i'll give it a year best man speech

I Give It a Year (2013)

R | Comedy, Romance

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I Give It a Year (2013) Best Man Speech

Josh's best man gives a horrible speech.

Studio Canal
Simon Baker
Minnie Driver
Olivia Colman
Stephen Merchant
Jason Flemyng

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I Give It a Year

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Watch I Give It a Year with a subscription on Hulu, rent on Fandango at Home, Prime Video, Apple TV, or buy on Fandango at Home, Prime Video, Apple TV.

What to Know

It's nowhere near as inventive as its reverse rom-com premise might suggest, but I Give It a Year is disarmingly frank -- and often quite funny.

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Simon Baker

Jason Flemyng

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'I Give It A Year' Stephen Merchant's best man speech

Stephen Merchant delivers a hilarious best man speech in 'I Give It A Year'.

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Watch: Stephen Merchant’s Awkward Best Man Speech In Clip From ‘I Give It A Year’

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It may not have a U.S. release date yet (or even a distributor for that matter) but we’re still looking forward to the British rom-com “ I Give It A Year .” The film is Dan Mazer ’s first as director (after a string of writing credits on Sacha Baron Cohen ’s TV shows and movies) and stars Rafe Spall and Rose Byrne as a couple exploring the trials and tribulations that occur during their first year of marriage. The cast also boasts Anna Faris, Simon Baker, Jason Flemyng, Minnie Driver and – as you’ll see from the following clip – Stephen Merchant .

The latest clip from the movie unsurprisingly comes from the film’s first proper scene, and it features Merchant’s Danny delivering a very inappropriate Best Man’s speech. If you’ve watched any of the trailers for the movie then you’ll have seen a few of the gags from this sequence already, but it’s well worth watching in its entirety.

The film is due for release in the UK on February 8th so the promotional push for the movie is really starting to pick up some steam. Hopefully if it performs well either critically or commercially in its native country then it might be able to snag a North American release – and you’d have to imagine that a wedding comedy starring Rose Byrne wouldn’t be the hardest thing to market.

The Ultimate Best Man Speech Guide (Examples And Templates Included)

Posted by by Lisa Plaitt

Being picked to be the best man is such a great honor. You will feel blessed that the groom has thought of you, and considers you the best man and friend for the job.

But, as the wedding draws nearer, there’s one thing on your mind. No, it’s not the bachelor party… It’s the best man’s speech(see also: Best Ways to End Your Best Man’s Speech ).

As the best man, you will likely have many responsibilities in the run up towards the wedding. You’ll have to try on suits, organize the bachelor party, but the best man speech is the thing that most look forward to, or dread!

Standing up in front of many guests, some of which you may not have met before can be nerve wracking to say the least. It’s such an important task, and a part of the wedding that many guests look forward to.

A best man speech needs to hook the audience in, reveal some funny stories about the groom, and even the bride, but also wish the couple well, and spread some laughter amongst the audience.

But, you have to do all of this in one single speech that can’t be too long, and can’t be too short!

So, how can you nail the best man speech? Well, that’s where we come in handy. We can offer you this ultimate guide to creating a best man speech, including tips, structure and examples you can take inspiration from.

How To Structure A Best Man Speech

Not everyone is gifted with the ability to speak clearly and confidently to a crowd. It can be very nerve racking, and make you anxious to say the least.

If you’re unsure of how to go about planning your best man speech, then we can help you out with this simple structure to follow and keep yourself on track.

This structure is a sort of guide, you don’t have to use it, but it’s a good idea to follow the structure so you cover all bases when doing the speech.

It can also help you when actually performing the speech, as you’ll know what needs to come next and in which order to go over your stories and anecdotes.

A good best man speech begins with:

An Introduction

Use the introduction to introduce yourself to the crowd. Not everyone will know who you are in the wedding, so it’s a nice way to break the ice and get rid of any awkwardness.

Try introducing yourself with a funny one liner about who you are and how you know the happy couple.

Talk About How You Met/Know The Groom

Next, it’s a good idea to briefly cover how you met the groom, or how long you’ve known each other. You can give a little history of how far back you go, and mention how honored you are to be the best man.

Anecdotes About The Groom

Here comes the fun part! Now is the time to start telling a funny story about the groom. The emphasis here is on funny and not too embarrassing or gross. Choose two or three short anecdotes or stories, but don’t overdo it.

Balance Poking Fun With Sincerity

After you’ve had your fun, balance this out by saying something meaningful and sincere about the groom, his qualities or your friendship.

Briefly Talk About How You Know The Bride

In this section, you can talk about your first meeting with the bride, how she came into the groom’s life, and how great of a match you believe them to be.

Wish Them All The Best

Finally, wish the couple all the best for their future together with a sincere, caring comment. Then, toast to the happy couple!

Best Man Speech Do’s And Don’ts

There are definitely a few do’s and don’ts when it comes to speaking at someone’s wedding. You’ll want to keep it concise, funny, but not too over the top jokey. Here’s our recommendations of what to do, and what not to do.

First things first, you’ll want to plan ahead, and write a few stories and anecdotes down that you can remember. Do this for a few weeks before the wedding, so it gives you time to come up with the right memories to share.

Try brainstorming ideas with other members of the family or bridal party to come up with the best things to share about the groom and his bride. Then, you can narrow down the list and find the most impactful or most important things to talk about.

You should also consider who this speech is going to be said around.

If the groom’s very traditional great aunt or grandma is there, it could be a good idea to avoid any crass, rude stories that could make family members uncomfortable. Save those lines for the bachelor party!

Do pause for reactions. You don’t want to talk too fast or fly through the speech as those who have laughed at the last line may miss the next one. Always leave small gaps or pauses for reactions, applause or responses.

Finally, make sure you focus on the couple, not just the groom.

This day is about the two of them. While you are doing a speech because you are the best man to the groom, it is important that you bring in the bride/partner in your speech so that overall you are wishing both of them well on their new adventure.

What Not To Do

Don’t wing it! You may have some liquid courage on the night, but you need this speech to be a crowd pleaser, so be sure to take your notes and go over the speech in your head just before you have to do it.

Don’t use foul language, or inflammatory language. You don’t want to cause a dark cloud over the event by offending anyone or causing a scene.

The same goes for mentioning exes (who could well be at the wedding) or bringing up sore subjects during the speech. Keep it fun, lighthearted, and hilarious.

Don’t use cliches like The groom is like a brother to me. Instead, demonstrate your close bond by telling a story or giving an example of when he treated you like family, and made you feel welcome.

This is far more impactful and will really get the audience involved in your speech.

Finally, and this is an important one- don’t make it about you. This is not your shining moment, your time will come.

Ensure you’re not talking about yourself too much, and always bringing it back to the bride and groom, because that’s what the audience really wants to hear about.

It’s a chance for them to see the couple in a different light, from your perspective, not learn everything about you.

Tips For Writing A Best Man Speech

We’ve also got some brief tips for writing and performing your best man speech!

Practice before the actual speech
Don’t include inside jokes- they will fall on deaf ears
Keep it short and sweet – don’t go over the top with long stories/memories
Don’t use cringey cliches
Don’t mention exes- even as a joke
Use clean language
Don’t say anything political/inflammatory
Tell a story about the groom and the couple as a pair
Don’t just focus on the groom
Always end on a high – make a nice toast and comment about the couple

Qualities To Talk About In The Best Man Speech

Throughout your speech, it is important to keep a running theme. If the joke you are telling is unrelated, it won’t have as much drive and impact.

For instance, if you’re talking about the groom’s thoughtfulness, use funny anecdotes that relate to this, and bring it back to that whenever possible.

Here are some other qualities that are worth mentioning:

Sense of humor: If the groom is known for his quick wit and humor, be sure to incorporate this into your speech. Share a funny story or two that showcases his sense of humor and make the guests laugh.
Generosity: If the groom is known for his kindness and generosity, talk about a specific instance where he went out of his way to help someone in need. This will show the guests the type of person he truly is.
Loyalty: Mention the groom’s unwavering loyalty to his friends and family. Talk about how he has been there for you and others in the past and how this trait is so important in a relationship.
Intelligence: If the groom is intelligent and knowledgeable, highlight this in your speech. Talk about his impressive achievements or interests that show his intelligence and passion.
Adventure: If the groom is someone who is always up for a new adventure, talk about his love for travel or exploring new things. This will show the guests his spontaneous and adventurous side.

