how to write a wedding speech maid of honour

A Step-by-Step Guide to Nailing Your Maid of Honor Speech

• Chapelle writes articles for The Knot Worldwide. She covers all things wedding-related and has a personal interest in covering celebrity engagements and fashion.
• Before joining The Knot Worldwide, Chapelle was an editorial intern for Subvrt Magazine.
• Chapelle has a degree in English writing from Loyola University New Orleans.

As a wedding party member, you'll likely be asked to speak at the wedding. In fact, giving a maid of honor speech is one of the most important maid of honor duties to complete on the big day. You may be a gifted orator, which means writing (and giving) a speech will be a breeze. But if the thought of speaking in front of a crowd makes you a little nervous, don't panic. With the help of Heidi Ellert-McDermott, professional speech writer and founder of Speechy , we've provided you with everything you need to know about the matron of honor speech. Learn what to say, how to say it and exactly how to get rid of any nervous butterflies. Use these tips, template, outline and more to write a perfect maid of honor speech that'll bring the house down.

In this article:

Printable Template | How to Write | Examples | Tips | FAQs

Printable Maid of Honor Speech Template

For those looking for a quick and simple reminder of how to write a maid of honor speech, bookmark this template. You could even save it as your phone or laptop wallpaper while you're writing to keep you on task.

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech Outline

So, how do you write a matron of honor speech? It helps, but you don't need to be a professional speechwriter to write a special toast for the newlyweds. Use this guide to create a heartfelt message that'll make everyone laugh, cry or both.

1. Reflect on your relationship with the couple.

Think about your relationships with each person in the couple. This is your time to write down any personal moments you shared with them. These moments can bring some tears or laughs, but they show the wedding guests how you know the happy couple. Maybe you and one of the newlyweds went on an epic trip to Europe together. Or you and the newlyweds have known each other since high school and have plenty of silly and embarrassing stories from that time. No matter which memory you choose for your maid of honor speech, pick your favorite (appropriate) story and have fun with it.

2. Celebrate the couple's relationship.

Another part of your matron of honor speech should be dedicated to the couple's relationship. You can talk about when they first met, when you knew they were in love, or how you knew they were meant to be. If some details are a little fuzzy, talk with the other honor attendants or close friends of the couple to help refresh your memory. Overall, you want to paint a picture of how the couple was when they first met, how they've grown together and why they complement one another.

3. Avoid taboo topics.

There are certain topics you shouldn't have in your maid of honor speech. It doesn't matter how you try to deliver it. These taboo subjects are liable to offend someone:

• Negativity about marriage in general.
• Past relationships.
• Previous marriages/divorces.
• Drinking, drugs, gambling.
• "Adult" humor or any other mention of sex.

Remember, you don't want to cause any drama. Keep the focus of your speech on uplifting the happy couple and celebrating their love for one another.

4. Add jokes—but not too many.

Feel like you have a comedic gift? Consider adding some jokes, one-liners or funny marriage quotes to your maid of honor speech. Ensure you don't use any inside jokes or references only you and the newlyweds would understand. Your speech should be something every wedding guest can appreciate and laugh at. This also means your jokes shouldn't be too harsh or bring up any taboo wedding speech topics we previously listed.

Be deliberate about where you put your jokes and spread them out. You want them to add comedic relief to a sentimental toast, not seem like a stand-up routine. Start your speech with a funny opening line so the guests can laugh and get an idea of what kind of person you are—plus, laughs give you time to overcome any nerves you might have.

5. Create your maid of honor speech outline.

Get creative and personalize your maid of honor speech as much as you want. A customized script is much more endearing for guests. But when it comes down to it, a great wedding toast will include the following remarks:

• Start with an introduction—along with an explanation about your connection to the happy couple.
• Next, give a word of thanks to the couple for inviting you to be part of their special day.
• Say one or two personal anecdotes, like a favorite memory, joke or sweet sentiment that most guests will understand.
• Provide encouraging advice or a thoughtful quote about the newlyweds' future.
• Finish with a closing remark and an invitation for guests to raise their glasses.

Maid of Honor Speech Examples

Need more than a maid of honor speech template to help you? Then choose your favorite sample maid of honor speech below and use it to help get your creative juices flowing.

Funny Maid of Honor Speech

Hello! For those of you who haven't had the chance to meet me yet, my name is [Your Name]. [Newlywed's Name] and I have been best friends since high school, which means we've been on each other's top eight friends list for a while. That's for my old Myspace users out there.

Typically, public speaking makes me beyond nervous, but I knew I had to make a speech for one of the most important people in my life. I've known [Newlywed's Name] for a long time and have appreciated every special moment we've shared over the years. [Newlywed's Name] has a beautiful soul, and I'm so happy that [Newlywed's Name] has found someone who complements it.

As everyone probably knows [Newlywed's Name] isn't a shy person, so the fact that [Newlywed's Name] would always giggle and blush whenever referring to 'the hot coworker' and I knew something special was going to come out of it. I've gotten to know [Spouse's Name] really well over the years, and I can honestly say [Spouse's Name] is one of the most genuine and caring people I've ever met.

Everyone aims to find their one true love, their soulmate, the person that's going to love and cherish them for the rest of their lives. And that moment came for [Newlywed's Name]...when they met me 18 years ago. But in all seriousness, I wish you and [Spouse's Name] a long and wonderful marriage. Congrats to you both, and I hope you find a lifetime of happiness together. Cheers!

Find your kind of venue

Maid of honor speech for best friend.

Good evening everyone! I thought the most nerve-wracking part of being a maid of honor was giving the speech, but fixing [Newlywed's Name] shoe malfunction before the wedding ceremony is high on the list.

I think I've calmed down by now, so I'll continue. My name is [Your Name], and I've known [Newlywed's Name] since college. We sat next to each other one time in an eight A.M. Spanish class and have been inseparable ever since. We've known each other for so long I would consider us siblings now, and I'm so blessed to have such a wonderful person in my life.

[Spouse's Name] is charming, intelligent, thoughtful and to quote [Newlywed's Name] after their first date, 'sooo cuteee.' I consider myself a top-notch wingwoman and matchmaker, but even I couldn't have picked a better person for [Newlywed's Name] to fall in love with. Anyone can take one look at them together and see that they're a perfect example of 'meant to be.'

I'm honored that you both have not only chosen me to be a significant part of your big day but also a significant person in your lives. I'm excited to watch you two enjoy this new chapter in your lives as a married couple. I love you both so much!

Maid of Honor Speech for Sister

Hello everyone! If you couldn't tell already from our almost identical faces, I'm [Bride's Name] sister. We're only two years apart, so we've always been really close. We would do everything together, like that one time we got gum stuck in our hair on the same day and spent hours combing peanut butter into each other's hair to help get the gum out. Unfortunately, this didn't work out, and we had to chop a lot of hair off.

Regardless of all the trouble we've got ourselves into, I can't imagine sharing such fun memories with anyone else. I've always looked up to [Bride's Name] and continue to think of her as a great role model to me and many others. I feel so happy and proud to call [Bride's Name] my sister.

[Spouse's Name], you've come into our lives seamlessly, and I've never seen my sister happier. You're such a funny and loving person, and to this day, every time my sister talks about you, she gets giddy. I really do think you guys are perfect for one another, and I can't wait to see how you grow even more as life partners.

Everyone raise your glass to congratulate [Bride's Name] and [Spouse's Name]. May each day be full of love and laughter!

Maid of Honor Speech for Cousin

Shout out to Ellert-McDermott for writing the passionate maid of honor speech below.

Ladies and gentlemen, friends and family and all you lucky souls who scored an invite to the wedding of the century. My name is [Your Name], and I have the pleasure of being the maid of honor today, or as I like to call it, the 'official party planner, the emergency dress fixer and human tissue dispenser.'

You all know [Bride's Name] as this gorgeous, successful, brilliant person you see before you today, but I know her as my little cousin. And I don't care how many promotions she gets, how many exotic countries she visits or how married she gets, that's who she'll always be to me. Yes, the girl who, for several years, ate nothing but chicken nugget sandwiches and had a special tree she liked to wee behind when we visited Grandma.

Being the only girls in our tribe of siblings, we quickly became best friends and partners in crime. We loved playing dress-up, but rather than pretending to marry our Prince Charmings, we'd pretend to be lawyers or scientists. And we wonder why no one wanted to hang out with us.

Our geekiness lasted well into our teens and developed into a mild addiction to One Direction, "Glee" and astronomy. We'd spend hours staring into our telescopes, wondering what we would say when we became the first astronauts to land on Mars. Sadly, that dream never came to fruition, but [Bride's Name], as we all know, did become a lawyer—an incredibly successful one at that.

But seriously, watching [Bride's Name] achieve her dreams has been a delight because she's quite simply one of life's special people. I feel incredibly lucky to have been blessed with such a fun-loving, wise and caring cousin––a special type of friend who's duty-bond to be in my life forever.

I always knew that [Bride's Name] deserved to be loved by someone special, and I'm delighted to say that person is [Newlywed's Name]. I've had the privilege of getting to know [Newlywed's Name] well over the last three years, and I must say, you're a brave soul for marrying into our family and having to cope with our crazy Christmas traditions. But I think you've figured out our secret. The louder we are, the more we like you. And just to clarify, we like you very much.

You have a kind heart, a wonderful wit and you're willing to dance to One Direction after we've had a few beers. I can also see how much you love my cousin. I can see that you 'get her;' that you know just how she likes her coffee, that you understand her sarcasm is a sign of affection and that you appreciate how intelligent she is even if she insists on watching "Selling Sunset" at every opportunity she can.

You're an incredible couple, and I've no doubt your love will continue to grow with every passing day. As your maid of honor, I couldn't be happier for you, and I look forward to sharing more happy memories with you guys in the future. And with that, everyone please join me in a toast to the happy couple and a life filled with love and laughter.

Short Maid of Honor Speech

I would like to quote the famous American author, Mark Twain, who once said, 'To get the full value of joy, you must have someone to divide it with.' This perfectly explains why [Newlywed's Name] and [Spouse's Name] have always radiated so much joy since they've met each other.

I do not doubt [Newlywed's Name] has found the person they will spend the rest of their life with. You both make a beautiful couple and may you continue to get the full value of joy out of life with one another.

Congratulations, [Newlywed's Name] and [Spouse's Name]!

Maid of Honor Speech Tips

Completing your matron of honor speech is a big accomplishment, but the work doesn't stop when you write the closing line. The right delivery is what makes it. Here are confidence tips for your maid of honor speech and other speaking engagements.

Don't procrastinate.

We recommend you start writing your maid of honor speech at least two months before the wedding day. As an honor attendant, you're expected to attend and plan numerous prewedding events, like dress fittings, the bach party and the rehearsal dinner , which means you won't have much time to write as the wedding day approaches. Also, it doesn't hurt to write a few drafts and ask someone you trust to edit your work. By preparing in advance, you'll be able to focus on writing a toast you're excited to read in front of a crowd and not have to worry about leaving a wedding event early so you can go home and write.

Add stories, not adjectives.

"Adjectives are just white noise in wedding speeches. Describing the newlywed as 'kind,' 'fun' or 'beautiful' is nice but doesn't really add much. Illustrate their characteristics and qualities by sharing the evidence of them in action," Ellert-McDermott, author of "The Modern Couple's Guide to Wedding Speeches," says.

Be true to yourself.

This is the time to open your heart and share a few favorite memories or silly stories that capture your relationship with the newlyweds. So don't feel pressured to write a maid of honor speech that sounds overly professional. A great maid of honor toast is about speaking honestly and naturally, so write how you generally speak. Don't forget this isn't the time to use inappropriate language since you'll be speaking to the couple's nearest and dearest. Your writing should feel like a natural extension of the way you talk. A genuine speech from the heart is impactful.

Remember to mention the partner.

"Yes, the focus of your speech is your friend and your relationship with them, but don't forget what the day's actually about. Try to make your tribute to their partner seem like more than a cliched afterthought," Ellert-McDermott advises.

Write it down.

Yes, you're expected to make an amazing speech, but that doesn't mean you must memorize it. Writing the entire speech word for word or just jotting down bullet points of your speech's outline can work wonders for your confidence. We suggest you read your maid of honor speech on index cards instead of reading it off your cell phone. Phones are more convenient, but the phone screen light that washes over your face as you're reading your speech distorts wedding photographs. To avoid ruining any wedding images, write your speech down instead. ( Psst. People say handwritten notes boost brain activity and optimize memory.)

Practice in front of an audience.

Practicing your speech is just as important as writing it. As with any public speaking gig, you'll become more comfortable with the material as you practice it. Read your toast aloud a few times to catch any spelling or grammar errors. This will also help you find a rhythm—you'll know exactly when you want to pause for reactions and emphasize certain points, which is key for staying within a designated time frame. You can also read your words to another wedding party member for feedback. When the time comes to stand up in front of the crowd, you'll be grateful for the pre-performance audience.

Stay calm, cool and collected.

Whether this is your first time giving a wedding speech or you're a pro, it's normal to feel a little nervous beforehand. Take a few deep breaths to calm your nerves and collect your thoughts. Speak slowly and clearly, and remind yourself that guests are excited to hear what you're saying. As nerve-wracking as it might feel to give a big speech at your loved one's wedding, their heartfelt reaction to your words will make your efforts worth it. As soon as your speech is over, you'll be free to celebrate with the newlyweds and the rest of the wedding party.

Don't forget to smile.

"Because they're nervous, speakers often forget to smile as they deliver their speech, but it's a simple and effective way to create a good vibe in the room. A smile is literally infectious, so make sure it looks like you're actually enjoying your time on the mic," Ellert-McDermott says. Putting on a soft smile also helps the photographer capture stunning pictures of you killing your speech.

Maid of Honor Speech Frequently Asked Questions

Delivering a unique maid of honor speech can seem daunting, but we're here to help you take the stress out of it. Here are answers to common questions regarding the maid of honor speech.

Does the maid of honor have to give a speech?

It's expected for a maid of honor to give a speech, especially if the other honor attendants are planning on giving one, but it's not required. Giving a maid of honor speech can be a fun experience, but it isn't for everyone. If public speaking makes you nervous, you can express yourself in other ways, like through song, dance or by creating a sweet love story presentation about the happy couple.

How long should a maid of honor speech be?

In addition to the matron of honor speech, there might also be a best man speech , toasts from the couple's parents or even a thank-you message from the newlyweds. Since there are several speeches to fit in with meal courses, dancing, games and additional reception activities , keep your salutations short and sweet. Aim to make your maid of honor speech a minimum of four minutes and at most six minutes—Ellert-McDermott suggests anything between 700 and 1000 words.

Wedding guests will be excited to hear your well-wishes and funny stories, but a long MOH speech can lose the wedding guests' interest (especially if it's full of too many personal inside jokes). A four-minute speech gives you enough time to speak about the couple's love story, offer a personal anecdote or two and finish with encouragement for married life.

How to Start a Maid of Honor Speech

"Like every other speaker, the maid of honor should say a quick hello and introduce themselves to the guests. They should explain how they know the bride and try to add some humor early on too. Tailor your speech to suit the style of the wedding. Is it a rock n roll affair or a traditional bash with children present? Consider your audience and decide if 'ladies and gentlemen' is necessary or overly formal (generally, it's the latter)," Ellert-McDermott notes.

How to End a Maid of Honor Speech

"Towards the end of the speech, the maid of honor should reiterate their joy in seeing their friend getting married. They may refer back to special memories they share with the bride and explain why she is such a great friend to them. The final few lines should be about wishing the couple well in their future life together and proposing a toast to them both," Ellert-McDermott suggests. Here is an example of a personal maid of honor toast ending from Ellert-McDermott:

Here's to a lifetime of drinking mojitos and dancing on tables. To Sophie and Taylor.

When does the maid of honor give a speech?

If the couple is following the traditional wedding speech order , the maid of honor gives her speech after the newlyweds' parents. Typically, following the maid of honor is the best man. That wedding speech order isn't for everyone since a couple's wedding party size and reception timeline impact the order too. Also, sometimes couples opt to have all the wedding speeches delivered during the rehearsal dinner. So check with the to-be-weds about the order to confirm your spot in the toast lineup.

What to do if there are multiple maids of honor?

If you are one of the multiple maids of honor , you and the others should keep your maid of honor speeches to three to five minutes long. Before delivering your speeches, we suggest you and the other maids of honor go over them together to make sure they aren't too similar (and if they are, to adjust accordingly). If you and the other maids of honor have a close relationship, want to create only one speech or you don't want to give your speech alone, consider doing a joint maid of honor speech. By doing a combined speech, you have more opportunities to be creative, like setting each other up for jokes or performing a heartfelt song together.

• Bridal Shower
• Bachelor & Bachelorette Parties
• Engagement Party
• Rehearsal Dinner
• Wedding Checklists
• Wedding Hairstyle Ideas
• Wedding Vows Readings
• Wedding Music

In This Article

• Speech Examples
• Speech Template
• How To Write The Best Speech
• Useful Speech Tips
• Quotes for the Speech
• Wedding Party & Reception

Best Tips for Maid Of Honor Speech 2024: Samples & Ideas

oscarguillen

Crafting a memorable maid of honor speech can be both an honor and a daunting task. It’s a chance to celebrate the bride in a heartfelt way while engaging the audience. Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or feeling the nerves, this guide will walk you through simple and effective steps to create a speech that will leave everyone touched and smiling. Remember, the key to a great speech lies in authenticity and personal anecdotes – sharing genuine stories and emotions will make your words resonate with everyone present.

FREE Download: Speech Template

Quick Navigation

ADVERTISEMENT

Maid Of Honor Speech Examples

Matron of honor speech.

In the realm of weddings, the roles of Maid of Honor and Matron of Honor are distinct yet equally significant. While the Maid of Honor is typically an unmarried woman, the Matron of Honor is a married woman, often a close friend or relative of the bride. The Matron of Honor’s speech is a cherished moment during the wedding reception, filled with heartfelt memories and well-wishes.

Difference between Maid of Honor and Matron of Honor:

• Maid of Honor: Unmarried woman chosen for her close relationship with the bride.
• Matron of Honor: Married woman, offering a unique perspective on married life and advice for the couple.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Good evening! For those of you who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], the Matron of Honor and [Bride’s Name]’s older sister/best friend. It’s an incredible honor to stand here today beside my beautiful sister/best friend on this special day. Growing up, [Bride’s Name] and I shared countless memories—sleepovers filled with secrets, endless laughter, and a bond that only sisters/best friends can understand. From the moment she met [Groom’s Name], I saw a light in her eyes that was new and wonderful. Seeing her so happy and in love filled my heart with joy. As someone who has been married for a few years, I’ve learned that marriage is a journey filled with beautiful highs and challenging lows. [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], you two have a love that is strong and resilient. Cherish each other, communicate openly, and never stop laughing together. [Bride’s Name], you are my confidante, my rock, and my inspiration. [Groom’s Name], thank you for loving her the way she deserves. I’m excited to watch you two build a life filled with love and happiness. Here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and endless joy. Congratulations, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]!

Hello everyone! For those who might not know me, I’m [Your Name], the Matron of Honor and [Bride’s Name]’s college roommate/best friend. I’ve had the pleasure of knowing [Bride’s Name] for [number] years, and I must say, standing here today is an absolute joy. When [Bride’s Name] told me about [Groom’s Name], she couldn’t stop smiling. In fact, she smiled so much that I thought she had taken up a new hobby—face exercises! But in all seriousness, from the first time I met [Groom’s Name], I knew he was the one. The way they look at each other, with so much love and understanding, is something truly special. Now, as someone who has been through the ups and downs of marriage, I want to offer a bit of advice: always remember to keep the humor alive. Laugh together, especially during the tough times. It’s amazing how a little laughter can ease even the most stressful moments. [Bride’s Name], you’ve been my partner in crime, my cheerleader, and my voice of reason. [Groom’s Name], you’re incredibly lucky to have her, and I know she’s just as lucky to have you. So, here’s to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]—may your life together be filled with love, laughter, and lots of happy memories. Cheers!

Tips for Writing a Matron of Honor Speech:

• Start with a Personal Anecdote: Share a meaningful memory or story that highlights your relationship with the bride.
• Express Genuine Emotions: Speak from the heart, expressing your happiness and love for the couple.
• Offer Words of Wisdom: As a married woman, provide thoughtful advice and encouragement for their journey ahead.
• Keep it Concise: Aim for a speech that is heartfelt but brief, typically around 3-5 minutes.
• Practice: Rehearse your speech to ensure a smooth delivery and to manage any nerves.

Best Friend Maid Of Honor Speech

After years of helping Maids of Honor deliver awesome speeches, founder of Speechy and author of ‘The Modern Couple’s Guide to Wedding Speeches’, Heidi Ellert-McDermott, shares her tips. The first three-fifths of the speech should include revealing, entertaining stories that give an insight into the bride and your relationship with her. Don’t be shy of some affectionate teasing.

We’ve made a research and after surveying over 50,000 brides, the maid of honor choice was crystal clear: more than 51% of them chose their best friend as their maid of honor. This role isn’t just about tradition—it’s about an unbreakable bond. A best friend’s speech resonates deeply, filled with shared memories and heartfelt wishes.

“If you haven’t had the chance to meet me yet, my name is X. (Bride) and I have been best friends for about 10 years. We met in high school gym class, and we couldn’t stand each other at first. As you can see, things eventually changed for the better. When (Bride) first asked me to be her Maid of Honor I felt flattered. But as the big day approached, she also told me to give a speech and a toast. I’m kind of the shy type and tried my best to get out of it. But, as (Groom) can tell you, it’s almost impossible to tell (Bride) No and get away with it. I wanted to tell you both how absolutely spectacular you look today. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a better-looking couple (except for maybe my boyfriend and I). And I hope you’re all having a lovely evening and I’d like to I wish you two all the love and happiness in the world. How blessed you are to celebrate your love on this beautiful day. I know there are many happy years ahead for you. Let’s all raise our glasses to the bride and groom, and wish them a lifetime of love and happiness!”

“I never had a sister, but (Bride) has been like a sister to me for all these years. We have similar tastes, we like similar clothes… I knew (Bride) had found the one when (Groom) walked into her life. Well, I’m fine with that – she saw him first! Actually, you could see that it was love at first, second, and third sight. He is her Prince Charming and it seems to me he gives her all she needs – a strong arm, a sympathetic ear, and his credit card.”

“I met (Bride) 6 years ago, as we tried to survive in the concrete jungle of NY. To thrive there, your tribe is essential. We are quite protective of each other, so I was a bit skeptical of (Groom) when he first came into the picture. But as time goes by, I can’t imagine anyone else but him to be her one and only. They say that anyone can be passionate, but it takes a real pair of lovers to be silly. Well, together, (Bride) and (Groom) are two of the goofiest people I know.”

“Hello everyone, my name is X, and by my dress, you can tell that I am the Maid of Honor today. For many years, we have been through thick and thin, and we have shared many memories. Today is another great day to add to our collection of sweet memories, so I’m really looking forward to the cake! I know you will have challenges as all relationships do. But you know what’s great about love and relationships and marriages? It is learning to grow together. Caring and sharing, and lots of tenderness. And maybe a bit of patience, or maybe even a lot. So let’s raise our glasses to the power of love, that makes all these wonderful things happen! Today you start a completely new chapter of your lives. What can I say? Never forget the two most important replies: ‘you’re right, dear’ and ‘okay, buy it’. Love and cherish each other! These two are a rare find in today’s world. Here’s to the groom who has a bride so fair, and here’s to the bride with a groom who is so rare.”

Check out this touching maid of honor speech to get inspired!

How to write a maid of honor speech for best friend?

• Introduction: Begin by introducing yourself and expressing how honored you are to be the maid of honor for your best friend.
• Fond Memories: Share special and cherished memories you’ve shared together, highlighting the bond you both share.
• Praise and Qualities: Speak about your best friend’s wonderful qualities, accomplishments, and the ways they have positively impacted your life and the lives of others.
• The Friendship: Emphasize the strength and significance of your friendship, and how it has grown over the years.
• Love and Support: Show appreciation for the bride’s partner and express your excitement about their journey together.
• Gratitude: Thank the guests for being a part of this special day and acknowledge the couple’s families.
• Toast: Raise a toast to your best friend and their partner, wishing them a lifetime of love, joy, and happiness together.

The 60+ Best Engagement Gifts Any Couple Will Love

Sister maid of honor speech.

According to our research, the second most popular choice for the maid of honor role is the bride’s sister. While tradition often places the best friend in the spotlight, a sister brings a unique depth to the role. Their shared history, growing up together, and the intrinsic bond make a sister’s speech incredibly touching. With a wealth of childhood memories and a deep understanding of the bride, a sister’s words carry immense emotional weight. When delivering the speech, draw upon this shared journey, express genuine emotions, and celebrate the love that binds not only siblings but also the newlyweds.

“As you may know, I am the bride’s younger sister. As we were growing up, I always wanted to be like her. Do the things she did, have the things she had –  I was probably a bit annoying, I always wanted to tag along. She taught me how to care, how to share, and how to try to reach for the stars. And as I grew up I wanted to be just as beautiful, caring, smart, and successful as her. (Bride) has always set an example for me to follow. Over the years she has shown me how to love and care. Today she shows me how to find a best friend, a partner, and a true lover, all in one person. I hope that I am just as lucky someday. It’s a great happiness to find someone who loves you as much as (Groom) loves my sister. Today, I want to thank both of you for being a part of my life, and to celebrate the love you both share. Like many sisters, we weren’t always best friends. I remember fights, screaming, and door-slamming, but I couldn’t have picked a better sister and a friend. Now that we are older, I can finally admit how happy I am to have grown up with such a great sister. Having a sister is one of the greatest things in life. Having a little sister is even better because I liked to be bossy. (Bride) always wanted to be a bit more like me… But actually, there is so much that I admire about her! I have watched her grow into the gorgeous woman that she is. It is a great honor for me to be her big sister!”

“First of all, I want to thank you all for being here with us today. As most of you know I am (Bride’s) sister. As we grew, we were as close as can be. We were always in trouble and I remember wondering if there will be a guy brave enough for someone as wild as my sister is. Well, here he is!My sis has just tied the knot. And I do believe that (Groom) is her perfect match. And today I realize that all she needs is a guy who will love her just the way she is, with all her craziness. Their commitment to each other inspires all of us because that’s what we call true love. So let’s raise our glasses to this amazing couple!”

