Weddingbee Blog

Since Mr. CC’s half-brother/best man isn’t a fan of public speaking and was absolutely dreading having to give a toast, Mr. CC asked his stepfather to give a speech in his place. Since Mr. CC’s stepfather is French, he is not familiar with the “best man speech” or what it entails. So, I’ve been gathering some tips and advice for him, to give him an idea of what is generally expected from the best man.

One of Mrs. Daffodil’s best men giving his speech

Mrs. Radish’s best man giving his speech

Here are tips according to theknot.com:

• Be prepared. Don’t think you’ll come up with something witty at the last second. You may end up staring like a deer in headlights as the wedding guests squirm in their seats.
• Speak slowly. Don’t rush through your speech, and try to speak as clearly as you can.
• Speak loudly enough for the grandparents to hear.
• Keep it brief: five minutes, tops. If you sense audience restlessness, wrap it up.
• Don’t stare at your notes–engage your audience. Look not only at the bride and groom, but at the rest of the audience, too.
• Guests expect to be entertained, so keep it sweet and light.
• Stay (relatively) sober. One drink of liquid courage may help you with your toast. Five will definitely hinder you.

Here are a list of rules of things NOT to do, according to theknot.com:

• Don’t tell ex-girlfriend-of-the-groom stories.
• Don’ t make fun of the bride.
• Don’t tell risqué jokes since old folks will be there!
• Don’t tell “inside” jokes that most guests won’t understand.
• Don’t ramble on about how you’ll miss the good old days.
• Don’t make the groom look like a slacker, loser or drunk.

That wraps up my minimal research on the best man’s speech!

What are some of the most memorable best man toasts you’ve heard? YouTube links are welcomed!