For example, you could say:

Where do I begin with the groom’s sharp sense of humor? He’s a true master of wit, who can leave even the most experienced comedian in awe. A particularly memorable instance was when him and his bride went on a picnic; after he inadvertently dropped their sandwiches into a nearby pond, he remarked ‘Well, it looks like we’re having fish sandwiches today!’. The bride couldn’t help but laugh out loud at how quickly he turned an unfortunate situation into something humorous – that is simply the type of person this groom is.

Groom has always had a very caring, loving nature. He would do anything for anyone. Except that one time I asked him to water my plants while I was on vacation. He brought all of the guys over to ‘water my plants’! Thanks for that, Groom. Just kidding, Groom is incredibly thoughtful and compassionate towards all who meet him, which is a quality I believe brought him closer to Bride.

You want to talk about his great qualities, poke a little fun, or share a funny story, but then talk about how these qualities have translated into his relationship with his partner, or how they have brought them closer together.

Best Man Speech Examples

Good evening everyone. For those of you who don’t know me, I’m Tom, younger brother and best man of the groom. For those of you that do know me…heeeeeeey!

I have known Jack for…X years now (your age) and have always looked up to him. He had it all, the career, the intelligence, the sense of humor, and now the girl. Then again, I got the good looks.

In all seriousness, I have always looked up to my big brother. He’s always had a flair for sports, and genuinely has a heart of gold.

Being the youngest of the two of us, Jack has made me a better man, mainly because of the character building he put me through as a child. Jack would love taunting me by stealing my favorite stuffed animals.

I cherished my favorite, Mr. Snuggles, until one day Jack told me to come downstairs and see the new toy that our Rottweiler had been given.

I was so excited to see our little furry boy happy and playing with his toy until I realized that Jack had offered up Mr. Snuggles in sacrifice with a huge grin on his face. It was a day I won’t forget.

Despite the taunting and the terrorizing, Jack has been the man that I’ve always aspired to be. In all of the years I’ve been around Jack, he’s always been tenacious and worked hard for what he wants. And he’s always gotten it.

After asking Jenny out the first time, and she said no , he didn’t give up. He knew she was the one for him! It’s a good thing he has the patience of a saint, as it took another 3 attempts to get the first date!

With Jack being the older, but not often the wiser brother, he managed to get himself into some mishaps in the past.

When he did finally get a chance to take Jenny out on a date, he turned up at the wrong house, and managed to slip and break his shoulder all in one fantastic, first meeting with the parents.

Smoooth, brother. At least he made it an unforgettable start to their journey together.

With Jenny at his side, Jack’s clumsy mishaps are less and less. You truly bring out the best in him, Jen. I would say welcome to the family, but you’ve been a part of our lives for some time already, and I am truly blessed to be able to call you my new sister.

From day one, you’ve fit right in, as you too have taken on the role of teasing Jack just as I wanted. Let me tell you guys, there have been many pranks that Jenny and I have pulled off on Jack.

One time, we hid all of his left shoes, until the confusion nearly drove him to madness…and he had to deliver his board meeting like some kind of two right footed lunatic.

Other times, we’ve hidden around the house just when Jack is coming home from a long day at the office, to ambush him with Nerf guns until he pleads for mercy! Let’s just say justice has been served for Mr. Snuggles.

I quickly realized that Jenny and Jack were cut from the same mold. You two are a real example of what it means to marry your best friend, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for the two of you.

So everyone, if you could raise your glass…and toast- to the bride and groom!

Hi everyone! For those of you who don’t know me already, I am Zach, the best man of James! When James asked me to be the best man I felt like it was such an honor.

Then he reminded me that it’s not just about organizing the bachelor party and I have to actually come to the wedding so…here I am.

I’ve known James for so many years now, having met him at high school. In those years, it’s become clear what a fantastic friend he is. He’s handsome, kind, brilliant, funny…and sorry (looks at Groom) mate I can’t read your handwriting here. I’ll just wing it.

Just kidding. Me and James have been through thick and thin. I’ve watched him go from a weedy, awkward teenager to a less weedy, awkward adult!

Britney would probably argue with me over the adult part! James has always had that boyish sense of humor that’s often gotten us into trouble over the years.

I remember James would always be the class clown in high school. But for some reason, it was always me getting in trouble. One day, I glanced over in class to see James scribbling away on his desk.

He’s probably carving out some obscenity in the wood I thought.

This is why it came as such a shock when later that day it was I who was called into the principal’s office, and as I walked with my head hung in shame to my fate, James smiled wide and proudly.

Little did I know it was my name he had carved into the wood, so I could sit in detention after class!

Ever since that day, James and I have been at war with one another to get the other one back! But deep down, I know that James would do anything for me. If I needed someone at 4am, James is that friend.

Despite our differences, I know he’s as good as family to me, and all of the Henderson’s have welcomed me into their home on many occasions, and now Britney gets to have that same privilege.

Britney brings out the absolute best in James, and has given us an incredible gift in bringing two wonderful boys into our lives. With Britney, James gets someone who is beautiful, smart, caring, and Britney…well, you get James.

In all seriousness, if Britney gets half as much joy in being married to James, that I have had in being his friend over the years, then she will be incredibly lucky indeed.

On behalf of all the groomsmen, bridesmaids and myself, I would like to thank James and Britney for having us be a part of their special day. I know how hard you’ve worked to make this a day to remember, and you’ve definitely succeeded.

I wish you both all of the happiness, joy and good luck in the world, as you take these steps towards your future together. To the bride and groom, everyone! (Cheers).

Hello everyone. My name is Joe and I’d just like to thank John for finally confirming that I am in fact – the best man, after 20 years of friendship. 20 years is a long time.

Just think, back then…Low rise jeans were in fashion, Spiderman was the favorite superhero, and Ben Affleck and J-Lo were together. So really, nothing has changed in 20 years, and the same goes for our friendship.

If I ever needed building up, or bringing back down to earth, John was the man to do it. He’s always been there for me, through thick and thin. And let’s face it…during the college years, we were more thick than thin!

But, we had each other’s backs no matter what.

I remember one time in college, we decided that reading books and writing our own essays just wasn’t for us anymore. We decided to pay someone to write us an essay, and we would switch it up to pass the class.

From that day on a keen businessman was born- be careful everyone- you’ll probably get a bill for your food!

It all would have gone swimmingly if John hadn’t forgotten to change the name on the essay, but he never took me down with him!

Since then, I’ve realized what a tenacious person, good friend and loyal individual John was, and it’s an absolute blessing to be up here with you tonight as your best man.

There is one very important person who is not sitting on this top table with us today, and that is John’s mother, Cathy, who sadly passed away just last year.

I’ve joked a lot about John tonight, but I know that Cathy would be incredibly proud to see the man that you have become, and over the moon of how happy you are today with Mia.

So, if you wouldn’t mind joining me in raising a glass to John’s mom, who can’t be with us today, but is with us in spirit. Cheers.

On behalf of the wedding party, I would just like to say a huge thank you to John and Mia, for including us in their special day.

It’s been a wonderful day so far, and all Mia’s hard work planning and prepping has truly paid off. John, you just sit there and look pretty.

In addition, I’d like to thank both Mia’s parents, and John’s dad who have helped make this day extra special for the happy couple, which I’m sure they are eternally grateful for.

I’d also like to say that the bridesmaids have done an incredible job helping Mia plan the perfect wedding, and for making sure that Mia looks every bit as beautiful as she does today.

They also had the difficult task of getting Mia to the church on time, which if you know Mia is a very big achievement, indeed.

Finally, I’d like to thank the groomsmen for organizing and completing the best bachelor party Miami has ever seen. I only hope it was the send off John was hoping for before he begins the next stage of his life with Mia. (But I highly doubt it)

John, I’ve loved being your best friend, and I thank you for bringing Mia into our lives. She’s a beautiful person, intelligent, and brings out the best in everyone she meets. Her only downfall is her taste in men! Just kidding.

Seriously, I think everyone will join me in saying that we wish you only the best for your future together, and that we all can share one day in a love like yours. Cheers to the bride and groom!

Ladies and Gentleman, I have an announcement to make. If there is anyone here tonight that is feeling nervous, apprehensive, or maybe even a little nauseous at what lies ahead…then it’s probably because you’ve just married Adam.

For those of you who don’t know who I am, I am the best man, James. There are few words to describe Adam. Handsome, funny, but smart isn’t one of them. You see, Adam was my best man, at my wedding, and boy he did not hold back!

