ and _______ have brought us together to celebrate their love and union in matrimony. Thank you all for joining us and being a part of their love story. After years of nurturing a beautiful, strong relationship, it’s great to see these two taking the next step towards building a family. I remember the day _______ told me about their first date. There was a light in her eyes that I’d never seen before. She was excited and nervous. She worried that ______ didn’t feel the same connection she felt. It warms my heart to see the way _______ looks at _______. He looks at her as if she’s the last and only woman on Earth, and to him, I know she is. I’ve seen these two be there for each other through life’s unexpected twists and turns, only growing closer and stronger from each setback. I’ve seen them share laughs, exchange inside jokes and most shocking of all, I’ve seen _______ share his dinner with _______, which is when I knew this was serious. Marriage isn’t easy but I trust these two. I have trust in their love, their friendship, and their commitment to one another. With that, I think it’s time to let them speak on their love. DECLARATION OF VOWS AND COMMITMENT _______ and ______, have you come here today of your own free will to declare your commitment to one another? We have. Do you promise to be there for each other in the good and the bad? To grow with, understand and respect one another during your life together? We do. Then please face each other and share your vows. [EXCHANGE OF VOWS] [EXCHANGE OF RINGS] Let these rings represent your eternal love and the promises you have made here today. Let them be a symbol of your unbreakable bond and this new beginning of your life together with no end in sight. ______, take _____’s ring and place it on her finger and repeat after me: With this ring, I promise to love and cherish you to the end of my days. ______, take _____’s ring and place it on his finger and repeat after me: With this ring, I promise to love and cherish you to the end of my days. Your love has now been strengthened by the promises you have made here today and the rings you have exchanged. PRONOUNCEMENT ______ and ______, we have heard the sincerity in your promise to share your lives in marriage. We recognize your love and support your decision to build a home together. By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. _______, you may kiss your bride! Everyone, give it up for Mr. and Mrs _______.

Funny Wedding Minister Speech

A funny ceremony speech has humor-laced all over the script by officiants. The officiant uses humor to relay life facts. Humor gets easier if you have a personal relationship with the couple. But if you aren’t close and you’re not sure about how much to say, keep it light.

Welcome to all of you. Thank you for being here today. We are glad you could make it and hope you enjoy the day. We’d like to take a moment to also remember the people who can’t be here today. We are sure they are with us today in spirit. Marriage is so many things and we’ve created this ceremony to express many aspects of marriage. And the best the advice can come from the most interesting places. “Gravitation cannot be held responsible for people falling in love. How on earth can you explain in terms of chemistry and physics so important a biological phenomenon as first love? Put your hand on a stove for a minute and it seems like an hour. Sit with that special girl (or in the case of the reason we gather today, special boy or girl) for an hour and it seems like a minute. That’s relativity.” On cold winter nights, love is warm. It lies between you and lives and breaths and makes funny noises. Love wakes you up all hours of the night with its needs. It needs to be fed so it will grow and stay healthy. Love doesn’t like being left alone for long. But come home and love is always happy to see you. It may break a few things accidentally in its passion for life, but you can never be mad at love for long. Is love good all the time? No! No! Love can be bad. Bad, love, bad! Very bad love. Love makes messes. It leaves you little surprises here and there. Love needs lots of cleaning up after. But love makes you meet people wherever you go. People who have nothing in common but love stop and talk to each other on the street. Throw things away and love will bring them back, again, and again, and again. But most of all, love needs love, lots of it. And in return, love loves you and never stops. And now, for the wedding vows. Are you ready? Are you sure? Do you _____, solemnly swear that you will support and defend the institution of marriage against all enemies, foreign and domestic; Do you promise to honor and love _____ in sickness and in health, in good times and bad times, Do you promise to cherish her as your most beloved according to the regulations and the uniform code of love justice, so help you God? Yes, I do. Do you _____, solemnly swear that you will support and defend the institution of marriage against all enemies, foreign and domestic; Do you promise to honor and love _____ in sickness and in health, in good times and bad times, Do you promise to cherish her as your most beloved according to the regulations and the uniform code of love justice, so help you God? Yes, I do. EXCHANGE OF RINGS The wedding ring is an unbroken circle, which symbolizes unending and everlasting love. It is a visible symbol that represents your inner commitment to one another. Because these circles are designed without an ending they speak of eternity. May the incorruptible substance of these rings represent a love glowing with increasing luster through the years. May these rings which you give to each other be a sign of your love, trust, and faithfulness. Repeat after me: _____, I give you this ring as a sign of my lifelong devotion. Wear it and know that I love you. _____, I give you this ring as a sign of my lifelong devotion. Wear it and know that I love you. May your home be filled with laughter and the warm embrace of a summer day. And may you find peacefulness and beauty, challenge, and satisfaction, humor and insight, healing and renewal, love and wisdom, as in a quiet heart. May you always feel that what you have is enough. I now pronounce you Husband and Wife! You may kiss the bride!!!

Same-sex Wedding officiant Script template and Speech

martailardo_photos via Instagram

Even as an officiant, it might not always be easy to give great wedding officiant speeches. This template can serve as a guide to writing speeches for wedding officiants, for any type of wedding.

Make the research – You could start by doing your homework. Go on the internet, and check places such as Google, Pinterest, Instagram, or Youtube for wedding officiant speech samples for same-sex weddings. You could streamline your search to find only funny speeches or more regular speeches and get unique ideas to work with.
Start writing the draft – The beginning is always the hard part, so don’t procrastinate writing your officiant speech for a wedding ceremony. Even if you feel like you haven’t researched enough, just start. You can always edit your draft as you go along or write another one.
To write awesome wedding speeches for an officiant for a same-sex wedding , you have to keep an open mind. A lot of the material you will find online would be for CIS heterosexual couples, so always keep your couple in mind and edit your speech where necessary. Create that speech that is uniquely theirs.

Same-Sex Wedding Ceremony Speech Template

wedding officiant speeches same sex brides

lucy_till_french_weddings via Instagram

This can be considered an official guide or template for wedding officiant ceremonies and speeches for same-sex weddings. Following each step, you wouldn’t need to worry about getting your speech done anymore.

Welcome Everyone No matter the type of wedding, whether you’re making a Persian wedding officiant speech or non-denominational, you’ll begin by welcoming all the guests and thanking them for their support to witness the couple get married and celebrate with them. Lots of them might have canceled schedules or traveled far to be there, so it would be nice to appreciate them.
Talk About Marriage The body of officiant wedding speeches usually includes some lines about marriage. Since it’s the topic of the day, you could talk about it in general, reminding the couple why they are there and the seriousness of their commitment. You could also give them some advice on the ups and downs of marriage, the sweet and the bitter, the highs and the lows. Also, how the love that they share is what will get them through anything that life throws their way.
Share a Personal Story (If you have one and time permits) Some of the best wedding officiant speeches come with a story. Stories are often the best way to pass a message across because it helps you to connect with people. It also helps them remember the message. So, if you have any stories about marriage to share, this would be the perfect place to share them. As the officiant, you might have a personal bond with the brides or grooms. Sharing your stories would be meaningful to them, and you could choose to share a sentimental and loving story or even an embarrassing one that could crack them up. You could also share an experience that you’ve had with the couple. A most loving or affectionate one that lets you know that they can weather any storm together. After this, you can continue with the vows.
In Closing Wedding speeches for the officiant at same-sex weddings are usually not very different from those of CIS heterosexual couples. You can only make your wedding ceremony officiant speech unique by factoring in the specific couple when writing your speech. If their experiences and your experiences with them are present in the speech, then it should be perfect.

