The Groom's Speech   

Traditionally the wedding speeches are delivered after the meal has been served.   Nowadays however, it is becoming increasingly common for couples to arrange to have the speeches before sitting down to eat.  Making a speech is a daunting task for anyone so getting them over and done with so that you can sit back and enjoy the food and drink is becoming a more popular choice.

The groom’s speech is the most important of the wedding day.  Making a speech is never easy and just looking at a sea of smiling, expectant faces is enough to make you feel nervous and anxious. Remember that these faces belong to people who have come to share in your special day and not just to hear your speech.   

The groom’s speech should be reasonably short, between 5-10 minutes. Although he may be feeling nervous and anxious, it is important to take your time and speak clearly and to convey an image of  confidence.                                    The first part of the groom’s speech should be devoted to telling everyone how beautiful his bride looks and to conveying his love for her and his happiness at being accepted into her family.  He should also thank his new father-in-law for allowing him to marry his daughter.

The groom is also responsible for thanking everyone who has helped in the planning of the wedding day, the guests for attending and for their gifts. Absent friends and family who are unable to be present on their special day should also me mentioned. 

Finally the groom should end his speech with any presentation of flowers to the two mothers, thank his best man and toast the bridesmaids. 

Do’s and don’ts 

• Don't drink excessivelybefore the speech, the last thing you want is to slur your way through your speech in front of guests. 
• Take your time, rushing a speech just makes it hard to hear what you are saying and actually makes you feel more nervous.  As much as you want to get it over with, slowing down your speech will help you relax and convey confidence. 
• Don't overdothe nudge, nudge, wink, wink stuff. 
• Write your speechout on place cards and number them, this makes it much easier to avoid losing your place. 
• If you cantthink of what to write get a professional wedding speech writing guide, there are many available on the internet 

 Duties of the Groom 

·         To thank his bride for agreeing to become his wife 

·         To thank the bride’s father for allowing him to marry his daughter 

·         To thank guest for attending and gifts 

·         To thank everyone for helping to plan the wedding 

·         To thank the best man 

·         To give the two mothers gifts (if applicable) 

·         To toast the bridesmaids