So, as we stand here today, know that my time has come for me to get you back!

Before I start the character assassination that is my best man’s speech, let me just thank Adam and Olivia for having us be a part of this very special day.

I know how much work has gone into making today as great as it has been, so thank you both for pulling it off! To be honest, I never thought Adam would find someone to marry, let alone someone as beautiful and amazing as Olivia!

I’ve known Adam for a very long time, all the way back to when he still had hair! We first met during our studies at X University. At first I thought we had nothing in common, but I quickly found out that we did. We would both likely fail our first year!

Our time at University was one of the best in my life, and I’ve far too many stories to tell you about our lovely Adam here.

But, as the BEST man, I won’t do to him what he did to me. Instead, I’ll talk about his lovely qualities over the years. First up, is his beautiful singing voice. I can’t tell you how many times I heard the works of Marvin Gaye after he met Olivia.

We quickly banned singing in the shower at our dorm because of all the love songs he would belt out after going on a date with Olivia. To say he was smitten from the start is an understatement.

And why wouldn’t he be? All those who know Olivia know what a lovely, and caring person she is. She deserves a good husband. Thank god Adam got there first before she could find one!

Another defining quality that drew Olivia to Adam is his caring nature. We’re incredibly proud of Adam for working as an EMT and helping people every day.

I’ll never forget the time a few years back during a friendly soccer game where I slipped and fell over on my side, snapping and breaking my ankle.

Adam was at my side within SECONDS…to let me know he caught my fall on video. Emergency Medical Services *Scoff*. Only when he saw the angle of my ankle did his medical training kick in.

All jokes aside, Adam and Olivia have always been there for me, and I them. I’d like to think of them as family rather than friends, and can only hope that continues going forward.

Adam and Olivia…I’ve never met two people more perfect for one another. You are both kind, old souls, and you make each other incredibly happy. So, if you all could raise your glasses with me, and toast to this amazing couple…to the bride and groom!

Hello everyone. My name is Kane, and I am the best man, and longtime friend of Rob. I was, however, somewhat surprised to be asked to be the best man, as Rob has never been able to admit this over the years.

At first, I thought this was great. I get to plan a bachelor party for Rob, but then he reminds me I have to write a killer speech that would likely make everyone laugh.

I had no idea where to start, so I decided to trawl the internet for inspiration. After a few hours, I found some really….really…great stuff. But then I remembered I needed to write a speech, so I got off YouTube.

I asked friends and family for advice, and according to tradition, I am supposed to sing Rob’s praises and tell you all about his fantastic qualities. Well, sorry to tell you, but I can’t sing and I don’t lie. So that’s out of the window.

But, Sophia told me I can’t say anything too rude or controversial about Rob. Instead, I can only say nice funny things, so with that in mind, thank you and goodnight all.

Just kidding. Seriously, Rob is one of the most kind, funny, caring and compassionate people I have ever met. This is a quality that I think brought Sophia closer to him.

His willingness to do anything for anyone, without accepting anything in return is what makes Rob extra special, and a joy to be around.

In turn, Sophia is one of the sweetest, and funnest ladies I have ever met! We’ve shared many great memories together, with my partner included, as Sophia and Rob are actually our children’s godparents.

I’ve known Rob for years. We grew up only a few doors apart on our street. I thought there was no kid cooler than Rob. He had all of the best hot wheels, Pokemon cards, and I had a huge crush on his big sister, Natalie *winks at groom’s sister*.

Looking back, I was probably a big nuisance always wanting to go play over his house, but I had some of the best time of my life growing up with Rob by my side. We’ve been there for every big moment of each other’s lives.

Graduation, getting our first jobs, our first cars, and now I get to be here for the biggest day of his life, where he gets to marry the beautiful Sophia.

Sophia and Rob, your love for each other shines through you. Sophia, I’m happy to step down as I can see that you two are truly best friends, and meant to be.

I can’t think of anyone better to look after my Rob here, and I know he will do everything he can to look after you for the rest of his days.

Thank you both so much for a fantastic day. If the rest of your lives is half as good as today has been, then you are in for a joyful marriage indeed. Please join me everyone in raising a glass to the newly weds, Rob and Sophia. Cheers!

Best Man Speech Frequentl Asked Questions

Does the best man have to do a speech.

The best man does not have to give a speech if he really does not want to, or if there isn’t enough time because there are other people doing speeches, but it is tradition and expected of the best man to do a speech.

When Does The Best Man’S Speech Happen?

The best man speech will typically happen after the groom has said a few words. However, every wedding is different, and the bride and groom may organize the day differently depending on how they think the speeches should flow.

How Long Should A Best Man Speech Be?

A best man speech should be short and sweet, but not too short, and not too long. A happy medium is about 5-6 minutes in length. You don’t want it to be shorter than 3 minutes as it may seem too brief.

The point is to keep the audience engaged, and deliver a few anecdotes, thank the bride and groom, and raise a toast.

What Should You Include In A Best Man Speech?

There are a few things that you should include in the best man speech. This is who you are, and how you know the bride and groom.

In addition, you need a fun story about the groom and you, and why you think the bride and groom are an excellent match, followed by your best wishes for the couple and a toast to their future together.

Who Should You Thank In A Best Man Speech?

In the best man speech, you should thank the bride and groom of course, but you can also thank the bridesmaids or groomsmen for their efforts, or say thank you to the parents of the bride and groom, especially if they have contributed a lot to the wedding.

To summarize, writing a best man speech is not all as bad as it seems.

With this ultimate guide, you’ve got all of the tools you need to succeed, and successfully deliver a hilarious, fun, lighthearted speech that is sure to wish the couple all of the best for the future.

Whether you are looking for examples, tips, what to do, or what not to do, we’ve covered it all in this handy guide.

Now, instead of stressing out about what you are going to say, how you are going to say it, you can look forward to the wedding planning process in the run up to the big day, and most importantly…the bachelor party!

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Lisa Plaitt

Hello, I’m Lisa Plaitt and I have been married to my wonderful husband for almost five years. We met almost a decade ago now and I love him more everyday. But on my wedding day - the day that was supposed to be about celebrating us - I was far too stressed to enjoy it. My husband proposed to me in spring and it was a very lowkey setting, in our backyard without anyone else around to see it. It was a perfect proposal. But then everything got real, and I was suddenly thrust into planning mode.

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Crafting Your Memorable Best Man Speech in 2024 [Ultimate Guide]

Unlock the secrets to nailing your best man speech with our guide. Get laughs & tears with ease.

By Juan C Olamendy · Updated: March 22, 2024

Crafting Your Memorable Best Man Speech in 2024 [Ultimate Guide]

Introduction

Crafting the perfect best man speech is an art form that balances humor, sentimentality, and personality, all while honoring the newlyweds.

Whether you're a seasoned public speaker or new to the spotlight, the responsibility of delivering a speech that captures the essence of the groom and his journey can be daunting.

Yet, with the right approach, it becomes an incredible opportunity to celebrate love, friendship, and the future. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through every step of creating and delivering a best man speech that leaves a lasting impression.

As the best man, you've been entrusted with the honor of delivering a speech that will not only entertain but also touch the hearts of everyone present at the wedding.

A well-crafted best man speech can elevate the wedding celebration, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of the newlyweds and their guests.

This is your opportunity to reminisce, honor, and celebrate the union in a way that resonates deeply with all in attendance.

In this article, we'll delve into the art of crafting a memorable best man speech, exploring the key elements that make it a resounding success, so you can deliver a speech that will be remembered for years to come.

Useful Links

Crafting Your Memorable Best Man Speech in 2024: The Ultimate Guide
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How do I write the best man's speech?
Wedding & Rehearsal Dinner Toasts: What are some great tips for preparing a best man speech?
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Importance of a best man speech

The best man speech holds a unique and pivotal role in the wedding celebration.

It sets the tone for the evening, injecting humor, warmth, and personality into the festivities.

As the groom's closest confidant, you have the privilege of sharing insights and stories that no one else can, making your speech a cherished and anticipated highlight.

This unique blend ensures that the speech resonates with every guest, creating a moment of laughter, tears, and joy.

There are important elememnts to consider such as:

Setting the Tone for the Celebration: The speech sets the celebratory mood, inviting guests to share in the joy and anticipation of the day.
Honoring the Couple and Their Journey: It's a tribute to the love story that has culminated in this beautiful union.
Highlighting the Groom's Character: Through anecdotes and personal insights, the speech paints a picture of the groom's qualities.
Offering Warm Wishes for the Future: Concluding with heartfelt wishes, the speech looks forward to the couple's future together.

