Wedding Speech - 5 Tips for Writing a Wedding Speech or Toast

When writing a speech or toast for a wedding, it is important to understand the proper etiquette for delivering a speech or toast at such an event. Following are 5 tips for delivering a great wedding speech or wedding toast:

1. Develop a plan.

Imagine the objectives and potential outcomes of your wedding speech. Do you want your speech to be funny or to evoke the emotions of the guests? When developing a plan, begin by visualizing what you are going to say.

2. Formalize the structure.

Develop the beginning, middle and end of the wedding speech. Develop a structured speech that encompasses a welcoming, especially one that acknowledges those who have traveled a long way to attend the wedding. Include several personal stories, such as how the couple met, to serve as the middle of the speech. End the speech by thanking the wedding party.

3. Keep it simple and positive.

Avoid a lengthy wedding speech. Keep the speech short and simple - between 5 to 7 minutes. Being too long-winded will bore your listeners. Keep in mind that this is supposed to be a celebration and is not the appropriate time to air any dirty laundry regarding previous spouses or to discuss family members known as being the "black sheep."

4. Research your speech.

Use personal stories to connect with your audience in a more meaningful way by demonstrating how much your care for and love the couple.

5. Practice your speech.

Practice your speech and get feedback prior to delivery. If you are planning on making a longer speech, it appropriate to use index cards containing key points for simple recall. Avoid reading the speech and maintain eye contact with the wedding guests to show sincerity.

Use these tips to develop and deliver a memorable wedding speech or wedding toast.

Hilary Basile is a writer for MyGuidesUSA.com. At MyGuidesUSA.com (http://www.myguidesusa.com), you will find valuable tips and resources for handling life's major events. Whether you're planning a wedding, buying your first home, anxiously awaiting the birth of a child, contending with a divorce, searching for a new job, or planning for your retirement, you'll find answers to your questions at MyGuidesUSA.com. Find wedding planning tips and resources at http://weddings.myguidesusa.com