Every couple is unique so wedding officiant speeches should be crafted to fit each couple, same-sex, CIS gender, heterosexual or other. With these tips, you can hone your craft and write the best wedding officiant speeches ever.

wedding officiant speeches quotes aliceshootspeople

Selecting Appropriate Quotes: When choosing quotes for your wedding officiant speech, consider ones that reflect love, unity, and the couple’s journey. For instance, a quote like “Love is not about how many days, months, or years you have been together. Love is about how much you love each other daily.” – Unknown, can emphasize the enduring nature of their love.
Incorporating Religious Verses or Texts: If the couple has a religious background, incorporate meaningful verses or texts from their faith. For example, you might use Corinthians 13:4-7 from the Bible, which speaks about love’s qualities: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud…”
Non-religious Inspirational Quotes: Opt for non-religious inspirational quotes for secular ceremonies. A quote like “The best thing to hold onto in life is each other.” – Audrey Hepburn, beautifully conveys the idea of cherishing the relationship and finding strength in each other.

Wedding Ceremony Speeches Dos And Don’ts

nicholsphoto via Instagram

Do get creative with your speech by blending in a sweet short story of the couple. If you’ve been a part of their lives for a long time, then you’re in the best position to make it rain. Talk about everything that’s okay for public ears. Tell their love story.
Don’t veer off-topic or get over-excited that you start to sound boring. Stay on point and if you don’t have so much to say, keep it short. We advise that you have discreet cue cards that you can refer to. It helps keep you in check.
Do keep humor light especially if you’re not close to the family. You don’t want to end up looking like a clown because your joke fell flat. Humor is a great icebreaker for weddings. But when you’re not sure about what to expect, keep it light. Don’t go overboard.
Don’t forget to practice your speech until you can recite it naturally and off the heart. Also, spend some time learning the names you’d be pronouncing. You want to call these names right so you don’t end up pissing off guests.
Do give a copy of the speech to the couple for keep.

Wedding officiant speeches can be very interesting and fulfilling if done right. You only need a few expert hacks to get by. You’ll consider the wedding style, the tone the couple wants to set, and the length of the wedding. This will help you determine how creative you can get with the officiant’s wedding speech. For creative inspiration, we’ve dropped some tips for writing officiant wedding speeches and officiant speech etiquette.

Thank you for reading. Please let us know how we did.

Your feedback helps improve and provide content that matters to you!

Was this article helpful?

Stories You Might Like

simple wedding ceremony script bride and groom outdoor wedding arch ray.photography.co

Simple Wedding Ceremony Script Samples...

30 Hilarious Wedding Memes To Reduce...

The Best Wedding Movies Of All Time, All...

36 Wedding Cake Cookies Decor Ideas

20 Upbeat Wedding Songs To Get Everyone...

black and white wedding cakes black and white cake decorated with white roses and white pearls disneyweddings

Black And White Wedding Cakes: Trends,...

black and gold cakes with white color one layer

Exquisite Black And Gold Cakes Trend To...

Cheap Boho Decor For Wedding [2024 Guide...

family wedding photos bride hugs and squeezes mother to himself

Unforgettable Moments: Cherishing Family...

Tips & Ideas On Who Gives Speeches...

30 Beautiful Single-Stem Wedding...

Best Catholic Wedding Songs For Every...

25 Free Wedding Planning Checklists

Fill in all required * fields below to receive the checklists bundle.

By submitting this form you agree to receive promotional emails from Wedding Forward about other checklists, wedding planning articles, products, and other wedding related topics. You may unsubscribe at any time. Check out our Privacy Policy for more information.

How to best introduce yourself in an interview (with examples)

In job interviews, making a great first impression can make or break your chances of success. Alison Greene, author and hiring expert, believes that knowing how to introduce yourself professionally and confidently is crucial in setting you apart from other job seekers.

We gathered insights and tips from various human resource professionals for the most memorable ways to create an impactful opening during your job interview .

Read their expert advice, match them to your style, skills, and context, and you have a formula for best presenting yourself in front of your interviewer.

In this comprehensive guide, you'll learn the best practices for standing out during your job interview, which begins with an unforgettable opening greeting, sample scenarios, and even follow-up strategies. Are you ready to be the master of introductions?

Researching the company and position

Preparing your introduction, the components of a good introduction, dos and don'ts when introducing yourself, adapting your introduction for different formats, examples of effective introductions, handling difficult introduction scenarios, follow-up strategies, frequently asked questions (faqs).

You must do a lot of pre-game preparation before you even set foot in the interview venue or turn on your camera. Dean Davidson, executive general manager at Hudson Recruitment Australia, says this includes researching the following before an interview :

The company's culture, mission and values
The company's recent achievements and news
Insider information such as remuneration, employee functions, and the hiring process

Reading about the organisation shows you how its core values align with yours . Recheck the job description of the position you want. These details allow you to tailor your introduction to fit the organisation's and the role's needs. When you mention how your background, skills, and achievements are suited perfectly for the job, you instantly give your interviewer a reason to keep listening – and to stay engaged.

When they hear that you know about their recent win at the Singapore Business Awards or that their stock went public, it shows them your sincere enthusiasm for the job.

Should you be upbeat or earnest? Should you engage in small talk or be more straightforward? What should you wear? Use your initial research to figure out these first steps.

Determining the appropriate tone for your introduction

Each industry has some cultural standards. Design agencies are typically more laid-back, while banks or financial institutions may likely appreciate a more dignified stance. These "stereotypes" can be your jumping-off point when deciding on the appropriate tone for your introduction.

However, practising interpersonal flexibility is more crucial when meeting your interviewer for the first time. This skill means you can adjust your behaviour to suit the situation. After all, bank managers can be more relaxed, too.

But whether the company is casual or formal, don't forget to stay enthusiastic, polite, and respectful.

Preparing a script for your introduction

Writing a script beforehand is also a good idea. It allows you to check how comprehensive your introduction is, not to mention your cadence and pace. Make your script concise, direct, and company-tailored.

You don't have to recite your speech verbatim at the interview – you want to sound prepared, not overly rehearsed. However, these notes are a solid foundation for the details you should cover.

Sample introduction script: Generally, you should be able to mention your name, professional background, and relevant skills, and enumerate experiences that make you an ideal candidate.

In a job interview setting, a basic self-introduction should sound like this:

"Hello, my name is [Your Name], and I have a background in [your field] with experience in [relevant skills]. I am excited about this opportunity because [reasons for interest in the company and role]."

In this example, you quickly reinforce the skills cited in your resume. You're telling the interviewer why you're worth their time, and you're about to prove that further as you progress through the interview, impressing them with your answers and personality.

Practising your introduction

Don't just write your script. Say it out loud to really evaluate your pitch and tempo. Observe how the sentences roll off your tongue. Is a word causing you to buckle? Change it to something that fits the flow of your speech better. You can also use JobStreet's Interview Tool to record yourself. Hearing your introduction back might give you ideas on how to improve it further.

Confident woman shaking hands, introducing herself in job interview

What information should your introduction include? Remember that this is your opportunity to hook your interviewer, so it's necessary to make your delivery persuasive.

Introducing yourself with a compelling statement

Get straight to your "why”: You never know if your interview could get cut short due to an emergency or another reason. Highlight your strengths, even if subtly. According to Positive Psychology , affirming your skill set can increase confidence and aptitude – and banish those interview jitters.

"Hi, I'm [Your Name], a marketing professional with five years of experience in social media management and content creation."

Highlighting relevant skills and experience

Your interview isn't a coffee-shop catch-up where you can go on and on about your entire life. Focus on skills and experiences most pertinent to the job. Explain your achievements and make tangible references to make yourself more relatable to your interviewer.

“Employers are likely looking to hear stories of what you did and how your experiences have prepared you for this role," writes career development author Vicki Oliver for the Harvard Business Review .

“During my time at [Company], I led a team that increased our social media engagement by 30%."

Demonstrating enthusiasm for the position and the company

Don't hide your excitement for the opportunity. Show how appreciative you are to be there – although, of course, you do have to rein it in if you're too giddy. Your eagerness doesn't just serve to flatter your interviewer.

According to an article from Singapore Management University, enthusiasm shows your motivation to do the work. It also tells the interviewer how well you can handle stressful situations, such as an interview.

"Employers increasingly value enthusiasm for the job, as well as a positive work attitude and willingness to learn when they recruit starters," notes Professor Karin Sanders, a University of New South Wales professor who published a study on enthusiasm during job interviews.

"I'm truly excited about joining [Company] because I admire your innovative approach to marketing and commitment to delivering outstanding results. I just know that I belong here!”