“I want you to know that it took me 3 weeks to write this speech over and over again. And I couldn’t think of anything perfect enough to describe just how much I love you. I couldn’t find words to define the kind of sister you are to me. This is your big day and there is so much I want to say… I Googled a lot of maid of honor speech examples. The one piece of advice I kept finding over and over again was to start off with a quote. I did some research and I think their love is best described by Dr. Seuss: “You know you’re in love when you can’t fall asleep because the reality is finally better than your dreams.”

“Love, be true to her; Life, be dear to her; Health, stay close to her; Joy, draw near to her; Fortune, find what you can do for her, Search your treasure house through and through for her, Follow her footsteps the wide world over – And keep her husband always her lover. – By Anna Lewis, from “To the Bride”

How to write a maid of honor speech for sister?

• Introduction: Start by introducing yourself and your relationship with the bride, emphasizing your sisterly bond.
• Anecdotes: Share heartfelt and funny stories that highlight your sister’s qualities, achievements, or memorable moments you’ve shared together.
• Praise the bride: Compliment her personality, kindness, and the positive impact she has on others.
• Address the groom: Welcome him into the family and share a warm message about their relationship.
• Express gratitude: Thank the guests for attending and acknowledge your parents and other family members.
• Toast: Raise a glass and propose a heartfelt toast to the newlyweds and their future happiness together.

Instant Poll

Pick a Maid of Honor?

Funny Maid Of Honor Speech

As a close friend of the bride, you would have a lot of material for wedding speeches bridesmaids, you just need to know how to put them all together. A few sample wedding speeches would give you the right kind of inspiration to get you on your way.

“Well, for those of you who I haven’t had the chance to meet yet, my name is [NAME]. [BRIDE] and I have been best friends for around the last 10 years. We first met at work one day, when she stole my carrot cake out of the fridge in the lunchroom and I threw away her pineapple yogurt cartons in revenge. I never had a sister, but [BRIDE] has been my stand-in sister for all these years. You could say we are even closer than sisters. We don’t fight like sisters, but we do wear each other’s clothes. Somehow she can still fit into my clothes but I can’t fit into hers anymore. I’m sure that is just because her dryer must be shrinking them. I knew [BRIDE] had found the one when [GROOM] walked into her life. Sure, she dated a few guys…after I was done torturing them. But [GROOM] was different. Unlike those jerks, he was kind and thoughtful. And he had a job. You could see that it was love at first, second, and third sight. Clearly [GROOM] is charming and it seems to me he offers her what she needs – a strong arm, a kind ear, and an American Express Black Card. I trust [BRIDE] and [GROOM] completely. I remember the time I asked them to watch my dog Benji when I went skiing in Europe. They were so nice to help out. I got back and Benji was so happy to see me. He was 40 pounds lighter and now he sees a therapist twice a week. Of course, we are having fun today. The test of this relationship will be over the long term. Will she still love [GROOM] when he leaves his underwear on the floor and cuts his toenails at the dinner table? The answer is no. God, please, disgusting. No, seriously, I know they will have challenges as all relationships do. And [GROOM] will learn what all men learn eventually. Keep your wife happy! Happy wife, happy life. No, really, what’s great about love and relationships and marriage is learning to grow together. The communication it takes to keep a marriage going is massive. But half the fun is working things out, talking, communicating, and launching kitchen appliances at each other – real love. Today has been a great day. Family and friends are here, the sun is shining and the champagne is flowing. And we’ll need it to get through this chicken dinner.”

Sometimes the hardest part of being a maid of honor to your bestie might be writing the wedding speech. Speaking with your friend face to face is always easy, however, making toasts or speeches in front of a group of people would be totally different and not as easy. This is why anecdotes and funny wedding speeches maid of honor could help you cruise through your speech while giving the wedding guests a laugh at the same time.

Funny Lines For Maid Of Honor Speech

• “I did some research on how to give the perfect maid of honor speech, and the first tip I found was to imagine everyone in their underwear. So, here we are, ladies and gentlemen, welcome to my nightmare!”
• “Being the maid of honor is like being a ninja. You have to be quick on your feet, prepared for anything, and ready to attack at a moment’s notice. But instead of throwing shurikens, I’m armed with embarrassing stories about the bride.”
• “As the maid of honor, I’ve been given the responsibility of keeping the bride calm and relaxed throughout the wedding planning process. Which is why I’ve been slipping her Xanax in her coffee every morning.”
• “When the bride asked me to be her maid of honor, I was thrilled. But then I realized it meant I had to give a speech in front of all these people. So if I faint halfway through, just drag me off stage and make it look like part of the act.”

Bridesmaid Wedding Speech

A list of example wedding speeches maid of honor could act as a template of sorts, helping you figure out just how to structure your bridesmaid speech.

Some of the best wedding speeches maid of honor, shine a light on the friendship between the bride and her maid of honor, as well as the beautiful personality of the bride. Most introductions begin with the story of meeting the groom for the first time. The intro is usually a good time to inject a funny quote, poem, or actual occurrence.

“Hi everyone, I am one of the bridesmaids at this wedding and I just wanted to say how happy and lucky I am to be here to celebrate [bride] and [groom’s] wedding with everyone. Today, everything looks effortless. From the beautiful wedding ceremony to the food, music, and decorations at this venue, every little detail was planned by [bride] and [groom.] And lots of time was spent shopping for dresses and doing fittings. When you get to peek behind the scenes, you see how much work really gets put into planning a wedding. There were a lot of late nights and hours spent working on this wedding and I have to say that it all turned out quite beautifully. Let’s all give a round of applause for [bride] and [groom.] [Bride] and [groom,] thank you for such a wonderful day. I raise my glass to the two of you and wish you nothing but the best in your life together. May each day be full of love and laughter between the two of you.”

Speeches are generally not as difficult as we imagine. So, you can relax, go through these samples, and create one of the best wedding toast speeches made of honor.

Short Maid Of Honor Speech Examples

“Greetings to all of you. I’m [Name], the maid of honor. I would like to express a few words about the lovely bride and groom. [Bride] has always been a wonderful friend to me, and it’s an honor to be her maid of honor today. And [Groom], I am delighted that you are joining our family. You two are a perfect match, and I wish you all the happiness and love in the world. Let’s raise a glass to the happy couple!”

“Hello, everyone. I’m [Name], the maid of honor. [Bride], you look breathtakingly beautiful today, and I feel grateful to be a part of your extraordinary day. [Groom], you’re a fortunate man! [Bride] is intelligent, gorgeous, and has a heart of gold. I am confident that you both will have a lifetime of love and happiness together. Congratulations on your special day!”

“Good evening, all. I’m [Name], the maid of honor, and for those who don’t know me, it’s lovely to meet you. I have known [Bride] for several years, and I have never seen her as happy as she is with [Groom]. You two bring out the best in each other, and it’s evident that you are destined to be together. It’s an honor to stand here today as a witness to your love and commitment. Congratulations to the joyful couple!”

“Hello everyone, I’m [Name], the maid of honor. [Bride], you’re my best friend and I couldn’t be happier to see you marry [Groom]. You two are perfect for each other and I wish you a lifetime of love and happiness. Congratulations!”

“Good evening, all. I’m [Name], the maid of honor, and I’m honored to celebrate [Bride] and [Groom]’s special day. [Bride], you’re my best friend and I’m so happy to see you with someone as wonderful as [Groom]. Wishing you both a lifetime of love and happiness. Congratulations!”

“Hi everyone, I’m [Name], the maid of honor, and I’m thrilled to celebrate my best friend [Bride] and her groom [Groom]. [Bride], I’m so proud of you and I know that [Groom] is the perfect partner for you. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness and love. Congratulations!”

“Good evening, everyone! For those who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], and I have the incredible honor of standing by [Bride’s Name]’s side today as her maid of honor. First and foremost, I want to say how breathtakingly beautiful she looks tonight. As I stand here, I can’t help but reflect on the journey that led us to this moment. [Bride’s Name] and I have been inseparable since childhood, and I am beyond grateful for the memories we’ve created together. We’ve laughed together, cried together, and supported each other through life’s ups and downs. And now, as I watch her embark on this new chapter with [Groom’s Name], my heart overflows with joy. I’ve witnessed the love between them grow and flourish, and it’s truly something special. [Groom’s Name], thank you for making my best friend the happiest she’s ever been. To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your love continue to blossom and may your journey together be filled with laughter, love, and adventure. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness. Cheers!”

“Hello, everyone! I’m [Your Name], and I have the honor of being [Bride’s Name]’s slightly crazy, but totally awesome, maid of honor! When [Bride’s Name] asked me to take on this role, I knew it would be an adventure. From choosing the perfect dress to planning wild bachelorette parties, we’ve had our fair share of laughs and tears. And let’s not forget about all the emergency wedding dress fittings! But in all seriousness, I couldn’t have asked for a better friend. [Bride’s Name] is compassionate, hilarious, and always there to lend a helping hand. She lights up every room she enters, and I know that [Groom’s Name] feels incredibly lucky to have her as his partner in crime. [Groom’s Name], welcome to the family! We’ve all been waiting for someone to take on the challenge of dealing with [Bride’s Name]’s terrible dance moves, and it looks like you’re up for it. To the happy couple, may your love be as endless as the dance floor at the reception. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness, laughter, and love. Cheers!”

“Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, and most importantly, the beautiful couple of the day, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. I’m [Your Name], and I have the privilege of being [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor. Today, I stand here with a heart full of emotions, for I’ve had the honor of witnessing the love between [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] blossom into something truly extraordinary. Their love is like a gentle breeze, calming our souls and reminding us of the beauty in life. [Bride’s Name], you’ve always been the ray of sunshine in my life. Your kindness, grace, and unwavering love inspire all who know you. And now, as you embark on this new journey with [Groom’s Name], I know that you’ll be a guiding light in his life as well. [Groom’s Name], thank you for cherishing and loving [Bride’s Name] with all your heart. Your dedication to making her happy is evident in every glance you share. Let us all raise our glasses to the newlyweds. May your love continue to grow, like the mighty oak standing tall through the changing seasons. May your days be filled with laughter, and your hearts forever intertwined. Congratulations, and here’s to a lifetime of happiness and love!”

When delivering a speech, remember to speak from the heart, keep it concise, and maintain a positive tone. Make sure to customize the speech to fit your relationship with the couple and the overall vibe of the wedding.

How to write a short wedding speech?

• Start by introducing yourself and briefly mentioning your relationship with the bride. This will help the audience understand your perspective and why you were chosen to be the maid of honor.
• Take a moment to express your gratitude for being a part of the special day and your well wishes for the newlyweds.
• Say a few words about the bride and groom, highlighting their qualities and how they complement each other. You can talk about their journey as a couple and your hopes for their future together.
• End your speech by raising a toast to the newlyweds.

Maid Of Honor Toasts

One of the tips for giving good wedding speeches – to use a good toast. A toast is basically well wished to the newlyweds and their family, followed by a signal for guests to raise their glasses.

If you are unsure what exactly to say, here are some beautiful maid of honor toast examples to inspire you.

• “And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight. – Philippians 1:9”
• “Be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. – Ephesians 4:32”
• “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Here’s to love, laughter and happily ever after. – Romans 12:10″
• “As (Groom) and (Bride) start their new life together, Let’s toast to the new husband and wife!”
• “Here’s to the husband And here’s to the wife; May they remain Lovers for life.”
• “Here’s to the health of the happy pair; may good luck follow them everywhere; And may each day of wedded bliss be always as sweet and joyous as this.”
• “May you grow old on one pillow. May their joy be as bright as the morning, and their sorrows be shadows that fade in the sunlight of love.”
• “Let’s drink to love, which is nothing—unless it’s divided into two with someone you love. May your joys be as sweet as spring flowers that grow.”
• “As bright as a fire when winter winds blow; As countless as leaves that float down in the fall; And as serene as the love that keeps watching over us all.”

As the maid of honor, you need to find the one speech, that is short and sweet, and resonates with you! Great Maid of Honor wedding speeches often includes great quotes . Famous quotes have a way of painting a picture that our own words can’t seem to do on their own.

The Maid Of Honor Speech Template

Infographic.

The biggest worry that most maids of honor have is freezing and forgetting the speech. A great solution is breaking your speech into sections and writing them down on cards that you carry with you. As you practice your speech it will be easier to memorize, and having all the words with you will keep you from panicking.

To get you started, stick to our basic Maid Of Honor Speech Outline:

• Introduce yourself (your name, your relationship to the bride, and how long you’ve known each other)
• Thank everyone involved in the wedding planning for their hard work
• Talk about the bride (why she’s a good person and friend, share a story to illustrate it)
• Tell the love story (The most romantic version of how the bride and groom met)
• Talk about the groom (Compliment him, why he’s great for your friend, what he does for her etc)
• Celebrate the couple (Why they’re so good together)
• Wish the newlyweds wonderful things for the future You could also insert a quote or a poem.
• Toast to the bride and groom – Raise your glass, say: “Here’s to the happy couple”, take and sip and voila! You’ve nailed it!

How To Write The Best Maid Of Honor Speech Ever

We’ve all seen when speeches go wrong, so how you do you get it right? After years of helping Maids of Honor deliver awesome speeches, founder of Speechy , Heidi Ellert-McDermott, shares her tips.

• Introduce yourself & explain how you know the bride.
• Include humor throughout. Yes, your speech should be a loving tribute to a true friend, but it’s also meant to entertain a crowd.
• Once you’ve written your speech, try to edit it in half. Promise, your speech will be better the punchier it is. No one ever wished a speech was longer!
• Pay tribute to the bride’s partner with than a cursory platitude. Prove you genuinely know and like them!
• Rehearse as often as you can but use notes on the day. Delivering the speech shouldn’t be a memory test.
• Remember to smile throughout your delivery. It’s a powerful (and infectious) communication tool.

Don’t

• Resort to cheesy cliches about love and friendship.
• Google gags.
• Thank anyone. It’s not your job.
• Take up more than 10 mins mic time.
• Pretend the bride is perfect. Instead cherish the crazy character she truly is, with all her quirks and eccentricities.
• Talk over laughter when you deliver your speech. If you’ve written a funny line, leave a pause after you’ve said it to allow your audience to get the joke and respond. Don’t start talking till the last giggle has died down.
• Drink more than a glass of bubbles prior to your speech. Alcohol actually increases the stress hormone.

How to Get Started Maid of Honor Wedding Speech

• Know Your Audience: Consider the bride and groom’s personalities, the formality of the event, and the sensibilities of the guests. Tailor your speech to the audience.
• Start Early: Begin writing your speech well in advance. This allows time for revisions and practice. Don’t wait until the last minute.
• Personalize It: Share anecdotes and stories that reflect your relationship with the bride. Highlight special moments and inside jokes.

Examples of How to Get Started:

• Opening with a Quote: Start with an inspiring or humorous quote related to love or marriage. For instance,

“Maya Angelou once said, ‘Love recognizes no barriers.’ Today, we’re here to celebrate a love that knows no bounds.”

• Anecdotal Introduction: Begin with a personal story about your friendship with the bride.

“As I stand here today, I can’t help but think back to the time we met in kindergarten. Who would’ve thought that our friendship would lead us to this beautiful wedding?”

• Express Your Gratitude: Begin by expressing your gratitude for being chosen as the maid of honor.

“First and foremost, I want to thank [bride’s name] for giving me the honor of standing by her side today as her maid of honor.” Remember, the key to a memorable maid of honor speech is sincerity and a touch of humor, sprinkled with personal anecdotes that capture the essence of your relationship with the bride.

How To End A Maid Of Honor Speech

When figuring out how to write a maid of honor speech, keep in mind that the latter part of the speech should be where you talk about the couple. In that vein, it’s also important to know how to end the speech flawlessly. Here are a few tips.

• Keep it short and sweet. While you might have a lot to say, there are time slots for each speech, so keeping things short would be best.
• Use sentimental wedding quotes. You might have a maid of honor speech template you follow but adding inspirational quotes to your speech is a great way to wrap things up.
• Finish with a toast. At the very end, it is customary to raise a toast to the happy couple.

10 Maid Of Honor Speech Tips

After years of helping Maids of Honor deliver awesome speeches, founder of Speechy and author of ‘The Modern Couple’s Guide to Wedding Speeches’, Heidi Ellert-McDermott, shares her tips.

Planning Your Speech

• Think of the speechwriting process as writing a dissertation (only this time, don’t leave it till the night before your deadline!).
• Firstly, jot down all your ideas and favourite stories and then construct a central idea (narrative theme) that you stick to through. It could be that your friend is always right, or maybe the newlyweds prove that opposites really do attract. Whatever it is, make sure your speech flows from one idea to the next, rather than being a list of random thoughts.

Speech Structure

• Remember to introduce yourself and how you know the bride at the start of the speech and try to include humor within the first 30 seconds. Resist the urge to include any of those tired googled-wedding-gags and ensure your line is original and relates to the couple themselves or the surroundings you find yourself in.
• The first three-fifths of the speech should include revealing, entertaining stories that give an insight into the bride and your relationship with her. Don’t be shy of some affectionate teasing.
• Towards the latter half of the speech, introduce her partner and explain why the couple are suited. Again, make sure to include some good-natured humour here.
• The final fifth of your speech could be a full-on love-bomb of a tribute to your friend. Make sure you avoid the usual cliches and platitudes about friendship and instead, try to nail the bride’s individual characteristics and quirks that make you love her.

Edit Your Speech

• When you’ve finished writing your speech, try to edit it in half. You may not achieve it but once you get editing, you’ll be surprised by the amount of needless waffle that’s in there.
• Remember, a speech is better punchy, so be brutal. A good maid of honour speech is generally between 700 and 1,100 words. No more than 10 minutes airtime!

Choosing Quotes for a Memorable Maid of Honor Speech

Talking about love and trying to sum up a friendship, can be hard. Luckily, some other clever people have already done it and we can all exploit their genius! Whilst plagiarism isn’t ever cool, finding the perfect quote to supercharge your speech is a great idea. Founder of Speechy (the bespoke speechwriting service), Heidi Ellert-McDermott, shares her tips for hunting the perfect quote to honour your bestie.

How to Use Quotes

• Don’t resort to a generic ‘marriage advice’ quote. They’re over-used.
• Don’t overload your speech with quotes. One, maximum two.
• Quote recognisable names – or at least provide some context. Don’t quote someone you need to Google or someone who’s a random ‘relationship coach’.
• Once you add the perfect quote to your speech, script a comedy back ref or put it into the context of the couple’s real-life relationship.
• Remember, quotes can be used to add the necessary humor, as well as the sentiment.

Where to Find Quotes

• Don’t just search for ‘wedding quotes’ on Pinterest.
• Quotes become more meaningful if they come from somewhere that means something to the couple. Could the quote come from the bride’s favourite book, her partner’s favourite film, or maybe it’s from that song you play when you’ve both had a few too many dirty martinis.
• Quotes can be found everywhere from children’s books to rom-coms, from hip-hop classics to the great philosophers, from historical icons to classic sitcoms so enjoy the search!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the maid of honor have to give a speech.

It’s definitely customary for the maid of honor to give a toast to the newlyweds at the reception, but usually, she gave a sweet speech.

How long should a maid of honor speech be?

A maid of honor speech should ideally be around 3 to 5 minutes in length. This timeframe allows you to convey your message effectively without losing the audience’s attention or making other speeches feel rushed.

What should be avoided in maid of honor speeches?

When delivering a maid of honor speech, there are a few things to avoid to ensure it is memorable for the right reasons:

• Avoid embarrassing or offensive stories: You shouldn’t share anything that may make the bride uncomfortable or might be inappropriate for the audience.
• Steer clear of inside jokes: Inside jokes may exclude or confuse other guests who are not familiar with the context. Keep your speech inclusive and relatable for everyone present.
• Don’t overshadow the couple: Avoid making the speech all about yourself or unrelated topics that detract from the celebration of the couple’s special day.
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can impair your ability to deliver a coherent and meaningful message.
• Don’t go on for too long: Avoid rambling or dragging out the speech, as it may lose the interest of the audience.

Remember, the moh speech is an opportunity to celebrate the couple and express your love and support for them.

We hope that now you have everything you need for your perfect maid of honor speech. So just keep all of this in mind as you prepare and deliver your maid of honor speech, and you will be amazing. Make the bride proud she chose you!

Stories You Might Like

Picture Perfect: 11 Must-Have Wedding...

Nautical Wedding 35+Ideas

The Best Ideas For A Blue And Black...

Secular Wedding Ceremony Script Samples...

24 Outstanding Fondant Flower Wedding...

50 Best Wedding Readings For Your...

Charming Acoustic Wedding Songs For Your...

21 Unexpected Awkward Wedding Photos

Best Funny Wedding Speeches Examples You...

Top Fall Wedding Colors: Eye-Catching...

Best And Popular Hip-Hop Wedding Songs

33 Wedding Ceremony Ideas To Make Your...

25 Free Wedding Planning Checklists

Fill in all required * fields below to receive the checklists bundle.

By submitting this form you agree to receive promotional emails from Wedding Forward about other checklists, wedding planning articles, products, and other wedding related topics. You may unsubscribe at any time. Check out our Privacy Policy for more information.

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech—Template Included

Wondering how to write a maid of honor speech? This guide covers everything you need to know and includes a template to help you get started.

Your best friend is getting married , and she’s asked you to be her maid of honor—one of the most meaningful and important roles in helping your best friend bring her wedding daydreams to life. With this honor comes a number of important duties, and at the top of that list is delivering the maid of honor speech.

The maid of honor speech traditionally takes place at the wedding reception , but it’s possible you might deliver it at the rehearsal dinner. Regardless of when the speech will take place, it’s best to get started writing it at least three weeks before the wedding day. After all, a meaningful maid of honor speech isn’t something you can write up on your phone the morning of the wedding—it requires some thought, preparation, and maybe a round of edits or two.

If the task of giving a moving speech to a room full of people feels a bit nerve-wracking, don’t panic. We’ve broken down everything you need to know to craft the perfect speech from start to finish, along with how to keep your nerves at bay when it comes time to deliver it.

6 Tips to Prepare for Your Maid of Honor Speech

You don’t need to be a professional writer or orator to create a meaningful maid of honor speech. Use the tips below to get an idea of what to include and get an idea of the overall structure of a solid speech.

1. Introduce Yourself and Express Thanks

Begin your speech by introducing yourself and your relationship with the bride. Then, share a word of thanks for those who had a hand in planning the wedding —the bride’s family, the groom’s family, and anyone else who you feel should be mentioned.

2. Talk About the Bride

Now it’s time to get personal about the bride and your history together. You might share an anecdote about how you two met, what her friendship has meant to you over the years, or any other endearing story that illustrates why she’s so special. It’s best to focus this section of the speech on the bride before her partner came into the picture, which you can lead into in the next section.

3. Talk About Her Partner

Now is a good time to discuss the bride’s spouse. While you’re certainly the designated right-hand woman to the bride, remember that the focus of a maid of honor speech should be on celebrating the couple , the beauty of their relationship and their future together as newlyweds.

When thinking about what to say about her partner, you can share any number of special sentiments that you feel illustrate who they are and what they mean to the bride. You also might decide to talk about what you love about her partner, mention their greatest characteristics, or share a story about how much he or she means to the bride.

4. Talk About the Couple

While the last section focuses on the bride’s partner as an individual, use this section to talk about who they are as a couple. If you’re close friends with both partners, you might have some special memories to share looking back on the journey of their relationship. If not, you might talk about the impact the bride’s partner has had on her and how you saw her grow as their bond grew over time. Whatever you choose to speak about, be sure to keep the focus on the beauty of their relationship.

5. Share Encouragement or Advice for the Newlyweds’ Future

As you near the end of your speech, try closing with a word of encouragement or advice for the couple and their future together as newlyweds. After all, the whole point of the maid of honor speech is to celebrate the couple! You might include an inspirational quote or poem if you feel like it fits, but be sure to keep it short and sweet to avoid a long-winded reading.

6. Closing Toast

The closing of your speech should be short and sweet—simply share a closing remark to commemorate the happy couple. Then, invite the guests to raise their glasses in a toast to the newlyweds.

How to Nail Your Maid of Honor Speech

While the steps above are helpful in nailing the structure of your speech, there are a few additional tips to keep in mind that will help you write a compelling and meaningful speech.

Set Aside Reflection Time

Before you even attempt to write your speech, it’s a good idea to carve out some time to simply think and reflect. This can help kick off the creative process and get you into the right headspace as you ideate what you might want to include. Spend this time reflecting on the memories you share with the bride, and try to pinpoint any ideas or emotions that come to mind when you think of her. This way, you come away with a road map of all the major points you want to touch on in your speech.

Define Your Objective

As you’re planning your speech, it’s helpful to define your overall objective before you dive into the nitty gritty details and stories you’ll share. Think about the goal you want your speech to accomplish: is it to make the wedding guests laugh, cry, maybe both? Is the couple known for their sense of humor? Perhaps you add some comedic flair to your speech.

If you’ve been through a lot with the bride or want to touch on some more serious memories, perhaps you craft your speech to be more emotionally moving. In the end, defining your objective will help you find the direction your speech will take.

Don’t Go Overboard with Anecdotes

If you have a ton of history with the bride, you might have a miles-long list of heartwarming stories you want to share. However, one key to a compelling speech is keeping it short and sweet. A standard maid of honor speech should only be three to four minutes long, and you don’t want to risk boring the guests or taking the focus off of the celebration. To avoid this, choose one or two must-have memories or anecdotes that you know you want to include, and nix the rest.

Develop Your Story

Along with keeping things short and sweet, another key to writing a compelling maid of honor speech is to tell it like a story. Any story worth hearing has a defined beginning, middle and end. While you’re in control of the details that fill the story, you want to ensure that every detail aligns with the main point of your speech. Whatever you talk about should clearly tie back to the overall focus of the speech, which is celebrating the bond the couple shares and wishing them well for their new future together.

