So, you’ve been chosen by your friend to be his best man. Congrats! That means someone thinks you’re funny, or at least bearable. Being the best man is like being the wedding officiant, but with half the planning stress. The one thing you have to do is get up there and deliver a memorable, heartwarming speech. We’re here to help you through the most challenging part of the whole process: actually writing the thing. Don’t worry, this article will walk you through all the steps of writing a memorable “Best Man Speech.”
Understanding Your Role
Writing a best man speech can seem like a challenge, but just remember, the goal is to celebrate the couple, not win a stand-up comedy award. People are there to have fun, and they want to hear about the groom (or bride, if that’s the case).
Before you start cracking jokes, think about who will be listening. Grandma probably doesn’t want to hear your dirty jokes. But hey, if it’s a crowd of friends you know and there’s no limit on what you can and cannot say, then by all means let the sarcastic jokes fly! The point is, keep it as relatable as possible to your whole audience.
Structure Your Speech
A good best man speech has a beginning, middle, and end. Here’s a simple structure:
Introduction: Start by thanking the couple for inviting you to speak, and maybe retell the story of how you were chosen to be the best man or your relationship to the couple.
The Groom: Share some funny or heartwarming stories about the groom. Remember, everyone loves a good laugh,but don’t roast him too badly.
The Couple: Talk about the couple’s relationship. What makes them special? What do you find special or unique about their love story?
Toast: Although it’s not necessary, raise a glass to the happy couple and wish them a lifetime of happiness.
Staying On Point
Yeah, we get it you’re probably best buds with the groom and you might have a book of stories to tell about your adventures together. Just remember it’s not just a boys’ party. While it’s fun to tell stories about the groom, make sure to balance it with compliments for the bride and maybe a couple things about your relationship to her. After all, it’s their special day!
There’s a reason the couple chose you though, so get out there and be yourself. Be original! Have fun! This part of the wedding is all about bringing out emotions so if you have a story about when your buddy was super romantic, or did something silly to prove that he loved his girlfriend this is the time to tell it!
It’s also a good idea to keep your best man’s speech short and sweet. No one wants to listen to a 20-minute speech. Aim for 5-7 minutes. People will appreciate it. After all, most people just want to get to the post-ceremony party and you probably do as well.
Practice, Practice, Practice
Rehearse your best man speech out loud. If you have friends who are down to give it a listen that’s an extra bonus. Reading your speech out loud will help you hear any awkward sounding phrases or take out any extra fluff.
The most important thing is to be yourself. People will appreciate your honesty and authenticity. There’s nothing worse than a phony, half-hearted speech.
Writing a best man speech is a great opportunity to show your love and support for the happy couple. Just relax, be yourself, and enjoy the moment. With a little preparation, you’ll knock it out of the park.
-Bernard Paul