Ending your introduction

You can end your introduction by opening yourself up to the series of questions prepared by the interviewer.

"I'd be glad to answer any questions about my background and what I can contribute to your company."

Study common interview questions, and prepare the best ways to answer them. After all, the opening act is one thing. You have to nail the finish, too.

Lack of preparation is the surest way to make a mistake during the interview.

As a rule, remember to keep it simple, sincere, and natural. A Perspectives in Psychological Science study reveals that being conscientious and orderly are personality traits employers found most appealing in applicants. So, remember to keep your skills clear and focused. Here are more notes to guide your self-introduction.

Do keep it relevant; don't implicate others

Set the stage for a successful interview as soon as possible by focusing on the skills and experiences that directly relate to the job you're applying for. Don't forget: Any stage of the job application should validate why you have the abilities for the role.

If you talk about your past experiences, avoid putting former employers or colleagues in a bad light.

Do be concise; don't ramble

Interviews can run for 30 and 90 minutes, and you can be sure your interviewer has several questions prepared. Aim to deliver your introduction in no more than 2 minutes. A brief but succinct start draws in the interviewer while still giving you sufficient time to get to the meat of the Q&A.

Refrain from mentioning unrelated details or going off on a tangent. Fill the time by citing specific situations that highlight your skills. There may be a point in the interview where you can chat casually – perhaps after you get hired!

Do show confidence right away; don't start timidly

You don't have a lot of time for a long and slow approach. Natural enthusiasm helps you focus and become more courageous. Who doesn't want that during a self-introduction? Expressing your passion for the role and the company will only help you. However, don't lay it on too thick.

Do remember nonverbal cues; don't be insincere

Body language is the key to demonstrating your sincerity – or lack of. Sit straight, maintain active eye contact, respond with gestures such as nods or smiles, and always actively listen. Active listening means you're engaged, absorbing every word and reacting accordingly. It confirms your genuine interest.

Do structure your speech; don't over-rehearse

Harvard Business Review says practising your self-introduction is essential. When you do it in a low-stakes setting, you may just be able to build up your confidence. However, don't go overboard.

Overpreparedness, according to life coach Helen McLaughlin, can lead to a performance mentality, which is when you feel the need to come across as an expert. It may make you appear insincere, unnatural, and overconfident.

So what have you learned? Zoning in on your accomplishments and skills, being natural and enthusiastic, and staying concise are the steps you need to follow to communicate your value and create a lasting, positive impression on interviewers.

How will this interview be conducted? What type of interview is it? Adjusting your behaviour or delivery to the context will help you communicate your qualifications better and make a positive impression on the interviewer, regardless of the scenario and different types of communication at play.

Pivoting demonstrates your adaptability, professionalism, and genuine interest in the position, which can significantly increase your chances of interview success.

Phone or video interviews

Before the interview, ensure you have the following:

Stable internet connection
Clear audio quality via your headphones and speakers
A decent and quiet setting
Backups, such as another room, another line, or a second set of headphones

The few years of staying at home may have taught you that technology presents some communication barriers: muted mics, unstable connections, background noise, and malfunctioning wireless earphones. Cover your bases by ensuring none of these technical details hampers your conversation. Do a tech run, lock the doors, or have another space ready if your kids suddenly walk in.

Without complications, you can be more focused and confident when you begin.

Start with a warm greeting. Interviews via these channels are terrific because you can place cue cards or notes strategically to check occasionally. Practise affirmative body language via your voice (for audio calls) and your face (for video calls). You don't have room for hand gestures, so instead, smile a lot, speak clearly, and add enthusiastic inflections to your voice.

What about recorded interviews? Recorded interviews are when you receive questions and document your answers via video. Since it allows for more preparation, you might go overboard with your spiel. Don't forget the conciseness rule! This interview isn't two-way, so you have more chances of losing the interest of the viewer. Stick to interesting and relevant points, talk as if someone is in front of you (it helps maintain enthusiasm in your tone), and show off your personality.

Group interviews

An interview in a group setting means you have to stand out. Acknowledge the presence of your fellow applicants before your introduction. Support your qualifications with actual scenarios and accomplishments. You may have the same skills, but your experiences are all yours.

During the Q&A, don't speak over others. However, pay attention to what they're saying and make appropriate reactions. James Eling, managing director of IT firm Extreme Networks, says group interviews show how well you collaborate as well as your teamwork and leadership skills.

Behavioural interviews

Behavioural interviews help the interviewer learn more about how you handled past situations. Your experiences help the interviewer deduce how you'll approach future problems or scenarios.

Focus on specific examples from your past that demonstrate your ability to handle the challenges and responsibilities of the position. The interviewer would be interested in your active listening and critical thinking skills, so be sure to angle your narrative to highlight these skills. You can use the “CAR” mnemonic (context, action, and results) to do this.

Context: Your supervisor had to take an emergency leave during a product launch event. As second in command, you had to take over.

Action: You gathered the entire team to tell them you're heading the event. You reassured them everything was going according to plan, but reiterated your expectations and everyone's tasks. You checked the progress and made yourself available during the event for potential troubleshoots.

Results: The client never even knew your boss had to leave!

Technical and finance interviews

These interviews are more of a practical test in Q&A form. You often encounter these for more technical jobs, such as programming, writing, and driving.

Showcase your understanding of the field and how up-to-date you are with industry news. In your introduction, mention relevant certifications, projects, or experience demonstrating your expertise.
Prepare for potential technical questions by reviewing basic concepts. For example, if you're interviewing for a finance position, be prepared to discuss investment strategies, market evaluations, and other finance-related topics.

Don't get lost in the technicalities, though. Don't forget to show your sincerity and enthusiasm for the role. Explain how your recent class in TikTok marketing represents your willingness to evolve, or how creating new software taught you the value of teamwork.

Case interviews

Case interviews give you a tricky scenario to solve. The goal is to assess your analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Mask your nerves and show you're confident, comfortable, and eager for the challenge. You've declared your skills. Now you have to back them up.

When formulating an answer, business analyst Katrina Lu recommends looking at the “Big Picture.” Keep the central problem in mind and connect the dots. Ask yourself: Why is this the case? What is our goal here? Use your reasoning skills to get to the bottom of things. You can also ask the interviewer insightful questions. It shows your understanding and willingness to assess every detail of the case before making a decision.

Here are examples of successful introductions that use different techniques. Use them as a basis for formulating yours.

Covering the essentials

“ Hello, I'm [Name]! I'm a computer science graduate, specialising in software development and project management. I am excited to discuss how my skills and experience align with your organisation's needs."

In this example, you clearly underscore the crucial details of your application, such as your name, background, and the fact that you have what they're looking for. It also invites the interviewer to start with the formal Q&A.

The S.T.A.R method

“Hello, I'm [Name]. I'm an associate marketing executive from [former company]. I believe I'm a perfect fit for the position because I'm more than capable of problem-solving most marketing concerns, and due to my practical experience in the field…”

Situation (S): Advertising revenue was going down for my agency due to a low rate of contract renewals.

Task (T): My goal was to generate new ideas, materials, and incentives that would result in a reproducible increase in advertisers from the year before.

Action (A): I designed a new promotional packet to go with the rate sheet and compared the benefits with other ad media in the area.

Result (R): We signed contracts with 15 former advertisers for daily ads and five for special supplements. We increased our new advertisers by 20% over the same period last year.

The S.T.A.R. method is ideal for behavioural interviews. It allows you to show your credentials in a practical manner, letting your experience speak for itself. This method is the perfect example of "show, don't tell."

Showing enthusiasm

“Hi, my name is [Name], and I am thrilled to be here today to talk to you about my interest in this role and my passion for this company's mission. As someone who has followed this company's work for a long time, I am happy to have the opportunity to apply my skills and experience to help you achieve your goals. I am confident that my experience in project management and software development will be a valuable asset to your team, and I am excited to discuss how I can contribute to your success.”

Remember the note about how much employers love enthusiasm? Interviewers interpret excitement as motivation, which will only work in your favour. The Management Development Institute of Singapore also states that guts and determination can make an indelible impression on interviewers.