Be Authentic

The bride chose you as her maid of honor for a reason, so you shouldn’t feel like you have to be anything but yourself when you give your speech. Throw off any pressure you might feel to sound a certain way if it doesn’t ring true to you and your connection with the bride. A great maid of honor speech is about speaking openly and honestly about the bride and her partner—remember to write in the same way you’d speak to avoid sounding stiff or robotic.

Practice, Don’t Memorize

If you feel like you need to memorize your speech word for word, don’t! Instead, focus on practicing your speech in the weeks leading up to the wedding day. This way, the main points will be well committed to your memory and you won’t need to memorize it line by line. However, it’s still helpful to use a bulleted list of the main points when it’s time to give your speech—this way you don’t have to worry about losing track mid-speech.

When you’re practicing your speech, make sure you’re practicing out loud so you can get a feel for the overall flow and rhythm of what you plan to say. It’s also helpful to read it aloud to a friend or the other bridesmaids to get some outside perspective on how your speech sounds and any tweaks that might help it shine.

Maid of Honor Speech Template

Your maid of honor speech should be authentic and personal, and there’s a number of directions you might choose to take your speech in. If you’re stuck on where to begin, the template below is a great starting point to give you an idea of the general structure and flow of a maid of honor speech. Fill it in with your own words to personalize it according to you and your unique relationship with the bride!

“Hello everyone, I’m [name] and [bride’s name] maid of honor. I met [bride’s name] X years ago when [how you met]. When [bride] and I became friends, it was [personal anecdote about your relationship with the bride]. I’ll never forget [personal memory between you and the bride].

When [partner’s name] came into the picture, [personal anecdote about how you met their partner]. [Partner’s name] was [personal anecdote about the partner’s characteristics or favorite memory].

Watching their relationship grow over time has been [personal sentiments about the couple’s bond. I’ll always remember how [personal anecdote about the journey of their relationship]. Ever since then, I’ve seen [bride’s name] [sentiment about the impact of the couple’s relationship].

It’s a privilege to join with you all in honoring the marriage of [bride] and [partner], and I know I speak for everyone when I say we’re thrilled to stand by your side today and support you both as you enter your new life together. If there’s one piece of advice I’d share, it’s [word of advice or encouragement for the newlyweds]. Thank you both for showing us what it means to love unconditionally. Please raise a glass to [bride] and [partner]! May you two never stop loving each other, growing together, and showing up for each other today and every day. Cheers!”

Whether this is your first wedding speech or your 20th, feelings of nervousness are normal! With some dedicated time and practice (and a few deep breaths beforehand) you’ll be more than ready to nail your maid of honor speech. All that really matters is that your words come from the heart. After all, the couple might not remember every single word you share, but they’ll always remember the love and care that went into it.

Even more answers

• 42 Unique Wedding Traditions Around the World
• How Long Is a Wedding Reception? - Reception Timeline
• 37 Wedding Blessings for Every Culture [Free Printables]
• Wedding Guest Etiquette 101: 20 Ways to Be an Exceptional Guest
• Wedding Favor Alternatives
• What Is Jumping The Broom? History & Meaning
• Wedding Reception Timeline Ideas + Template
• How to Write the Best Man Speech
• Garter Toss Alternatives
• Groomsmen Etiquette 101: A Beginner's Guide
• How Many Pages Should a Wedding Guest Book Have?
• How to Entertain Guests Between the Wedding and Reception

Find even more wedding ideas, inspo, tips, and tricks

We’ve got wedding planning advice on everything from save the dates to wedding cakes.

Getting engaged

Wedding planning 101.

• Real weddings
• Creating a budget
• Wedding websites
• Wedding planning tools
• Wedding planning questions
• Wedding decorations
• Wedding day

Wedding trends

• First Look Reports

Venues & vendors

• Wedding venues
• Photos & video
• Food & catering
• Florists & flowers
• Bands, DJs & music
• Cakes & desserts
• Bar & beverages

Invites & paper

• Save the dates
• Invitations
• Day-of paper

Registry & gifts

• Wedding registry basics
• Wedding gifts

Parties & events

• Engagement party
• Wedding shower
• Bachelorette party
• Bachelor party

Fashion & beauty

• Wedding Hair & makeup
• Wedding dresses
• Shoes & accessories
• Wedding attire
• Honeymoon planning
• Honeymoon destinations

Relationship advice

• Newly engaged couples
• Newlywed couples
• Anniversaries
• News & culture

Zola behind the scenes

• Sweepstakes
• Inside Zola

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech

A flawless maid of honor speech can't be hastily written on your phone at the reception—it takes time and a lot of practice. Here's how to write a maid of honor speech that will garner a standing ovation.

In His Image Photography

As a maid of honor in your BFF’s upcoming wedding, you're likely pretty thrilled about all that's in store for you, from the awesome maid of honor duties , to the epic events to plan ( hey bachelorette party !) to that maid of honor speech — but it's also normal to be a bit nervous, too. As we said, the maid of honor has lots of responsibilities, which include writing and delivering the maid of honor speech. The maid of honor speech usually occurs during the wedding reception, but you might be asked to deliver it at the rehearsal dinner instead. If you’re comfortable speaking in front of a crowd or have a background in acting or performing, the maid of honor speech should be a breeze . But, considering that public speaking is a very common fear, you might be anxious . And even if giving the maid of honor speech doesn’t worry you, figuring out exactly how to write a maid of honor speech likely does. It’s an important moment for both you and the bride, and of course you want to make it special.

How do you prepare the most amazing maid of honor speech she’s ever heard and alleviate some of your anxieties? We’re here to help.

When to start writing a maid of honor speech.

Presuming you haven’t procrastinated too long, you should give yourself as much time as possible to prepare — start at least three weeks to a month before the wedding. This may seem like a lot of time to write a short maid of honor speech, but the longer you wait to write, the more stressed you’ll become.

Choose a time when you’re feeling inspired by your friendship with the bride and/or couple. If you’re feeling extra sentimental after the bachelorette party brought up a plethora of stories you had forgotten about, write them down. Don’t underestimate the power of free writing, during which you unleash all of the thoughts and anecdotes about your bestie that cross your mind onto the page. That way, you’ll be able to see all of your feelings and memories all together at once. From there, who knows? More likely than not, you’ll discover some sort of inspiration within these reflections.

The maid of honor speech outline.

1. how to start the maid of honor speech..

First off, introduce yourself and mention your relationship with the bride, and the couple. Next, be sure you thank whomever you feel is important enough to mention, depending on the circumstances and who paid for or planned the wedding — parents, other family members, wedding party members, etc. Congrats! You have two lines of your speech out of the way.

2. Talk about the bride. 

Now things start to get more personal. If you were just going to express gratitude, it would be a toast, not a maid of honor speech. One crowd-pleasing story you might consider including is how you met the bride. If it’s not a particularly appealing or appropriate story, you might also consider a story about the two of you the really exemplifies your friendship, or a time when you knew you were going to be friends forever. If the two of you share a bond over food, maybe you could talk about that time the two of you tried (and failed) to make your own recipe from scratch. Maybe you were really frustrated at first when you were assigned to be partners in class because you didn’t think you were going to get along, but as fate would have it, you became inseparable. Get creative and get sentimental. And don’t be afraid to be funny .

3. Talk about her partner. 

After talking about you and the bride, it might be a good idea to include how you first met her almost-spouse in the maid of honor speech. I once witnessed a maid of honor that had been friends with the bride for many years, and during her speech she recalled that the bride actually had set her and the groom up on a blind date at first. The maid of honor and the future groom talked about their common friend for the entire date—and the rest was history. You’re the bride’s right hand woman, but a wedding is all about celebrating the couple, so it’s a nice transition from talking about you and the bride into talking about the bride and her partner. It also shows your solidarity and support for their relationship. No matter how you truly feel about her partner, keep a happy face on.

4. Talk about them as a couple. 

Speaking of which, after you explain how you met the bride’s new spouse, talk about the two of them as a couple. This works even better if you’ve known both of them for a long time. Maybe you were the bride’s roommate when they had their first date, and you witnessed her giddy nerves beforehand. Maybe you witnessed the very prolonged will-they-or-won’t-they period of their relationship. What did she tell you after they said "I love you," for the first time? At one wedding, the groom’s sister told a story that took place about three months before the groom and bride had gotten together. The sister was teasing her brother about his love life, when he said, “I’m in love with my best friend, but it will never happen, she’s not interested.” Her brother wouldn’t give any names — but three months later, she figured it out for herself when they started dating.

5. Keep it short and sweet.

In thinking about how to write a maid of honor speech, remember that it should only be about two to three minutes long. That’s just long enough to tell a few stories about the beloved couple and toast to a happy future. Everyone will probably be anxious to start dancing (or eating!) at this point, so there’s no need to drag on. We tend to talk more quickly when we’re nervous, so be extra aware to speak slowly. 

6. Practice.

Be sure to practice your speech in advance — whether it’s in front of a mirror, your cat, or a family member or friend. You can even time yourself to make sure the speech is an appropriate length.

7. End with a toast.

Don't forget to toast to the happy couple at the end! Raising your glass is a great natural finisher to your maid of honor speech, and a guaranteed crowd pleaser. You can add a few words, like "Now, let's all raise a glass to the newlyweds!" or something similarly concise and to the point.

Los Gatos DJ Company Emma Hopp Photography

What to NOT say in a maid of honor speech

Here's what to avoid when writing your maid of honor speech.

1. Exes, drunken nights or anything else remotely inappropriate. 

It should go without saying, but exes or drunken debauchery should not be included in a maid of honor speech. A wedding is a family event, after all. Don’t talk about anything the bride wouldn’t mind her grandmother hearing. 

2. Anything that could even potentially cause tension.

Don’t mention the high divorce rate — even jokingly. It will not be received well.

3. Don’t feel pressured to be anything but yourself.

If humor isn’t your strong suit, it doesn’t have to be a hilarious maid of honor speech. You can be nostalgic, sweet, or sentimental — but not drunk. Wait to drink until after your maid of honor speech .

Whatever you write in your maid of honor speech, the most important thing is that your words come from the heart. Even if you’re not a natural-born performer , speak with feeling and emotion — not like you’re reading a classroom assignment—and talk directly to the couple, rather than focusing on the many other faces in the crowd. Your bestie may not remember the exact words you said during your maid of honor speech, but she’ll remember the care and love behind it.

Related WeddingWire Articles

How to Give A Perfect Maid of Honor Speech: A Step-by-Step Guide

• The Speaker Lab
• March 15, 2024

Table of Contents

Standing by the bride’s side on her wedding day comes with the duty of delivering a maid of honor speech . This toast is more than just words; it’s a celebration, an embodiment of sisterhood, and a gift to be remembered. As you embark on crafting this pivotal message, our guide offers practical steps for creating an address that echoes your unique connection with the bride and touches every heart in attendance.

Dive into tips that will help you share heartfelt stories about your bond, balance humor with sincerity for laughs without tears, and project confidence as you speak from the heart. Whether you’re best friends or siblings doesn’t matter—we’ve got insights tailored to make sure your maid of honor toast honors not only tradition but also personal style. Here are a few tips on turning your thoughts into an unforgettable tribute to love and friendship.

Crafting Your Maid of Honor Speech: A Step-by-Step Guide

When it’s time to craft your maid of honor speech, starting with the bride and ending with the couple sets a narrative that flows from personal affection to shared joy. Think about how you first met or a moment that embodies her spirit. Brainstorming ideas can help capture those perfect tidbits for your outline.

Mention the Couple in Your Speech

Your bond with the bride is unique, so let your speech reflect that. Kick things off by highlighting her quirks, strengths, and endearing traits. But remember, today marks not just another chapter in her life but also in their shared story as a couple. Transition smoothly from talking about just the bride to talking about her and her partner, celebrating their union. This shift will resonate well during any wedding reception.

Utilize Anecdotes

Anecdotes are like spices—they make good stories great. Weave these stories throughout your speech to paint an authentic picture of your relationship with memorable moments. If she’s always been there for you through thick and thin or if she has dance moves that could rival Beyoncé’s—now’s your chance to share these laugh-out-loud instances while crafting an unforgettable tribute.

Incorporating heartfelt anecdotes within speeches strengthens connections—not only between speakers but also among everyone gathered here today who came together thanks to true love blossoming between two amazing individuals.

End Positively

Aim high as you close out—a toast wishing future happiness for the couple brings smiles all around. Wish them laughter-filled days ahead because nothing beats seeing our loved ones happy.

Personalizing Your Speech with Heartfelt Stories

Your maid of honor speech is not just another wedding toast. It’s a narrative that weaves your life with the bride into an unforgettable tale. Personal anecdotes are the threads that turn this speech from ordinary to extraordinary, making every guest feel like they’ve been part of your journey.

Best Friend Memories That Shine

You’re her maid of honor for good reason: you have stories that span years and heartbeats. In your speech, reflect on those shared moments, whether it was spontaneous dance moves at concerts or hours spent plotting future happiness over coffee. Witnessing true love blossom between the couple has surely impacted you deeply too—share these observations by weaving their journey through your narrative seamlessly. It’s about showcasing the sisterly bond between best friends—one that will continue through marriage and beyond.

Sisterly Bonds That Last a Lifetime

If she’s not only your friend but also your sister, there’s even more depth to explore in your tribute. Growing up together means sharing everything: secrets, clothes (sometimes begrudgingly), and countless firsts—from steps to crushes to major milestones like graduating college. Mentioning experiences unique to siblings adds layers of emotion others can appreciate, because who hasn’t felt love tug sharply during family moments?

Talk about how being the bride’s younger sister has shaped both of you—how her strength inspired yours or how sibling antics paved the way for mutual respect and understanding today. Here’s where storytelling excels, painting pictures so vivid every listener feels part of those cherished childhood scenes.

Find Out Exactly How Much You Could Make As a Paid Speaker

Use The Official Speaker Fee Calculator to tell you what you should charge for your first (or next) speaking gig — virtual or in-person! 

The Art of Humor in Maid of Honor Speeches

Injecting humor into a maid of honor speech is like adding the perfect amount of spice to a dish—it enhances the flavor without overpowering it. When you’re aiming to make the maid of honor speech funny and entertaining, remember that timing is everything. Adding humor to your maid of honor speech means striking a balance. You want guests chuckling with fondness, not cringing in their seats.

Balance Funny Lines with Sincerity

Finding just the right mix can be tricky but think about those moments shared with your best friend (or sisterly bonds if she’s family). These relationships are treasure troves for humorous yet endearing stories. If she’s been known for her questionable dance moves since childhood, share that anecdote before tying it back to her lovely personality—this way laughter arises from affection rather than embarrassment.

When brainstorming ideas to add comedic elements into your tribute, look at experiences that shine a light on who she truly is. Letting personal anecdotes lead naturally toward touching insights offers up plenty more than laughs. It speaks volumes about depth behind sisterly love or friendship long cherished.

Incorporate Shared Experiences

To ensure your jokes land well with all wedding guests, consider how well they know both bride and groom—the audience should feel included in each jest. After all, love story references hit differently when even distant relatives nod along because they understand where you’re coming from.

Respect Wedding Party Etiquette

While humor adds spice to any good story, it’s crucial not to mention exes or bring up anything inappropriate in your wedding speech. Instead, choose uplifting memories—maybe ones revolving around wedding planning or other milestones leading up till now. Whatever you choose, know that weaving genuine sentiments within jokes ensures laughter doesn’t overshadow sincerity. 

Wedding Words and Speechy provide excellent resources if looking for help writing such messages effectively.

Tips for Public Speaking Mastery

Public speaking can feel like dancing on a tightrope, but with the right techniques, you’ll have the audience in the palm of your hand. One essential skill is mastering anxiety. If public speaking makes you nervous, using breathing techniques and visualization can transform nerves into compelling energy.

Overcoming Public Speaking Anxiety

Anxiety before public speaking is like an unwelcome guest at weddings—it shows up uninvited. To send this gatecrasher packing, try grounding yourself with deep breaths. Alternatively, visualize delivering that killer toast amidst roaring applause from guests. This is just one effective way to set positive expectations for your performance.

Practicing Your Maid of Honor Speech Delivery

The artistry of wedding speeches lies not only in what you say but how you say it. To get comfortable with how you deliver your speech, practice plenty. Recite your speech out loud in front of a mirror until your words feel smooth and effortless. As you practice, pay attention to your timing. After all, a well-placed pause after delivering a joke invites laughter and builds rapport with wedding guests who hang on every word.

Using Breathing Techniques and Visualization

A deep inhale has power beyond filling lungs—it centers focus too. When anxious thoughts arise while standing before wedding reception attendees, take slow breaths to reclaim composure.

Etiquette Essentials for Maid of Honor Speeches

Making sure your maid of honor speech hits all the right notes is about striking a balance between humor and sentimentality, while also being mindful of proper etiquette. Crafting such an address isn’t just about writing; it’s also delivering a message that resonates with the wedding guests and honors the happy couple.

Dos and Don’ts When Writing Your Speech

The first rule in maid of honor speeches is to be respectful at all times. Remembering this will help you avoid common mistakes like mentioning exes or inside jokes that might not sit well with everyone present. Keep your anecdotes tasteful and ensure they highlight the beautiful bond you share with the bride or her partner.

Avoid going off on tangents by sticking to a concise speech outline. This structure should guide you through touching upon key moments shared without losing focus on what makes this union remarkable.

Proper Etiquette in Timing Your Toast

Brevity is soulful wit’s friend when addressing wedding guests during such momentous occasions as these. Ideally your speech will last about two minutes.

Balancing Humor with Sentimentality

Funny lines are welcome breathers amid heartfelt sentiments. However, never lets laughs come at someone else’s expense nor derail from your main points.

Free Download: 6 Proven Steps to Book More Paid Speaking Gigs in 2024​

Download our 18-page guide and start booking more paid speaking gigs today!

FAQs on Giving a Maid of Honor Speech

What does the maid of honor say in her speech.

The maid of honor toasts with anecdotes, praises for the bride, well-wishes for the couple, and usually a splash of humor.

What is an ideal maid of honor speech?

An ideal toast blends warmth, wit, and wisdom about the bride’s journey and her future with her partner.

How do you start off a maid of honor speech?

Kick things off by warmly greeting guests before diving into your heartfelt connection with the bride.

What is an example of a maid of honor speech for best friends?

“As we’ve journeyed from carefree days on the swing set to this moment, you’ve proved to be a loyal, kind friend. I can’t express how happy I am to know that now you’ve found a friend like that in your spouse. I wish both of you a lifetime of love and laughter. Cheers!”

Remember, a great maid of honor speech starts with the bride and ends with the couple. Share those anecdotes that speak to the bride’s personality and don’t be afraid to use a little humor.

In the days leading up to your speech, practice your public speaking skills so you can deliver your speech with confidence. Steer clear from taboo topics—this is about celebration, not airing dirty laundry.

As you stand before friends and family, remember: today you’re not just giving a toast—you’re weaving memories into every guest’s heart.

• Last Updated: March 22, 2024

Explore Related Resources

Learn How You Could Get Your First (Or Next) Paid Speaking Gig In 90 Days or Less

We receive thousands of applications every day, but we only work with the top 5% of speakers .

Book a call with our team to get started — you’ll learn why the vast majority of our students get a paid speaking gig within 90 days of finishing our program .

If you’re ready to control your schedule, grow your income, and make an impact in the world – it’s time to take the first step. Book a FREE consulting call and let’s get you Booked and Paid to Speak ® .

About The Speaker Lab

We teach speakers how to consistently get booked and paid to speak.  Since 2015, we’ve helped thousands of speakers find clarity, confidence, and a clear path to make an impact.

Get Started

Let's connect.

[email protected]

Copyright ©2023 The Speaker Lab. All rights reserved.

90 years of expert advice and inspiration, for every couple.

• Engagement Rings
• Wedding Bands
• Celebrity Weddings & News
• Wedding Planning
• Destination Wedding
• Invitations & Stationery
• Wedding Décor
• Flowers & Bouquets
• Food & Drink
• Wedding Cakes
• Photography
• Wedding Dresses
• Bridesmaid Dresses
• Makeup & Hair
• Accessories
• Groom Style
• Wedding Party Attire
• Wedding Guest Attire
• Bridal Fashion Week
• Skincare & Wellness
• Engagement Party
• Bridal Shower
• Bachelorette Party
• Rehearsal Dinner
• Registry Tips
• Anniversary Gifts
• Wedding Favors
• Friends & Family
• Marriage Proposal Ideas
• Married Life
• Love & Dating
• The Brides Team
• Editorial Guidelines
• Editorial Policy
• Terms of Use and Policies
• Privacy Policy
• Wedding Ideas & Advice
• Wedding Reception Ideas
• Who Gives a Speech at a Wedding Reception? How to Write a Wedding Toast Tips for the Father of the Bride Speech How to Write a Best Man Toast Advice for the Maid of Honor Speech What to Know About a Newlywed Toast Public Speaking Experts' Wedding Speech Tips 60 Quotes to Use for Your Wedding Toast

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech

Follow these expert tips to knock your maid of honor speech out of the park.

Photo by Janine Licare

In This Article

You've been asked to play a huge role in your best friend's wedding—maid of honor! But, the job comes with a slew of important tasks , including giving the maid of honor speech. While this is a moment to celebrate your friendship, the idea of getting up in front of a crowd can be nerve-wracking if you're not used to giving speeches.

As staunch advocates of BFF love, we've taken it upon ourselves to create a go-to guide for penning the perfect speech to see your bestie off on their new life with their partner. With a few tips and tricks along with plenty of practice, your maid of honor speech will go off without a hitch.

With expert insight from professional speechwriter Katelyn Peterson—founder of vow- and toast-writing company Wedding Words —and examples of real-life speeches, we have all the details you need. Read on for helpful tips and guidelines to deliver an absolutely unforgettable maid of honor speech .

Meet the Expert

Katelyn Peterson is a speech writer and the founder of vow- and toast-writing company Wedding Words .

Maid of Honor Speech Template

While every maid of honor speech will be different, we've put together an outline to get you started on yours.

Start with the bride; end with the couple.

Of everyone at the wedding, you have the best insight into how much your bestie's partner has changed them for the better. Your maid of honor speech needs to be about the friend you knew long before meeting their soulmate and then pivot to what role they have played in their life. Maybe your friend is even funnier now, or maybe you've simply never seen your BFF so happy. This is also a great way to incorporate their new spouse into the speech if you don't really know them that well; speak to the way that they complement each other or how your BFF's new spouse has made them a better person.

Pepper in anecdotes.

Stories do a better job of getting your point across than blanket statements do. "Each anecdote you share should have an underlying theme that ties all the short stories together," says Peterson. "Reveal that theme near the end of your speech , and you’ll achieve a strong emotional impact."

End with a positive outlook.

The nature of this speech is not so much about your relationship with your friend, but the bond the couple shares. Make sure all of the separate components of your toast draw a positive conclusion, ending in how happy the couple is together and your best wishes for their marriage .

Maid of Honor Speech Tips

Keep in mind these helpful tips from professional speechwriter Katelyn Peterson to ensure you nail your maid-of-honor toast .

Kick-start the creative process by writing down any memories , emotions, or ideas that make you think of your BFF. "I recommend free-writing for 20 minutes," says Peterson. "When you’re done with this exercise, you should have some quality material that you can weave into the form of a speech." This allows you to create a blueprint of all the major points you want to make—more or less creating a roadmap for your ideas—and then fill it in with supporting information.

Ditch Generic Praise

"Use entertaining and engaging stories to show the bride’s personality ," advises Peterson. There's a big difference between simply saying, "She is such a great friend!" versus telling a story that illustrates just that.

Half the guests may not know your BFF all that well, so use this moment to paint a picture of how amazing they are. Bring their character to life with details only you could know.

Remember it isn't about you.

While a lot of the anecdotes should be about your time with your friend, you should not be the focal point. After you briefly introduce yourself (remember: most of the people probably won't know who you are or your relation to the couple), you shouldn't be making any additional references to yourself. You're simply the vehicle to explain why the newlyweds are so fantastic.

Do not mention exes.

No one wants to be reminded of past relationships , particularly in front of their family, friends, and new life partner. Keep the tone of your speech positive, and it will reflect positively on you also. You don't want to come across as though you're trying to roast your friend.

Keep it short.

The longer your speech, the more opportunities you'll have for people to start losing attention. "Keep your speech under five minutes," suggests Peterson. "Anywhere between two to five minutes is great."

Be sure to pause for a few seconds after each joke to let the audience laugh. When you immediately start speaking right afterward, you won't give people a chance to laugh or even understand the next line. Keep in mind that starting the speech on a funny note can help you capture the attention of the audience for a minute or two, but it's the meaningful content that will keep them enthralled until the end. "Your goal should be to have guests laughing and wiping tears away by balancing humor with sincerity," says Peterson.

If you experience public-speaking jitters, try looking just above everyone’s head. This can minimize your anxiety while allowing guests to think you're looking right at them.

Don't use inside jokes.

If the joke or situation is something other wedding guests would have to be there to understand, avoid using it. If people don't understand the context behind it, it will probably go over their heads. It's okay to poke a little bit of fun at your friend, but keep it light. Don't say anything that would be embarrassing or make them feel uncomfortable.

"The more you recite your speech out loud, the more comfortable you’ll become," notes Peterson. Practice your speech twice a day, starting at least a week beforehand, and record yourself a couple of times so you can hear your pacing and tone. Rehearse the speech in front of friends, too, in order to see if your jokes get a laugh, and try practicing in a mirror to nail your physical presence.

How to Get Started

Here are a few questions to ask yourself to start brainstorming ideas for your speech.

• Who will be speaking before or after you, and how will this affect the content of your speech? (You might want to include a reference to their toast in your speech, thank them for an introduction, or introduce the next speaker.)
• What would your friend want their in-laws and newly acquired family to know about them, and how can you attest to those qualities or characteristics from your own experiences with them?
• What's a warm memory of the newlyweds that always makes you smile? (Ask yourself: If their relationship were a Hollywood movie trailer, what key moments would be featured?)
• When you picture the couple's life together in a few years (or from this moment forward), what do you see? Is there any advice you can give them for their lifelong journey ahead?
• Is there something you want to say to your bestie's new spouse? (Perhaps a few lighthearted tips on how to handle more trying situations that you've learned from your own experiences with them.)

