Writing A Best Man Speech – A Few More Points

It is always such a great honor to be asked to be a member of a wedding party, whether it be of a sibling, a close friend, a cousin, or a colleague. However, if asked to be the best man, the level of responsibility has automatically been tripled. The reason for this is the importance of the best man speech.  An article on writing a best man speech has already been published but I thought I missed a few good points and that’s why I decided to write the post.

Whether the memories between the new couple and the best man go back five years or twenty-five years, it’s important to give the speech a lot of thought before standing up in front of the guests with a microphone at the reception. Because public speaking ranks higher than death as most people’s worst fear, it’s a good idea to at least jot down some notes, memories, or funny moments ahead of time, if not writing the entire thing out beforehand.

Keeping that small piece of paper (known as the cheat sheet) nearby while giving the best man speech can be helpful. It’s not uncommon for the best man to look out into the audience with all eyes on him and simply forget everything he had planned on saying. Before standing up to deliver the speech, take a sip of water and then a deep breath. Simple things like that tend to help calm our nerves in this type of situation. Also, when beginning the speech, starting it off with a relevant joke or witty comment can easily loosen up the crowd with a laugh. The best man should scan the crowd so that he appears to be addressing everyone, while often making eye contact with the bride and groom. Keeping best man speeches to five minutes or less will help keep the attention of the guests as well as the bride and groom, and you should be willing to obey the rule too.

Although it’s a big responsibility, writing a best man speech can be a great honor that the newlywed couple will always remember. Best man speeches can have a serious or humorous tone, but should always emphasize his genuine hope that the couple has a long and happy marriage together. And of course, at the end of the speech, the best man must always raise his glass , while asking everyone to join him in a toast in congratulating the newly married couple.