Originally posted on Polka Dot Bride September 5th 2008

Mr Polka always told me he thought if the groom had to get up and speak then so did the bride. Here’s 10 tips for making the wedding speech easier!

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Photo by Anne Ruthmann

  1. Practice! Practice will make you feel more relaxed- you’ll know what’s coming next and deliver your words more confidently. Use a mirror so you can check your facial expressions. gestures and posture.
  2. Write it down- Write down the key points on index cards or paper. It’s very reassuring to know you have backup
  3. Thanks- Thank your guests for coming to share in the day- especially those who have traveled long distances, thank the bridal party and your families. If it starts to feel like an acceptance speech, break it up with stories and a little humour.
  4. Be as romantic and sentimental as you like about your wife! (and don’t forget to mention her- it does happen!)
  5. Have fun with it! Include a joke, a funny story. This is your speech and do whatever you can to help yourself relax
  6. Keep sober- Keep your alcoholic drinks to a minimum until after the speech. A drunk groom does not a good look make during a speech
  7. Keep it snappy- don’t let the speech get too drawn out. You have a lot to say but you need to keep it snappy so guests don’t fall asleep! At the same time don’t rush so fast through the speech that guests will wonder where it went. Take your time with words.
  8. Make sure the speech content is suitable for all ages. Keep the naughty jokes for the buck’s party!
  9. Toast! It is traditional for the groom to toast the bridesmaids, but you might just want to raise a toast to your lovely new wife, or to family and friends!
  10. Remember most of all, you are amongst people who care for you and will not judge you if you get the words wrong or if you spill your wine accidentally during the speech. So relax and enjoy the moment!