No matter how well-prepared you are, sometimes, you encounter problems. Take a breath and recover. Here are common introduction faux pas you can prepare for.

You don't remember the interviewer's name

Your excitement and/or nerves may have blocked your ears a bit, preventing you from registering the first few minutes of the meeting. It happens. In a face-to-face setting, hold out your hand and politely ask them to repeat their name.

"I'm sorry I didn't quite catch your name. Could you repeat that please?"

It's easier in a remote set-up. Their name is usually on the screen. If not and you missed it, you can blame technology.

"I'm sorry, there was slight feedback. Could I get your name again, ma'am/sir?"

You have language barriers

Research shows that attempts to bridge a language gap create stronger interpersonal ties. Be patient and helpful. Use basic terms and shorter sentences. Talk slower but not necessarily louder. Pause between points.

If you're still mastering the interviewer's language, say it right away, so they can also be aware of how they phrase things. Don't be afraid to ask for clarification or repeat a question.

You have cultural differences

Try not to see cultural differences as a problem. If the interviewer is from a different country, study their customs, such as basic etiquette. Familiarise yourself with appropriate greetings, gestures, and body language. Generally, be open to your differences. They shouldn't factor in your hireability.

Your interviewer asks you to introduce yourself again

Do you have to repeat your name and credentials? Don't get dismayed and take it personally. The interviewer might be meeting several applicants, so at least they're interested enough to know who you are. Repeat your spiel, emphasising your name, background, and skills.

Your nerves are in the way

Here are some exercises to settle your jitters:

Practise deep breathing techniques.
Visualise a successful outcome.
Remind yourself of your strengths and accomplishments.
Work out before the interview – it could shake off your nervous energy, and the endorphins and dopamine could boost your confidence.

Make your stress work for you. Harvard Business Review says a healthy amount of pressure can encourage you to try new things, tackle problems, and grow your capabilities – factors that may help strengthen your interview.

Technology is against you

Remember that technology can break down at the most inconvenient moments. Test all your devices and line up alternatives in case something happens.

Following up after your interview can show your determination and passion for the role. A simple thank-you message conveys your appreciation for the interviewer's time and effort. You could also use it to reiterate your interest.

How to follow up with a thank-you note or email

Did you know that 80% of recruiters believe a thank-you note helps them make hiring decisions? Unfortunately, only 24% of applicants send one. Don't fall under that statistic! Here are some quick tips when you want to send an appreciatory message.

Send the thank-you note promptly: Send your follow-up message within 24 hours of the interview. This timely response will help keep you fresh in the interviewer's mind and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role.
Personalise your message: Address the interviewer by name and mention specific details from your conversation, highlighting any points that stood out during the conversation. This personal touch demonstrates that you were attentive and engaged throughout the discussion.
Close with a polite and professional sign-off: End your message by expressing your gratitude again and reiterating your interest in the position. Use a courteous and professional closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your full name.

Subject Line: Thank you for the interview

Hi, Ms/Mr [Name of Interviewer],

This is [Name], the data scientist from Woodlands, whom you interviewed today. Thank you so much for the opportunity to apply for the position of [insert role]. I enjoyed our conversation today. I particularly loved your insights regarding my paper on using data to drive sales teams. Our talk has only strengthened my conviction to join your company. Likewise, I believe my skills, experience, and attitude fit your organisation.

Please let me know if I can provide any information that could be helpful to you. Thank you again.

Sincerely yours,

[Your Name]

Demonstrating your interest in the position and the company

If you're following up and sending a thank you, it's important not to look too pushy. After all, it's only been a day – perhaps screening hasn't even ended. Saying your name, background, and interest should be enough. Displaying gratitude is one thing; showing patience is another!

However, if it's been a week or two, you can follow up with a brief message reiterating your credentials and enthusiasm.

Preparation, research, and customisation are the three steps to make a standout introduction during a job interview. Write a script for guidance, practise until you're confident, and you'll impress the interviewer from the get-go.

But rehearsing is only half the job. Adapt your script, tone, and delivery to the interview's context. Is the interviewer upbeat? Match their energy. Is the chat on Zoom? Make sure your tech details are on point.

Follow this guide to help you figure out how to tailor your self-introduction your way, and establish a solid foundation to impress during the actual interview.

Looking for new opportunities? Sign up or update your JobStreet profile and find openings that fit your skill set and values. Download the JobStreet app on Google Play and the App Store for mobile updates. If you want more articles like this, drop by our Career Advice page for professional advice.

How long should my introduction be? ⁠Your introduction should be concise, generally around 30 to 60 seconds – 2 minutes max – whatever the format. Remember, you're just introducing yourself at this point. The juicy part comes later.
Should I mention my weaknesses in my introduction? ⁠ No. Focus on your strengths, relevant skills, and experiences. If you have to mention your weaknesses, reframe them as opportunities for growth, change, and progress.
What if I have no experience in the industry? How should I introduce myself? ⁠ Highlight transferable skills, adaptability, and eagerness to learn. You could also bring up specific examples and experiences showing your flexibility and growth mindset.
Should I bring up my salary expectations in my introduction? ⁠ No. You shouldn't raise salary details during the interview unless your interviewer does. Usually, money talk happens during the signing and negotiating stage of your application.
Should I use humour in my introduction? ⁠ Of course! However, exercise caution and read the room. Consider the company culture and interview context. Also, be sure not to come off as aloof or unserious when you make witty remarks or jokes. Also, don't say anything off-colour or offensive.
Should I introduce myself differently in the second round of interviews? ⁠ Yes, tailor your introduction to the new audience and provide additional insights. HR professionals usually require general information about your skills and background, while line managers or departmental supervisors would ask for more technical details.
What if the interviewer cuts me off during my introduction? ⁠ Remain composed, and adjust your response to address the interviewer's concerns. There will be ample time in the future to get a word in.
Should I memorise my introduction word for word? ⁠ No, focus on key points and practise delivering them naturally and confidently.

Breathe deeply. ⁠

Practise beforehand.

⁠Remind yourself of your value and strengths.

⁠Exercise before the interview.

Should I include personal information, such as my hobbies or family background, in my introduction? ⁠ Yes, but only if it's relevant to the position or helps showcase your personality and fit for the company culture.

Top search terms

Popular on jobstreet, explore related topics, subscribe to career advice.

Filter by Keywords

How to Introduce Yourself Professionally

Sudarshan Somanathan

Head of Content

August 30, 2024

Start using ClickUp today

Manage all your work in one place
Collaborate with your team
Use ClickUp for FREE—forever

Making a strong connection can happen in the blink of an eye. Whether it’s a chance encounter at a conference or a formal job interview, a professional introduction sets the tone for the entire interaction.

But let’s face it: Figuring out how to introduce yourself professionally can be nerve-wracking. Beyond the words you say, nonverbal communication plays a crucial role in shaping your first impression.

Your body language, tone of voice, and eye contact can convey as much, if not more, than your verbal introduction. A firm handshake, a genuine smile, and active listening demonstrate confidence, interest, and respect.

This article will give you the tools to craft a confident and impactful introduction and move beyond your communication challenges .

Job interview

New colleagues, email/letter introduction, asking a favor, personal commercial (elevator pitch), write a compelling introduction with clickup chat, elevate professional introductions with clickup brain, nail your first impression with clickup .

Various Scenarios of Professional Introduction

First impressions and personal connections matter, regardless of your job title. Whether you’re meeting hiring managers, connecting with colleagues, or reaching out for help, a strong professional introduction sets the tone for all your communication goals .

Here’s how to tailor your intro and practice delivering it in different professional settings:

Job interviews can be stressful, but a well-prepared, brief introduction that highlights key skills can result in a successful interaction.

💡 Pro Tip: Before the interview, learn about the company’s culture, work environment , professional settings, and the specific position you’re applying for. Research the interviewer’s name and professional background for a personal touch and quantify your accomplishments to demonstrate your value.

This shows your genuine interest and initiative. When you greet the interviewer, use the information you gathered to personalize your professional introduction.