The Role of Humor, Sentimentality, and Personality

Humor is a powerful tool in a best man's arsenal. It breaks the ice, engages the audience, and makes the speech more memorable. However, it's crucial to balance humor with sentimentality. Share heartfelt stories and express your genuine feelings about the couple. Remember, the speech is a reflection of your personality, so let it shine through.

Setting the Tone for the Celebration

A well-crafted best man speech has the power to set the mood for the entire reception.

With the right blend of humor and heartfelt sentiments, you can create an atmosphere of joy and celebration that will resonate with all in attendance.

The best man's speech sets the tone for the wedding celebration. It's the perfect opportunity to share the couple's love story, acknowledge their journey, and express your well-wishes for their future. Remember that the best speeches are those that strike a balance between humor and heartfelt sentiment.

Honoring the Couple and Their Journey

This is your chance to pay tribute to the couple's love story, acknowledging the challenges they've overcome and the beautiful journey that has led them to this momentous occasion.

The best man speech is a tribute to the couple and their journey. It's a chance to acknowledge their love, celebrate their achievements, and express your admiration for their relationship.

Highlighting the Groom's Character

As the groom's closest friend, you have a unique perspective on his character and journey.

Sharing personal anecdotes and fond memories will not only delight the guests but also paint a vivid picture of the man the bride has chosen to spend her life with.

As the best man, you have a unique perspective on the groom's character. Use your speech to highlight his best qualities, share memorable stories, and express your appreciation for your friendship.

Offering Warm Wishes for the Future

Ultimately, your speech should be a heartfelt expression of your hopes and well-wishes for the couple's future together.

Your words have the power to inspire and uplift, setting the stage for a lifetime of love, happiness, and adventure.

End your speech on a positive note by offering warm wishes for the couple's future. Express your hope for their happiness, success, and lifelong love.

Conquering Speech Anxiety

For many, the thought of standing in front of a crowd and delivering a speech can be daunting.

However, with the right mindset and techniques, you can conquer your nerves and deliver a confident, engaging performance.

Check Dealing with Speech Anxiety - Tips for managing public speaking anxiety.

Recognizing Speech Nerves

It's completely normal to feel nervous before giving a speech. Understanding that these jitters are a common experience can help you manage them more effectively.

In fact, a touch of nervous energy can actually enhance your delivery, adding a sense of passion and excitement to your words.

It's Normal to Feel Nervous Feeling nervous before delivering a speech is completely normal. In fact, it's a sign that you care about doing a good job. According to Psychology Today, the adrenaline rush caused by nervousness can actually enhance your performance.

[Public speaking](( https://www.toastmasters.org ) is consistently ranked as one of the most common fears, so rest assured that you're not alone in feeling a little apprehensive.

Physiological Symptoms of Speech Anxiety Speech anxiety can manifest in various physical symptoms such as sweating, trembling, or a racing heartbeat. Recognizing these symptoms can help you manage them effectively.

From a racing heart and sweaty palms to a dry mouth and shaky voice, the physical symptoms of speech anxiety can be unsettling.

It's important to recognize and accept these sensations as a natural response to a perceived stressful situation.

Techniques to Manage Pre-Speech Jitters There are several techniques to manage pre-speech jitters. These include deep breathing exercises, positive self-talk, and visualization.

Fortunately, there are effective techniques to help manage your nerves and stay focused on delivering a memorable speech.

Deep breathing exercises, positive self-talk, and visualization can all help you stay grounded and present in the moment.

Tips for Calming Your Nerves

While it's natural to feel some butterflies before taking the stage, there are practical strategies you can employ to calm your nerves and deliver your speech with confidence.

Preparation is Key One of the most effective ways to combat speech anxiety is through thorough preparation.

By practicing your speech out loud and timing yourself, you'll become more familiar and comfortable with the material, boosting your confidence on the big day.

Thorough preparation is the foundation of a confident delivery. Knowing your speech well allows you to focus on the delivery rather than remembering the next line.

Practice Out Loud: Rehearsing your speech out loud helps you become comfortable with the flow and wording. Time Yourself: Ensuring your speech fits within the ideal length keeps you concise and respectful of the audience's attention.

Relaxation Techniques Incorporating relaxation techniques into your pre-speech routine can help you manage any lingering nerves and stay centered.

Deep Breathing Exercises: Slowing your breath can calm your nervous system and reduce anxiety. Controlled deep breathing can help lower your heart rate, reduce muscle tension, and clear your mind, allowing you to approach the stage with a sense of calm and clarity.

Positive Self-Talk: Encourage yourself with affirmations that boost confidence and reduce self-doubt. Replacing negative self-talk with positive affirmations can be a powerful tool for boosting your confidence and quieting those inner critics.

Focus on the Couple's Happiness Remember, the focus of the speech is the couple's happiness. Keeping this in mind can help alleviate your nerves and shift your focus from your performance to the celebration of their love.

Remember, this speech is not about you; it's about celebrating the love and commitment of the newlyweds.

Shift your focus to the joy and significance of the occasion, and let your genuine happiness for the couple shine through.

Visualize Success Visualize yourself delivering a successful speech. This can help boost your confidence and reduce anxiety.

Engage in mental rehearsal by visualizing yourself delivering a flawless, engaging speech.

Imagine the audience's warm reception and the couple's smiles, and let that positive energy fuel your performance.

You can get inspirations by checking out these examples .

Use Humor Strategically Humor can help alleviate your nerves and engage the audience. However, use it strategically and ensure it's appropriate and respectful.

Well-timed humor can be an excellent way to break the ice and put both yourself and the audience at ease.

However, be mindful of your material and delivery, ensuring that your jokes are in good taste and land as intended.

The Anatomy of a Memorable Best Man Speech

Crafting a speech that will be remembered for years to come involves structuring your content for maximum impact. Here's how to build your speech from the ground up.

Opening Remarks Your opening remarks set the tone for the entire speech, so it's crucial to grab the audience's attention right from the start.

Start with humor or sincere gratitude to break the ice and capture the audience's attention. A funny anecdote about how you met the groom or a simple thank you to the guests for attending sets a welcoming tone.

This sets the tone for the rest of your speech and captures the audience's attention.

Personal Anecdotes As the groom's closest friend, you likely have a treasure trove of personal stories and memories to share.

Share stories that highlight the groom's character, your relationship, and memorable moments you've shared. These stories should be both entertaining and revealing, showing the depth of your friendship and the groom's qualities.

Remember to share memorable, funny, or touching stories about the groom. Personal anecdotes add depth to your speech and provide insight into your relationship with the groom.

Compliments to the Bride and Couple While the speech revolves around the groom, it's essential to include heartfelt compliments for the bride and the couple. Highlight the qualities that make her the perfect partner for your friend, and express your genuine well-wishes for their future together.

Acknowledge the bride, focusing on her relationship with the groom and what makes them a perfect match. It's important to celebrate their journey together and the future they're building.

Including the Audience A truly memorable speech engages the entire audience, not just the couple. Look for opportunities to incorporate references to shared experiences, inside jokes, or anecdotes that involve other guests, fostering a sense of camaraderie and inclusivity.

Make references that include the guests, perhaps mentioning family traditions or shared experiences. This not only personalizes the speech but also strengthens the communal feeling of the event.

Make your speech inclusive by referencing guests, family moments, or communal experiences. This engages the audience and makes them feel part of the celebration.

Integrating meaningful quotes or reading messages from those who couldn't attend adds a special touch to your speech. It shows thoughtfulness and consideration for others.

Quotes, Poems, or Messages from Absent Guests Adding a touch of literary flair can elevate your speech and provide a meaningful conclusion. Consider incorporating a quote that resonates with the couple's journey or reading a special message from a loved one who couldn't be present.

If there are loved ones who couldn't make it, sharing their well-wishes or a meaningful quote can add a touching element, reminding the couple and the guests of the love surrounding them.

Check Quotes and Poems ** - For finding quotes and poems to include in your speech.

Crafting Your Speech

Structure and Flow Like any great story, your speech should have a clear structure and flow, guiding the audience through a cohesive narrative.

Begin by outlining your main points and the order in which you'll present them.

This will ensure that your speech has a logical progression and that each element builds upon the last, culminating in a powerful conclusion.

When organizing your speech, consider the three-act structure: introduction, body, and conclusion.

In the introduction, set the tone and provide context for your role as the best man.

The body should contain the bulk of your personal anecdotes, compliments, and well-wishes, while the conclusion should leave a lasting impression and tie everything together neatly.

Preparation Tips Crafting a memorable speech requires more than just putting words on paper; it also involves thorough preparation and attention to detail.

Research Take the time to gather information about the couple's love story, their shared interests, and any inside jokes or references that you can weave into your speech.

This added personalization will make your words resonate even deeper with the couple and their guests.

Rehearsal Once you've written your speech, practice it out loud, in front of a mirror or with trusted friends and family members.

This will help you identify any areas that need refinement, ensure proper pacing, and build your confidence for the big day.

Stay Sober While it may be tempting to indulge in a few pre-speech drinks to calm your nerves, it's best to stay sober for your speech.

Alcohol can impair your judgment, delivery, and overall performance, potentially turning a heartfelt moment into an embarrassing one.

Delivering a Powerful Speech

Mastering the Delivery

Project your voice, speak clearly, maintain eye contact with the audience, use natural body language, and embrace pauses for effect. These techniques enhance your delivery and engage the audience.

Project Your Voice and Speak Clearly: Projecting your voice and enunciating clearly will ensure that every word is heard and understood by all in attendance. Speak slowly and with confidence, allowing your words to carry weight and emotion. Ensure every guest can hear by speaking loudly and articulating your words.

Maintain Eye Contact with the Audience: Making eye contact with the audience, especially the couple and their immediate families, will create a sense of connection and engagement. Avoid staring at your notes or the floor, as this can come across as disengaged or unconfident. Connect with your audience by looking around the room, making everyone feel included.

Use Natural Body Language: Your body language can enhance or detract from your speech delivery. Stand tall, make natural gestures, and move around the stage (if possible) to add energy and emphasis to your words. Gesture naturally to emphasize points and convey your emotions, making your speech more engaging.

Embrace Pauses for Effect: Don't be afraid to pause for effect or to allow moments of laughter or emotion to sink in. These pauses can add depth and impact to your speech, making it more memorable and meaningful. Use pauses to let important points resonate and to give the audience time to react, especially after jokes or poignant moments.

Handling Unexpected Situations

No matter how well you prepare, unexpected situations can arise during your speech delivery.

Maintaining your composure and professionalism in the face of these challenges will showcase your resilience and commitment to honoring the couple.

Anticipate technical difficulties, respond to laughter or awkward silence, gracefully recover from mistakes, and maintain a positive and confident demeanor. Handling unexpected situations with grace shows your adaptability and resilience.

Anticipate Technical Difficulties: If you're using a microphone or other audio equipment, be prepared for potential technical difficulties. Have a backup plan in place, such as projecting your voice or relocating closer to the audience if necessary.

Respond to Laughter or Awkward Silence: If your joke falls flat or an awkward silence ensues, don't panic. Embrace the moment with grace and move on to the next part of your speech. Remember, not every attempt at humor will land, but your poise and positive attitude will shine through.

Gracefully Recover from Mistakes: If you stumble over a word or lose your place, take a deep breath and continue on. The audience will appreciate your ability to recover gracefully and maintain your composure.

Maintain a Positive and Confident Demeanor: Throughout any unexpected situations, maintain a positive and confident demeanor. Your attitude and energy will set the tone for the audience and can help diffuse any tension or awkwardness.

Sample Speeches and Templates

While your speech should be a unique reflection of your friendship and the couple's journey, it can be helpful to have a framework to guide your writing process.

Here are some frameworks to inspire and guide the creation of your speech:

The Classic Best Man Speech

Open with a joke or a heartfelt thank you
Share a personal story about the groom
Compliment the bride and their relationship
Offer advice or well-wishes for their future
End with a toast to the couple

The Modern Best Man Speech

Start with a unique or unexpected opening
Incorporate multimedia elements (photos, videos, etc.)
Share a personal story that reflects the couple's values or interests
Include interactive elements (audience participation, games, etc.)
End with a heartfelt toast

How long should a best man speech be? (50 words)

The ideal length for a best man speech is between 3 to 5 minutes. Keeping it concise ensures that you hold the audience's attention while delivering a heartfelt and humorous message. It's important to include all necessary acknowledgments and stories within this timeframe to maintain engagement

What are some good topics for a best man speech? (50 words)

Funny anecdotes about the groom, the couple's love story, and a toast to their future.

Can I tell embarrassing stories about the groom? (50 words)

Use humor lightly and avoid anything mean-spirited or hurtful.

Who should the best man thank in their speech?

In your speech, make sure to thank the groom for the honor of being chosen as the best man, and extend your gratitude to the couple for including you in their special day. It's also courteous to thank the couple's parents and anyone else who played a significant role in the wedding or the couple's life.

What if I'm not good at public speaking? (50 words)

Prepare thoroughly, practice, and focus on delivering well, not perfection.

Can you read your speech at a wedding?

Yes, it's perfectly acceptable to read your speech. Not everyone is comfortable with public speaking, and reading from notes can help deliver your message confidently and coherently. It's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the speech content but have notes handy as a backup

How can I incorporate the couple's personalities into the speech?

Share stories that reflect their personalities, use humor that aligns with their sense of humor, and express sentiments that resonate with their values and beliefs.

What are some good toast phrases to use?

"To a lifetime of love and laughter," "To the perfect pair," and "To love that grows stronger with each passing day" are some good toast phrases to use.

What should I wear for the wedding speech?

You should wear what the couple has requested for their wedding attire, typically a suit or tuxedo.

When does the best man give their speech?

Traditionally, the best man gives his speech at the wedding reception before dinner. While there might be a specific order for speeches suggested by wedding etiquette, the exact timing can vary based on the couple's preference. Ensure you know when you're expected to speak so you're prepared

Tips for Crafting and Delivering the Speech

Outline Your Speech: Begin by crafting an outline to ensure you cover all essential elements without rambling. Consider the formality of the wedding when deciding on the tone of your speech.

Personal Stories: Share amusing or touching stories about the groom, but keep it appropriate for all audiences. Balance inside jokes with humor that everyone can appreciate.

Compliment the Bride: Remember to compliment the bride, focusing on her relationship with the groom and her qualities that make her a perfect match for him.

Practice, Practice, Practice: Rehearse your speech out loud, in front of a mirror or with trusted friends and family members. This will help you identify any areas that need refinement and build your confidence for the big day.

Speak Clearly and Confidently: Project your voice, maintain eye contact with the audience, and use natural body language to enhance your delivery.

Embrace Pauses and Reactions: Don't be afraid to pause for effect or to allow moments of laughter or emotion to sink in. These pauses can add depth and impact to

Write an compelling Maid of Honor Speech following this guide . You can get inspirations by checking out these examples .

Creating a memorable best man speech is a journey that combines deep reflection on your relationship with the groom, an understanding of the audience, and a commitment to celebrating love and friendship.

By following this guide, you're well on your way to delivering a speech that not only honors the groom and his partner but also resonates with every guest, leaving a lasting impression of joy and celebration.

So, take a deep breath, embrace your nerves, and remember - it's all about celebrating love.

You can get Memorable Wedding Speeches, Without Being an Expert using ScribaMax .

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Best Man Speech: The Definitive Guide to Smashing it

by Catherine D July 12, 2019

Here’s all you need to deliver an incredible and unforgettable best man speech.

Congratulations!

You’ve just been awarded the highest honor a bro can receive. You’re the best man! And that’s an honor greater than being knighted by the queen. But I’m sure you know what comes with it.

You’ll have to give that best man speech brosef!

Though, you won’t want to give just any speech off the top of your head that nobody is going to give a damn about.

Just remember what Uncle Ben said to Spidey, “With great power comes great responsibility”. It’s that serious, man.

You’ve probably seen best man speeches like this before. The guy stands up, hits the glass and says something, uninspired, about how he’s bros with the groom, congratulates the bride-to-be, and then sits down.

Or maybe you’ve seen another kind of speech, where the best man stands up and talks about nothing for 10+ minutes, putting you to sleep, because who even cares?

During a reception, there are about a million different things going on. People will forget the things that do not grab their attention, especially at a reception.

Everyone there is busy talking, eating, laughing, and will not care or even remember a boring speech in a few days. But not yours, my friend, you’re going to be the star of the day.

In this guide, we give you everything you need to know in sequence - from the writing process, all the way to delivering that wedding toast. Get your notepad ready for some very important tips on giving your wedding toast!

