Part of planning a stress-free wedding is deciding in advance who will be giving what speech and when. At one time, it was up to the Best Man to deliver the Toast to the Bride, while it was the job of the Father of the Bride to give the closing remarks, thank the guests for coming, and express pleasure at the blending of two families.
Traditionally, the groom was expected to counter the Toast to the Bride with a short speech and a thank you on behalf of himself and his new wife, but these days, anyone might be asked to raise a glass and say a few words to the bride and groom including:
- The mother of the bride
- The maid or matron of honour
- The bride's or groom's siblings
- The father of the groom
- The Best Man
- Step parents
Can More Than One Person Toast the Bride and Groom?
Traditionally, it was up to the Father of the Bride and the Best Man to give the wedding toasts. Some couples will ask a close friend (often the Best Man to act as an Emcee at the reception).These days, there are no set rules when it comes to wedding toasts and speeches.
Some newly-weds prefer to have no speeches at their reception, others like to hear some words from a representative from each family (which can become complicated if their are step-parents involved). If you find yourself in a situation where everybody wants to speak, consider asking some family members and friends to deliver their toasts at the Rehearsal Dinner.
What About the Groom?
Although it is still referred to as The Toast to the Bride, this speech is commonly directed at both the bride and the groom. Begin by recognizing something special about the bride and include a personal story. This might be something funny or touching, but it should be complimentary. Follow this by saying something flattering about the groom – leave out dirty jokes or rude comments – but feel free to tell a humorous or revealing story that will provide insight into the groom's character. Next, talk about the newly weds as a couple. For example, you might mention:
- Where and how the newly-weds met each other
- Who introduced them if it is someone at the wedding
- The different things they share in common both at work and at play
- The future of the bride and groom together
- Include one or two well-known wedding quotes about love, marriage or relationships
If there is only one speech at the reception, make sure to:
- Thank everyone for coming
- Thank the out of town guests
- Have all the guests stand and toast the future of the newlyweds
A Few Closing Words From the Newlyweds
In a break from tradition, the newlyweds can both stand together and share the closing remarks. Like all of the speeches made at a wedding, this one should be short and sincere.
Timing of Wedding Toasts
The timing of the wedding toasts are up to the bride and groom, but if you are having a sit-down, formal dinner, allow your guests to finish eating before the speeches begin. If you are having a cocktail party format, start the toasting after everyone has been served a glass of champagne but before the cake is cut. Cutting the cake is a good way to end the toasting, and start to enjoy the celebration.
Don't forget to Apply for a Marriage Licence!
Julie Burtinshaw - Julie is the Reading and Literature and Writing and Publishing Editor for Suite101.com. She is also the author of five books and is ...