Here’s an example:

“Hi [Interviewer name], it’s a pleasure to meet you. I’m [Your name], and I’ve been particularly impressed by [Company’s] recent work on [Specific project] – especially [Specific detail of a proven track record].

My skills in [Your technical skills] align perfectly with the requirements you mentioned, and I’m confident I can contribute by [Briefly describe a specific benefit you bring and provide tangible evidence of your unique value proposition].

For example, in my previous role as a [Role], I [Highlight specific achievements].”

A positive first impression with new colleagues can lay the foundation for strong professional relationships and business communication. A friendly and approachable introduction matched with a professional tone goes a long way in breaking the ice and building team trust .

Take this example:

“Hi everyone, I’m [Your name]. I’m thrilled to be joining the team! I have a professional background in [Your experience], particularly in [Specific area].

Outside of work, I enjoy [Hobbies or interests]. If you share my passion for [Hobby], let’s grab a coffee sometime!

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or want to chat.

[Your name and signatures]”

Look for opportunities to find common ground with your colleagues, perhaps shared professional experiences or interests. You can even share your contact details and key skills. This creates a sense of connection and opens doors for future collaboration in any professional setting.

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t just introduce yourself in a professional manner—offer help and show your willingness to collaborate beyond your job title for the team’s success. This makes a positive impression and shows you’re a team player.

Most introductions now often take place virtually through emails or letters. A clear and concise self-introduction email with a catchy subject line is crucial. By establishing your credibility upfront, you grab the recipient’s attention and highlight your professional qualifications.

Moreover, clearly stating your purpose at the very start in your self-introduction email ensures your message is well-received and avoids any confusion.

Example of a self-introduction email:

“Dear [Recipient name], My name is [Your name], and I’m writing to you today about [Reason for email]. I’ve been following [Company/Their work] with great interest, especially [Specific achievement/project].

My experience in [Highlight key skills] has helped me [Previous accomplishment related to their needs]. I can help you achieve the same results.

Here are some ideas: [Idea 1], [Idea 2], [Idea 3]. If any of these spark your interest, let’s have a quick chat. Does [Slot 1] or [Slot 2] work for you next week?

Looking forward to speaking soon!

Here’s another email from our team’s inbox!

Sometimes, you might need to reach out to someone for help in your professional life. A generic request for help might fall flat. By personalizing your introduction, you show genuine interest in the person’s expertise and make them feel valued.

When you professionally introduce yourself, mention some valuable insights about what you admire about their work, strategic planning, or a recent achievement.

Consider offering something in return for their time and assistance. This will demonstrate your respect for their expertise and increase the chances of a positive response.

Example:

“Hi Sarah, I hope this email finds you well. I recently came across your insightful article on data visualization techniques featured in [Publication]. I was hoping I could pick your brain for a bit.

I’m currently working on a presentation for a client, and your expertise in creating clear and engaging visuals would be incredibly valuable. Would you be free to chat sometime next week?

I’m happy to return the favor by reviewing your presentation draft if you’d like or buying you a cup of your favorite coffee.”

Looking forward!

Suppose you have only 30 seconds to make a strong impression and professionally introduce yourself. This scenario might arise at a networking event or a chance encounter with someone who could be a potential client or collaborator. A captivating personal commercial or an elevator pitch can be a powerful tool to introduce yourself and your skills professionally.

Focus on the challenges faced by your target audience and how your unique skills, job title, or services provide the solution. Clearly describe the desired outcome you can deliver and the benefits your audience can expect.

A well-rehearsed pitch ensures a smooth and confident delivery. Practice your introduction out loud to refine your message and timing.

Example :

“I’m [Your Name], a [Job Title] at [Company Name]. I specialize in crafting data-driven social media strategies that deliver tangible results. My proven track record includes:

Increasing website traffic by up to [Percentage] through optimized content and targeted campaigns.
Boosting engagement rates by [Percentage] with engaging visuals and captivating storytelling.
Driving [Number] new leads per month for [Company or brand]

Let’s discuss how I can help you achieve similar results for your business?

A genuine smile, a confident tone, and a sprinkle of enthusiasm can elevate any introduction. So, go out there and make lasting personal connections with fellow professionals.

Role of Communication Tools in Professional Introduction

Networking can be a whirlwind. Trying to juggle introductions, remember names, and keep track of conversations across different self-introduction emails and chats is enough to make your head spin. But what if there was a way to simplify the whole process and make introductions a breeze?

That’s precisely where project management and communication software tools like ClickUp can help you. They simplify not just your entire client communication process but also make it easier to introduce yourself to your colleagues and team.

Here’s how:

ClickUp Chat can be a valuable tool for facilitating personal introductions, especially in professional or networking settings.

It allows teams to chat, share files, and collaborate seamlessly within their projects.

Here’s how ClickUp Chat can help you introduce yourself:

Start a new chat with the team or individual you want to introduce yourself to
Address the recipient by name using @mentions . This shows you’ve taken the time to personalize your message
Write a clear and concise introduction. Include your name, your role or title, and a brief overview of your experience or interests
You can also explain why you’re reaching out in a few sentences and clearly state how your message will benefit them
Give the recipient enough information to understand the context of your message. If applicable, mention a prior interaction to establish continuity.
If needed, share any documents, links, or other resources that can provide additional context
Mention something you have in common with the recipient or a shared interest to add a personal touch and help break the ice
Choose powerful words and phrases . Use language that conveys enthusiasm, confidence, and value without resorting to excessive jargon
End with a call to action . Invite the recipient to reply, schedule a meeting, or connect further. Make it easy for them to respond by providing a clear and simple next step

Feeling at a loss for talking points in your formal greeting? ClickUp Brain , an AI assistant, can spark ideas to get you going. Need to personalize your message to formally introduce yourself to a hiring manager but are drawing a blank? ClickUp Brain helps you include key details that make your personal brand stand out and position you as an exceptional candidate.

Generate ideas: Give ClickUp Brain a few keywords related to your introduction, and it will generate a variety of options
Specify tone and style: Indicate whether you want a formal, informal, humorous, or serious introduction
Analyze your current introduction: Paste your existing introduction into ClickUp Brain and ask for suggestions on how to improve it
Identify areas for improvement: ClickUp Brain can point out weaknesses in clarity, conciseness, or engagement
Request attention-grabbing openers: Ask ClickUp Brain to suggest interesting hooks or anecdotes to start your introduction
Explore different approaches: Experiment with various hooks to find the one that best suits your topic and audience
Provide audience information: Share details about your target audience, such as their interests, needs, and pain points
Receive tailored suggestions: ClickUp Brain can generate introductions that resonate with your specific audience

How to introduce yourself professionally using ClickUp Brain

Define your goal for the introduction. Are you hoping to spark collaboration in the workplace , share expertise, or simply make meaningful connections? Having clear professional goals guides your message.

Refresh your memory about the people you’re connecting with. Remember their skills and experience to personalize the introduction and showcase why this mutual connection is valuable. You can even integrate it with any communication plan template to ensure all your introductions are thoughtful and targeted.

You never get a second shot at a first impression, so make it count! Who knows, your next intro could be the one that lands you your dream job or connects you with a future business partner. And for planning and prepping such an introduction, you have communication apps and platforms like ClickUp.

Sign up to ClickUp for free and brainstorm intro ideas, organize your thoughts, and even practice your delivery ( virtually, of course! ). So ditch the nervous jitters, step out there with confidence, and watch your introductions turn into exciting opportunities. Now, that’s how you start a conversation!

Questions? Comments? Visit our Help Center for support.

Receive the latest WriteClick Newsletter updates.

Thanks for subscribing to our blog!

Please enter a valid email

Free training & 24-hour support
Serious about security & privacy
99.99% uptime the last 12 months

Getnamenecklace Blog

How to properly introduce yourself to someone you like

In today’s digitized world, most of our interactions happen online. Social media, messaging apps, and dating platforms have redefined how we meet and connect with others – through a screen. While these digital tools make it easier to reach out to someone, they’ve also contributed to the gradual disappearance of natural, face-to-face introductions. It’s far simpler to send a friend request, follow someone on Instagram, or swipe right on a dating app than it is to walk up to someone in real life and introduce yourself.