Maid of Honor Speech Examples to Make Your Own

If you're feeling stuck, here are three examples of speeches from real bridesmaids to inspire your own.

"Good evening, everyone. I’m Cami, the maid of honor and the bride’s best friend. Over the past 15 years, I’ve witnessed Madison prioritize everyone else’s happiness, but today, we get to honor hers. With Madison being my most fun-loving friend, I knew she’d be down to join me on a two-week adventure traveling throughout Europe. We lived together, but nothing cements a friendship quite like sharing a full-size bed in dingy hostels from the Netherlands to Spain. Madison’s luggage kept breaking, and she went through four suitcases in 14 days! There we were, strolling down a busy street in Madrid and Madison’s clothes were falling out of her over-packed suitcase, painting the path behind us with her sundresses and socks. But she never let her rundown luggage ruin the trip. She just kept rolling with it. Literally. I can always depend on Madison to roll with any situation, to show up for the people that she loves, and to have a good time.

But the truth is everyone in this room is better for knowing you, Madison. You love so deeply, selflessly, and unconditionally. And I know that Pete is the best partner for Madison because I’ve seen him mirror these traits for her. No matter what may come your way, your combined patience, resilience, and love will make you an unstoppable team. And most importantly, I know you two will continue to keep rolling with it . Cheers!" —Cami

"I’m Ashley and welcome! I was introduced to Sarah through a mutual friend to evaluate if she would be a fit as my future roommate. I showed up to that first dinner wearing a casual sundress and flats. Meanwhile, Sarah walked in with voluminous curls, smoky eyes , red lipstick, and a smile that showed me she deserved that Miss Florida title in ’04. I just thought, 'Who is this girl?' Over the next two hours, I learned that this girl was the coolest, funniest person and that I had to live with her. We moved in and it was truly an immediate fit from watching the same shows to downing bottles of the same wine. Despite our homebody nature, we did enjoy our Saturday nights running around the city. One night after several margaritas, Sarah and I found ourselves locked out of our house. So we came up with the best plan we could imagine: Let’s cannonball into our pool. There we were: Two tequila-loving girls cannonballing to see who could create the biggest splash. From that night on, whenever we went out, we’d ask ourselves one key question: 'Is it going to be a cannonball in the pool kind of night?'

And just like she’s always filled the gap in our friend group—we know that John has entered her life to level her out in the best of ways, too. Let’s raise a glass to Sarah and John! May your life together be full of cannonball-in-the-pool kind of nights." —Ashley

"Hi, my name is Makena and I’m the bride’s younger sister and maid of honor . As I look at Winnie and Miles today, I see two people in the most loving, trustworthy, and nurturing relationship I’ve ever witnessed. It shouldn’t come as a surprise to me that even on her wedding day, Winnie is teaching me about life and love. Because the truth is Winnie has been my lifelong teacher. She’s the one who taught me how to read and how to ride a bike, but my most memorable teaching moment was when I was 11 years old.  We had this mutual understanding—or so I thought—that we would not read each other’s journals. But I, of course, read hers and naively assumed she did not read mine. I learned the truth when I opened my journal one day to see an entire page filled with Winnie’s handwriting. There in the middle of my journal was a critique from my sister detailing out how I could improve my writing.

I know that if it weren’t for my sister, I would not be the person I am today. I’m inspired daily by the woman she is. Her confidence is unshakable, her excitability is contagious, and her determination is awe-inspiring. Winnie will finally get to experience what I’ve felt like my entire life with her. She’ll be cared for, unconditionally loved, and will learn every day with Miles as her lifelong teacher through love. Please raise a glass to Winnie and Miles! May you two never stop learning from each other as you continue to love each other." —Makena

First things first: Don't overcomplicate it! Stay authentic to yourself and keep it simple by telling a story, sharing why you love the bride, and toasting the newlyweds.

Keep it short and sweet! Having a two to five minute speech that is both sentimental and humorous is the best way to honor the couple in a way that is engaging and memorable .

Close out your speech with a simple, light-hearted joke and a toast to the newlyweds . This will create the perfect opportunity for a combined cheer and chuckle from the crowd .

A Guide to Wedding Reception Toasts

Who Gives a Speech at a Wedding Reception?

How to Write a Wedding Toast

Tips for the Father of the Bride Speech

How to Write a Best Man Toast

Advice for the Maid of Honor Speech

What to Know About a Newlywed Toast

Public Speaking Experts' Wedding Speech Tips

60 Quotes to Use for Your Wedding Toast

Related Stories

The Wedding Speech Order You Should Follow at Your Reception

Public Speaking Experts Share Their Top Tips for Giving an Amazing Wedding Speech

How to Write a Father-of-the-Groom Speech

How to Write a Rehearsal Dinner Toast

How to Write the Perfect Best Man Speech

Our Favorite Unique Maid of Honor Speech Ideas

How to Write and Deliver a Perfect Father-of-the-Bride Speech

How to Write Simple Wedding Vows

39 Funny Wedding Toasts and Speeches That'll Get the Whole Room Laughing

How to Write a Heartfelt Letter to the Bride If You're Her Bridesmaid, Friend, or Family

How to Write a Sister-of-the-Groom Speech

Declaration of Intent Versus Weddings Vows: What's the Difference and Do You Need Both?

This Bride's Maid of Honor Had to Miss Her Wedding—So She Pre-Recorded a Viral Speech That Brought the House Down

100 Funny Anniversary Quotes to Honor the Person Who Makes You Laugh the Most

48 Beautiful Wedding Readings for Your Ceremony

How to Write a Wedding Thank-You Card

30 Best Maid of Honor Speech Examples in 2024

Hello and welcome to our blog, where we’ve got a special treat for anyone stepping into the critical role of a maid of honor this year. Crafting the perfect speech isn’t easy, but we’re here to help. In this post, ’30 Best Maid of Honor Speech Examples in 2024,’ we’re bringing diverse speech samples to cater to various styles and preferences.

So, if you’re looking for inspiration to create a memorable speech for your loved one’s big day, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into these examples and get you started on your speech-making journey!”

Here are the best maid of honor speech

Speech 1: childhood memories.

Good evening, everyone! I’m delighted to be here as [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor. We’ve been mates since childhood, and I’ve enjoyed witnessing her incredible journey. We’ve shared countless memories, from building pillow forts in her living room to helping her choose the perfect wedding dress.

One of my favorite childhood memories with [Bride’s Name] was when we tried to bake cookies for the first time. Let’s say we created cookies that could double as hockey pucks! But what that day taught me was [Bride’s Name]’s determination and her ability to turn any mishap into a joyful adventure. I can’t wait to see the incredible adventures she and [Groom’s Name] will embark on together in the coming years.

So, here’s to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], a couple whose love story inspires us all. I wish you a lifetime of love, laughter, and endless adventures! It’s one of the best maid of honor speech examples.

Speech 2: Love Story

Ladies and gentlemen, standing here as [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor on this beautiful day is an honor. As we all know, love stories are unique and magical, and theirs is no exception. [Share how the bride and groom met and fell in love.]

Their love story is a testament to the power of destiny and love, and I do not doubt that their journey together will be filled with even more love, laughter, and beautiful memories. Let’s raise our glasses to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] as they begin this incredible new chapter in their lives. I hope your love continues to blossom and shine as brightly as it does today. It’s one of the best maid of honor speech examples.

Speech 3: Shared Adventures

Hello, everyone! I am grateful to be here today as [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor. It’s been a pleasure to share adventures with youIt’s been a pleasure to share adventures with you over the years. We’ve been there from epic road trips to navigating the peaks and valleys of life.

One unforgettable adventure was when we decided to take a spontaneous road trip. We got lost, ran out of gas, and ended up at the quirkiest diner in the middle of nowhere. But that’s the thing about [Bride’s Name]; she turns any situation into an adventure. I do not doubt that her marriage to [Groom’s Name] will be the most incredible adventure ever. May your journey be filled with love, joy, and countless adventures. Here’s to the newlyweds! It’s one of the best maid of honor speech examples.

Speech 4: Anecdote About the Groom

Ladies and gentlemen, I’m [Your Name] pleased to be [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor today. I’ve had the chance to get to know [Groom’s Name] quite well, and there’s a story I’d like to share about him. [Share a funny or heartwarming anecdote involving the groom.]

This story is just one example of how much [Groom’s Name] has become integral to our lives. His love and dedication to [Bride’s Name] are genuinely inspiring. To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your life together be full of love, laughter, and many more beautiful stories. It’s one of the unique maid of honor speeches.

Speech 5: Wishes for the Future

Hello, everyone! Today, I am honored to stand by [Bride’s Name]’s side as her maid of honor. It’s hard to put into words how special she is to me. Looking at [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] today, I see an inspiring love, a love that’s destined to last a lifetime. I wish you the best of luck, love, happiness, and joy. May your journey be as beautiful as this day, and may you create countless magical memories together. Cheers to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]!

Feel free to adapt and modify these speeches to suit your own experiences and the personalities of the bride and groom. Adding personal anecdotes and inside jokes can make the speech more meaningful and memorable. It’s one of the unique maid of honor speeches.

Speech 6: The Power of Friendship

“Ladies and gentlemen, family and friends, today I stand before you as [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor, and I am deeply honored to have been given this role. Our journey together has been incredible. We’ve laughed, cried, and shared the most amazing moments of our lives.

Seeing [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] together reminds me that love is powerful. It’s the force that brought us together, and it’s the force that has brought them here today. I am joyful, knowing that [Bride’s Name] has found someone who cherishes and loves her just as we all do.

To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], your love inspires us all. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness and shared moments even more incredible than those we’ve experienced together.” It’s one of the unique maid of honor speeches.

Speech 7: A Sister’s Love

“Good evening, everyone. As [Bride’s Name]’s younger sister and maid of honor, I’ve witnessed her growth and transformation throughout our lives. She’s been my mentor, my confidant, and my best friend. And today, I couldn’t be happier for her as she begins this new chapter with [Groom’s Name].

Seeing [Bride’s Name] so radiant today makes my heart swell with pride. She’s not just my sister; she’s my role model. She has shown me what it means to be strong, compassionate, and full of love.

May your love story, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], be as beautiful and enduring as the bond I share with my sister. To love, laughter, and the incredible journey ahead.” It’s a great example of an emotional maid of honor speech.

Speech 8: Unwavering Support

“Dear friends and family, as [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor, it’s an immense honor to speak on behalf of our tight-knit group. We’ve been through thick and thin, and our bond with [Bride’s Name] is unwavering. I’ve seen [Bride’s Name] at her best and her most vulnerable, and it’s during those moments that I’ve come to admire her even more. Her strength, kindness, and ability to love unconditionally have inspired me beyond words.

And today, as we celebrate her love with [Groom’s Name], I can’t help but feel overwhelmed with happiness. You both deserve the world, and I do not doubt that your love will withstand any test that comes your way. Here’s to a love as deep and beautiful as our bond.” It’s a great example of an emotional maid of honor speech.

Speech 9: Cherished Memories

“Good evening, everyone. Today, I am honored to stand by [Bride’s Name]’s side as her maid of honor. It’s a role close to my heart, just like the bride. Over the years, [Bride’s Name] and I have collected a treasure trove of remembrances. From childhood mischief to the challenges of adulthood, we’ve been each other’s unwavering support.

Today, I’m reminded of all those moments that have led us here as we celebrate [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]’s love story. It’s a story intertwined with the best chapters of our lives. And it’s a love that I have no doubt will continue to inspire and bring joy to us all. To the happy couple, may your journey be filled with more beautiful memories than we can count.” It’s a great example of an emotional maid of honor speech.

Speech 10: Gratitude and Love

“Ladies and gentlemen, as [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor, I feel profound gratitude. I am grateful for the friendship that has defined my life and grateful to be here today to witness the love between [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name].

[Bride’s Name] is more than a friend; she’s family. She’s the one who’s laughed with me during good times and held me during the tough times.

And today, as we celebrate this extraordinary love story, I can’t help but be moved by the power of love, support, and friendship. To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your journey be blessed with all the love and happiness in the world. You both deserve nothing less.”

Speech 11: The Traveling Souls

“Good evening, everyone! Today, I stand as [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor, but I also stand here as her travel buddy, her partner in wanderlust. Our adventures have taken us to places that have filled our hearts with memories that last a lifetime.

Just as we’ve explored new destinations together, today marks the beginning of [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]’s journey to explore the boundless adventures of marriage. To the couple about to embark on the greatest journey, may your love story be as thrilling as all the places we’ve been.”

Speech 12: The Music of Love

“Dear friends and family, today, I want to celebrate [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]’s love story in a different way. Just as the harmonious blending of different notes creates a beautiful symphony, their love story has become a masterpiece. [Share anecdotes and memories that parallel musical metaphors.]

To the couple whose love story is the most beautiful composition we’ve ever witnessed, may your life together be filled with sweet, harmonious melodies.” It’s the best maid of honor speech.

Speech 13: The Book of Love

“Ladies and gentlemen, imagine life as a book and every day as a new page. [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]’s love story is like a captivating novel, each chapter more riveting than the last.

Today, they start a new chapter loaded with love, laughter, and shared dreams. To the couple authoring a love story that belongs on the best-seller list, may each page of your journey together be filled with happiness and adventure.” It’s the best maid of honor speech.

Speech 14: The Starry Night of Love

“Hello, everyone! [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]’s love is like a starry night sky, filled with countless moments that sparkle like stars. [Share stories and experiences related to stargazing or celestial themes.]

Just as the stars have guided them to this moment, may they continue to light each other’s way on this incredible journey of love.” It’s the best maid of honor speech.

Speech 15: The Culinary Connection

“As [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor, I’ve enjoyed sharing countless meals and culinary adventures with her. Just as every dish blends diverse ingredients, her love story with [Groom’s Name] is a beautiful fusion of two unique souls. [Share anecdotes about food-related memories.]

To the couple whose love is a perfect recipe, may your life together be seasoned with love, and may your love be as delicious as the finest cuisine.”

Speech 16: The Art of Love

“Today, we celebrate a beautiful wedding and a masterpiece of love. [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]’s love story is a canvas painted with vibrant emotions, bold strokes of laughter, and intricate understanding details. [Share stories related to art or creative endeavors.]

Just as a great artist meticulously crafts their work, may you continue to create a love story that’s nothing short of a masterpiece.”

Speech 17: The Adventure Awaits

“Good evening, everyone! We all know that life is an adventure, and [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] have already set out on the most incredible journey of all – their journey of love. [Share stories and experiences related to adventure and exploration.]

To the couple who’s already begun their adventure, may your path be filled with joy, excitement, and the thrill of discoveries.”

Speech 18: The Seasons of Love

“Dear friends and family, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] have weathered the seasons of life, and now they stand at the precipice of a new season – a season of love. [Share stories and metaphors related to seasons and transitions.]

Just as the seasons change and bring new beauty to the world, may your love continue to evolve and flourish with each passing season.”

Speech 19: The Puzzle of Love

“Ladies and gentlemen, love is often described as a puzzle, and I believe [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] have found the missing pieces to complete each other’s hearts. [Share stories and metaphors related to puzzles or games.]

To the couple whose love is a perfect fit, may your life together be a beautiful, intricate puzzle filled with shared experiences and love that completes each other.”

Speech 20: The Dance of Love

“Hello, everyone! Just as [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] have embarked on the beautiful dance of life together, their love story is a dance of its own. [Share stories and experiences related to dancing or movement.]

To the couple whose love is a graceful waltz, may your journey be filled with elegant steps, perfect harmony, and an endless dance of love.”

Speech 21: The Ocean of Love

“Dear guests, we often say love is like the vast, endless ocean, and today we celebrate [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]’s love that’s as deep and boundless as the sea. [Share stories and experiences related to the ocean or beach.]

To the couple whose love flows like the tides, may your life together be a beautiful voyage, with love as your compass and happiness as your destination.”

Speech 22: The Garden of Love

“Good evening, everyone! Love is often compared to a garden, where we plant the seeds of affection and nurture them as they grow. [Share stories and experiences related to gardens or flowers.]

Just as a beautiful garden requires care, may your love blossom, bloom, and thrive with each passing day.”

Speech 23: The Cosmic Connection

“Ladies and gentlemen, let’s think of love as a cosmic connection where two souls align in the vast universe of emotions. [Share stories and experiences related to space or astronomy.]

To the couple whose love is written in the stars, may your connection be as enduring as the galaxies and your love as infinite as the cosmos.”

Speech 24: The Puzzle Pieces of Life

“Hello, everyone! Life is often seen as a puzzle, where each piece contributes to the bigger picture. [Share stories and experiences related to puzzles or games.]

Just as every piece has a role in completing the puzzle, may your life be an intricate yet beautiful mosaic where every moment, every challenge, and every joy comes together to form your love story.”

Speech 25: The Love Train

“Dear friends and family, love can be compared to a journey on a never-ending train ride, with surprises at every station. [Share stories and experiences related to trains or travel.]

Just as a train ride takes you on an exciting journey, may your love journey be filled with adventure, excitement, and beautiful destinations.”

Speech 26: The Musical Harmony

“Good evening, everyone! Love is often likened to a symphony, where different notes combine to create a harmonious composition. [Share stories and experiences related to music or musical instruments.]

To the couple whose love is a beautiful melody, may your life together be filled with perfect harmonies and sweet, sweet music.”

Speech 27: The Timeless Love Story

“Ladies and gentlemen, love has a way of transcending time, and today, we celebrate a love story that feels both timeless and modern. [Share stories and experiences related to history or time.]

To the couple whose love knows no bounds, may your story be written in the annals of time, and may your love be an everlasting tale.”

Speech 28: The Culinary Connection

“Hello, everyone! Love is a beautiful blend of flavors and ingredients, like a well-crafted dish. [Share stories and experiences related to food or cooking.]

Just as a chef creates a perfect recipe, may your love be a delicious mix of laughter, trust, and the sweetness of shared moments.”

Speech 29: The Treasure Hunt of Love

“Dear friends and family, think of love as an exciting treasure hunt, with each moment bringing you closer to something precious. [Share stories and experiences related to treasure hunts or adventures.]

To the couple who has found the most priceless treasure, may your life together be filled with the joy of discovery and the thrill of adventure.”

Speech 30: The Literary Love Story

“Good evening, everyone! Love is like a beautifully written book; today, we celebrate a love story that’s like an enchanting chapter in the grand novel of life. [Share stories and experiences related to books or literature.]

To the couple whose love story is a page-turner, may your life be a narrative filled with suspense, romance, and happy endings.”

In conclusion , exploring these 30 unique maid of honor speech in 2024 reminded us that love is a boundless, ever-evolving journey. Each speech is a testament to our deep and enduring connections with the bride and groom. Whether celebrating adventures, embracing traditions, or embracing the quirks that make each love story unique, one thing is clear: love is the thread that weaves these stories together.

As you craft your speech, remember that your words can touch hearts, evoke laughter, and bring tears of joy. May your speech, like the love it celebrates, be truly unforgettable, leaving a lasting impression on the hearts of those who hear it.

Related Posts

• Games, topic printables & more
• The 4 main speech types
• Example speeches
• Commemorative
• Declamation
• Demonstration
• Informative
• Introduction
• Student Council
• Speech topics
• Poems to read aloud
• How to write a speech
• Using props/visual aids
• Acute anxiety help
• Breathing exercises
• Letting go - free e-course
• Using self-hypnosis
• Delivery overview
• 4 modes of delivery
• How to make cue cards
• How to read a speech
• 9 vocal aspects
• Vocal variety
• Diction/articulation
• Pronunciation
• Speaking rate
• How to use pauses
• Eye contact
• Body language
• Voice image
• Voice health
• Public speaking activities and games
• About me/contact
• Speech examples

Maid of honor speech examples

Two unique maid of honor speeches to help you prepare a perfect maid of honor speech of your own

By:  Susan Dugdale  | Last modified: 10-06-2023

What's the best way to share the happy couple's love story at the wedding reception on their big day?

The bride's your great friend, an amazing person. You love her to pieces which is why you said 'yes' when she asked you to speak on her wedding day.

However, maybe this is the first time you've given a maid of honor toast. Perhaps, in addition, you find public speaking, talking in front of a crowd and making eye contact as you do, a little bit nerve wracking.

You're in the right place. The goal of this article is to empower and enable you to write and deliver the best maid of honor speech you can. Begin by reading the speeches!

What's on this page

• 2 unique maid of honor speech examples - a heartfelt maid of honor speech - a light-hearted maid of honor speech
• how to begin - suggestions for getting started on your own MOH speech
• a link to ' How to end a Maid of Honor speech: 20 examples '
• a link to a maid of honor speech template
• how to test and rehearse your speech
• links to other resources to help you give the best maid of honor speech you can

A heartfelt Maid of Honor speech example

This example is written from the point of view of a childhood friend: someone who's shared the best and most difficult of times with the bride. The friendship between them is enduring and the speech is sincerely heartfelt: full of personal stories everybody will relate to.

Said aloud, it is approximately 5- 6 minutes long. 

Maria's MOH speech at Sonja & Mark's wedding

"Some one very wise, and obviously someone who knew Sonja and Mark said, “Don't marry a person you can live with. Marry somebody you can't live without."

That's what we're witnessing today – the union of two people who belong together. A perfect match!

My name is Maria and I'm delighted to be the Maid of Honor for my very dear friend Sonja.

We've been close friends since we were little girls and, as we are hitting our 30s, it feels like forever. I can scarcely remember life without her.

Sonja and me, we've gone from crayons to perfume together, with stops in between for learning to read and write, ride a bike, play with dolls, dress up, climb trees, scrape our knees... We’ve done our high school homework, got into trouble for staying out late, turned 21 together… And now here we are, all grown up.

A big night these days is a glass of wine, staying in and watching Netflix together.

From the time we were 13 and had to run to escape a mad, snarling, barking dog I knew Sonja was truly there for me. I was slower than her but she did not leave me behind. And she's been there to pick me up ever since.

Like when I've misplaced my confidence and haven't been able to find it. (Is it under the sofa? No! Behind the kitchen door? No!)

Or when I’ve needed someone to talk to about a personal life situation, for instance, another crappy boyfriend.

Over the years Sonja has been my touchstone, my wise go-to sister, and although there have been times when we have been physically apart that has never been true of our hearts. She is part of my identity, of who I am.

So when she asked me to be her Maid of Honor, the honor was all mine. Naturally I said yes.

Another “yes”, a previous and much more important one, is the reason we're here today.

Mark, that was one you received.

All Sonja's family members and friends, like me, take her best interests to heart. They look out for her, and I know, that like me, they are delighted that you and she have agreed to live your lives together.

Mark, your care, and love of Sonja over the last few years has demonstrated to us all you are indeed the right man, who was in the right place, at the right time. We've seen the good times you've shared together but most importantly we've also witnessed how you handled the tough ones.

You were there to shelter, cherish and nurture her through the period when her Father passed. And I know that meant everything to her. I feel certain not only he but also her brother, Matthew, would willingly give their blessing to your union from up above.

As for me, you definitely had my wholehearted approval when you asked one of my “ boyfriends”, (now very much past tense), aside for a man-to-man chat about respect and loyalty. From that time, I knew I have gained a brother.

In Sonja you have a hard-working, forgiving, loving big-hearted woman. As her friend, her sister, I am grateful you see, appreciate and know that.

I searched for a special gift of wisdom to pass on and found this – a recipe for love and marriage. It makes sense to me, and I hope it does to you too.

"As you walk through life together remember even though you both share many qualities that are very much the same, you are each unique, and it is your differences that helped bring you together.

Give your love openly and honestly. Always respect and accept what the other has to say, even when you do not agree. Take time to enjoy everyday and share together, and remember that each day is a new beginning."

Sonja, I am looking forward to all the celebrations we're going to have together down the years because although we no longer live on the same street, our roots are very deep.

Please make a note that I intend to speak at your 50th anniversary!

Cheers to the newly weds! Best wishes! I love you guys!"

A light hearted Maid of Honor speech example

To be successful this maid of honor speech relies heavily on its delivery.

Along with stories establishing the depth and importance of the relationship between the bride and her Maid of Honor it includes a good natured, gentle 'roast' of the groom.

The MOH has taken it upon herself to poll guests and family members on his suitability for the bride. She is now making the results public.

Although the groom is being teased we know he's respected, admired and loved by those who know the couple well, which includes the person delivering the speech, the bride's best friend.

The speech will take between 5-6 minutes to deliver.

Felicity's MOH speech at Sarah & Sam's wedding

Once in a while, in the middle of an ordinary life, love gives us a fairy tale.

That's what we're celebrating today: a story of true love, a dream come true, the union of two people who belong together.

My name is Felicity and it's my privilege to be Sarah’s Maid of Honor.

Sarah is my Best Friend. I know it's a cliché. However clichés become clichés for a very good reason, because they're true. She's my BFF: Best Friend Forever.

For her I would wear the gaudiest, frothiest taffeta maid of honor dress possible and still smile. Fortunately I don't have to.

Through Sarah I've learned that being a best friend isn't a competition between those who have been in your life the longest.

Neither is it about regular daily contact. Or about talking, Or being under the same sky, in the same city. Or even sharing the same tastes.

But it is definitely about sharing the same heart space.

Over the years she's been my touchstone, always encouraging me to be the best of myself: a work still in progress. I look forward to checking off the score card with her when we're much, much older.

We've seen each other through all those milestones of growing up: the ones we want to remember, as well as the ones we'd prefer to forget but don't. Amongst them are memories I'll always cherish: going on a bike tour of Paris in the rain, getting completely soaked and laughing about it, gorging ourselves on gastronomic delights in Greece. And ticking off the typical tourist “when in Rome” items: walking up the Spanish Steps and tossing coins in the Trevi fountain together.

Sarah you know, and see me clearly. Just like I know and see you. And today you've changed the course of your life forever with two words: I do.

Sam, you'll have understood by now just how much this woman is loved, not just by me but by all of us here. Inevitably that means when a suitor comes along they have to pass not just one test, but multiple ones.

There's the initial hurdle, getting her on your side. Once that's safely over there's more and these, as anyone married knows, can be quite formidable.

Friends, mothers, fathers, family, don't share quite the same blinkered infatuation. We stand back. We watch, and yes, we judge.

We have a “not-so-little” check list and we want every point on it passed, with honors.

