Feel free to copy/paste this or email it to anyone who will be proposing a toast at your event!

Being asked to be the Best Man or Maid of Honor usually means you’ll be expected to propose a toast to the Bride and Groom. For those who aren’t used to speaking publicly, it can be very nerve-wracking!

I found a helpful web site: thebestmanspeech.com. Try it.

¨ Spend some time thinking of what you want to say. Write it down. Take notes. Study it. When you’re sure you have “the finished copy”, print it up and practice it to yourself.  If you can give your speech without having to read it, do it!

¨ Speak loud and be clear.

¨ Don’t drink too much before your moment in the spotlight. A few drinks might loosen you up but too many may make you look foolish.

¨ Try to start off by thanking the bride and groom for asking you to be their Best Man or Maid of Honor .

¨ Talk about them as a couple. Don’t talk too much about one or the other.

¨ No mentions of previous marriages, girl/boy friends, etc!

¨ Keep it rated G...don’t say anything that your Grandmother will be shocked at!

¨ Don’t embarrass or humiliate anyone. Sometimes a funny story can embarrass someone and nobody wants to be uncomfortable in front of a large group of friends and family.

¨ If you’re really uncomfortable with giving the speech, keep it simple.

¨ End the toast with the actual toast! Cheers! Salut! Congratulations! Here’s To John and Jane!