If the idea of speaking in public sends you running for the restroom – and imagining your audience naked doesn’t help – then making a speech at your wedding mightn’t be for you. If that’s the case, don’t fret. You’re not alone and you can either ask one of your bridesmaids to read something on your behalf, or just save your special words for you and your hubby in a private moment. However, if you fancy putting your two bobs’ worth in you can be assured your guests will be thrilled to hear from you, and if you’re super confident, you could even try walking the room as you talk (roving mike permitting) , so long as you’re prepared for a little improvisation.
If you’re sitting on the fence, your best bet is to write a short speech just in case, and keep it close on the off chance that the mood should take you or you cave in to enthusiastic encouragement from your guests.
The most important thing when speaking at your wedding is to do it from the heart. If that means you’re likely to be somewhat emotional – well what do you expect? There’s no need to feel embarrassed. It’s your wedding day after all.
If your comedic timing rocks and you’re a natural storyteller then obviously including a few funny anecdotes is a great way to lighten the tone. However, if you’re a less than seasoned public speaker, or you fear your nerves may get the better or you, the secret is to not try too hard.
If funny doesn’t come naturally, don’t do it. Stick with an honest speech about your feelings, thank those dear to you, including those who’ve helped both before and during the big day (this is where a list is essential) and let your guests know how thrilled you are to have them with you.
Remember to mention your parents – and your new in-laws, siblings (yours and his) as well as grandparents and godparents if they’ve played a part and your wedding. Work out ahead of time who will thank guests who‘ve travelled from interstate or overseas so that you don’t double up too much (unless you want to thank them again, in which case, go for it).
Save the most important mention for last – your new husband.
At this point it doesn’t matter if you just forget that you’re in front of a room full of people, they are your nearest and dearest after all, so just say what feels natural to your new partner-for-life. So what if it’s a bit soppy (although perhaps keep any cutesy private nicknames out of it unless you know your groom can withstand the ribbing from his mates) - that’s the bride’s prerogative and there’s nothing like a show of true romance to remind everyone why they’re there in the first place. For more ideas on speaking at weddings visit
www.i-do.com.au.
Image courtesy of Daniel Griffiths Photography
Tory @ i-do