Wedding season is here! It’s time to get the champagne flutes ready and make a toast. Whether you’re the best man, maid of honor, or a close friend or family member, here are some tips for making a memorable speech.
Relax and be Yourself
When the stage is all yours, it can be incredibly stressful. Even if you’ve gone over your speech in front of the mirror a number of times (which you certainly should do), everything changes when you’re up there on your own. With that in mind, there’s something you’ll need to do to ease the tension.
Be yourself. You’re not there to impress anyone. This isn’t comedy hour. You’re there to show your support for the bride and groom. And if you’ve been given the opportunity to get up and say a few words, it’s because the newlyweds deem you worthy enough to do so. Plus, they know you incredibly well, just for being you. So be yourself.
Be Careful Reminiscing
When it comes to the essence of being tasteful, it isn’t always wise to reminisce too far back. Let’s say to a time when exes were in the picture. In the movies, it’s hilarious when the bride and groom are put in awkward positions. In real life, people will cringe. (And you may get skipped when the entrees roll out.)
Keep it Short and Simple
When writing your toast, if you think to yourself, “should I mention that?” – chances are you probably shouldn’t. Trim it down to the important stuff. How do you know the bride and groom? Is there an interesting story there? How have the bride and groom changed for the better since they met?
Speak from the Heart
Whatever you choose to say to the happy couple – be sure to speak from the heart. Think of your connection to them. Think of their connection to one another. Think of how they truly are better together – and if do that, you’ll do just fine.