Outline for Writing a Stellar Wedding Speech

So, you have been asked to speak at your best friend’s, sibling’s or relative’s wedding and are a little nervous about pulling something together for the big day. Don’t worry, writing a good wedding speech is much easier than it sounds. You have been asked to give a speech to an attentive audience, about a subject they love, and everyone is excited to hear what you have to say. You don’t have to spend any time winning the audience over since you have already been given the seal of approval by the bride and groom. It is surprisingly easy to wow the crowd as we will detail in this guide to writing a simply stellar wedding speech.

Take a few deep breaths, follow this outline below, and you will make the married couple proud.

I. Short Intro

Every good speech should start with a little background on who you are and why you were chosen to talk. Chances are most people won’t know you, and it is good to set some context to set the stage and tone of what is to come.

II. The Person Who Asked You to Speak 

Start with the person you know best and share some special moments that you have shared with them as well some humorous yet thoughtful insights. Anecdotes and short stories work best here. Keep it simple, short, and clean (no mention of past relationships, R-rated material, or anything insulting). Just share a fun tale that people will enjoy (a little embarrassment is always good), and make sure to end with a takeaway that portrays them in a positive light.

III. The Significant Other

A speech is incomplete unless you mention the other half of the wedding couple. Many good speeches go awry when the speaker only focuses on one of the two. No embarrassment here - just say how great they are, how wonderful they have been to you in the time you have known them, and feel free to throw in a loving story or character trait that few people may be aware of, yet one that everyone can relate to and smile about.

IV. The Bride and Groom Together

Transition into the two together, and make it very clear how happy you are for them and how wonderful the two are together. Speaking about the beautiful home they will make, the loving family they will build, or just how much of a perfect fit they are for one another are all par for the course here.

V. Forever After

Finally, end with a fairy tale flourish wishing them the best forever after, and remember to finish with a nice toast with which the whole audience can partake.

Final notes: If giving a best man speech, feel free to add a little more humor (light and endearing jests are always appreciated). And if speaking for the bride, the mushier and gushier the better; a couple tears never hurt anyone...

Now get out there and rock the mic!