Now I'd done a comprehensive survey of the interested parties and tallied the scores. They read like this.

On the “always has her back “ index you did extremely well. This one was a very important indicator. Knowledge of what it is “to have someone's back” is paramount. You passed with flying colors on the sub-set, “has spine” too.

Availability. The question behind this point had two parts, both equally weighted. Are you there for Sarah when she needs you? We looked at physically, as well as emotionally, present. Again, top marks.

Positive influence. Does this man extend and enhance the best in Sarah?

Now this one was a little trickier. Separating the vested interests and keeping ourselves honest is a challenge when so much is at stake. Change can be confronting even if it is for the better. But yes, we agreed, that Sam definitely brought Sarah more of all that is good. His presence enables her to grow.

Health. Really? Need we go there? Look at them! They eat so well, exercise so well – we're thinking of setting up a charity to donate the excess health they generate to those who need it. These two are the ultimate King and Queen of eating green. Their example inspires!

Our last was “laughter”.  Does this man make this woman smile, make her laugh with joy and share her humor? Sam, no one makes Sarah laugh the way you do.

In conclusion, you are quite simply, the best. We thank you for understanding, valuing and loving her as we do.

I want to acknowledge someone else in the line up looking out for Sarah, someone very dear to her who, although not physically present, is here in our hearts: Betty, Bette, her grandmother. I'm sure she would approve too.

And now a toast. Please raise your glasses.

To Sarah and Sam, and a lifetime of love! May your happily ever after begin here.

Content suggestions for your own MOH speech

Often the hardest part of preparing a speech is getting started.  These prompts will help you find the right words to say about the bride and her new husband on their special day.

Grab a piece of paper and answer the questions as quickly as you can. Let you mind go. Don't stop to edit, to check your spelling or to write full sentences. You can do all of that later.

Focus, for now, on generating ideas.

Maid of Honor speech writing prompts

• When, and how, did you first meet the bride?
• When did she become a close friend?
• What makes her a good person?
• What 3 or 4 words best describe her character?
• When did you realize (the groom's name) was the love of her life? What was your first impression of him?
• What hobbies or interests do they share as a couple?
• What do you admire about them as a couple? What makes them unique or special?
• What challenges or hardships have they faced and overcome?
• What funny moment or funny stories can you share about them?
• What do you want to say to wish them a happy future together? Is there a quote you'd like to use as a toast? A line from a song? A verse from a poem?  

What NOT to put into your speech

Before you go ahead in the writing process check the content you've generated.

Remove any:

• stories that would embarrass the bride and anyone listening: eg. tales about past relationships, wild nights out, participating in illegal activities of any sort...
• inside jokes or references that only a few people will understand
• comments or stories that make yourself the principal focus of attention. The most important people are the bride and groom.
• references to money or the costs involved in the wedding
• critical comments about the wedding planning, the people involved with that, and any of the lead up activities
• language or crudity (for instance, off-color jokes or sexual innuendo) that may offend the wedding guests
• strings of clichés. For example: she's most beautiful bride in the whole wide world. The groom swept her off her feet. It was true love at first sight and now they will live happily ever after...

How to get from notes to speech

Click the link for: a 5 part maid of honor speech outline, with examples, step-by-step guidelines and a complete maid of honor speech for a sister.

How to end a Maid of Honor speech

If you find yourself stuck, not knowing how to conclude your speech have a look here: how to end a Maid of Honor speech .

There are twenty example endings of varying types. Some are funny. Some use Biblical and other quotations and some are straight from the heart.

Find one you like, and then adapt it for your own use.

Test and rehearse your speech

It's vital to allow enough time to thoroughly test and rehearse your speech before you deliver it: that's about three weeks.

How to test your speech

Testing has two parts.

The first part is making sure the content covers all you think it should and flows easily from one segment to the next. This is where another pair of ears are very useful. Sometimes what we think we're saying and what we actually are is quite different. Get the opinion of someone whose judgment you trust.

The second part is testing your speech for timing. Set a timer and say it out loud at about the pace you would use if you were delivering it for real. Ideally you want it between 3 - 6 minutes long. If it's too long, look for places to cut it.

For more about how many words in a 3 minute, 4 minute, 5 minute, 6 minute...speech and speech rate .

Rehearse your speech

Once you have the words sorted, it's time to work on how you'll deliver them.

Delivery makes all the difference between an average, ordinary performance, and an extraordinary one. Please make the time to rehearse.

Trying to 'wing it' without preparation leaves you wide open for all sorts of unnecessary glitches to suddenly pop up and throw you sideways. Don't tempt it! How to rehearse a speech well: 7 steps to brilliance! ☺

More resources

Classic wedding poems and readings : find a segment of a poem or a quote to use

speaking out loud 

Subscribe for  FREE weekly alerts about what's new For more see  speaking out loud  

Top 10 popular pages

• Welcome speech
• Demonstration speech topics
• Impromptu speech topic cards
• Thank you quotes
• Impromptu public speaking topics
• Farewell speeches
• Phrases for welcome speeches
• Student council speeches
• Free sample eulogies

From fear to fun in 28 ways

A complete one stop resource to scuttle fear in the best of all possible ways - with laughter.

Useful pages

• Search this site
• About me & Contact
• Blogging Aloud
• Free e-course
• Privacy policy

©Copyright 2006-24 www.write-out-loud.com

Designed and built by Clickstream Designs

A Practical Wedding: Wedding Planning, Inspiration, and Ideas

Wedding Planning. Minus the insanity, plus the marriage.

How To Write The Perfect Maid Of Honor Speech

Cheat sheet included

S o the time has come, and you’re getting ready to write your maid of honor speech! We get it. You’ve been mentally writing your toast since the day you and your BFF met in second grade, or since you became roommates in college, or since she was the only person at your new job who welcomed you. Or you have more to say than you can possibly boil down into one maid of honor speech because this is your sister . She’s been with you through thick and thin.

When the time comes to write something that feels so darn special, it’s easy to find yourself with more questions than answers. Just how many inside jokes can you include? (Not that many.) How long should your toast be? (Not that long.) What should the maid of honor speech say? (We’ve got a formula for you.) How should you end the maid of honor toast? (Go out strong.) We get how overwhelming it can be, and we are here to turn all of that love into the perfect three-minute speech, that will bring down the house.

How do you write a wedding speech? Let’s break it down: In its simplest form, the maid of honor speech is one to four minutes wherein you will wax poetic about how much you love this person, how you can’t believe that she and her partner found each other because they are so perfect together, and how you can’t wait to see what kind of life they will build together. You’ll throw in a few anecdotes (tales from summer camp or college, erring on the side of caution and eschewing details that no one except the two of you needs to know). You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll toast the couple, and it will be brilliant. But if any part of you is worried about how that might come together, We’ve got some very specific tips on how to write the perfect maid of honor toast:

Related Post

How to write a maid of honor speech.

• Start early . Don’t leave writing your Maid of Honor toast for the night before, or even that week. You’ll be busy supporting your friend and I promise it’ll feel less stressful if you get ahead of it.
• Brainstorm . Before you start writing, maybe even weeks before, do some brainstorming. Have a note started on your phone from the moment you know you’ll have a speech to write, spend an evening going through old photos, do whatever it takes to help yourself remember some old stories and anecdotes that will help you make your speech that much more personal.
• Write drunk, edit sober . Or, write fast, edit slow. Just know that your first draft isn’t the end-all. You’ll undoubtedly have a hard time deciding which story to tell, maybe you’ll include a few too many jokes or loving jabs… either way, give yourself the time and space to really edit. And ask a friend for feedback, too.
• Cut it down . Take Raymond Carver’s advice: “Get in, get out. Don’t linger. Go on.” It can sometimes be so much easier to write or say a lot of words, but narrowing it down to the core feelings and message are what will make it powerful.
• Practice, practice, practice . Please don’t let the day of the wedding be the first time you read your toast out loud. Thank me later.

Download our “how to write a maid of honor speech” workbook:

Sorry, there was an error. Please refresh and try again.

Happy speech writing friend! You’ve got this!

Get Our Maid of Honor Speech Workbook, Now!

How long should the maid of honor speech be?

You should set a goal of two to three minutes for your Maid of Honor toast. Can it be a bit longer? Sure. But avoid surpassing five minutes. Katelyn Peterson, a wedding speech and vow writer from Wedding Words, gives the following advice, “Written, your speech should be 300 – 700 words. This comes out to roughly 2 – 5 minutes. Any longer and you’ll lose impact while guests lose interest. Plus, there’s nothing that needs to be said in 10 minutes that you can’t say in 5 minutes. Brevity is key to making a positive impact through your speech.”

What should the maid of honor speech say?

Katelyn Peterson has this great thought on what you should include in your toast: “Great speeches include great storytelling. What does every story have? A relatable character, a compelling event, and an internal shift.”

Her example: Tell the story about that time the bride (relatable character) helped you break into your own apartment after you locked yourself out (compelling event) and you ended up laughing so hard, you weren’t upset anymore because she made a challenging moment fun (internal shift). This story also SHOWS something about the bride (which every story should accomplish in a MOH speech). She has the ability to take stressful situations and make them fun. This is your theme. Now come up with two more short stories that SHOW this theme in action using these same storytelling elements.

How should you end the maid of honor speech?

While it’s a speech, it is also meant to be a toast. So, consider ending your time at the mic with a clear closing remark, and asking folks to raise their glasses and toast to the couple. Katelyn also suggests that you “close with a callback. Callbacks are instant crowd-pleasers.” So if you can circle back to one of your stories or anecdotes in your closing toast, you will really win at this whole maid of honor thing.

Photo by Leah and Mark & Co.

Tips For Writing Your Toast

• Get personal. Obviously, this is not the time to use every awful person your friend has dated as evidence for how excellent her chosen life-mate is, but it  is  the time to share a few personal stories. You’ll want to talk about how happy you are for the couple, how much as you knew your BFF was your BFF the second she traded shoelaces with you, you knew that her chosen partner was perfection when they showed up to her house wearing bacon-themed socks. After that, wrap it up nicely and sweetly, toast the couple, and have a seat.
• Don’t worry about the Best Man. Best men have a rep for sometimes being uncool during their speeches ( let’s avoid that ). And if you’re worried, just ignore whatever the best man might get up to, and do you. You don’t have to bring out the waterworks as a counterpoint to a counterpoint to potentially awkward jokes if that’s not your style. If you want to be funny, be funny! Steal the best man’s thunder. It’s fine.
• Don’t turn it into stand-up.   That said, your toast is not the time to try out your future career as a stand-up comedian (unless you literally are a stand-up comedian, in which case, you’ve got this). No one is expecting Maya Angelou to suddenly appear and speak through you, but they probably are expecting something heartfelt and sincere. So really consider the speech and take it seriously, even if humor is your vehicle of delivery.
• Consider your audience . If you were writing this maid of honor toast for the bachelorette party, I’d say, ‘go wild.’ You’re not though. There will be your friend’s new in-laws, grandparents, and siblings around… so keep it appropriate and, ideally, not at all embarrassing. (Hot tip: Avoid talking about exes.)
• Don’t wait too long to start writing.  Try to start writing your speech the month before the wedding so that you can practice on a friend (not the one who is getting married) or partner, and adjust as needed.

Photo by Vivian Chen

A Made of Honor Speech Template

• Part 1: Introduction, Congratulations, & “I love you both so much.”
• Part 2: A lovely anecdote about the couple’s relationship and how awesome they are. (Try to stay away from something about just one of them, but about them as a couple. Talking about primarily one person within the context of their relationship and their love can be lovely, too, if that’s your relationship to the couple.) This should be the bulk of your speech.
• Part 3: I hope you are always as happy, joyous, and in love as that moment. OR This proves how madly in love you two are. May you continue to be an inspiration to us all. Etc.
• Part 4:  (Actually make the toast.) Everyone drinks!

Photo by Betty Clicker

maid of honor speech EXAMPLEs

Here’s a sample maid of honor toast that follows the formula perfectly:

Haley and Rachel, I love you both so much . Haley, not only for you being one of my best friends, but for being there for me when being my friend didn’t just involve late night Wal-Mart runs and hours of watching ’80s movies. We’ve grown up together and I am so very grateful that we did not grow apart. And Rachel, I love you, too, for not only being such an incredible partner for my Haley, but for being a great friend to me also. I know you didn’t expect that dating Haley would include helping her flaky friend after she locked her keys in the car three times in one month, but you are a doll for doing so with a smile and only laughing at me a little. However, what I love most about the two of you is how you are together. I’ve never seen two people that fit so well in each other’s lives; it’s hard to imagine a time when you weren’t “Haley and Rachel.” It may seem to some like you two were just meant to be and that fate put you together, but I think to look at it that way diminishes how amazing your relationship really is. Having been there from the beginning, I know that what appeared to be seamless was the effort of two people who truly loved one another and were determined to make their relationship work. They didn’t just magically fit into each other’s lives; they rearranged their lives to make room. They changed priorities, made time for one another and learned to love each other’s little quirks… like Rachel’s not-so-secret love of R&B vocalists. But nothing shows this as much as Haley, Rachel, and the hockey debacle. You see, when they started dating, Rachel noticed that Haley had a framed Gretsky jersey in her living room. And, deciding to play it cool, Rachel started asking Haley if she wanted to go to local hockey games and watching the latest game on TV just so she’d have something to talk about to Haley the next time they chatted. Haley, oblivious to all of this, thought Rachel really liked hockey so she enlisted my brother to teach her more about the game. Because, you see, Haley never watched hockey. The jersey belonged to her Uncle Mike, and Aunt Laura gave it to her as a reminder of him after he passed away. Meanwhile, both my brother and Rachel are pretending to know more about hockey than they actually do and were starring in their own sports-themed comedy of errors. Eventually, they figured it out… and by eventually I mean seven months later. However, once these two worked on their communication skills, they had a new favorite hobby to do together… and further proof that Uncle Mike really is watching over Haley. AND, he’s bound and determined that she marry a hockey lover! And it only goes to show not only how goofy these two are for each other, but how much they truly are committed to being in each other’s lives. Your love makes us smile, makes us tear up with joy and makes us believe in the kind of love cynics would make you feel is impossible. Thank you for being an inspiration and my friends. To Haley and Rachel!  (everybody drinks)

Here’s another great example. There’s a reason this YouTube video has over a million views. The speaker in this video follows a pretty simple maid of honor toast template, one that might help you.

• “Good evening, everyone.”
• Short joke or anecdote from the day.
• A bit about how you know the couple. (Katelyn from Wedding Words suggests that you “don’t add fluff to your intro. “For those of you who don’t know me…” is an unnecessary line. Instead, jump right in by simply stating your name, role, and relationship to the couple.”
• Storytime. This might be one long story or a few short stories. Tell about the couple’s love story, about when you met the partner or when you knew this was going to be your friend or sister’s spouse. Throw in a few small laughs.
• Offer advice or well-wishes for the couple’s future.
• “I love you.”

One more heartfelt example. Her outline is similar, do we see a pattern?

• Hello / introduction (if you’re going to make it funny, make yourself the ‘butt of the joke.’)
• Storytime. The maid of honor stretched her story out to create the entire speech while peppering in mini-stories about different times she and her family spent time with the groom. She got some good laughs without any embarrassment to the couple.
• She didn’t feel like she had advice to give, so she offered “Three things I know,” where she highlighted different wonderful things about the couple’s love.
• She did a call back to the beginning of her story.

Have you ever written or heard a truly great maid of honor toast? What works—and what doesn’t?

Founder & Editor-In-Chief

Meg is the Founder of APW, and has been the sites EIC for the past twelve years. She has written two best selling wedding books:   A Practical Wedding   and  A Practical Wedding Planner .  Meg’s work has been referenced in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, NPR, Jezebel, and Refinery29 . She’s also written hugely viral wedding articles for Buzzfeed. She lives in Oakland, CA with her husband and two children. For more than you ever wanted to know about Meg, you can visit MegKeene.com .

Featured Sponsored Content

You’re Engaged! Let’s Plan This Thing.

Is A Wedding Website Worth It In 2021?

Wedding Planning During A Pandemic

Do This One Wedding Planning Task Today

Please read our comment policy before you comment.

The APW Store is Here

go find all our favorites from around the internet, and our free planning tools

Planning a wedding?

We have all the planning tools you need right now.

Budget spreadsheets, checklists, and more...

My Speech Class

Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

Maid of Honor Speech [What to Say + Outline + Template]

Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class.

Giving a maid of honor speech is an honor – and also a responsibility.

If you’re invited to be maid of honor at a family member or friend’s wedding, you have a huge role in the wedding ceremony. Writing the perfect wedding toast or speech can often seem like the hardest part.

Coming up with the perfect toast for this special day is much easier when you have sample speeches to be inspired by. We’ve compiled an essential list of maid of honor speech examples, from roast to religious.

Read on for our step-by-step guide to writing a maid of honor speech, and then watch the examples below. Now you’re ready to prepare a great speech with confidence.

In this article:

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech

Maid of honor speech topics blueprint, maid of honor speech outline, maid of honor speech examples.

Can We Write Your Speech?

Get your audience blown away with help from a professional speechwriter. Free proofreading and copy-editing included.

The Maid of Honor, sometimes also called the Bridesmaid or even the Matron of Honor, speaks after the Best Man. Remember, the audience has to listen to lots of speeches before and after you.

So, my tip number one is: Keep it brief and simple; for your own utility and the convenience of the guests.

Maid of honor speeches can take many different forms. They might be funny or sweet, creative or traditional . Often, the speech will incorporate different elements, like humor and nostalgia, to hit all the right notes. Most speeches are 5 to 10 minutes long, but wedding speeches can also take many shapes, from short toasts to extended performances.

These simple tips will help you write a maid of honor speech that’s a perfect fit for the wedding day.

Begin Early

When you need to write a maid of honor speech, you’ll want to start early.

Begin the brainstorming process as soon as you’re asked to be maid of honor or bridesmaid. This might involve jotting down fun memories or an embarrassing story you’ve shared with the bride. You can also consider talking about the groom, the bride and groom’s relationship, or how they met.

Write down some ideas early on and then take a few days or weeks to let them percolate. When you come back to your ideas, the speech outline will start to become more clear.

Try a Quote

A great way to start or end your speech can be with a beautiful quote that has meaning for the wedding day. It can be funny, emotional, or poignant. Just make sure it’s something that has meaning for the newlyweds and that wedding guests can resonate with as well.

Tell Stories

The best speeches combine quotes or big ideas about love with real stories. Stories are fun for guests to listen to, and give your speech a solid foundation.

Choosing the right stories about the bride, or the bride and groom, is important. Do you want your speech to be funny, inspiring, or touching? The stories you tell will help set the tone. Think about details: the sights, sounds, or sensations you remember will keep the audience’s attention. Just don’t let it get too long – most speeches should be 10 minutes or less.

Be Prepared

Your speech will go much better if you’ve practiced ahead of time – more than once. The more you practice, the more confident you will feel when the big day comes.

Practice reading your speech, and time yourself to make sure it’s the length you want. Keep in mind that at the wedding ceremony or reception there will be pauses for laughter or applause, which will make your speech a few minutes longer.

You might want to videotape yourself practicing, or even practice in front of a friend or family member to get some feedback on your delivery. Just make sure not to give it to the bride ahead of time – your speech should come as a surprise on the wedding day.

Don’t forget to bring notes, too. Even if you never actually look at them, they will help you feel more comfortable when you take the microphone, and can save you if you draw a blank when it’s time to start.

A heartfelt speech is better than a perfect one.

Don’t be afraid that you’re going to stumble over a word or mess up somehow. If you’ve practiced ahead of time and drafted your speech early, you’ve done all the preparation you need.

Take the stage with confidence, knowing that little mistakes and imperfections can sometimes make a speech that much more meaningful because it’s genuine. If you laugh or cry, the wedding guests are probably going to laugh or cry with you. Keep your sense of humor if the mic cuts out or you stumble over a word. Enjoy the moment!

Here are our maid of honor speech tips in a sample template plus the speaking do’s and don’ts in a matrimonial ceremony based on their complimentary life styles. You are invited and do not know what to say?

Use our template for outlining thoughts, ideas and facts about the bridal couple. I will show you what you should mention and what the text should focus on. If you are not an experienced talker: relax, you do not have to say much, less is more is often said and well put!

But always: public speeches should be from the heart! Be enthusiastic and sincere, but do not exaggerate.

Maid Of Honor Speech Template

INTRODUCTION

• Tell who you are for the ones who don’t know.
• Thank your friend for asking you to be in this wedding.
• How long have you known the bride and groom?
• Why were you selected to accept the honor giving the oral?
• Why did you accept the invitation?
• How did the two of them met?
• What did you think when you saw their friendship became more serious? Reflect on their complimentary life styles. Approach this from the female side. Be tasteful. The best man is at the grooms’ side … so his job is to cover that part, not you 🙂
• Can you come up with a funny story that illustrates the personality of the wedding couple? Think about characterizing sweet, inspiring, exciting or just average daily events or moments.
• Can you come up with a hilarious anecdote based on a real life situation?
• Conclude this part of this special wedding address with letting them know that’s why you were so happy when they announced their wedding. As I said before: keep it short. Stick to one funny story. Ask others if they really like it, if it’s funny enough to share.

THE CEREMONY

• Stress the importance of the matrimonial ceremony. Give your personal view.
• Use a famous quote about marriage, love or the future.
• Relate a short poem to the couple. Quotes and poems are a good starting point for inspiration.
• Wish the bride and groom a long and happy life.
• Express your love and best wishes for the future.
• If they have had hard times, then mention it briefly in one poetic sentence. Not more. Focus on this happy day!
• You can thank and toast to the bride and groom on behalf of the bride, but only if she asked you to do so.

Do’s And Don’ts

• Bring notes, know what you want to say. Too much improvisation can lead to babbling, stumbling or a too long maid of honor speech.
• Do not get too personal. Ask others if the stories you want to tell will not embarrass the bride and groom or the guests. Check double check is the motto.
• Do not come up with negative or depressing speech topics. Kee it nice and friendly for all.
• Avoid sexual tinted expressions, political engagement or religion issues and hold back your horses when you want to mention actual news or political stories.
• Read a draft out loud in front of somenone else and ask for opinions. Alter with the recommendations in mind.

Although maid of honor speeches can take many forms, having a classic speech outline will help you get started. If you’re not sure what to write, follow these simple steps and you’ll be able to write a beautiful, traditional speech.

1. Introduce Yourself

You can’t count on all the wedding guests knowing who you are or how you know the bride. Make time early in your speech to mention your name, what your relationship to the bride is, and how long you’ve known each other.

2. Thank People

Weddings can be expensive, stressful, and difficult to plan. It’s good to take a moment in your speech to thank the parents and other notable guests who helped make the wedding day happen.

3. Tell Stories

Next, you can launch into a story of your choice. There are many different directions you can take this part of the speech. An embarrassing story you share with the bride can get guests laughing, while a touching anecdote about the newlywed couple’s relationship might make happy tears flow.

4. Add a Quote

You can add a meaningful quote anywhere in your speech. The quotes you choose should have meaning to both you and the bride (and maybe the groom as well), and also be relatable to the other guests in attendance. If it’s an inside joke or an obscure reference that not many people will get, you may want to leave it out.

5. Give Heartfelt Emotion

Even the funniest roasts of the bride often have a moment when the speech becomes touching. No matter what the tone of your speech is, it doesn’t hurt to take a moment and recognize the beauty of the day. The best speeches often aren’t all funny or all sentimental – they’re a mix of both.

6. Finish Strong

Your ending will be the part of the speech guests are most likely to remember. Give a strong ending, whether it’s a quote, a final story, or proposing a toast to the bride and groom.

Sister Maid of Honor Speech

This sister wedding speech celebrates all of the fun of watching your family get married. The bride’s sister starts out with humor, telling family memories through a funny lens. However, she quickly gets emotional as she recounts how much her sister means to her.

“You’ve been a great mentor. You’ve been a beautiful impact on my life, and you taught me that there’s beauty in everyone no matter what they do.”

Best Friend Matron of Honor Speech

The best friend of the bride for over 10 years, this matron of honor has nothing but praise for the bride. She recounts how she approved right away upon meeting the groom, and how excited she was upon learning of their engagement.

“You have really, truly become like my sister. I knew I’d be telling you how beautiful you looked, but seeing you next to your handsome groom, you really are absolutely breathtaking.”

Short Matron of Honor Speech

This short speech starts with a funny memory of the bride talking about the groom years before their engagement. In just a minute and a half, the matron of honor brings both laughter and heartfelt emotion to her speech.

“Speaking from experience, marriage is a wild ride. But when you find that right partner, you never want the ride to end.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SRniSDMhWgM

Maid of Honor Toast

In a fun, beautiful toast to the bride, this bride’s sister thanks guests for coming, and then launches into memories of growing up together. She shouts out to both the bride and the groom for being important parts of her life.

“Katie is so much more than a big sister to me  – she’s my best friend, my mentor, and the unfailing reminder that sometimes being a sister is even better than being a princess.”

Matron of Honor Speech

This matron of honor gets guests laughing by pulling out a scroll to read from at the beginning of her speech. She recounts the embarrassing story of how the bride stole her spot on the varsity team when they first met. However, their friendship quickly blossomed, and the matron of honor touches on many of the fun things they did together as kids.

“I had the time of my life growing up with you.”

Funny Maid of Honor Speech

In a funny, lighthearted speech, this maid of honor recounts growing up with the bride, and even planning her wedding as little girls. The maid of honor also turns to the groom and thanks him for being the perfect partner for her friend. She fills the speech with memories, from embarrassing to sweet, and ends with a song for a truly memorable wedding moment.

“You’re all the things I hoped for my best friend and more, and I’m so grateful you found her and that you love her the way she really deserves.”

Roast Speech

This maid of honor kept guests laughing with her deadpan delivery of jokes in this short speech. Her stand-up comedy is perfect for the occasion, and she pokes fun at everyone from the bride to the groom to herself.

“When I first sat down and started thinking about what I want to say here tonight, I kept thinking to myself, ‘I can’t believe Erin’s getting married…in less than an hour. No, I’m kidding, I had it written before breakfast.”

Christian Maid of Honor Speech

A sweet speech from the bride’s best friend hits the right notes in a short amount of time. She compares the couple’s love to being like the love of Christ because it is so strong and so beautiful.

“The love that these two share is so strong, it doesn’t need a thousand stories, it doesn’t need a thousand words; it just radiates from these two.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKKwOBW_8xY

Creative Maid of Honor Speech

This fun maid of honor speech starts with the bride’s sister recalling dancing to pop songs as a kid with her mom, who was pregnant with the bride. Then, she uses a musical interlude to tell the story of the bride’s life from a sister’s perspective. In a mashup of pop music covers, the maid of honor gives a great performance that gets the wedding guests clapping in time.

“[My mom and I] danced around the house to Cyndi Lauper’s ‘Girls Just Wanna Have Fun. And lo and behold, 9:30 am on day 9…DeeDee arrives. Apparently she also just wanted to have fun.”

Bridesmaid Speech

In this genuine, sweet speech, the bridesmaid’s excitement about the happy couple’s new marriage is truly evident. Her fun while holding the microphone is contagious to all the guests.

“I’m just so excited to be here, to witness the true love that is so evident between Taylor and Niko.”

Touching Maid of Honor Speech

This heartfelt, emotional maid of honor speech was given by a college friend of both the bride and the groom. She recounts the story of how she first met the bride, and then tells the bride and groom’s love story as she saw it unfold.

“It was obvious there was something truly amazing between the two of them. Four months of courting and a very, very, very confused Mark later, Mara finally accepted his proposal to be boyfriend and girlfriend – and the rest is history.”

Bridesmaid Toast

These bridesmaids toast the bride in song form. They celebrate the happy couple in their own words, and then shout out to notable wedding guests, keeping everyone entertained the entire time.

“Love is the reason we’re all here – that’s what you toasted for.”

Maid of Honor Speech

The maid of honor speech can be just as hilarious and emotional as the best man speech . Amusing, creative speeches like this one might get a standing ovation. The maid of honor uses a numerical countdown to format her speech, ending with the number one which is, of course, the bride.

“At the end of the day, you’re always gonna have that one person who’s in your corner, who’s your personal cheerleader.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uX9Y6OhkH1s

200+ Good Impromptu Speech Topics

Best Man Speech Outline [Examples + Template]

Leave a Comment

I accept the Privacy Policy

Reach out to us for sponsorship opportunities

Vivamus integer non suscipit taciti mus etiam at primis tempor sagittis euismod libero facilisi.

© 2024 My Speech Class

How to Write a Killer Maid of Honor Speech: The Ultimate Guide

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, meaning we earn commissions if you shop through the links below. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read my  disclaimer  for more info.

To us here at Modern MOH, the writing and delivery of the maid of honor speech is the most sacred duty of them all. We feel this is your true time to shine and the greatest opportunity to show your bestie just how much her happiness means to you. By taking the time to construct a heartfelt and well-written speech, then delivering it to the best of your ability, you will help make your bride’s wedding day all the more perfect.

And while we doubt we were your first stop on the “ how to write a maid of honor speech ” search train, we do hope to be your final destination. You see, unlike most articles you’ll find on the subject of maid of honor speeches, we’re actually going to give it to you straight. No vaguely basic outlines or generically boring examples, just the cold hard facts.

Because we have some serious experience in the toast department, and if there’s one thing we’ve learned about writing a killer maid of honor speech, it’s this: there is no secret formula, no one best way . How could there be? Each and every relationship between a maid of honor and a bride is different from the next, just as each and every memory is uniquely yours. 

Lastly, we know the thought of having to give a wedding toast in front of a large group of people may be terrifying for most, that’s why we’re here to teach you a thing or two to ease those nerves. From start to finish, we have all the tips and tricks you need to know to bring the house down.

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech in 5 Simple Steps

1. define your overall objective.

Before you begin writing your maid of honor speech, you must first define your objective. In other words, you need to have a goal you’re looking to accomplish. For example, are you hoping to make wedding guests laugh? Cry? Both? Do you want to talk about your history with the bride, about how you met the groom, or what their relationship as a couple means to you?

Knowing the answers to these questions will help you figure out the direction you should take when writing your wedding toast.

If you find yourself struggling to define your objective, simply think of your relationship with both the bride and groom. Do they have a great sense of humor? Is your time together spent mostly joking around and laughing? If so, try taking a comedic approach to your toast by cracking a few funny jokes along the way.

Or maybe you and your bride have been through some very serious times together that you want to share, in which case your speech may be much more emotionally moving. The great part about this objective is that it’s your own, so there is no one right or best way to go about it.

MODERN MOH TIP:  Touch on a little bit of everything. Start strong with a joke or two and finish out with a sentimental toast.  While there is no exact formula to it, a truly good maid of honor speech is both funny enough to get wedding guests laughing and moving enough to bring a tear to their eye. Secondly, don’t spend so much time talking about your history with the bride that you forget to talk about the groom. Even if you don’t have your own personal memories with your best friend’s new hubby, that doesn’t mean he should be left out of your speech. Instead, talk about their relationship as a couple and what it means to you, including your wishes for the bride and groom’s future together. 

2. Decide on Your Point of View

The key to writing a killer of maid of honor speech is to not think of it as a speech, but instead a story. And as the narrator of this particular story, it’s up to you to determine the point of view from which you tell it. While it may seem obvious that you’d write from the first-person POV, there are definitely some benefits to switching it up.

To begin with, writing from a third-person POV will give your toast a unique twist and a more story-like feel. For example, instead of saying “Taylor and I met on the school bus in the third grade and she’s been my best friend ever since” , you could say “When Taylor was in the third grade, she met a little girl on the school bus who remains her best friend to this day” .

Like the idea, but don’t think you can write an entire speech that way? No problem. Unlike what you were taught in grade school, you have the freedom to switch between differing points of view when telling your story. If you haven’t caught on yet, let us reiterate: there is no right or wrong when it comes to writing your speech.

MODERN MOH TIP: Take advantage of switching up points of view. Start with narrating from the first person point of view, especially if it’s easier for you to tell the history between you and the bride that way. When it comes time to talk about the couple, tell their story from an outsider’s perspective. If you do decide to go this route, don’t get so crazy with it that you start confusing your audience. The whole point of using different points of view is to enhance your maid of honor speech, not complicate it.

3. Determine Your Must-Haves

Now that you’ve defined your objective and decided on your POV, it’s time to determine your must-haves. By must-haves, we mean the anecdotes you absolutely want to include in your maid of honor speech. For instance, is there a particularly good memory you have with the bride that you definitely want to share with wedding guests? Or maybe you were there when the bride and groom met and you want to tell your side of the couple’s story?

Determining your must-haves before you begin writing your toast will guarantee you don’t forget to feature them. Not to mention, it will keep you from going off track when it comes time to put pen to paper. If you’re having trouble narrowing it down, keep this in mind: it’s much better to have one or two epic stories than a mix of mediocre ones.

MODERN MOH TIP: Don’t be that maid of honor that goes on and on about memories and “funny” inside jokes you have with the bride (no wedding guest wants to hear it, trust us). Instead, tell one or two really good stories that portray your friendship and then move on to her relationship with the groom and their history as a couple. Too many MOHs make the mistake of making their toast all about them and not enough about the couple whose wedding they are supposed to be celebrating. If you want to talk about yourself in front of a big audience, try Youtube.

4. Develop Your Story From Beginning to End

As we mentioned before, the key to writing a killer maid of honor speech is to tell it like a story. And just like any good story, you must develop it from beginning to middle to end (think along the lines of “ once upon a time ” to “ they lived happily ever after ”). While it’s entirely up to you to decide what constitutes the beginning, middle, and end of your particular story, you should avoid big jumps in time. In other words, do your best to develop it in chronological order so you don’t confuse wedding guests.

For instance: Start by telling the story of how you and the bride met, continue on with a memory you have of the bride and groom, and finish with a toast for the couple. Again, there is no magic formula when it comes to writing a maid of honor speech, but having a clear and concise storyline is highly suggested.

MODERN MOH TIP: Don’t be predictable. Chances are you and your best friend didn’t cross paths in some epic way (especially if you’re sisters), so skip the generic “this is how we met” story. Instead, dive right into a funny/crazy/holy s*$&! moment to get the crowd’s attention. And don’t be boring with your finale either. No generic “cheers to the Mr. & Mrs.” toast, we know you can do better than that. Your goal should be to receive a standing ovation from the couple and their wedding guests, not a polite golf clap.

5. Describe Your Characters in Detail

We can’t stress how important this final step is when it comes to writing your maid of honor speech. Seriously, taking the extra step to describe your characters in detail is what differentiates the bland from the bomb. And just so we’re clear, by characters we mean the bride and groom, and by detail we mean elaboration. For example, instead of saying “Taylor is such a great friend, she’s always been there for me whenever I needed her” , you should say “I’ve never met a more loving and loyal person than Taylor, she truly exemplifies what it means to be a best friend” .

These extra tweaks may seem insignificant to you, but they’re exactly the lines that will resonate with your audience and more importantly, the couple. And if writing isn’t your strong suit, don’t worry. Simply speak from the heart, you’ll be surprised at how well your final product turns out.

MODERN MOH TIP: Use a thesaurus (seriously, we do it all the time). It’s a good way to spice up your word choice and will stop you from repeating yourself. On the flip side, don’t feel like you have to use a ton of fancy words- you want to sound like yourself after all, not Shakespeare. Lastly, don’t be afraid to throw a bit of alliteration in there. It brings character to your writing and will make your toast much more memorable ( see what we did there? )

How to End a Maid of Honor Speech

Now that you’ve got the beginning and middle of your speech outlined, it’s time to work on your ending. As this will be your final moment with the mic, your goal should be to make it a memorable one.

One hard-fast rule on ending any maid of honor speech is to address both the bride and groom as a newlywed couple and offer your best wishes for a happy marriage. The easiest way to accomplish this is by raising a toast.

As far as the contents of your toast, it’s up to you if you want to use your own words or prefer to recite a heartfelt quote . To help you decide, ask yourself the following question:

If the answer is yes, by all means, write up your own personal toast. If the answer is no, start searching for the perfect quote.

MODERN MOH TIP:  Select a few possible endings for your maid of honor speech and do test runs through them all to see which flows the best. Oftentimes it’s easier to decide based on how you deliver the words than how they sound in your head.

Have you checked out all our tips and still need help writing the perfect Maid of Honor speech?

Not to worry, Bridesmaid for Hire can help you craft an amazing, personal speech instantly!

Don’t believe it? Give it a try and see for yourself!

Pin for Later!

21 Comments

Suggestions for the maid of honor when she’s the mother of the bride…? I don’t wanna get too mushy I want to keep it lighthearted and fun but I want it to be special.

What a super special time for you and your daughter!

I would definitely recommend starting with some funny childhood stories, especially if you they feature any family members or friends who are attending. Pulling the audience in is the best way to capture their attention!

I totally get not wanting to get too mushy, but as her mom, you definitely have the opportunity for an extra hard tug at the heartstrings (and I absolutely suggest doing so!) Whether you talk about how you’ve envisioned this day since she was a little girl, or how you felt when you realized your daughter had met ‘the one’, speaking from the heart as her mom will add the perfect sentimental touch to your speech.

Good luck with everything- I have total faith that you’ll knock it out of the park 🙂

What should I write when I’m the step daughter of the bride

Hi Charlotte,

That is so sweet of your stepmother to ask you to be her maid of honor! During your speech, I would be sure to tell her how much your relationship as stepmother and stepdaughter means to you, as well as what her relationship with your father means to your family.

You are in a unique position that you have been such a close part of their relationship, so I would use that to your advantage!

Good luck 🙂

What if I’m the maid of honor and need to write this speech, but really dislike the groom?

Unfortunately, this situation is more common than you may think and my advice is always the same- do not under any circumstances let your feelings about the groom be known during your speech.

Even if you can’t find it within yourself to say something nice specifically about the groom, this does not mean you should ignore him altogether. Simply include a few lines about the two as a couple, keeping it light and positive.

I’m the sister of the groom and barely know the bride! She and my brother live several states away and have visited a total of about 6 days (2 long weekends)- so there are no real stories or experiences about us. How do I pull this off?? Any tips would be wonderful!!

This is definitely a difficult position to be in, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still deliver a great speech!

My best recommendation would be to reach out to your brother and future SIL’s closest friends to ask for any stories they may have about them as a couple (e.g. how they met, a favorite memory, etc.) Just because you don’t have your own experiences to share doesn’t mean you can’t speak to their relationship through the voice of their loved ones.

Also, don’t make a point to say you don’t know the bride very well. Instead, say something along the lines of “I know that living far away from each other makes it difficult to spend time together, but I truly look forward to getting to know you better as not just a sister-in-law, but a friend.”

I hope this helps in some way! Good luck 🙂

Help! What if I’ve never met the groom? We’ve been long distance best friends for a while now.

For those MOHs who have never met/don’t know the groom very well, I always recommend that they talk to the bride for some insight. Start by asking your BFF about how they met, her favorite memories as a couple, and their hopes/dreams as husband and wife.

You can also reach out to the best man or other groomsmen to get their perspective of the groom and his relationship with your friend. Just because you don’t have your own experiences to share doesn’t mean you can’t speak to their relationship through the voice of their loved ones.

Hope this helps! Good luck 🙂

So, the bride and myself have only been friends for about a year and a half. We are so close though, it feels like we’ve known each other forever. How do I go about talking about our friendship when most of the suggestions are childhood memories or having known the bride for so long. Thanks!

Hi Brittany! I think the fact that you’ve only known each other for a year and a half, but are close enough to be playing such an important role in your friend’s wedding is so special. I would totally highlight that in your speech as a way to show the audience how welcoming and obviously lovable the bride is.

And just because you don’t have a long history together does not mean that you and your friend don’t have fun memories for you to reminisce on during your speech. You can also talk about your hopes and plans for the future of your friendship!

I hope this helps and good luck! 🙂

I feel like writing this speech for my sister’s wedding should be so easy, but I am struggling hard. I have so many funny stories but can’t figure out how to tie one or two of them together to create a wonderful speech. Please help!

Sometimes writing such an important speech for someone you love is the opposite of easy because you put so much pressure on yourself to make it perfect! I would recommend choosing stories that the audience can easily follow along with without feeling totally left out or lost. In other words, don’t rely on stories that feature an inside joke between you and your sister or you’ll be the only two laughing at the end.

I hope this helps! Good luck 🙂

Help!! My sister is getting married next September so I have some time but of course she asked me to be her MOH but her best friend had her as her MOH and I thought she was going to have her be hers in return since they are basically sisters and have known each other since they were very little. I love that I’m her MOH but is it possible to have two?? How should I go about bringing it up? I’m 6 years younger than my sister so her best friend knows more about her and her friends and the groom even since she was there watching them fall in love. I feel like I’m at a disadvantage. I don’t want to not be her MOH but I also rather share the title with her best friend that way we could make a killer speech??

Hi Kait, this is a tough position to be in! If you are simply worried about not making a great MOH speech, you could just let your sister know your fears and ask her if she would mind you bringing her friend in for some insight and inspiration.

On the other hand, if you truly feel that you could be a better MOH all around with your sister’s friend’s help, then I think it’s totally ok to let your sister know this. Just be sure to emphasize that it’s not because you don’t want to be her MOH at all, but that you really could use the support of her very close friend to make her wedding experience the best that it can be.

I hope this helps! If you have any more questions or concerns, feel free to let me know.

My big sister is getting married in September and she asked me to be here MOH. I’m struggling to write my speech for her because I dont have any fond memories with her, and we weren’t exactly the closest due to past occurrences. I’m very nervous with public speaking as is, so this is adding a lot more stress than I’d like. I’m lost of how to write a speech that’s short but meaningful.

Hi Beth, so sorry to hear that you’re stressing out about your speech! It can definitely be challenging to write a speech when you don’t have a lot of fond memories to touch on, but it’s certainly not impossible.

Since you and your sister have had a difficult past, my advice would be to instead focus the speech on the relationship she has with the groom. Keep it short by telling one good story about them as a couple, and wrap it up with your well wishes for their future as husband and wife. As long as you speak from the heart and sound sincere, your speech will be very meaningful!

Hi! I’m such a procrastinator and I’m the MOH of my best friend of 21 years and she is getting married this weekend! How do I make my speech a short and sweet one but also adding a few memories? I feel like there is just SO much to say lol

Hi Leslie, How lovely that you’ve been friends for so long! I can imagine that you must have a ton of stories that you can share, so your challenge will be sorting through all the memories! Maybe start by jotting down some of your top stories that you’d like to share, keeping in mind to avoid inside jokes.

If you’d like to keep things short, you can start with one of your funny childhood memories with your BFF to get the audience engaged. Perhaps then move on to discussing the bride and groom as a couple – think about how they met, perhaps? Then you can end things off with a toast for the future of the couple.

I hope this helps! Best of luck with the wedding!

Some great points, thank you! It could be good to edit the article to be open to bride-bride; groom-groom etc so the wording is more inclusive.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

GET STARTED

BRIDAL SHOWER

BACHELORETTE PARTY

BRIDESMAID STYLE

SHOP PRINTABLES

PRIVACY POLICY

AFFILIATE DISCLAIMER

SHOP POLICIES

OUR PARTNERS

MISS TO MRS BOX

UNCOMMON GOODS

THE ADVENTURE CHALLENGE

BRIDESMAID FOR HIRE

Review Cart

No products in the cart.

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech: Wording Examples and Ideas

As a maid of honor, you’ll need to juggle several important duties – from organising an epic bridal shower to going wedding dress shopping and holding the bride’s bouquet.

But the most daunting task of all? Writing and delivering a maid of honor speech at the reception!

We totally get how terrifying this can be, which is why we’re here to help. Keep reading for our ultimate guide on writing the perfect maid of honor speech below, including some brainstorming prompts and wording examples to get you started.

How Long Should a Maid of Honor Speech Be?

Let’s get the good news out of the way first: your maid of honor speech doesn’t have to be long! Remember, you probably won’t be the only one speaking at the reception, so you’ll want to keep your speech short and sweet. We’d say the perfect maid of honor speech should ideally be between 2 to 4 minutes, and definitely no longer than 5.

What Should a Maid of Honor Speech Include?

Simply put, a maid of honor speech should be based around two key things: celebrating your relationship with the bride and celebrating her relationship with her new husband or wife. 

Maid of honor speeches usually includes a mix of personal anecdotes, compliments to the happy couple, and well wishes for the future. Your speech can include your favourite memories with the bride, but it should also strike the right balance by including some sentiments towards her partner and their relationship, too. Usually, you’ll start your speech by talking about the bride and wrap it up by talking about her and her partner as a couple.

So, what does this look like in action? If you’re looking for a helpful framework to follow, consider this tried and tested formula for a winning maid of honor speech below:

• Introduce yourself. It might seem obvious, but introducing yourself is important to give your speech context and explain your relationship with the bride. Don’t forget, there may be guests at the wedding who have no idea who you are!
• Talk about the bride. Begin your speech by complimenting the bride. What do you love about her? What makes her such a good person/best friend/sibling? Be specific with your compliments, too – rather than saying, “She’s such a generous friend”, share a specific moment that demonstrates this.
• Include a favourite anecdote. Do you have a favourite memory that sticks out when you reflect on your relationship with the bride? This is a good time to share one or two short anecdotes. They can be funny stories or more sincere and heartfelt moments.
• Compliment their partner. Now it’s time to bring her partner into the speech. What are your favourite qualities about them? What was your first impression of them? Why are they such a good match for the bride?
• Celebrate the couple. This is where you’ll want to highlight the relationship between the happy couple. Talk about what makes their relationship so special, what you admire about them as a couple, and how their lives have changed for the better.
• Share your well wishes. Tie it all together by offering your best piece of marriage advice, favourite quote, or some warm wishes for the future.
• Share a toast. Finally, raise your glass to toast the happy couple (and reward yourself with a sip of champagne, too!).

Things To Avoid In Your Maid of Honor Speech

Now that you know what to include in a maid of honor speech, is there anything you should strictly avoid? When it comes to correct etiquette, keep the following suggestions in mind to ensure your speech is well-received: 

• Sharing funny stories or gently “roasting” the couple is totally fine if that suits your relationship with them, but steer clear of anything inappropriate, rude, or embarrassing. Remember, there will likely be elderly relatives and important family members in the room, so keep it PG-rated.
• If you’re not comfortable using jokes or humour, then don’t! It’s better to keep your speech genuine and heartfelt, rather than trying to be funny. Of course, it’s completely okay to include some comedy, but don’t force it unless it’s true to who you are.
• While you and your BFF probably have a lifetime of inside jokes between you, try to avoid referencing these in your speech. If the majority of wedding guests won’t understand it, it’s probably not worth including.
• Finally, don’t bring up any old boyfriends or ex-partners! It probably goes without saying, but your maid of honor speech is about celebrating the happy couple – not bringing up unwanted memories from the past.

Maid of Honor Speech Writing Prompts

Still feeling stuck? The best place to start crafting your maid of honor speech is usually with a good brainstorming session. Use these questions and writing prompts to help you get the inspiration flowing:

• How did you meet the bride? 
• What was your first impression of her?
• How has your relationship evolved over the years?
• What’s your favourite memory with the bride?
• What’s your funniest story about the bride?
• What are the bride’s best qualities? How does she demonstrate this?
• How would you describe the bride in 3 words?
• How did you meet her partner?
• What was your first impression of her partner?
• What are her partner’s best qualities? How do they demonstrate this?
• How would you describe her partner in 3 words?
• How did you know her partner was “the one”?
• How did her partner propose?
• What do you admire most about the couple?
• What milestones have the couple celebrated?
• How has their relationship evolved over the years?
• Have they overcome any challenges or hardships together?
• What makes their relationship unique?
• What’s your favourite memory with the couple?
• How have they made an impact on your life?
• What are your hopes for their future together as a married couple?

Once you’ve spent some time answering these prompts, you should have plenty of fantastic material to work with. 

Maid of Honor Speech Examples and Ideas

Now, it’s time to start pulling everything together! Use these maid of honor speech templates and examples below to be inspired:

Maid of Honor Speech Example For Sister:

“Hi everyone. I wanted to start by thanking you all for being here today to celebrate this amazing couple. As most of you know, I’m (Bride’s) little sister, (Name). 

I think we can all agree that (Bride) has a personality like no other. She’s outspoken, feisty, and stubborn – but also the most caring, loyal, and funniest person I’ve ever known. Growing up, we were like two peas in a pod. We were always getting into trouble and causing mischief together – and truthfully, not much has changed! I’ll never forget the time we (insert relevant anecdote), or the time we (insert relevant anecdote). It’s memories like these that make me so thankful to have (Bride) as a sister.

I used to wonder if there would ever be a guy brave enough to handle (Bride). Well, my sister has just tied the knot, and I think she’s found her perfect match in (Partner). (Partner), I couldn’t have chosen anyone better for my big sister. You’re kind, patient, and just the right amount of crazy to fit into our family – as demonstrated by the time you (insert relevant anecdote). Most importantly, you love my sister for who she is – stubbornness and all.

Your commitment to each other inspires me every day, and watching your relationship grow over the years has been so special to witness. I wish you both nothing but the best for the future, and I know you’re going to have some unforgettable adventures together. So, with that, I’d like to invite everyone to raise their glasses for a toast. Here’s to the happy couple!”

Maid of Honor Speech Example for Best Friend:

“Hi everyone. For those who haven’t yet had the chance to meet me, I’m (Name). (Bride) and I have been best friends since college, where we quickly bonded over our shared love for (insert hobbies/interests). 10 years later, and I couldn’t be happier to be standing here today to celebrate the amazing person (Bride) is, and the amazing life she and (Partner) have created together.

There are so many traits that I love about (Bride). First, her wacky sense of humour and ability to find the funny moment in any situation – like the time she (insert relevant anecdote). Secondly, her thoughtfulness and generosity, especially when she (insert relevant anecdote). And finally, her ability to light up any room she walks into. (Bride), you look so beautiful tonight.

Now, onto (Partner). My first impression of (Partner) was that he was incredibly kind, friendly, and humble. All of these things are still true, but as I’ve gotten to know him better, I’ve also seen how hilariously goofy he can be. I’ll never forget when he (insert relevant anecdote). It was then I knew that he was “the one” for my best friend.

(Bride) and (Partner), you complement each other perfectly, and it’s easy to see how crazy you are about each other. I’m so honoured to call you my friends, and I can’t wait to see how you navigate this exciting next chapter together. I’ll leave with you a quote to take with you through marriage: (insert relevant quote). Here’s to (Bride) and (Partner)!”

Nailing Your Wedding Speech

Finally, don’t forget that practice makes perfect. Once you’ve crafted your maid of honor speech, spend some time rehearsing it before the day until you’re comfortable with your delivery. The more prepared you are, the more confident you’ll feel when the big moment comes!

And while the thought of writing a maid of honor speech can definitely be daunting, try not to put too much pressure on yourself. Simply speak authentically from the heart, and you can’t go wrong.

Want to be the best maid of honor ever? Read these 13 important maid of honor duties you can’t forget to do !

10 Creative Ways to Announce Your Engagement

Getting engaged is an incredible moment that both you and your partner will never forget. Here are 10 creative ways to announce your engagement!

How to Use Pinterest for Wedding Planning

How to Create Your Wedding Guest List

Ready to create your wedding guest list? Sit down with your fiancé and use this free worksheet to help you draw up your perfect wedding guest list!

Everything you need to plan a stress-free wedding—in one beautiful place.

One-time payment. Unlimited access.

Create and publish your own unique wedding website.

Send paperless invitations, capture online RSVP’s and manage your guest list.

Get your own personalized wedding planning dashboard to keep track of all your wedding tasks, budget expenses, and more.

See all plans

Speak 2 Impress

No products in the cart.

10 Heartfelt Maid of Honour Speech Examples for Your Sister’s Wedding

Crafting the perfect words for your sister\’s Maid of Honour speech can seem like a daunting task. Trust me, navigating through the sea of love and memories to find just the right things to say is something many of us struggle with.

Through diligent research and a sprinkle of creativity, I learned how to compose speeches that genuinely touch hearts. In this article, I’ll walk you through creating a memorable Maid of Honour speech that’s sure to bring laughter, tears, and warm affection to everyone listening.

Are you ready to embark on this journey?

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• Practice and prepare your speech beforehand to boost confidence and deliver it fluently.
• Make your Maid of Honor speech personal by sharing special memories and inside jokes with the bride.
• Add humor to keep the atmosphere light and make everyone smile during the wedding.
• Always speak from the heart , showing genuine love and support for the couple during your speech.
• End with a heartfelt toast , wishing happiness, love, and laughter for the newlyweds.

Tips for Crafting a Heartfelt Maid of Honor Speech

Craft a personalized speech to express your unique bond with the bride , share heartfelt memories , show gratitude to the couple, and include humor. Speak from the heart and end with a heartfelt toast to the couple.

Personalize the speech

Making your speech personal means everything when talking about your sister’s wedding. Start by introducing yourself and explaining how you’re related to the bride. This helps guests who might not know you understand your connection.

Then, dive into stories only you can tell . Mention those late-night talks or adventures that shaped both of you. These details bring warmth and authenticity to your words.

Next, add a special touch with memories or quotes that mean something just to the two of you. Maybe there’s a funny saying from your childhood or a moment that turned into an inside joke over the years.

These personal bits make everyone feel like they’re getting a glimpse into your unique bond . Now, let’s move on to sharing some heartfelt memories in the speech.

Share heartfelt memories

Reflect on the most cherished moments you’ve shared with your sister. Recall a fond childhood memory or a meaningful experience that encapsulates your special bond . Share anecdotes that highlight her kindness, strength, and unique qualities.

Emphasize the love and support you’ve provided each other throughout the years. Use these heartfelt memories to showcase the depth of your relationship and express your joy in celebrating her wedding day.

Crafting a memorable maid of honor speech is an opportunity to celebrate the bride in an authentic and touching manner, allowing you to create an emotional connection with both her and the audience.

Show gratitude to the couple

Maid of honor speeches provide a special moment to express gratitude to the couple for their love and friendship. It’s an opportunity to thank them for allowing you to share in their joyous occasion.

Expressing appreciation towards the bride and groom creates a warm and heartfelt connection with the audience, showcasing your genuine love and support for their union. Incorporating specific examples of how they have enriched your life will resonate deeply with everyone present at the wedding.

I hope this serves as inspiration when expressing gratitude towards the couple during your maid of honor speech at your sister’s wedding.

Include humor

Crafting a Maid of Honor speech for your sister’s wedding? Don’t forget to sprinkle in some humor ! It can lighten the mood and bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Share a funny anecdote from your childhood with your sister, or tease her playfully about something endearing.

Just keep it lighthearted and make sure it aligns with her personality. Remember , a well-timed joke can add that special touch to your speech, making it memorable for everyone attending the wedding.

Now let’s talk about adding humor to this important speech without overshadowing its heartfelt nature. Balancing wit and emotion is key here – think charming stories that also bring laughter.

Examples of Maid of Honor Speeches for a Sister’s Wedding

Here are some heartfelt maid of honor speeches for your sister’s wedding. To read more, click the link to our blog!

Speech focused on sisterly bond

As sisters , we’ve shared so many special moments together. From our childhood adventures to supporting each other through life’s ups and downs, our bond is unbreakable. I remember when we used to stay up late giggling and sharing secrets.

Now, as you embark on this new journey with your partner, I am filled with joy knowing that you have found someone who cherishes you just as much as I do. The love between siblings is a unique and precious thing; it’s a foundation of support that shapes us into who we are today.

Seeing the beautiful woman you have become fills my heart with pride. Today, I stand here celebrating not only your love for your partner but also the amazing person that you are. As we move forward in life, know that no matter where this journey takes us, our sisterly bond will always be a source of strength and comfort for both of us .

Speech highlighting the couple’s love story

Crafting a heartfelt speech that highlights the couple’s love story is essential. It can include how they met, their journey together, and the qualities that make their relationship special.

Adding personal anecdotes or experiences with the couple can also make this part of your speech more engaging and relatable for the audience. Expressing your joy for the couple’s love and recounting heartwarming moments between them during your speech can leave a lasting impact on everyone present.

Including well wishes for their future together can add a touching conclusion to this aspect of your maid of honor speech.

Speech expressing gratitude to the couple and family

Express heartfelt gratitude to the couple and family . Share specific reasons you’re grateful for their presence. Use anecdotes or special memories to show your appreciation, convey your best wishes for the couple’s future together .

Speech including funny anecdotes

Now, let’s add some humor to the speech. Share a funny story or two about your sister, maybe from when you were kids or recent adventures together. Remember to keep it light and relatable for everyone in the room.

Humor can bring warmth and laughter to the speech, making it even more memorable for everyone involved.

As I wrap up Shakespeare said “Brevity is the soul of wit.” It was challenging but essential to maintain clarity throughout each paragraph while keeping an active voice with short sentences at a Grade 6 readability level.

Speech filled with heartfelt wishes for the couple

As you express your heartfelt wishes for the couple, focus on their enduring happiness and unity. Share your genuine hopes for their future together as you toast to a lifetime of love and laughter .

Let them know that you believe in their love and wish them endless joy and prosperity . Express your support for their journey ahead with warmth and sincerity , capturing the essence of your bond with both bride and groom.

The Importance of a Maid of Honor Speech

Crafting a heartfelt Maid of Honor speech is crucial for honoring the bride and groom, bringing joy and laughter to the wedding, and celebrating the special relationship with the bride.

To discover more about how you can deliver an impactful Maid of Honor speech, read on!

Honoring the bride and groom

Honoring the bride and groom through a maid of honor speech allows me to celebrate their love and unity . Expressing heartfelt wishes for their happiness , prosperity, and growth is a key part of this special moment.

We can share stories that exemplify the bond between the couple, wishing them an ever-evolving partnership filled with joy and memorable moments from my perspective as their close friend or family member.

This is an opportunity to shine a light on their journey while offering them our unwavering support as they embark on this new chapter together.

Remember not all guests might be familiar with me or my connection to the bride, so introducing myself before delving into sharing memories ensures inclusivity in celebrating our loved ones .

Including photos from our past together makes this representation even more personal .

Bringing joy and laughter to the wedding

Bringing joy and laughter to the wedding is essential for creating a warm and celebratory atmosphere . As the Maid of Honor, I’ll infuse humor into my speech to lighten the mood and uplift everyone’s spirits.

By sharing lighthearted anecdotes about the bride and groom, I hope to create moments of shared laughter among guests – making them feel connected and joyful in celebrating this special occasion.

It’s important to balance humor with sincerity, ensuring that everyone leaves with heartwarming memories of love, laughter, and celebration.

The Maid of Honor plays a pivotal role in bringing joy and laughter to the wedding through their speech. Crafting an engaging narrative filled with joyous moments can enhance the overall experience for all in attendance.

Celebrating the special relationship with the bride

The bond between a maid of honor and the bride is truly special. Sharing personal anecdotes and memories can add a heartwarming touch to your speech. It’s also important to express hopes for the bride’s future and her connection with her partner, showcasing your love and support for her on this joyous occasion.

Crafting a maid of honor speech for your sister allows you to celebrate her in a heartfelt way, offering wishes for her happiness, prosperity, and growth. Remember that not all wedding guests may know who you are or how you’re related to the bride, so introducing yourself before diving into your speech is crucial.

Including photos from growing up together can also bring an intimate personalized feel to your words.

Tips for Delivering a Memorable Maid of Honor Speech

Deliver a heartfelt toast to the couple.

Speak from the heart and engage with the audience.

Practice and prepare beforehand

To deliver a memorable maid of honor speech, practice and prepare beforehand. This will boost your confidence and help you speak fluently . Rehearse the speech aloud several times to become comfortable with the content.

Familiarize yourself with the venue’s layout and location where you will be speaking, so you can adjust your projection accordingly.

Ensure that any visual aids or props are ready and easily accessible during your speech. By practicing in advance , you’ll be able to focus on delivering a heartfelt message rather than worrying about stumbling over your words during the actual wedding event.

Speak from the heart

Pace and project your words.

When delivering your maid of honour speech, remember to speak clearly and at a moderate pace .

Keep eye contact with the audience and ensure that your voice carries well throughout the room.

Projecting confidence in your words will captivate the attention of everyone present.

Engage with the audience

Now that you’ve set the tone and projected your words, it’s time to engage with the audience . Maintaining eye contact and speaking clearly will help connect with everyone present. Using relatable stories and inclusive language invites everyone to share in the joy of the occasion.

This helps create a warm atmosphere where everyone feels like they’re a part of something special.

End with a heartfelt toast to the couple.

As we raise our glasses , let’s wish the happy couple a lifetime filled with love , laughter, and cherished memories. Here’s to your love that grows stronger every day and brings joy to all those around you.

To the bride and groom – may your journey together be marked by endless happiness , unwavering support , and deep-seated affection. Cheers!

Moving right into the expert opinion, we turn to Lisa Chen, a renowned public speaking coach with over 15 years of experience. Lisa holds a master’s degree in Communication Studies and has helped countless individuals craft speeches that touch hearts and spark laughter.

Her work focuses on emotional connectivity through storytelling , an essential component for any maid of honor speech, particularly for one’s sister.

Lisa evaluates the crucial aspects of constructing a maid of honor speech. She highlights personalization as key . By weaving personal anecdotes and heartfelt memories into the speech, it becomes not just words but a narrative that captivates and moves the audience.

Lisa stresses that balancing emotion with humor can significantly enhance the effectiveness of the speech, creating an unforgettable moment for both the bride and guests.

On safety, ethics, and transparency in crafting these speeches, Lisa emphasizes honesty without oversharing sensitive or potentially embarrassing details . This approach maintains respect for all involved while still allowing depth and genuine sentiment to shine through.

For integrating these principles into daily life or specific contexts like weddings, she suggests starting early in preparation is crucial. Practice makes perfect; therefore practicing delivery ensures confidence when presenting.

Engaging with your audience by making eye contact helps in making them feel part of this special moment.

As for pros and cons compared to other options—like hiring professional writers—the advantage lies in authenticity; no one knows your sister like you do! The potential drawback? Navigating personal bias might require external feedback to ensure relatability to all attendees.

Finally, Lisa gives her verdict on “10 Heartfelt Maid of Honour Speech Examples for Your Sister’s Wedding.” She considers it invaluable—especially given examples draw from authentic experiences reflecting sincerity which resonates more than generic sentiments often found online.

Ryan Nelson is the founder of Speak2Impress, a platform dedicated to helping individuals master the art of public speaking. Despite having a crippling fear of public speaking for many years, Ryan overcame his anxiety through diligent practice and active participation in Toastmasters. Now residing in New York City, he is passionate about sharing his journey and techniques to empower others to speak with confidence and clarity.

Similar Posts

50 Engaging Monroe’s Motivated Sequence Topics for Persuasive Speeches

Are you struggling to find the perfect topic for your persuasive speech? As someone who once feared public speaking, I…

Sample Eulogy for Mother from Daughter: Honoring Her Legacy and Love

Crafting a eulogy for your mother feels like trying to scale an emotional Everest. I faced this daunting task myself…

30 Controversial Speech Topics to Engage Your Audience

Searching for that standout speech topic can feel like a quest in itself, especially when you want to ignite lively…

10 Minute Presentation Topics: 50 Unique Ideas to Engage Your Audience

Searching for the perfect topic for your 10-minute presentation can feel like hunting for a needle in a haystack. I…

Exploring the Disadvantages of Manuscript Speech: Pros and Cons Explained

Like many, the fear of public speaking was my constant companion. I remember those jittery moments too well, standing there…

Interactive Public Speaking Activities and Games for Students: Engaging Techniques to Enhance Speaking Skills

Public speaking can send shivers down the spine, and believe me, I’m no stranger to those nerves. After stepping into…

• Find A Supplier
• Wedding Dresses
• Real Weddings
• Wedding DIY
• Wedding Planning Tools
• Advertising With Us
• Modern Wedding Academy

Tips and Articles by category

Find a local wedding supplier, ultimate guide: how to write a maid of honour speech.

Modern Wedding Posted: January 15, 2020

So your best gal has asked you to be her maid of honour, how exciting! As you look forward to the incredible tasks of wedding dress shopping, hair trials and of course, planning the hen's party, you realise that you will also have a give a speech! Bit scary right? Well, don't worry, because we have the ultimate guide for how to write the most amazing maid of honour speech!

The True Honour...

Remember the deliciously cringe-worthy maid of honour speech ‘duel’ between characters Annie Walker and Helen Harris in the blockbuster movie Bridesmaids ? While extremely entertaining to watch, it was almost the perfect example of what not to do. This observation may be pretty obvious, but many maids of honour do find themselves scratching their heads wondering what they should say. As a relatively new addition to the wedding speech lineup, the maid of honour speech is somewhat of a blank canvas and the challenge is to not replicate what’s already being covered in other people’s speeches.

For The Expert...

Anita Stevens , Founder of Write It For Me , who specialises in writing customised wedding speeches for members of the bridal party, says the beauty of a maid of honour speech is that without any traditional roots or official ‘duties’ to deliver, the format and approach are pretty flexible. “You can pretty much make it your own, but ultimately you should focus your speech on two things: celebrating your friendship with the bride and celebrating her marriage”, she says. "It doesn’t need to be a tear-jerking, gushing account of how great your friend is. The maid of honour speech can be just as entertaining, heart-warming, and funny as the best man‘s – in fact, I encourage women to really try to give the best man a run for his money in the comedy department and knock it out of the park.” Here’s Anita’s ultimate guide to writing a knockout maid of honour speech!

Introduce yourself...

It might seem like a no-brainer but people often forget to introduce themselves. You need to tell people who you are and explain your relationship to the bride. This gives your speech context and helps people connect with what you’re about to say.

TIP: Don’t feel like you have to open with a joke. There’s nothing worse than leading with a forced joke that falls flat. Your confidence will take a hit and you’ll create an awkward vibe that you may find hard to recover from. Let the speech and the humour build around the stories – don’t force it.

Tell a story...

Like any good story, your speech needs a beginning, middle and an end. A clear, simple structure is like a road map for your audience – it helps them stay on track and if they do get distracted they won’t get lost.

TIP: Try this basic structure for a maid of honour speech.

1.     Introduce yourself – Tell people who you are and your relationship with the bride.

2.     Start with the bride – Talk about why she’s a good person and friend. Don’t just say, “She’s really great”, share a story about why she’s great.

3.     Share the love story – Share your version of how they met. What was her impression? What did she say? How did YOU know she had met The One?

4.     Compliment the groom – Say some nice things about the groom. Why he’s great for your friend, share some of the nice things he does for her.

5.     Celebrate the couple – Why they are great together, how their lives have changed for the better.

6.     Share some words of advice - Wish them wonderful things for the future or offer some pearls of wisdom. You could also insert a quote or poem at this point.

7.     Toast to the bride and groom - Raise your glass and say: “Here’s to the happy couple”, take and sip and you’re all done.

Inject humour but don’t force it...

Working humour into a speech is probably the hardest part. The best way to approach it is to write everything down and then look for the comedy. It might be a story about the bride or how the happy couple met. Comedy is everywhere – look to your stories and friends for inspiration if you’re having trouble.

TIP: If you’re not comfortable telling jokes or being funny then don’t. A genuine heartfelt speech beats try-hard humor every time. Be true to who you are. Oh and avoid internet jokes because a) they’re mostly terrible and b) people have heard them a million times.

Practice but don’t memorise...

Don’t feel you have to memorise your speech because you will only trip yourself up if you try. That’s not to say you shouldn’t practice. You should – a LOT. The trick is to know your speech well enough so that you only need to refer to your notes to jog your memory. The more you can look up and connect with the audience, the better.

TIP: When you practice you must read your speech out loud. You need to get a feel for the rhythm and it will help you weed out any awkward phrases and words that may trip you up.

Go easy on the anecdotes...

One or two anecdotes are enough. Avoid private or in-jokes because you will alienate people in the audience. Even if you fancy yourself as quite the entertainer, one or two good stories told well are much better than five average ones that seem to go on forever.

TIP: Avoid stories about drunken nights out or other really embarrassing moments. A little bit of embarrassment is funny but telling everyone about the time the bride wet her pants at school camp is not a good idea.

Less is more...

There’s nothing worse than a long wedding speech. Weddings guests are there for a good time, not a long time, and chances are you are not the only one speaking at the event. Brevity is good.

TIP: Aim to speak for no longer than five minutes. Any longer and you will probably start to see people looking at their watch or heading for the bar.

Be sure you've got it right - get it written!...

If you’re not a great public speaker or writer, why not hire a professional speechwriter to help you write your speech? Your bride and the guests will appreciate the gesture and you can relax and enjoy the event knowing you have the right words for your friend’s big day. Contact Anita at Write It For Me.

Most of all, remember a wedding is a happy occasion and the audience is having fun and they WANT you to succeed – so have some fun with it!

Via Dos And Don'ts Of Wedding Speeches

Special thanks to Anita Stevens for sharing how to write the perfect maid of honour speech! You can contact her [email protected] or connect with her on Facebook .

Popular Galleries

• Theming & Styling

From Our Blog

• Wedding Fashion
• Wedding Themes
• Wedding Hair & Beauty

Wedding Tools

• Seating Plan

ModernWedding.com.au

• Wedding Tools Login
• Advertising Information

You have Javascript turned off in your browser, some parts of this website may not display properly.

Maid of Honour Speech Examples

Maid of honour speeches are becoming really popular. It’s the chance to say a special thank you to the couple for asking you to play an important role in their wedding, plus tell some funny stories about the bride.It should be light-hearted, fun and have just the right amount of sentiment to allow for some aaahs! You’ll find plenty of memorable maid of honour speech examples here to inspire you.

Recently added to Hitched

Passion doesn’t always come easily. Discover your inner drive and find your true purpose in life.

From learning how to be your best self to navigating life’s everyday challenges.

Discover peace within today’s chaos. Take a moment to notice what’s happening now.

Gain inspiration from the lives of celebrities. Explore their stories for motivation and insight into achieving your dreams.

Where ordinary people become extraordinary, inspiring us all to make a difference.

Take a break with the most inspirational movies, TV shows, and books we have come across.

From being a better partner to interacting with a coworker, learn how to deepen your connections.

Take a look at the latest diet and exercise trends coming out. So while you're working hard, you're also working smart.

Sleep may be the most powerful tool in our well-being arsenal. So why is it so difficult?

Challenges can stem from distractions, lack of focus, or unclear goals. These strategies can help overcome daily obstacles.

Unlocking your creativity can help every aspect of your life, from innovation to problem-solving to personal growth.

How do you view wealth? Learn new insights, tools and strategies for a better relationship with your money.

How To Write A Killer Maid Of Honor Speech

Don't forget to make a toast.

Everyone knows how big the wedding industry is and just how much goes into wedding planning. Whether the couple has hired a professional wedding planner or simply put their bridal party to work, there's tons to do before the big day.

Aside from the wedding ceremony and reception details, there are also the best man and maid of honor duties to consider. For example, they're responsible for ensuring things go smoothly on the wedding day, planning the bachelor and bachelorette party, or helping the bride and groom with anything they might need. Among their duties are also the best man and maid of honor speeches.

Wedding speeches can cause a lot of anxiety for those making the wedding toast, and it's completely understandable. Finding the right words to say about your close friend or family member on her wedding day can be a challenge. When writing your maid of honor speech, word it in a way that tells the couple's love story but also highlights the best things about the bride and how they've been improved since being with her new husband.

RELATED: What Are the Different Types of Love – And Which One Is the Most Powerful?

Even if you know the bride well and have tons of inside jokes together, crafting a speech that entertains guests while casting her in the best light can be hard to balance. Whether it's your first or fifth time writing maid of honor toasts, there are a few tips and formats to keep in mind to ensure your speech is well received, memorable and makes the bride and groom feel special on their big day.

All you want is to be the best maid of honor to the bride, and we want to help you get there. Here's how to write a killer maid of honor speech that both the bride and groom, as well as all the guests at the wedding reception will remember. 

How To Write A Maid Of Honor Speech

Writing a maid of honor speech is a very personal process -- which is one of the reasons why it's so difficult. Every bride has their own idea of what they would want to be included in a speech, what things are off-limits and what would be important for the bride and her guests to hear from a maid of honor speech.

RELATED:  Boost Your Shot At Intimacy With This Psychological Love Eye Trick

This also makes it difficult to put together a hard and fast guideline of rules to follow when writing a maid of honor speech. Though every pride is different, there are some ground rules and templates that can be used as a starting point to use as a guide. 

Maid Of Honor Speech Outline 

In an ideal scenario, a well-executed maid of honor speech generally follows the below outline.

Step One: Say a few things about the bride

Sometimes the hardest part of writing a maid of honor speech is knowing where to start. It can be helpful to envision yourself standing up in front of the room and asking yourself, what would they want to know? 

A good starting point would be to introduce yourself and say how you know the bride. You may include an anecdote about how you met, but make sure you keep mentions of yourself light and keep the focus on the bride. For example, what was it that drew you to want to meet her initially? What are some of the positive qualities about her you recognized off the bat? Over time? 

Step Two: Say how happy you are for the bride and groom

Now that everyone knows who you are and how you know the bride, express how happy you are to be part of her special day, and how excited you are to see the new couple begin their lives together.

Step Three: Tell one personal story about you and the bride

This can be the hardest part about writing a maid of honor speech. You likely have so many fun stories you'd love to share, but for the sake of time stick to one. Try to have this story be something that everyone can relate to – maybe it's the time that she came up with an inventive solution to a problem you were met with while on a trip because she's so resourceful, or the time her spontaneity caused you to make friends with strangers.

RELATED:  These 5 Things Are What Keep Couples Connected and Strong

This can be a heartfelt story as well, of a time where she did something meaningful for you. Try to keep these stories light and fun and cast the bride in the best light.

Step Four: Say a few more positive things about the bride

After you've shared a personal story, build on the other positive attributes of the bride. Is she dependable? Fun? Hilarious? Giving? Think about the ways she's impacted your life for the better. Chances are the wedding guests who have showed up for her on her big day have been touched by her in that way, too, which will make your speech relatable. 

Step Five: Talk about why the bride and groom are great together

Hopefully, you've had the chance to get to know the bride's significant other well. But in the event that you haven't spent as much time with her new spouse as you might have liked for the sake of writing this speech, focus on how you've noticed how much happier she is since they've been together. 

RELATED: 22 Beautiful Wedding Quotes to Celebrate Love and Partnership

Step six: thank the bride and the family.

Planning a wedding is rarely ever a solo person effort. It's likely that in addition to the work and funds the bride and groom put forward to make this day happen, the families of the new couple likely contributed as well. While you don't need to necessarily call this out, thanking the bride and groom for making you part of their day, and their families for making this incredible event happen is always a good move. 

Step Seven: Make a wedding toast

Wondering how to end a maid of honor speech? With a toast! Wish the couple well and ask the room to join you in raising a glass to toast to the new couple. This might be the easiest (and most fun) part of the maid of honor speech, so don't skip it!

Maid Of Honor Speech Tips

Try freewriting. If you're having trouble starting your maid of honor speech, it could be because you feel the immense pressure to say the exact right thing. Freewriting, or writing your thoughts as you go, helps take the pressure off and allows you to get all of your feelings and thoughts about the bride down on paper. Set a timer and allow yourself to write for 20 minutes.

Think about all the positives about the bride, the memories you've shared, and any stories that you love to talk about her. At the end of your 20 minutes, you'll likely have plenty of material to pick and choose from for your maid of honor speech.

RELATED:  New Study Says Couples Who Use Pronouns ‘We’ and ‘Us’ Are Happier in Love

Keep it brief. How long should a maid of honor speech be? Keep your maid of honor speech under five minutes. Any longer than this, and people start to lose interest. Not to mention, there are other speeches that need to be made along with finding time for all the other wedding traditions. Before the wedding, it's a good idea to time your speech to ensure it's not too long.

Pause for responses. If you're someone who gets nervous speaking in front of people, it can be tempting to power through the entire speech without stopping to allow people to react. Make sure you give people space to react. Even if your speech isn't funny, you may be surprised at the "awws" or even applause that people feel compelled to give -- especially if they've had a few drinks at this point. Keep your speech well-paced and remember to incorporate breathing room. 

Maid Of Honor Speech Dos And Don’ts

Don't mention past relationships. This one might seem like a given, but it's an important one to avoid. Even if you did witness the bride kiss a lot of frogs before finding her prince, now is not the time to bring that up. Instead of focusing on past dating mishaps, including what was different about the person she's marrying and the positive attributes that drew her to him.

Do practice ahead of time. Even if you're a pro at public speaking, practicing your maid of honor speech to ensure you're familiar with it, that it's well-timed and doesn't run too long is a smart idea ahead of the big day. 

RELATED:  75 Relationship Quotes To Cherish The One You Love

Don't be generic . As much as possible, try to steer clear of generic phrases when talking about the bride and make the speech authentic to your friendship. Weddings are formal events, but if your friendship with the bride is funny and goofy, don't be afraid to interject that into your speech.

Do stay sober before the big speech. This can be difficult, especially during a long ceremony day. Only you know your relationship with alcohol and how it impacts you, so be mindful of how much you're drinking before you get up in front of a room full of wedding guests to give a speech. 

Maid Of Honor Speech Examples

Still having trouble writing your maid of honor speech? Here are a few maid of honor toast examples to help get the creative juices flowing. 

Speech for a Best Friend

Hi everyone. My name is [name], and I've known [Bride] since [childhood/high school/college] when she and I [insert story of how you met/bonded]. Having known her for [X] years, it makes me so happy to be able to stand up here today and celebrate her. 

If you know [Bride], you know how thoughtful she is -- she always takes care of others before herself. This is why I was so happy when she met [Groom], who is equally giving and has always made her his top priority -- even on their very first date, which he took the red-eye back for after a work trip because it worked best with [bride's] schedule.

RELATED: The Best Love Quotes for Him and Her

[Tell the story of your first impression of the groom]. Example: My first impression of [Groom] was that taking care of others was also important to him. He really went out of his way to make sure all of our friends had a great time at the restaurant we were at, even going out of his way to carry the drinks over to our table himself when he saw how busy our waitress was -- something that I could see [Bride] doing as well. 