This shift to digital communication has made many of us slowly turn awkward when it comes to in-person interactions. For some, the thought of approaching someone they like and starting a conversation can be simply paralyzing. The fear of rejection, the awkwardness of small talk, and the uncertainty of the other person’s response all contribute to the anxiety surrounding these encounters. And so, many of us retreat to the comfort of our screens, where we can carefully craft our words and present a curated version of ourselves.

But this comes with consequences… And most of us are now simply unable to connect or maintain a conversation with someone, especially when adressing to someone for the first time.

In this article, we’ll explore different strategies for presenting yourself in various contexts – from the terrifying cold approach to the more familiar, yet still tricky, scenario of meeting someone you’ve only seen online. By the end, you’ll have the confidence and know-how to make a memorable first impression, no matter the situation.

The Cold Approach

The cold approach is one of the most intimidating ways to introduce yourself to someone. The term “cold” refers to the fact that you’re starting from scratch with no prior connection or introduction. You see someone across the room – maybe at a party, in a coffee shop, or even just walking down the street – and you feel eager to introduce yourself. But how do you do it without coming across as awkward or intrusive?

Understanding the Cold Approach

The cold approach can be frightening because it involves a high level of uncertainty. You don’t know how the person will react, and there’s always the possibility of rejection. But that’s also what makes it exciting. When done right, a cold approach can lead to meaningful connections, whether romantic, friendly, or professional. The key to success lies in your confidence, body language, and the way you present yourself.

Preparation and Mindset

Before you even approach, it’s important to prepare yourself mentally – although not too much. Confidence is crucial, but it’s normal to feel nervous. The trick is to channel that nervous energy into something positive. Take a deep breath, remind yourself that you’re just going to say hello, and try to focus on the potential positive outcome rather than the fear of rejection. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself!

Having a clear intention can also help. Are you looking to make a new friend? Hoping to get a date? Or are you simply interested in striking up an interesting conversation? Knowing your goal can help guide your approach and keep you focused.

Another important aspect is your body language. Confidence isn’t just about how you feel inside; it’s also about how you present yourself. Stand tall, make eye contact, and smile. These simple actions can make you appear more approachable and friendly, which increases your chances of a successful introduction.

Making the First Move

So, you’ve gathered your courage, and you’re ready to make your move. Congrats! But what do you actually say? The most important thing is to keep it simple. A simple and straightforward “Hi, I’m [Your Name]” can work wonders. If you’re in a setting where small talk is expected, like a party or a social event, you can follow up with a comment about the environment. For example, “This place has a great vibe, don’t you think?” or “I noticed you were enjoying the music; what do you think of the band?”

If you’re in a situation where striking up a conversation feels more out of the blue – like at a coffee shop or on the street – you might want to use your surroundings to break the ice. “I couldn’t help but notice you’re reading my favorite book – how are you finding it?” or “This coffee shop has the best lattes; have you tried them?”

The key is to be genuine and open. You don’t need a perfect opening line – just something to get the conversation started. Once the conversation is flowing, you can introduce yourself more formally and see where things go from there.

Handling Rejection

Of course, not every cold approach will be successful, and that’s okay! Rejection is a natural part of life, and it doesn’t reflect poorly on you. If the person isn’t interested in continuing the conversation, thank them for their time, smile, and move on. The important thing is to handle rejection gracefully and not take it personally. Remember, the cold approach is a numbers game – the more you practice, the better you’ll get, and the more likely you are to find someone who is receptive to your introduction. But more importantly, the funnier it gets!

The Romantic Approach

Introducing yourself to someone you’re romantically interested in adds an extra layer of complexity. Unlike the cold approach, where the goal might be to simply make a connection, the romantic approach involves expressing an interest that goes beyond friendship. This can make the stakes feel higher, but it can also make the interaction more rewarding – it can literally change your life so… Go for it!

Creating the Right Environment

Timing and setting are crucial when it comes to the romantic approach. You don’t want to catch someone off guard or approach them in a way that feels too intense. It’s important to read the room and choose the right moment for your introduction. Ideally, you want to approach when the other person seems relaxed and open to conversation.

For instance, at a social event, you might wait until the person is alone or not deeply engaged in conversation with others. If you’re in a more casual setting, like a park or a coffee shop, look for cues that the person might be open to being approached – like making eye contact, smiling, or not being too engrossed in their phone or book. Just make sure to not be weird about it and not look like a creep spying on its pray!

Crafting a Memorable Introduction

When it comes to the romantic approach, your introduction should be memorable, but also sincere. This isn’t the time for cheesy pickup lines or over-the-top gestures. Instead, focus on being charming and genuine. A simple compliment can go a long way, as long as it feels natural and not forced. For example, “I couldn’t help but notice your smile; it’s really contagious,” or “You have great taste in music; I love this band too.”

The key is to express your interest without coming on too strong. You want to create an opening for further conversation without overwhelming the other person. After your initial introduction, shift the focus to them. Ask open-ended questions that allow them to share more about themselves, and be sure to listen actively. Showing genuine interest in what they have to say will help build a connection.

Building Connection

Once you’ve made your introduction, the next step is to build a connection. This involves more than just talking – it’s about creating a rapport that feels natural and comfortable. Pay attention to the other person’s body language and tone of voice. Are they leaning in, making eye contact, and smiling? These are all good signs that they’re engaged in the conversation.

Ask questions that go beyond the surface level, but avoid getting too personal too quickly. You want to keep the conversation light and enjoyable while still showing that you’re genuinely interested in getting to know them better. For example, you might ask about their hobbies, favorite travel destinations, or what they enjoy doing in their free time. Curiosity is you best friend.

Remember, the goal is to make the other person feel comfortable and valued. If the conversation is going well, you can suggest continuing it over a drink or coffee. But if the vibe isn’t quite right, it’s okay to end the conversation on a positive note and perhaps suggest exchanging contact information to chat another time.

The Professional Approach

Introducing yourself in a professional context comes with its own set of challenges. Whether you’re at a networking event, a conference, or meeting a potential business partner, the way you present yourself can set the tone for future interactions. Unlike social or romantic introductions, the professional approach requires a balance of confidence, clarity, and professionalism.

Understanding Professional Boundaries

In a professional setting, there are often unspoken rules about how to interact with others. The stakes can be higher, especially if you’re trying to make a good impression on someone who could influence your career. It’s important to maintain professionalism while also being personable and approachable.

One of the key aspects of a professional introduction is understanding and respecting boundaries. This means being mindful of the other person’s time, position, and level of interest. For example, if you’re at a networking event and you want to introduce yourself to a high-profile individual, it’s important to approach them at an appropriate time and with a clear purpose.

The Elevator Pitch

An essential tool in your professional introduction arsenal is the elevator pitch – a concise, compelling summary of who you are and what you do. The idea is to deliver this pitch in the time it would take to ride an elevator, hence the name.

When crafting your elevator pitch, focus on the key points you want to convey: your name, your profession or area of expertise, and what makes you unique or what value you can offer. For example, “Hi, I’m Jane Doe, a marketing strategist with over five years of experience helping startups grow their online presence. I specialize in social media marketing and content strategy.”

Tailor your pitch to the context. If you’re at a conference, you might want to mention what brings you there or what you hope to achieve. If you’re at a networking event, you could highlight your current projects or what you’re looking for in terms of collaborations or opportunities.

Building Rapport

After your initial introduction, the next step is to build rapport. This involves finding common ground and establishing a connection that goes beyond the surface level. In a professional context, this might mean discussing industry trends, sharing insights from recent projects, or asking the other person about their experiences and challenges in their field.

Active listening is key here. Show genuine interest in what the other person has to say, and don’t be afraid to ask follow-up questions. This not only helps keep the conversation going but also shows that you value their input and expertise.

Building rapport also involves being aware of the social dynamics at play. For instance, if you’re talking to someone who is more senior or experienced, it’s important to show respect and humility while still expressing your own views and ideas. On the other hand, if you’re talking to a peer or someone in a similar position, you might focus more on collaboration and mutual support.

