Being chosen as the best man at a wedding is a great honour, but it also comes with a lot of responsibility, including delivering a memorable and well-received speech. A best man’s speech is one of the most important parts of the wedding reception, as it allows the best man to honour the groom and celebrate the couple’s love. However, writing and delivering a great best man’s speech can be a daunting task, especially if you have never given a speech before. To help you out, we have compiled a list of tips on what makes a good best man’s speech.

1. Be prepared
The key to a successful best man’s speech is preparation. Start working on your speech well in advance of the wedding day, giving yourself plenty of time to write and practice. Take the time to think about what you want to say and how you want to say it. Jot down some notes or key points, and practice your speech several times before the big day.

2. Keep it short and sweet
Your best man’s speech should be no more than five minutes long. Remember that you are not the only person who will be speaking at the reception, and you don’t want to bore the guests with a long, drawn-out speech. Keep your remarks concise and to the point.

3. Start with an attention-grabbing opening
Your opening should be memorable and set the tone for the rest of your speech. You could start with a joke, a funny story, or a heartfelt quote that relates to the couple.

4. Speak from the heart
The best man’s speech should come from the heart. Talk about your relationship with the groom, how you met, and share some personal stories that highlight his qualities and character. It’s important to convey your love and support for the couple and how much their relationship means to you.

5. Avoid inappropriate content
While it’s okay to make jokes and have a lighthearted tone, be sure to avoid any inappropriate content that may offend or embarrass the couple or their families. Stay away from topics that are too personal, controversial, or offensive.

6. Thank the important people
Remember to thank the important people, including the bride and groom, their parents, and the wedding guests. Express your gratitude for the opportunity to serve as the best man and for being a part of such a special day.

7. End on a high note
Your closing remarks should leave the guests with a positive impression of your speech. You could end with a heartfelt toast to the newlyweds, a quote about love and marriage, or a wish for their future happiness.

In conclusion, a great best man’s speech is one that is well-prepared, concise, heartfelt, appropriate, and memorable. Remember that the speech is about celebrating the love and commitment of the couple, and it’s an opportunity to show your support and admiration for them. With these tips, you can deliver a speech that the bride, groom, and guests will remember for years to come.

Example speech

Good evening, everyone. For those who don’t know me, my name is Kevin, and I have had the privilege of being Dave’s best friend for over 20 years. It’s an honour to stand here today as his best man and share in this special moment.

Dave, I remember the day we met in primary school like it was yesterday. We were both young and innocent, and little did we know that our friendship would last for decades. We’ve been through a lot together, from playing football in the park to sitting in a pub with a pint. And I couldn’t be happier for you, now that you’ve found your soulmate in Debbie.

Dave and Debbie’s love story is one for the ages. They met on a night out, and as soon as Dave saw her, he fell over his own feet trying to get her attention. I remember watching in disbelief as my best friend stumbled and fell, but it was all worth it in the end because he got the girl.

Debbie, you are the perfect match for Dave, and I’ve never seen him as happy as he is with you. You complement each other in every way, and your love for each other is evident in everything you do.

I want to take a moment to thank the parents of the bride and groom for raising such amazing individuals. You’ve done an incredible job, and I know that Dave and Debbie will continue to make you proud as they embark on this new journey together.

Dave, my friend, you’re an amazing person, and I’m honoured to stand by your side on your big day. You’ve always been there for me through thick and thin, and I will always be there for you. I wish you and Debbie a lifetime of happiness and love.

So, let’s raise our glasses to the newlyweds. Here’s to Dave and Debbie, a match made in heaven. Cheers!