Sample Wedding Toasts

By Matt Hellstrom

Since you're reading this article, you probably have a part in an upcoming wedding, and you'll be required to make a speech. Chances are, you don't know what you're doing, but that's ok. Here are a few ideas for coming up with and giving that speech that will dazzle the crowd, even if you're totally out-of-place in the limelight.

* First, you need to decide how serious or how funny you're going to be. Remember, weddings are a good time, so it's just fine to have a few jokes in your speech, as long as they're in good taste. Don't forget, there are going to be a lot of older people there, who might not appreciate the same kind of jokes that the friends of the bride and groom do.

* You'll probably be nervous - that's normal - but just keep in mind that these people want you to succeed, so you're sure to get some grace. Just be natural, and everything will be fine.

* Don't wing it - you're going to want to know what you're going to say ahead of time. The best way to do this is to have an outline of what you're going to talk about. You want it to sound natural and like you're ad-libbing, but don't. What came out great in front of the mirror is much harder to deliver in front of a bunch of people.

* Throw in a little marriage humor, if you can find an appropriate joke - just make sure your jokes aren't too long. Nothing worse than a 5 minute joke, than blowing the punch line. Stick to the one-liners - that's your best bet.

* You might be required to thank some people for coming - this depends on what part you have in the wedding. So don't plan on all jokes and humor - take care of business too! Some of the people that need to be thanked are parents, in-laws, friends, groomsmen, and bridesmaids.

* What happens in Las Vegas, stays in Las Vegas. In other words, don't be talking about the bachelor or bachelorette party, or past "good times" by the bride or the groom. Remember grandma and grandpa! It is ok to share a clever anecdote about marriage, something along the lines of "Marriage is where a woman and a man become one. The problem starts when they try to figure out which one." This is a funny little joke that will put everyone at ease, and make you seem like you're funny, even if that's not true.

* Hold the microphone a little way from your mouth. It it's too close, it will make it so people can't hear you, and your voice will be muffled. Also, you're going to not want to talk too fast. When people are inexperienced at public speaking they have a tendency to do this. So practice, practice, practice and slow down.

There's a few tips - don't worry, have fun! - 20607

About the Author:

No comments: