The father of the bride makes the first speech

In some ways the father of the bride has the hardest time of all when making his speech – it is usually a very emotional time for him and he is talking about someone who is very special to him.

It’s also the first speech at a wedding, and this in itself can make it more stressful than for any of the other speakers. However, knowing what to say and preparing in advance can make it a much easier experience…

Thank the guests

The bride’s father should start his speech by thanking everyone for attending. He can also thank the people working at the function (caterers, photographers etc.).

Talk about the bride

A larger part of his speech should be about his daughter, saying how proud he is of her, how wonderful she was as a child, and fulfilling it was to raise her. He can also mention something that happened as a child – this can simply be one of those moments when children say something perfectly innocently which turns out to be very funny.

Welcome the groom into the family

The father of the bride should then turn his attention to the groom and welcome him as a member of his family and say a few words about his achievements. He may wish to give a few tips on how to have a happy married life – giving examples of how they helped him. Finally he should propose a toast to the couple wishing them a happy married life.

The father of the bride’s speech can contain some humour, as it helps to keep guests interested.

And that’s’ all there is to it!

• Father of the bride (Introduced by the Best man)
• The bridegroom
• The best man

It is quite common for other guests to say something, usually close relatives of the bride and groom. These should be after the main speeches and be kept reasonable short.

Each of the specific speakers should include the following in their speech:

• Father of the bride:
  • Toasts the bride and groom
  • Welcomes the guests
  • Speaks about his daughter
• Bridegroom (speaking on behalf of himself and his bride):
  • Responds to Father of the bride speech
  • Thanks his parents
  • Proposes a toast to the bridesmaid
• Best man
  • Responds to the Bridegroom’s speech
  • Traditionally the longest speech
  • Should be interesting an entertaining

Be careful with your content!

One other important rule, mentioned elsewhere on this site but worth repeating, is that you should not say anything which is in anyway likely to embarrass or upset anyone else at the wedding, or which most of them won’t be able to relate to – this includes talking about stags/hen nights, racist remarks or facts about people which only close friends should know. If you’re not sure because you don’t know everyone who will be attending then ask!