Image by Sayher Heffernan via Jem and Brendan’s Intimate Abbotsford Convent Wedding
Whether it’s your wedding day or you’ve been asked to speak at someone else’s wedding, it’s a pretty big deal.
If it’s your wedding, you and your partner will want everything to be perfect. If it’s someone else’s wedding, then it stands to reason that they will want the same.
For this reason alone I don’t think it’s a good idea to “wing” your wedding speech.
I know – you’re going to tell me you’ve seen and heard of plenty of people who have delivered their speech “on the fly” and done an awesome job.
Well to that I say this: these people and instances are rare. And I would argue that they’ve still put some thought into it beforehand and have a clear idea about what they want to say. Yes, some people are gifted when it comes to public speaking but the majority of us are not!
I think most of us will agree that what usually follows the words: “I’m just going to ‘wing it’ and see what happens” is often disastrous and leads to embarrassment and regret – not just for the speaker.
Image by Terralogical via Tobey-Anne and Andy’s Bohemian Inspired Bali Wedding
Image by fotojojo via Ellen and Adam’s Romantic Rooftop Wedding
Still thinking about “winging it”? Then consider the following:
1. Great speeches don’t happen by magic
If you have no idea what you are going to say but you think that you will miraculously channel Hugh Grant or Julia Roberts on the day and come out with something eloquent, witty and moving the moment you stand up, you are mistaken. This only happens in the movies.
2. Weddings aren’t cheap
The average Australian wedding is expensive! If you, or people you care about, are paying that much money to create the perfect day, don’t you think that it’s worth having a decent crack it at? It’s an awfully costly risk to take.
3. It will be all about you
If you don’t prepare and then stuff it up royally, your speech will become the focus of the day – for all the wrong reasons! It’s fair to say that people won’t be talking about the beautiful ceremony or the lovely flowers on the way home.
Final word
Treat this opportunity with the respect and honour it deserves. It’s something that will be remembered (and most likely recorded and watched) for years to come. Do you your best to make the memory a good one.
Can’t get it right? Get it written
If you are struggling to find the right words for your wedding speech then why not hire a professional speechwriter to help you so you’re remembered for the right reasons. Think of it as a smart investment.
Ms Chinoiserie Says: Thanks Anita – great advice. You definitely want your speech to be remembered for all the right reasons!
About Anita: Hi, I’m Anita from Write It For Me. I’m a professional speechwriter and can help you translate your thoughts, feelings and emotions into a well-written speech that you can be proud of! I’m not really a morning person, in fact, before my first coffee, I’m barely a person at all!
Join the conversation