Navigating Power Dynamics

In professional settings, you may find yourself needing to introduce yourself to someone who holds a higher position or more authority. This can be intimidating, but it’s also an opportunity to make a valuable connection.

When approaching someone in a position of power, it’s important to be respectful and mindful of their time. Start with a polite introduction and express your appreciation for their work or achievements. For example, “Hi, I’m John Smith, and I’ve been following your work in [specific field]. I’m particularly inspired by your recent project on [topic].”

After your introduction, focus on finding common ground or expressing your interest in learning from them. You could ask for their advice on a specific issue you’re facing, or inquire about their career journey and how they’ve navigated certain challenges.

The Friendly Approach

Not every introduction is about romance or business. Sometimes, you just want to make a new friend. Whether you’re new to a city, attending a social event, or simply want to expand your social circle, knowing how to introduce yourself in a friendly, approachable way is a valuable skill.

Recognizing Opportunities for Friendship

Opportunities for making new friends can arise in the most unexpected places – at the gym, in a class, at a party, or even while waiting in line at a coffee shop. The key is to be open and aware of these moments. If you’re always looking down at your phone or keeping to yourself, you might miss out on the chance to connect with someone who could become a great friend.

Being open to new experiences and stepping out of your comfort zone are important first steps. If you see someone who seems interesting or shares your interests, don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation. It might feel awkward at first, but most people appreciate a friendly gesture, especially if it’s done with genuine warmth.

Making a Genuine Connection

When introducing yourself with the intention of making a new friend, it’s important to be genuine. People can usually tell when someone is being insincere or trying too hard. A simple, friendly introduction goes a long way. “Hi, I’m [Your Name]. I noticed you were [mention shared interest], and I thought it would be great to chat.” This approach is effective because it immediately establishes common ground and gives you something to talk about.

From there, let the conversation flow naturally. Ask questions that show you’re interested in getting to know them better, like “What do you enjoy doing in your free time?” or “How did you get into [shared interest]?” The goal is to find out more about the other person while also sharing a bit about yourself.

Sustaining the Friendship

Once you’ve made that initial connection, the next step is to sustain the friendship. This can sometimes be the hardest part, as it requires effort and commitment from both parties. It’s important to follow up after your first meeting, whether it’s by exchanging contact information, suggesting another meetup, or simply sending a friendly message to stay in touch.

Consistency is key. Make an effort to reach out regularly, even if it’s just to check in and see how the other person is doing. Over time, these small gestures can help strengthen the bond and turn a casual acquaintance into a close friend.

Planning regular activities together is also a great way to build a friendship. Whether it’s grabbing coffee, going for a hike, or attending an event, shared experiences create memories and deepen your connection.

Introducing Yourself to Someone You Know (But They Don’t Know You)

In the age of social media, it’s not uncommon to feel like you know someone before you’ve ever met them in person. Whether you’ve seen their posts online, followed their work, or heard about them through a mutual friend, introducing yourself to someone you’re familiar with – but who doesn’t know you – can be a delicate situation.

Context Matters

When approaching someone you’ve seen online or know indirectly, context is everything. The setting and circumstances will dictate how you should approach the situation. For example, if you’re at a mutual friend’s party, it’s perfectly natural to introduce yourself by mentioning your mutual connection. “Hi, I’m [Your Name]. I’ve heard a lot about you from [Mutual Friend], and it’s great to finally meet you in person.”

However, if you’re in a more public or unrelated setting – like bumping into someone at a coffee shop whom you’ve only seen online – you’ll need to be more careful. Approaching them as if you already know them could come off as presumptuous or even invasive. Instead, keep your introduction simple and direct. “Hi, I’m [Your Name]. I think I’ve seen your work online, and I just wanted to say I really enjoy what you do.”

The goal is to acknowledge the familiarity without making the other person uncomfortable. By being upfront about how you know of them, you reduce the chances of the interaction feeling awkward or forced.

Approaching with Familiarity

When you’re familiar with someone but they don’t know you, it’s important to approach with a level of familiarity that feels appropriate. Start by introducing yourself and briefly mentioning how you know them. This could be through social media, a mutual friend, or shared interests. For example, “Hi, I’m [Your Name]. I follow you on Twitter, and I really liked your recent post about [topic].”

Once you’ve made the introduction, gauge their response. If they seem interested and open to conversation, you can continue by asking a question or sharing a related thought. If they seem surprised or unsure, it might be best to keep the conversation short and allow them to lead the interaction.

It’s also important to respect their privacy. While you may know a lot about them from their online presence, avoid bringing up too much personal information. Stick to topics that are relevant to the situation or that they’ve publicly shared.

Building Authenticity

If you’re hoping to move from a distant, online connection to a more genuine, in-person relationship, the key is to build authenticity. This means being honest about how you know of them and expressing your interest in getting to know them better in a natural, unforced way.

For example, after your initial introduction, you could say, “I’ve always enjoyed your posts, and I’d love to chat more about [shared interest].” This opens the door for a more meaningful conversation without putting pressure on the other person.

It’s also important to be patient. Building a relationship takes time, and you can’t force someone to feel comfortable with you right away. Allow the connection to develop naturally and be mindful of their boundaries.

Navigating Awkwardness

Introducing yourself to someone you feel you know, but who doesn’t know you, can sometimes lead to awkward moments. The other person might feel taken aback, or the conversation might not flow as smoothly as you’d like. It’s important to remain calm and not let the awkwardness derail the interaction.

If you sense that the other person is uncomfortable or unsure, you can acknowledge the situation with a bit of humor. For example, “I know it’s a little weird meeting someone you’ve only seen online, but I’m glad we got the chance to say hello.”

By addressing the potential awkwardness head-on, you can often diffuse the tension and make the conversation feel more relaxed. And remember, not every interaction will go perfectly, and that’s okay. The important thing is to be respectful and leave a positive impression.

In a world where digital interactions have become the norm, the ability to introduce yourself confidently and naturally in person is more valuable than ever. Whether you’re approaching someone you’re romantically interested in, making a new friend, networking professionally, or meeting someone you’ve only known online, the art of personal connection remains a powerful tool.

While it’s easy to hide behind screens and carefully curated profiles, nothing can replace the authenticity and immediacy of face-to-face interaction. The connections you make in person are often deeper and more meaningful because they’re built on genuine human interaction rather than filtered images and typed-out messages.

Of course, in-person introductions can be challenging, especially in a world that increasingly favors digital communication. It requires courage, confidence, and the willingness to step out of your comfort zone. But the rewards – new friendships, romantic connections, professional opportunities – are well worth the effort.

As we navigate this digital age, it’s important to remember that the skills of personal interaction are still relevant. By practicing and refining your approach in various contexts, you can become more adept at making meaningful connections, no matter the situation.

So, the next time you see someone you’d like to introduce yourself to, whether it’s across a crowded room or on a busy street, take a deep breath, smile, and make your move. After all, the most rewarding connections often start with a simple hello.

Vincent Otieno

Vincent Otieno is a passionate jewelry enthusiast and writer at Getnamenecklace, an e-commerce store dedicated to offering exquisite jewelry and thoughtful gifts for your loved ones. With a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for the art of gift-giving, Vincent curates a collection that celebrates the beauty of craftsmanship and the joy of making family moments unforgettable.

12 Most Inspirational Quotes For The Special Olympics

How to politely tell someone you are not romantically interested in them?

+20 Catchy Headline for Men To Crush Your Dating App?

