A Guide for the Perfect Groom’s Wedding Toast

Most of us like weddings and a big part of weddings is often to give a toast. The groom’s wedding toast is an absolute must. It doesn’t matter how shy you might be, the groom’s wedding toast is crucial to a wedding. But not to worry, there are a few easy tips that can help any groom make a great wedding toast. One of the first places to start is to make sure that your speech is displaying your romantic side, as well as a sense of humor and originality.

One of the first facts you should know about the groom’s wedding toast is that the father of the bride’s speech usually precedes it. Don’t let this intimidate you. Hopefully your father-in-law had a couple of good things to say about you, but if not, carry on soldier.

The groom’s speech is one that needs to be focused and precise. After all, you have a limited amount of time and many people to thank. Those who have made big contributions to your wedding should most definitely be thanked and in a big way. When you sit down to write your speech think for a moment about any contributions to your wedding that stand out as being funny or impressive in some fashion. Such a story is a great way to inject a little humor or life into your speech as well. Considering that there will be many speeches at your wedding it is a good idea to make sure that your speech does not exceed five minutes.

The Parents. Thank your bride’s parents. Repeatedly. Whether they love you, hate you, or pretend to like you, thank them repeatedly. This is especially true if they picked up the tab for your wedding.

The Guests. Some of your guests likely traveled just to see you get married. Keep this in mind when you are thanking people for their time. Also many of your guests have given you some pretty nice gifts, so why not thank them?

All of Your Guest. Sometimes guests have to travel a considerable distance to be at your wedding. Make sure you acknowledge guests who have traveled to join you on this special day. Another obvious reason to thank your guests is that, hopefully, they have given you some pretty nice gifts.

Thank Those Who Went the Extra Mile. Anyone who lent an extra hand in making sure that your wedding was a success should receive a special thank you as well. Often those who fall into this category include your best man and maid of honor, but may also include groomsmen, bridesmaids and even wedding planners. Any funny or poignant moment revolving around these contributions should be acknowledged and will make your speech all the more personable.

The Bride. If you forget to thank your bride, you are in a lot of trouble. Obviously thanking your bride should be a “no-brainer.” Feel free to express your love of her and tell her how beautiful she is on her wedding day. Make sure that you look into her eyes when addressing her, and end the toast with her.

General Tips:

-Don’t act like someone you are not.

-Keep a cheat sheet on hand and don’t be afraid to look at it.

-Eye contact is key. When thanking someone look them in the eye.

-Write your speech at least a week in advance and practice it out loud!

Milton Kelly is a writer who prides himself on offering would-be grooms the best advice on everything from etiquette to groomsmen gifts.

categories: groomsmen gifts, honeymoon, groomstand, gifts, weddings, wedding toasts