So How Do You Write the Best Man Speech?

The hardest part is always just getting started. Here are some basic tips on how to write a best man speech so that you can be prepared and dominate when the time comes.

Be Prepared and Plan Ahead

Practice makes perfect. Creating a fantastic speech doesn’t happen overnight.

If you’re going to wow the audience, you’ll need to make sure you’ve done everything you possibly can and covered every base - and man, that takes time.

Generally, 2-3 months is the right amount of time to give yourself when writing for a best man speech to account for the overall writing process and potential rewrites.

Considering all of the events that follow, like the bachelor party and the suit fitting, you’ll be too busy in those final moments to prepare a killer best man speech that’s even half decent.

Record Every Thought

You might be on the bus or in your car and think of an incredible quote or one-liner to say in your wedding toast, but our memories are very limited.

It’s difficult to remember what you even had for lunch two days ago, much less something you thought up some random time.

No matter where you are, record your thoughts. You could write in a journal, use your iPhone’s “Voice Memos” app or an app like Evernote . Scratch them onto a napkin, carve them into a stone near you, just get those wedding toast ideas down!

As long as you start capturing your thoughts, you’ll eventually reach a gold mine.

Think of this more as ‘capturing’ than ‘writing’. It’s easier to capture your raw best man speech ideas than banging your head on the wall trying to ‘write’ something from scratch.

Keep a Positive Tone

When it comes to the best man speech, the main thing to keep in mind is the goal of what you want to accomplish - celebrating the bride and groom. Here are some things to focus on:

Your best experiences with the groom.
How great a pair the bride and groom are.
The best qualities of the groom.
Possible first thoughts on the bride when they met (If they were good thoughts!)

Focus on the best of times, and further expand upon those points the best you can and maybe you can use those for a few wedding jokes!

With that in mind, here’s what not to say:

What Not to Talk About in Your Speech

While you may be writing to make your groom laugh, you need to remember your audience is diverse. You have children, elders, and teenagers so you wouldn’t want to write something inappropriate.

Generally, it’s best to avoid things like these:

Any previous relationships.
Anything about drugs, alcohol, gambling.
Perverse topics, or anything of a sexual nature.
Harsh negativity.
Inside jokes that are too specific.

The idea is to avoid anything raunchy or disheartening during your speech, even if it might be hilarious in your head, you’ll have to avoid it in your best man speech.

Think about how upset Grandma would be if you happened to talk about how her little Jimmy actually hasn’t been saving himself for marriage - what horror!

How Long Should a Best Man Speech Be?

So you have a great speech, and you’ve covered every single talking point that fit. Everyone’s going to love this, right?

Wrong! When writing a best man speech, you’ll want to keep it way, way shorter.

The problem is that what you wrote is almost 30 minutes long! No bueno amigo. Nothing on this Earth could keep people engaged in a wedding toast that long.

You’re not going for a ‘F.D.R. Repairing the American Psyche During The Great Depression’ type of speech. What you want is more like an ‘I Love You, Man’ speech.

It seems like everyone from everywhere throws out an arbitrary number ranging from 1-10 minutes, but really, research shows our attention span is even shorter than a goldfish .

Which means you have 8 seconds to make an impression . Let that sink in.

The best man speech is usually between meals at a reception. That means you have to make your mark - and get in what you have to say in a short time. Meaning that short best man speeches are perfectly fine, you don’t have to overthink it.

It can be 1 minute, it can be 5 minutes. Keep the audience engaged in your speech and don’t ramble off unnecessarily.

How do you do that? Practice!

It’s All About Practice

You know, it’s okay to feel unsatisfied with what you wrote. After all, you’re not the most accomplished writer in the world. You just want to prepare a great best man speech and get back to Netflix binging.

The writing process can be tough, so here’s an ideal approach that most people use when writing the best material:

Write a few pages of content just to get the speech ideas out.
Realize that you’ve written a movie's worth of material.
Take what you really like.
Edit until you stop hating it.

Being intimidated serves no purpose.

Get Interviewed Bruh

If you’re not the best writer (or capturer), the previous steps might seem a little intimidating to you. That’s fine. Not everyone can put pen to paper as well as they’d like, and if that’s you, consider having a friend interview you!

Getting a friend or family member to interview you about your experiences with the groom is a great way of getting wedding speech ideas. Here are a few topics to get interviewed on:

Where did you meet?
Did you like each other at first?
When did you become bros?
What kind of crazy experiences did you have together?
What kind of bad qualities does he have?
What kind of good qualities does he have?

Answering these questions with a recording device can help you when you need to put the best man speech together, and you can recall things you might never have just by writing!

Be (Relatively) Sober

Even if you have a Wade Boggs alcohol tolerance, it’s best to keep the drinks to a minimum.

( The guy drank 64 beers on one cross country flight, what the hell? )

Having one or two drinks is fine if it helps calm the nerves, but any more will mess up any chance of giving a decent best man toast, and you’ll just look silly slurring your words or acting strangely. Remember, all eyes are on you during your best man speech.

Try Some Best Man Speech Jokes or Quotes

So suppose you’ve got your speech together, but you have a placeholder like:

[ Put a joke in here! ] in 3-4 spots, and you really have no idea what to put in there.

We got you covered.

Here are some best man speech opening lines you could work with and personalize for whatever you may need, because the opportunity for wedding jokes is a rare thing! These make great icebreakers to warm your audience up.

“Well, where do I even start? [Groom] is just incredible. He’s brilliant, funny, caring… Anyway, I can’t really read your handwriting [Groom], so just tell me whatever the rest was after.”

“[Bride], you really are an incredible woman. You deserve an absolutely incredible husband, so I’m not going to stop until I figure out what’s wrong here.”

“Thank you everyone for bearing with me, I Googled ‘best man speech jokes’ and every site asked for my credit card before showing me any examples, so here goes nothing.”

“For those of you who know the bride, she’s really a wonderful woman who deserves a wonderful man. So good job, [Groom], for marrying her before she found one.”

“For anyone who finds this speech particularly not funny, I got all of my jokes from [Groom] so please, blame that guy.”

“Ladies and gentlemen, I wasn’t given a microphone tonight and I deeply apologize. To anyone in the back, If you hear silence at the front, be sure that you’re not missing anything.”

“Ladies and gentlemen, before I begin this speech I’d just like to say I am absolutely thrilled that I beat the bartender at rock-paper-scissors twenty minutes ago for the honor of best man.”

Putting Together a Best Man Speech Outline

Now that you have an idea of how to write a best man speech, it’s just as important to know how to structure it. While there are canned free best man speech templates out there, it's really best to get a bird's eye view on what you want to say and create a structure that works for you personally. Don't just take any random free speech template from online and fire it up. Not every outline or template will work for your needs, so get a good idea of your vision first then begin to structure it.

Flow matters, and it’s the most important thing in putting together great best man speeches. Without good flow, you’ll lose the crowd and people won’t follow what you’re saying.

Here are some great ideas to nail the best man speech structure and make your speech shine.

The Introduction

The introduction needs to serve a single purpose: Getting people engaged! This is the key aspect of any best man speech formula.

The One-Liner Approach

An incredible one-liner is a great way of getting started. A good idea for this would be to roast the groom a little bit, he probably wouldn’t mind.

For example, what faults does he have? You can take advantage of that to make slight jabs at him.

Or you can even make fun of yourself in the process, what do you both suck at? Maybe you want to talk about that awkward mullet phase you both had in high school. Live it up!

The Congratulatory Approach

Alternatively, you can open by showing gratitude to:

The bride and groom, for bringing everyone together.
The guests, for attending this incredible event.
The parents of the bride and groom, for bringing them into this world.

This approach is a good option at the beginning. You can use it as a Plan B if you think you can’t gather an appropriate one-liner.

It’s easy to get lost in thought about what to follow up a good opener in a best man speech, but nothing is safer than a good story to engage your audience.

The idea is to create a connection to the groom and then present it to the guests.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Where you met the groom.
What makes him a great guy.
Crazy stories that show who he is.
Why he’s an excellent fit for the bride.
How he changed for the better after he met the bride.

Really, anything goes, and they’re all sure to keep people interested. Focus on the organic story of your friendship and don’t be robotic.

You’ll want to accomplish this in a way that stays kosher, though, avoiding unsavory details mentioned in our #4 tip.

Congratulate the Bride

So, you don’t have to do this, but we definitely encourage it. The issue is, not everyone really knows the bride. Honestly, maybe you met her a month ago, or a week ago.