IMAGES

Wedding Speech
How do you introduce yourself in a wedding speech?
How To Introduce Yourself In A Wedding Speech
How To Introduce Yourself In A Wedding Speech
FREE 51+ Introduction Speech Samples & Template in PDF, Word
How to Write a Wedding Speech: Examples, Tips, and Advice

VIDEO

How to Introduce yourself in an Interview in English
Emotional Wedding Speech: When your best friends become your biggest blessings #viralwedding
Tip to introduce your spouse
How to Introduce Yourself in Interview || Introduction || English Speaking Practice || Rani Ma'am
How To Ask Someone To Give A Speech At Your Wedding
English Speaking Practice

COMMENTS

How to Begin a Wedding Speech: The Best Opening Lines
Wedding Speech Opening Lines: Simple and Sincere Opening Lines. "Good evening, ladies and gentlemen, and thank you (name) for the kind introduction." "Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. As (name's friend/relative), I'm delighted to welcome you all here tonight." "Thank you so much, (name), for such a wonderful introduction.
How to Begin a Wedding Speech: 20 Speech Introductions
Maid of Honour or Bridesmaid Speech Introduction Examples. "Welcome to the most important day in the lives of [NAME] and [NAME].". "Today is a celebration and we are here to celebrate with [NAME] and [NAME].". "Love has brought [NAME] and [NAME] and everyone in this room together today.".
How to Write a Wedding Speech: Examples, Tips, and Advice
After your opener, introduce yourself, says Fallon Carter, a wedding planner, even designer, and professional speaker. "A lot of times, people don't know who is speaking, and they don't know their ...
How to Start a Wedding Speech: Tips for Memorable Beginnings
Practice in advance including reading aloud: Whether you're figuring out how to start a speech of best man at wedding or a bridesmaid, you need to rehearse. Practice as much as you can in advance. Record yourself to listen how you sound: Recording yourself in audio or videotape will help as well.
Wedding Speeches: How To Write, Free Samples + Etiquette Tips
Wedding Quotes for Speeches. "I've seen nothing more satisfying than two people coming together to become one. They share in each other's pleasure, and bear each other's pain. They crush their enemies together and make home with their friends.". "The pain and weight of life vanish from our lives by one word.
How to Start a Wedding Speech
Incorporate Memorable Quotes: Begin your speech with a famous quote that resonates with the theme of love and marriage. For example, "It's so great to find that one special person you want to annoy for the rest of your life.". — Rita Rudner. This can immediately engage your audience and set a lighthearted tone.
Wedding Welcome Speech: Tips On Writing + Speech Samples
Wedding Welcome Speech Tips. Wedding introduction speeches can make even the boldest person nervous. So nervous that you either forget your lines or don't know how to start. Below are a few tips to help you start great wedding welcoming speeches. Introduce yourself; Don't step on stage with the false pride that everyone knows you.
2. Introduce yourself and how you know the bride and groom
Introduce yourself and how you know the bride and groom; Thanks to hosts, guests, and wedding party; congratulate the couple; Make it personal; Think of 3 traits with 3 stories; ... Make sure when you start to write a wedding speech to introduce yourself and mention how you know the couple. This will help them understand the context of your ...
How to Write a Wedding Speech: Your Easy Step-by-Step Guide
End with a toast. Cap off your speech on a fun and sentimental note by ending with an actual toast. Dalo recommends this foolproof example: "Please join me in raising a glass to the happy couple. Cheers to X and Y, and best wishes for a lifetime of laughter!" Afterward, go in for a hug with the couple, making for the perfect photo op!
How to Write a Great Wedding Speech
Structuring Your Speech. Now for the fun part - pulling your speech together! A great wedding speech will usually include the following key elements. You can use these elements as a simple outline to build your speech around: Introduction. Words of thanks. Personal anecdotes. Praise for the relationship. Toast.
How to Write a Wedding Speech (with Examples)
Here are some tips on how to structure your wedding speech: Section. What to Include. Opening. Introduce yourself, your relationship to the couple, and thank them for inviting you. Body. Share a story or anecdote about the couple, offer words of wisdom or advice, and give a toast. Closing.
How to Write a Wedding Speech: 13 Steps (with Pictures)
Remember, the focus of your speech is the married couple. 2. Open with a joke. Start by telling a joke or recalling a humorous anecdote to loosen up the crowd (and yourself. Humor is very disarming, so getting everyone laughing right off the bat can help dispel some of the nerves of giving a speech.
How to introduce yourself in a wedding speech
If you're asked to speak at a wedding, you'll find that you will need to work with a few notes to figure out what to say. The hardest part of the speech isn't going to be the body, or even the conclusion, it's going to be how you start things. You're going to need to figure out how to start and introduce yourself overall.
Personalized Wedding Invocation & Opening Words
It's helpful to divide a personalized Invocation into 3 parts as you begin: The Welcome (Greeting): Welcome the guests and explain the purpose of the event. Words on Marriage: Describe what marriage and commitment mean to the couple. The Couple's Story: Describe the couple's life and relationship, milestones leading up to this day, what ...
8 Ways to Ensure Your Wedding Officiant Speech Isn't Boring
See all vendors. 4. Amplify Your Voice. Sometimes, the only difference between a boring speech and an interesting one is being able to hear the speech clearly. You want all of the guests, even the ones sitting in the way back, to hear the parts of your speech that will make them laugh or cry, Tongg says.
3 Best Opening Words and Introduction of a Wedding Ceremony
2. Intercultural. 3. Religious. 1. Generic. Dear friends and family of the Bride and Groom, we welcome and thank you for being part of this important occasion. We are gathered together on this day to witness and celebrate the marriage of Name Of Bride and Name Of Groom. Every one of us has a deep desire to love and to be loved.
Wedding Speech
9. End with a Toast. Raise a Glass: Conclude your speech by inviting everyone to join you in a toast. Simple and Sincere: Keep the toast short and sincere, wishing the couple happiness, love, and a bright future together. 10. Be Yourself. Authenticity: Speak from the heart and be true to your personality.
How to write a wedding speech: Ultimate expert tips & examples to
Wedding speech examples: Use these wedding speech introduction examples to inspire your own, and get your speech off to a great start. "Hello, I'm XXX and I'm so happy to welcome you all here on ...
How to write a wedding speech that KICKS ASS
I love the both of you together. I love how the both of you love each other. And I can't wait to be there to watch and support the journey you too are going to continue to take together. So I'd ask you all to raise your glass in honor of the happy couple — two of the most wonderful adventure partners in the world.
How To Introduce Speakers At A Wedding
You have the option to sit with the speaker at the head table if you'd like to get to know them a little better. Making notes is always a good idea when giving an introductory speech. 1. Remind the crowd of the significance of the subject to them. 2. Determine the speaker's expertise in the area of discussion.
Write An Unforgettable Wedding Speech In 5 Simple Steps
With that in mind, let's now break down this scary task of writing a "Bring Down the House" worthy wedding speech (may it be a tear-jerker, heart-warmer, or a side-splitter) in 5 simple steps. 1. Introduce yourself to the crowd. You will not believe how easy it is to forget this but it is the cornerstone of ANY speech made in public, let ...
How to Write a Great Wedding MC Introduction Speech
Name each couple separately and space out the names to allow them to enter the room. The end of the bridal party should be the best man and the maid of honour. Finally, introduce the happy couple and allow them plenty of time to walk into the room as the applause at this part should likely be the loudest. The wedding party will then make their ...
Wedding Officiant Speeches Ideas, Templates
Let the audience know it's time for the couple to come in. "All guests stand as you see fit.". After the processional, ask them to sit. At this point, some officiants ask "who gives out the other.". The officiant's speech. Wedding ceremony speeches by officiants begin with a love story about the couple.
How to best introduce yourself in an interview (with examples)
You don't have to recite your speech verbatim at the interview - you want to sound prepared, not overly rehearsed. ... However, these notes are a solid foundation for the details you should cover. Sample introduction script: Generally, you should be able to mention your name, professional background, and relevant skills, and enumerate ...
How to Introduce Yourself Professionally
But let's face it: Figuring out how to introduce yourself professionally can be nerve-wracking. Beyond the words you say, nonverbal communication plays a crucial role in shaping your first impression. Your body language, tone of voice, and eye contact can convey as much, if not more, than your verbal introduction. A firm handshake, a genuine ...
How to properly introduce yourself to someone you like
Introducing yourself to someone you're romantically interested in adds an extra layer of complexity. Unlike the cold approach, where the goal might be to simply make a connection, the romantic approach involves expressing an interest that goes beyond friendship. This can make the stakes feel higher, but it can also make the interaction more ...