Where to Start
Getting
started requires pen, paper, and a little inspiration. But where can you
find your inspiration? From the Bride and Groom...
Finding the answers to the following questions about the Bride and Groom
will help you find your inspiration, and find out what you really want to
include in your speech. Don't hold back here, write down everything that
comes to mind... you will have plenty of time to edit the content later.
-
How long have you known the Groom? And how did you meet?
-
How did the Bride and Groom meet? Were you involved?
-
How did the Groom propose to the Bride? And what was her immediate
reaction?
-
How long have the Bride and Groom been a couple?
-
Do they have children?
-
What are the Bride and Groom's mutual interests?
-
What 5 words come to mind when you think of the Groom? What 5 words come
to mind when you think of the Bride?
-
What is the funniest thing that happened to the Groom while Bride was
present? And vice-versa?
-
What is the funniest thing that happened to the Groom (or Bride) while
you were present?
-
What would you like the future to hold for the Bride and Groom?
Opener
A great toast
has a good opening and a good closing, so now that you've got some ideas on
paper, let's look at your opener...
The first words are the hardest - and the most memorable - for the guests.
Start by introducing yourself, and then keep their attention by saying
something interesting right up front. Quotes and humor work well to catch
your audience, but if humor isn't your style, don't feel pressured to start
now. Remember to stick with something you feel comfortable with.
And if nothing else comes to mind, use the old standby, "Hi I'm [your name]
and I'm [Groom's name] Best Man. I don't want to do a lot of talking
tonight, but I do have a few important things I need to say."
Middle
After the
opening, and before your closing "Congratulations!" take just a moment to
reminisce and tell your audience a few little-known tidbits about the Bride
and Groom. This is where your answers to the questions above come in.
WARNING! Absolutely no words about ex-girlfriends or past relationships, and
don't say anything that will make the Groom look like a slacker, loser,
drunk, or druggie. Making too much fun of the Bride and Groom is definitely
not allowed.
If you choose to skip the embarrassing recollections in favor of saving face
for the Groom, the middle of your speech can include a nice story of how the
Bride and Groom met, or even encouraging words of advice for their future
together.
If you are still unsure about the content, ask someone you know for his or
her feedback. You'll be grateful for the pre-wedding audience.
Closing Toast
What's that
last word you want to leave with your audience? Try finishing with a wish or
blessing for the happy couple, and a resounding "Cheers!",
"Congratulations!", or "To Jane and Joe!" You can also use a one-liner
classic toast like "To love, laughter, and happily ever after!"
Don't forget to take a sip, you're done!
Article provided by
InstantWeddingToasts.com
Copyright ©2001-2006
Pieczonka Consulting Group Inc. & InstantWeddingToasts.com
All Rights Reserved.