Who knows, you could have met her literally just now. When your buddy gets hitched, it’s quite common to not really know the lady herself.

If this is true, you can handle this two ways:

Stick to something like:

“I knew she was a great fit for you the moment I saw you together”.

“She really is the perfect match for you dude.”

Sure the groom will know you barely know her, but whatever, if he really is your bro, he’ll appreciate that you’re saving face like this.

2. Avoid it.

Look, you’re the best man, it means the groom chose you, he knows you. Which means that he’s most likely expecting your best man speech to be about your experiences together, so keep the content focused around your relationship.

This means that it’s okay to avoid any mention of the bride after the first few words when writing a best man speech.

It works in most cases to just congratulate her in the intro, and then continue on with your speech avoiding her entirely.

This might sound a little underhanded, but it works, and most likely, the audience won’t notice.

If you know the bride, then speak about her.

If you’re just as close to the bride as you are to the groom, then you need to take all of the prior steps to make a compelling speech for the bride too, which won’t make the best man toast easy but hey, you don’t want to piss her off.

You could share a story about her too, or you can talk about one where the bride and groom shared with you, which is always a safe bet.

How to End Your Wedding Toast

Here’s where you wrap up your thoughts, and keep this part short, you don’t have to stress it too much.

It’s as easy as saying something like,

“Jack, Jill, to a lifetime of good health, love, and joy!”

There are a thousand different things you can say here, but the main idea is to keep the tone positive, upbeat, congratulate their love and wish the best for them.

NOTE: It is absolutely acceptable to keep a paper copy of your speech on hand because you’re not remembering your speeches like a world leader at the U.N. You’re just a guy who’s happy for his bro.

Best Man Speech Examples

Even if you have everything else down, it’s always best to have some speech examples of how to tackle your wedding toast.

People have done it before you, so why go in blind? Here are some different types of best man speeches for unique scenarios you may want to try for your best man toast.

Funny Best Man Speech (Example)

“Hello Everyone, I’m John, I’m the best man, and if you find this speech unfunny, [Groom] and I have the same sense of humor, so please blame him.

I’m just joking, of course, I promised [Groom] I wouldn’t roast him too much today or talk about anything too weird, so I’ll just talk about the good parts of his character...

...Thank you, everyone, have a great evening.

But really, [Groom] and I have been friends since before I knew how even to tie my own shoelaces. He’s a brother to me, even more than my actual brother, sometimes.

Sorry, Alex.”

Emotional Best Man Speech (Example)

“Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. I’m the best man, Chris. [Groom] and I go way back, all the way from high school. Through the years, he’s grown from a pain in the ass, into a fine man.

[Groom] was always shy when it came to meeting new people, and that’s sorta hard to hear considering how a guy like that could be such a perfect match with [Bride]. But I can’t imagine him without you, because I’ve seen what it looked like.

[Bride], you are both so dear to me, please take care of [Groom], please keep him out of trouble.”

Short Best Man Speech (Example)

“Good evening, everyone, from the moment that [Groom] met [Bride], I knew that this was going to be something special.

The way you two talk to each other, you’re so alike sometimes that honestly, it kind of scares me.

But to quote Mark Twain, ‘To get the full value of joy you must have someone to divide it with.’ May your love be timeless.”

Hopefully these wedding toast examples give you ideas on how to model your own best man speech!

The Presentation - Delivering the Best Man Speech

You have the writing and the flow down. Great! Most of the hard work is all done.

But don’t forget, you’re delivering a best man speech. And grand statements are always accompanied by excellent speech etiquette.

Here are some best man speech tips that’ll help you deliver, so that you don’t look like an uncomfortable 4th grader at a talent show your Mom forced you into.

Practice Your Speech on Camera

You’re noticing a trend, right? Practicing the actual delivery of the best man speech in front of a camera is a great way to see what poor and good habits you have.

And then, you need to keep practicing to eliminate the bad ones. For example, do you notice that you slump too much? Do you happen to mumble? Do you look down a lot?

Take note of all of these when you look at the recording and then try the speech again while mindfully avoiding bad habits and watching out for awkwardly delivered wedding jokes.

Practice in Front of People

Sure, using a camera is an excellent way to correct issues, but there’s nothing better than getting an outsider opinion.

Getting a spectator to sit and watch you deliver your best man toast lets someone tear into your bad habits without any bias. It may be painful, but this is what you want, and a larger group of people is best.

That way, when it’s time to give the best man speech, the concerns an audience member might have are already known to you.

The Honest Truth Man

Remember that a best man speech is a celebration of the love and joy that the bride and groom share. You don’t have to stress about every minor detail, because the audience isn’t (and they’ll most likely all be drunk anyway).

They’re already lightened up, and in the mood for a good few words, so why spend your time being nervous? It’s not worth it. Enjoy yourself up there and just deliver that crushing best man toast.

After it’s through, you can start drinking again, which is what you’ll probably want to do anyway.

Say what you have to say, and raise a toast to the bride and groom. Use this guide as a helpful resource and come back to it as many times as you need to ensure a totally awesome best man speech.

Good luck on your best man speech!

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I Give It a Year – review

A world-weary Somerset Maugham began his last major novel, The Razor's Edge , with the lapidary comment: "Death ends all things and so is the comprehensive conclusion of a story, but marriage finishes it very properly too and the sophisticated are ill-advised to sneer at what is by convention termed a happy ending." Tell that to the would-be sophisticated authors of the endless cycle of dreadful marriage comedies currently filling our screens and don't be afraid to sneer.

Written and directed by Dan Mazer, Sacha Baron Cohen's chief collaborator, I Give It a Year opens with the most embarrassing wedding sequence ever contrived, including the worst best-man's speech in movie history, and proceeds to look at the first year in the ill-considered marriage of a blocked novelist and his wife, a supposedly successful PR person. Made by people desperately bent on putting the "lewd" into "ludic" and featuring a collection of characters you might meet in some special British annexe of hell, I Give It a Year deserves a much harsher sentence than the title suggests and without remission for good conduct.

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Exclusive I Give It a Year Blooper: Best Man Speech Disaster

Stephen Merchant brings the comedy improv LOLs

It's highly likely that even if you haven't seen I Give It a Year , you've heard about that Best Man Speech.

But even funnier than that are the brilliant blooper outtakes.

We've got an exclusive look at the DVD and Blu-ray extras in this blooper clip showing Stephen Merchant getting his Best/Worst Man act into gear, and bringing Rose Byrne to helpless giggles with one of his guest shout-outs.

I Give It a Year is available to buy on DVD from 3 June 2013.

I Give It A Year: Best Man Speech Blooper - YouTube

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Film / I Give It a Year

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I Give It a Year is a 2013 romantic comedy film, written and directed by Dan Mazer and starring Rose Byrne , Rafe Spall , Anna Faris and Simon Baker . It was released on 8 February 2013. The film was Mazer's directorial debut, after he was previously best known for co-writing the Sacha Baron Cohen films Borat and Brüno .

This film features examples of:

Amicable Exes : Nat and Josh end up being this after they realize that they aren't made for each other. He even tells her he thinks she is the perfect wife, just not for him.
Dinner and a Show : Nat and Josh throw a dinner party to use their wedding gifts, in which some of their differences are highlighted when talking about their honeymoon in Morocco; Nat didn't enjoy the leather museum whereas Josh remembers it as interesting. Then the topic changes to Chloe, Josh's former flame, where Nat discovers they never officially broke up when she went to Africa for four years. In the kitchen Chloe, who is present there, apologises to Nat for not realising she didn't know. Nat's sister Naomia also reveals to have issues with her own husband's annoying habits.
Fourth-Date Marriage : Downplayed; Nat and Josh marry after seven months of dating, but is nonetheless among the reasons why many of their friends think the marriage will not last.
Mondegreen Gag : The main couple Nat and Josh argue over misheard song lyrics. Nat thinks the lyrics from "Sweet Dreams Are Made of This" go "I travelled the world in generic jeans" instead of "I travelled the world and the seven seas", much to Josh's chagrin. She also thinks the line from "We Built This City" goes "we built this city on the wrong damn road". Josh also brings up the lyrics from "Tiny Dancer", which Nat thinks goes "hold me close and tie me down sir".
Pair the Spares : Each of the main couple, Nat and Josh, has a rival love interest, Guy and Chloe, respectively. The rivals date for a while, but the trope is subverted in the end, Nat and Josh finish up leaving each other for the rival suitors Guy and Chloe .
Race for Your Love : Josh ends up doing this at the end, catching Guy and Chloe at a railway station waiting to go to Paris, to profess his love for Chloe after splitting up with Nat. This is shortly followed by Nat appearing there to do the same with Guy .
Romantic False Lead : Guy and Chloe appear to be this, as Nat and Josh express attraction to them respectively, but turn out to be a subverted example, as the film ends with Nat and Josh actually breaking up to be with them.
Starter Marriage : Nat and Josh's friends clearly think that this is the case.
Sucks at Dancing : At a party, Josh dances embarrassingly. This (alongside other antics) annoys and embarrasses Nat so much that she heads home without him.
Worst Wedding Ever : While Nat and Josh's wedding actually goes as planned, it is nonetheless marred by many of their friends commenting that the marriage will not last, an embarrassing best man's speech, and a coughing priest.
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COMMENTS

I Give It A Year
Stephen Merchant stars as Danny, a terrible best man, in British romantic comedy film 'I Give It A Year'. Here is Danny giving a toe-curlingly bad best man's...
Best Man's Speech
Danny (Stephen Baker) gives a painfuly awkward best man's speech.I GIVE IT A YEAR is a brand new comedy from Dan Mazer, writer of Borat, which lifts the veil...
I GIVE IT A YEAR
From one of the most awaited films of 2013, this new clip stars Stephen Merchant making a speech that no one at the wedding will forget, but for all the wron...
How To Write A Killer Best Man Speech (With Templates)
What to Say in a Best Man Speech (Do's and Don'ts) A best man's speech traditionally takes place at the wedding reception after the maid of honor gives her speech. The best man's speech should be positive, respectful, and congratulatory. It can last 3 to 5 minutes and should focus on a central theme or story about the groom. Remember, a ...
I Give It A Year best man speech
By Simon Reynolds Published: 17 January 2013. Stephen Merchant delivers a hilarious best man speech in a new preview from I Give It A Year. The British comedy stars Rafe Spall and Rose Byrne as a ...
I Give It a Year
Watch a clip from I Give It a Year. Release Calendar Top 250 Movies Most Popular Movies Browse Movies by Genre Top Box Office Showtimes & Tickets Movie News India Movie Spotlight
I Give It a Year (2013)
Watch the clip titled "Best Man Speech" for the film I Give It a Year (2013). Josh's best man gives a horrible speech.
I Give It a Year
Rated 3.5/5 Stars • Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars 01/05/24 Full Review Yoosik Ethan O When i saw the preview with Stephan Merchant's hilarious best man speech, I was looking forward to another ...
'I Give It A Year' Stephen Merchant's best man speech
Stephen Merchant delivers a hilarious best man speech in 'I Give It A Year'. This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email ...
I Give It A Year
This has to be the worst Best Man's speech of all time. I GIVE IT A YEAR starring Stephen Merchant, Rafe Spall, Rose Byrne and Anna Faris is now streaming on Netflix! See less
Watch: Stephen Merchant's Awkward Best Man Speech In Clip From 'I Give
The latest clip from the movie unsurprisingly comes from the film's first proper scene, and it features Merchant's Danny delivering a very inappropriate Best Man's speech.
The Ultimate Best Man Speech Guide (Examples And Templates Included)
A best man speech should be short and sweet, but not too short, and not too long. A happy medium is about 5-6 minutes in length. You don't want it to be shorter than 3 minutes as it may seem too brief. The point is to keep the audience engaged, and deliver a few anecdotes, thank the bride and groom, and raise a toast.
How To Give the Perfect Best Man Speech (With Examples)
9. Go back through your speech and look for inside jokes. Remember, you likely know the groom better than many others in the room. While an inside joke or two definitely isn't the end of the world ...
I Give It a Year
I Give It a Year is a 2013 romantic comedy film, written and directed by Dan Mazer in his directorial debut. It stars Rose Byrne, Rafe Spall, Anna Faris and Simon Baker.Set and filmed in London, it was released on 8 February 2013.. Mazer was previously known for co-writing the Sacha Baron Cohen films Borat and Brüno.
Crafting Your Memorable Best Man Speech in 2024 [Ultimate Guide]
Crafting the perfect best man speech is an art form that balances humor, sentimentality, and personality, all while honoring the newlyweds. Whether you're a seasoned public speaker or new to the spotlight, the responsibility of delivering a speech that captures the essence of the groom and his journey can be daunting.
Stephen Merchant's Best Man Speech in I give it a year
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Best Man Speech: The Definitive Guide to Smashing it
Let that sink in. The best man speech is usually between meals at a reception. That means you have to make your mark - and get in what you have to say in a short time. Meaning that short best man speeches are perfectly fine, you don't have to overthink it. It can be 1 minute, it can be 5 minutes.
I Give It a Year
Written and directed by Dan Mazer, Sacha Baron Cohen's chief collaborator, I Give It a Year opens with the most embarrassing wedding sequence ever contrived, including the worst best-man's speech ...
Best Man Speech: The Ultimate Guide (5 Examples & Templates)
Speech 1. "Hi, my name is [Best Man], the best man and the groom's best friend. I would like to thank [Groom] for choosing me to be his best man if for no other reason than that he's finally admitting that I am the best. We've enjoyed a long and competitive friendship, ever since meeting in the third grade.
I Give It A Year
156K subscribers in the rickygervais community. A subreddit for fans of comedian Ricky Gervais, and his frequent collaborators Steve Merchant and…
Exclusive I Give It a Year Blooper: Best Man Speech Disaster
Subscribe from just £3; Takes you closer to the games, movies and TV you love; Try a single issue or save on a subscription; Issues delivered straight to your door or device
I Give It A Year: Best Man Speech Blooper
An exclusive blooper clip from I Give It A Year, as Stephen Merchant's Best Man Speech goes slightly awry.Visit our website: http://www.totalfilm.com/Twitter...
I Give It a Year (Film)
I Give It a Year is a 2013 romantic comedy film, written and directed by Dan Mazer and starring Rose Byrne, Rafe Spall, Anna Faris and Simon Baker.It was released on 8 February 2013. The film was Mazer's directorial debut, after he was previously best known for co-writing the Sacha Baron Cohen films Borat and Brüno.. Ever since they met at a party, ambitious Nat and novelist Josh have been ...

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The Ultimate Best Man Speech Guide (Examples And Templates Included)

How To Structure A Best Man Speech

Best Man Speech Do’s And Don’ts

What Not To Do

Tips For Writing A Best Man Speech

Qualities To Talk About In The Best Man Speech

Best Man Speech Examples

Best Man Speech Frequentl Asked Questions

When Does The Best Man’S Speech Happen?

How Long Should A Best Man Speech Be?

What Should You Include In A Best Man Speech?

Who Should You Thank In A Best Man Speech?

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Crafting Your Memorable Best Man Speech in 2024 [Ultimate Guide]

Introduction

Useful Links

Importance of a best man speech

The Role of Humor, Sentimentality, and Personality

Setting the Tone for the Celebration

Honoring the Couple and Their Journey

Highlighting the Groom's Character

Offering Warm Wishes for the Future

Conquering Speech Anxiety

Recognizing Speech Nerves

Tips for Calming Your Nerves

The Anatomy of a Memorable Best Man Speech

Crafting Your Speech

Delivering a Powerful Speech

Mastering the Delivery

Handling Unexpected Situations

Sample Speeches and Templates

The Classic Best Man Speech

The Modern Best Man Speech

How long should a best man speech be? (50 words)

What are some good topics for a best man speech? (50 words)

Can I tell embarrassing stories about the groom? (50 words)

Who should the best man thank in their speech?

What if I'm not good at public speaking? (50 words)

Can you read your speech at a wedding?

How can I incorporate the couple's personalities into the speech?

What are some good toast phrases to use?

What should I wear for the wedding speech?

When does the best man give their speech?

Tips for Crafting and Delivering the Speech

Previous Article

Best Man Speech: The Definitive Guide to Smashing it

So How Do You Write the Best Man Speech?

Be Prepared and Plan Ahead

Record Every Thought

Keep a Positive Tone

What Not to Talk About in Your Speech

How Long Should a Best Man Speech Be?

It’s All About Practice

Get Interviewed Bruh

Be (Relatively) Sober

Try Some Best Man Speech Jokes or Quotes

Putting Together a Best Man Speech Outline

The Introduction

The One-Liner Approach

The Congratulatory Approach

Congratulate the Bride