Over the last [X] years, I've seen how happy being with [groom] has made [bride], and I'm so honored to be here to wish them well. [Bride] has truly met her match, and I can't wait to see what's in store for you both as you start your lives together.

Please join me in a toast to the new couple – as the character from our favorite TV show put it best, [insert love quote here]. Cheers to the happy couple!

Speech for a Sister

Thank you all for being here to celebrate my sister, [Bride]. I'm the youngest of five siblings, and being the only other girl, [bride] was forced to team up with me against our brothers. I've looked up to her in so many ways and continue to learn from her even in adulthood. She has always paved her own way, and I admire that about her. 

When [Bride] met [Groom], I knew instantly that something had changed. She seemed calmer and at ease. After meeting [Groom], it was clear that his easy-going nature and go with the flow attitude had rubbed off on my sister. [Groom] fits so well with our family, it almost feels like he's always been a part of it. I'm so excited to make that official today.

Let's raise a glass to toast the happy couple. I wish you both a lifetime of unconditional love and happiness and can't wait to see what the next chapter brings. Cheers!

Funny Maid of Honor Speech

Hi everyone, I'm [Name], and I've been [Bride's] best friend since we met on the playground in elementary school. We've come a long way since staking our claim on the best swings at recess. [Bride] has been friends with me through thick and thin, and there's nothing I wouldn't do for her. Including giving a maid of honor speech to a room full of strangers. 

Everyone who meets [Bride] likes her more than me, even my own cat, which is fair since she's absolutely my better half. She's selfless, hilarious and can turn any situation into a positive one. Even when [Groom] called her the wrong name on their blind first date, she stuck to it and played the role of [Name]. Luckily he got it right when he said "I Do" today.

RELATED:  Unconditional Love: What is It & How Do You Find It?

In all seriousness, I'm so happy [Bride] and [Groom] found one another. These two look at each other the way I look at the food being brought to my table at a restaurant. I know they're going to have a happy, beautiful life together...and I'm an ugly crier so I'm going to stop there. 

Let's raise a glass to the new couple. Wishing you both the best that life has to offer. Cheers!

Writing a maid of honor speech is an important job. This speech will likely be something that the couple refers back to throughout their lives, that gets played whenever they revisit their wedding video.

Writing a maid of honor speech can feel overwhelming but having a maid of honor speech template and maid of honor speech examples to refer back to can be a huge help. Overall, be authentic and show the bride in the best light. And don't forget to make a toast!

KEEP READING:

Social exchange theory: psychology’s most powerful relationship hack, explained, hot stories, man works at walmart deli - shocks the world when he qualifies for the olympics, bride is sad her mom will never meet her future husband - then falls in love with this man, white woman was afraid of her black colleague - 73 years later, they fought for their love and are happily married, interabled couple gets married despite naysayers, proving that love is for everyone, dan lok | my hero is my teacher, 14-year-old is told to abort pregnancy - now her baby’s a harvard-trained doctor, woman poses a question to dads online - video "backfired" for all the wrong reasons.

Women's Rights TikToker Gets Backlash After This Video

In the age of social media, thought-provoking questions can spark intense debates and emotional responses. Amanda Sharp is a hobbyist women's rights activist, and frequently uses TikTok to post her unique takes on the troubles women face in modern society.

Recently, Sharp posted a video on TikTok and found herself at the center of a storm when she posed a controversial question about safety and trust. Her video quickly went viral, drawing both support and criticism. But in the rush to respond, did her critics miss the deeper point she was trying to make?

A Provocative Question

Amanda Sharp's viral video featured a stark and unsettling question:

"Dads with daughters, would you rather have your little daughter be in the woods with a bear or a man? Maybe asking it this way will allow men some extra perspective of what women are saying because ask yourself this, and show me that you're not emotional about having to make that decision. That if your little girl's life depended on it and you had to choose one, the bear or the man, which would you choose? And I think your answer can absolutely make other men who just are so oblivious to what women are saying now understand."

Sharp's intent was clear — to highlight the pervasive fear and lack of trust women often feel towards unfamiliar men. By framing the question in such a stark manner, she hoped to provoke a deeper understanding among men about the anxieties women face. Unfortunately, it had the opposite effect.

Her Video "Backfired"

The internet's reaction was swift and harsh. Many TikTok users took to the comments to express their outrage, with some stating, "You shouldn't have access to children if you think this is a logical argument," and others simply questioning the rationale behind the choice: "The man. What kind of question is this?" With over 17K comments, it's safe to say the backlash was intense, with many accusing Sharp of fear-mongering and presenting an illogical scenario.

But was the criticism justified? Or were her detractors missing the underlying message?

Watch Amanda Sharp's Video

@amandaannsharp Say it louder and differently for the men in the back! Would you rather have your daughter in the woods with a man or bear. Your choice. #manorbear #bearorman #wouldyourather #daddydaughter #daughters #sayitlouder

Did Her Critics Miss The Point?

At its core, Amanda Sharp's question wasn't about literally choosing a bear over a man. It was an ethical and emotional probe designed to make fathers — and men in general — confront an uncomfortable truth. While of course, a parent's natural instinct would be to choose a human over a wild animal, the very hesitation and discomfort in making that choice reflect a broader societal issue: the mistrust and fear women often experience regarding their safety around men they do not know.

Sharp's video aimed to shine a light on the lived reality of many women. The point was not to suggest that a bear would be a safer option, but to illustrate the profound discomfort and fear that can arise even at the thought of a young girl alone with an unknown man. By posing such an extreme question, Sharp hoped to evoke empathy and understanding, encouraging men to recognize the severity of the issue.

The angry comments and backlash suggest that many viewers focused on the literal aspect of the question, missing the ethical dilemma Sharp was presenting. The real question she posed was about understanding and empathy, challenging men to think deeply about the fears and vulnerabilities women face daily.

Don't Be Afraid To Ask The Wrong Question

Amanda Sharp's viral video, despite the backlash, serves as an important conversation starter. It highlights the need for greater awareness and understanding of the fears and challenges women face in a society where trust can often be a luxury. By provoking such a strong reaction, Sharp succeeded in bringing a critical issue to the forefront of public discourse.

In the end, her question wasn't about choosing between a bear or a man; it was about recognizing the pervasive sense of danger and mistrust that many women live with. It was a call to action for men to acknowledge these fears and work towards creating a safer, more understanding world. Her critics may have missed the point, but the conversation she started is one worth continuing.

Woman Can’t Afford Rent - So She Moves in With Her 94-Year-Old Nonna

Man notices stranger's car was about to get a ticket - his response goes insanely viral, parents get trapped under car in tornado storm - their 9-year-old jumps into action, mom deliberately "ignored" her husband and kids to win race - and people are cheering, how tiffany haddish finally found the love she deserved, the disturbing and beautiful story behind danny trejo's salma hayek tattoo, the kardashian redemption - an uncensored documentary, how did betrayal connect jennifer aniston and selena gomez, subscribe to our newsletter, usher opens up on diddy's flavor camp, the great takedown of nickelodeon’s dan schneider - how even small voices have the power for impact, chris gardner beyond the pursuit of happyness: the work begins, 100 powerful motivational quotes to help you rise above, teen wins $40k scholarship - decides to give it all back for this reason.

Teen Wins $40K Scholarship But Gives It to Students In Need

Getting an education and strong grades are definitely important, and those values were certainly ones that a teen named Verda Annan grew up with. But she was also raised to understand the importance of community and giving back, so when she saw an opportunity to make an incredible difference in someone else’s life, she rose to the occasion.

A Surprise Donation

Woman sits down on a talk show with Steve Harvey

YouTube/Steve TV Show

At her high school graduation, 18-year-old Verda Annan had a lot to look forward to. She had just received a full ride to Harvard, and she had just accepted a $40,000 scholarship to help her pay for additional expenses.

But as she sat there, listening to her assistant principal give a speech, she really resonated with some of his ideas.

“It reminded me of a lot of the principles and values I was taught by mom and siblings and community in Ghana,” Annan recalled to Steve Harvey . “He talked about integrity and doing the right thing and kindness, all of these things that are just so right.”

Immediately, Annan knew the right thing to do would be to give the scholarship back and ask that it be used toward someone who needed it more. So she got up, returned to the mic, and asked for a couple of minutes of everyone’s time.

“I am so very grateful for this, but I also know that I am not the one who needs this the most,” she told the crowd. “Knowing my mom went to community college and how much that was helpful, I would be so very grateful if the administration would consider giving the general excellence award to someone who is going to the community college. It is such a great honor, but I also know I am not the most in need of it.”

Paying it Forward

Sitting down with Steve Harvey for his talk show, Annan explained that she had gotten to know her peers very well over her four years at the high school and knew that the money could help them achieve their dreams as well.

“I’ve gotten to know firsthand how strong they are but also how much there is a struggle and a need in the community, which is low-income and very diverse,” she explained. She added that, after coming to America from Ghana at the age of eight, her family had always instilled the importance of education but also opportunity and kindness .

“My mom always let us know education is one of our strongest tools to get us out of poverty,” she said. “[But] beyond grades, do things that are good. And not just for yourself.”

The 18-year-old cited how, earlier in her high school education, she had helped to create a community program for newcomers coming to the school for the first time, based on a need she saw.

“Keep your eyes open, what does the community need, what do people need to make their lives better and then go out of your way to do that, everyone can do that,” she added.

Inspiring Others

According to Annan, the school administration was unsure what to do with the $40,000 scholarship. So, they created a committee, and now the scholarship has been divided into $10,000 scholarships to help four students go to community college.

“Those students are students who kind of needed it, are very much deserving of it, great students of integrity and academics, and I’m so proud of that,” Annan said.

Annan's act affected more than those four students, though: it also inspired others to create change. Another donor decided to match the $40K, creating the opportunity for four more students to attend college the following year.

Meanwhile, another local charity heard what Annan did and was inspired. So it created a separate scholarship for community college students, too.

“I want to be someone who makes a difference in life,” Annan added. “I want to get the education and be in that place to help somebody else.”

Creating Lasting Change

Stories like Annan’s give everyone hope for the next generation and the belief that these kids will continue to create positivity in their corners of the world. But this story is also so beautiful because it reminds us how much one small act can ignite and inspire myriad others.

By standing up for change, making a donation, volunteering your time, or looking around your community to see how you can improve someone else’s life, you’re doing something good for someone else. That alone is amazing, but your act may also inspire others to do the same, which in turn creates a better community for us all.

Copyright © 2024 Goalcast

Get stories worth sharing delivered to your inbox

Maid of Honor Speech for Cousin (With 10 Examples)

• by Marisa Jenkins
• November 28, 2023

Being chosen as someone’s maid of honor is, well, a big honor; it means the bride sees you as one of the most important people in her life. Although the role comes with a lot of fun, there is also some pressure, because the spotlight will be on you during some parts of the celebration—such as giving a speech .

Your maid of honor speech for your cousin getting married should be heartfelt; it can express your well-wishes, happiness, and excitement for this new chapter of her life. Below are 10 examples that can inspire you as you write your own speech.

Lovely and Unforgettable Maid of Honor Speeches for Cousin

1. Good evening, ladies, gentlemen, and distinguished guests! How’s the food? Before I go ahead with my speech, I want to give a shout-out to everyone who helped make this magical night possible: Leanne, Sarah, and Bailey, our lovely bridesmaids; Kacey, our diligent wedding planner; the lovely couple’s parents for hosting the reception; and each vendor, like our photographers and caterers.

For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Riley. By birth, I’m her cousin. But by soul, she is my sister from another mother, my best friend, and my partner in crime.

We weren’t really close growing up. My side of the family lived in a different state until I was 13, and then we moved to the same area as Justine. We discovered our mutual love for video games, K-pop, and anime, and the rest was history.

Justine is one of the toughest, smartest, and brightest people I know. She touches so many lives with her kindness, and even if she doesn’t know you well, you can count on her to advocate for you.

Honestly, when I first met Brian, I was a bit worried at first. They had super similar personalities—both headstrong, both passionate, and both stubborn to a fault sometimes. I thought they would eventually clash or, worse, dim the other’s flame.

Boy, am I glad to be proven wrong. They empower each other, push each other to be the best version of themselves, and keep each other in check whenever necessary. People like to say likes repel and opposites attract, but they’ve never seen Brian and Justine in action.

As your maid of honor, cousin, and best friend, I want to congratulate both of you on this match made in heaven. I wish that you have a prosperous life and that you get everything you want—and, if not, I know you’ll both find a way to get it.

Cheers to the newlyweds!

2. Hello, everyone! I hope you’re having a pleasant evening so far. Feel free to continue eating the delicious dinner provided by our friends over at Sweet Sensations Wedding Catering while I make a speech for my dear cousin and the loveliest bride this part of California has ever seen.

For those of you who haven’t had the pleasure of meeting me yet, my name is Jocelyn. I’m Kaliya’s cousin, maid of honor, and honorary older sister .

Watching Kaliya grow up was a rollercoaster, to say the least. She wasn’t one to get into trouble, but every now and then, I’d hear from Aunt Marie that she bleached her hair pink again, or stayed over at a friend’s past curfew again, or what have you. However, she still got great grades and never got arrested—not all of us here can relate!

In my opinion, that is a testament to the fire in Kaliya’s soul. She is fierce, but she is kind; she is wild, but she is responsible; she puts herself first, but she never forgets anyone.

When she met Shane—funny, adventurous, and bright Shane—I knew that she had met her perfect match. They balanced each other out without dulling each other’s aura.

So, with that said, congratulations to our newlyweds, Mr. and Mrs. Cole-Kerrigan! Here’s to more wine and paint nights, backyard BBQs, and brunch in Malibu! Cheers!

3. What a day, huh? The celebrations are just beginning, so sit tight, enjoy your food, and listen to some sappy speeches .

If you don’t know who I am, maybe it’s time to go easy on the Champagne. Kidding aside, I’m Kim. Our star of the night, Christine, is my cousin. She gave me the honor—and additional work—of being her maid of honor.

We have a lot of funny, amazing, and wild memories growing up. I’d need the entire night just to get through half of them! But as soon as she texted me asking if I could be her maid of honor , one story immediately popped up in my head.

We were both 13 and in high school. It’s such an awkward time for everyone, and some people can be so mean. Even though Christine was part of the popular clique, she stood up for me when her friends were saying things about my acne and weight. From that point, I knew how brave and kind she was, and how she would never hesitate to be there for the people she loves.

I am so happy Christine fell in love with Joseph. Joseph is just as fiery and courageous, and they both love so passionately and selflessly that they deserve to have someone to remind them of what they’re worth.

To the new Mr. and Mrs. Higgs, congratulations on such a beautiful wedding, and may tonight be the start of your happy ever after. Love you both! Cheers!

4. Hey, y’all! My name is Lou, and Brittany is my fun, quirky, and gut-wrenchingly funny cousin. I hope you guys have been having the night of your life so far; none of this would be possible without the assistance of our hardworking planner, Lily, and the rest of the bridal crew and team of vendors.

I don’t want to make my speech too long so the others have more time to give theirs. However, to Mr. and Mrs. Lee, I wish you all the best this world has to offer; may you get the house of your dreams, the cutest army of corgis like you’ve always wanted, and good health. Raise a glass to the newlyweds, everybody!

5. Hi, everyone! I hope you’ve all been having a great time tonight.

I am so honored to stand here today as the maid of honor for my beautiful cousin, Rebecca. For those of you who haven’t had the pleasure of meeting me yet, I’m Jordyn, and I’ve been Bec’s partner-in-crime since we were little.

Growing up together, we shared more than just family gatherings; we shared secrets, laughter, tears, and angst. From childhood sleepovers to teenage heartbreaks, we’ve been through it all together. And today, it warms my heart to stand beside her as she embarks on this beautiful journey of love with Mark.

Bec, from the moment you told me about Mark, I already knew it was something special; I could see the twinkle in your eye. The way you talk about him, the way your face lights up when he walks into the room—everyone can tell that you’ve met your soulmate. You are a strong, beautiful, and compassionate woman, and I am beyond thrilled that you have fallen in love with someone who recognizes and appreciates the depth of your wonderful qualities.

Mark, from the bottom of my heart, thank you for making my cousin so happy. Over the years, you’ve made it clear how much you adore and respect her. I know that you will be there for her through thick and thin, just as she will be for you. You two are a perfect team, and I am so happy to officially welcome you into our family.

As we are all gathered here to celebrate the love between Bec and Mark, let’s remember that love is not just about finding the right person. Love is a commitment to creating the right relationship. It’s not just about finding someone to live with; it’s also about finding someone you can’t imagine living without.

So, let’s raise our glasses to Bec and Mark! May your love continue to grow and may your days be filled with joy, laughter, and lots of love. Cheers to the newlyweds! Thank you.

6. Friends and enemies,

I stand before you as the proud cousin and even prouder maid of honor of the most gorgeous bride, Mia. For those of you who don’t know me, I’m Lily, and I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Mia since the day I was born—literally.

Now, I know it’s common practice for the maid of honor to stand up here and tell you all about how wonderful and perfect the bride and groom are, but let’s be honest, you already know that. Instead, I thought I’d share the cute story of how Mia and Nick got together.

When they first started dating, Mia and I had a secret code. Well, I guess it won’t be a secret anymore after this. Whenever she was on a date with Nick, she would send me a text with a single emoji to let me know how it was going. A thumbs up meant it was going well, a thumbs down meant it was a disaster, and a shrug meant it was just meh .

After their first date, I received a thumbs-up. After their second date, I received another thumbs up. And after their third date, well, she sent me a text that only said, “I think I found the one.” Of course, I immediately responded with a wall of heart emojis and a demand for all the juicy details! She didn’t reply for 24 hours, which told me everything I needed to know.

It wasn’t long before I could see for myself just how perfect they were for each other. Nick, you make Mia laugh like no one else can, and Mia, you bring out the best in Nick in every way possible.

I am so happy that you two found your way to each other, and I am even happier that I get to stand here today and celebrate your love with all of these wonderful people.

Before I end this silly little speech, I have one piece of advice for the newlyweds. Mia, always remember that Nick is your partner, your teammate, and your biggest supporter. And Nick, never forget that Mia is your confidante, your rock, and your true love. Together, you two can conquer anything that comes your way.

Now, let’s raise a glass to the newlyweds . May your love be as endless as your wedding ring, and may your days be filled with laughter, love, and lots of thumbs-up emojis.

Cheers to Mr. and Mrs. Smith-Drews! Thank you.

7. Good evening to all our esteemed guests. My name is Sophia, and I stand before you today, not only as Bea’s maid of honor but also as her cousin and lifelong friend. It’s an honor to stand beside her on this special day.

Bea, from playing with Barbie dolls as children to achieving all our dreams one by one as adults, we’ve been through so much together. Today, as I see you holding hands with the love of your life, I can’t help but feel emotional. You look absolutely radiant, and I am so incredibly happy for you.

Ross, thank you for being the witty, caring, and compassionate man that you are. You make Bea so happy, and that’s the most important thing for me. Your love and respect for each other shine through in everything you do, and I am confident that together, you will build a beautiful life.

As we stand here today, surrounded by our friends and family, I am reminded of the strength and beauty of love. Bea and Ross, your love story is inspiring, and I am so grateful that I get to be a part of it.

So, let’s put our hands together to love, to laughter, and to happily ever after.

Cheers to Mr. and Mrs. Myers! Thank you.

8. Hey, everyone! It’s been such a lovely night, hasn’t it? I hope everyone’s having fun, and if not, there’s an open bar to your left with amazing cocktails!

For those of you I haven’t approached and talked to yet, my name is Erica. I am Sabrina’s cousin, maid of honor, travel buddy, Etsy purchase enabler, and best friend. We’ve been inseparable since the golden days of kindergarten when we both entered the classroom wearing our finest Harry Potter shirts.

Not much has changed since kindergarten. Nowadays, Sabrina is still as soft-spoken, smart, and logical as she was when a boy stole my pack of crayons, and she managed to have him give it back without any threat of violence or telling on mothers. Sabrina is still that friend who will let you cry on her shoulder, give you tight hugs, and ask for permission from the teacher to let you go to the restroom when you’re too shy to do it yourself.

When she first introduced me to Michael, I already saw how special their connection was. Michael is outgoing whereas Sabrina usually prefers to keep to herself; Michael is spontaneous whereas Sabrina is a meticulous planner. Michael tells jokes that make Sabrina double over in laughter. Sabrina gives the best pep talks that add a little spring in Michael’s step during stressful times.

On this lovely spring day, we witnessed what true love actually looks like. Congratulations to the newlyweds, Mr. and Mrs. Perez! May life treat you as kindly and generously as possible, and may you achieve all your dreams and reach all the anniversaries. Cheers!

9. I am incredibly honored to stand here today as Charli’s maid of honor. For those of you who haven’t had the pleasure of meeting me yet, my name is Stephanie, and I am Charli’s cousin and best friend.

Charli, from the days we spent playing hide and seek to our adult days of sharing our deepest secrets, we have been through the ups and downs of life. You have been one of the constants in this ever-changing world. Today, as I see you standing here, about to begin a new chapter in your life, I am filled with pride and joy.

You are the most beautiful bride, and I know that Harry is the luckiest man to have you by his side.

Harry, thank you for being the person who makes Charli’s eyes sparkle with unbridled happiness. It’s evident to me and to everyone who sees you that you cherish and adore her, and I know that together, you will create a lifetime of beautiful memories.

Today, as we celebrate your love and commitment, I am reminded of a quote from Audrey Hepburn: “The best thing to hold onto in life is each other.” Charli and Harry, may you always hold onto each other through the good times and the bad, and may your love continue to grow stronger with each passing day.

So, let’s raise our glasses and toast to true love, to new beginnings, and to a lifetime of happiness.

Cheers to Charli and Harry!

10. Hi, everyone! I hope all of you are having as much fun as I am tonight. Before I start my speech, I want to thank [ name of the bride ] for the honor of choosing me as her maid of honor. I have had a blast going through the adventure of planning a wedding with you and our awesome bridal crew.

If you don’t know who I am, my name is [ your name ] and I am the bride’s cousin. We were super close growing up because [ explain your childhood and how you became close ]. Now, I think of her as the sister I never had. 

Words cannot express how happy I am that [ name of the bride ] found [ name of the groom ]. [ Describe their personalities and how they complement each other ]. If I didn’t believe in soulmates before, I would after seeing them together.

From the time [ describe a childhood anecdote with the bride ] to today, where we spend our time [ describe how you hang out with the bride ], I’ve known you as a kind, compassionate, and loving person. I have no doubt that you will thrive in this new chapter of your life.

[ Name of the groom ], you are passionate and driven, but still so humble and good-hearted. It has been a pleasure getting to know you over the years, and I can’t wait to make new memories with [ name of the bride ] and you as my cousin-in-law.

Congratulations on the gorgeous wedding, you two! I wish you all the best this world has to offer. Cheers!

Final Thoughts

Weddings are joyful, wonderful celebrations. When someone close to you like your cousin is the one getting married, your heart can almost burst with the happiness and excitement you feel.

Giving a maid of honor speech for your cousin is your opportunity to tell them how thrilled you are for them. Share your story, make a joke here or there, and wish them well on this new journey.

Marisa Jenkins

Marisa Jenkins is a wedding planner and event coordinator. Her main goal for WeddingFrontier.com is to simplify the wedding planning process by sharing her years of expertise in the industry.

You May Also Like

Symbolic Wedding Ceremony Explained (+Pros & Cons)

• October 31, 2023

Thank You Note for Wedding Guests: 20 Examples & Templates

• May 27, 2024

100 Wedding Toasts to Inspire Your Perfect Speech

Ask a bridesmaid.

May 31, 2024

Headline-making CEO, Author, Podcaster, Speaker, Educator, Determinista & the Sidekick who always brings a sizzling slice of pizza.

Hey, i'm jen glantz.

Writing a wedding toast can be an intimidating task, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re the best man, maid of honor, or a close friend of the couple, having a well-prepared toast can make all the difference in setting the tone for a memorable celebration. This extensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about crafting the perfect wedding toast, providing you with 70 examples across various categories to suit any wedding style.

In this comprehensive blog, we’ll cover the essential criteria for a memorable wedding toast , from understanding the structure and flow to incorporating personal anecdotes and humor. You’ll learn how to balance sentimentality with lighthearted moments, ensuring your toast resonates with the couple and the audience. We will provide detailed examples, categorized to fit different personalities and wedding themes, whether traditional, modern, humorous, or sentimental.

Additionally, we’ll offer practical tips to help you deliver your toast confidently, from managing nerves to mastering your timing and delivery. By the end of this guide, you’ll have all the tools and inspiration needed to create a heartfelt and unforgettable wedding toast that will leave a lasting impression on the newlyweds and their guests.

Let’s dive in and explore the art of writing a wedding toast, so you can raise your glass with pride and make this special moment truly remarkable!

Quick Resources:

• Use our speech and vow generator.   Write an engaging wedding toast that’s guaranteed to be memorable (for the right reasons).
• Book a 30-minute speech delivery session . Get expert help on how to deliver your speech so the jokes land and the audience listens.

Table of Contents

• Understand the criteria for a memorable wedding toast: personal connection, length and structure, tone and audience, practice and delivery.
• Explore various types of wedding toasts: traditional, humorous, emotional, quirky, and cultural.
• Use wedding toast templates and quotes to enhance your speech.
• Practice your toast multiple times to ensure smooth delivery.
• Bridesmaid for Hire offers services to write personalized wedding toasts and provides public speaking coaching for confident delivery.

Crafting a Memorable Wedding Toast

Crafting a truly unforgettable wedding toast is an art that involves weaving together several essential elements. These key criteria ensure that your words resonate not only with the couple but also with everyone gathered to celebrate their love and union. Let’s delve into each of these criteria to understand how they contribute to creating a toast that leaves a lasting impression:

Personal Connection

To make your toast meaningful, it should reflect your relationship with the couple. Use specific anecdotes or stories that highlight your connection. For example, you could share a funny story about how you met the groom in college and instantly knew he would make an amazing husband one day. Or recount a touching moment when the bride was there for you during a difficult time, showcasing her compassion and loyalty. The more personal and unique the details, the more heartfelt and genuine your toast will be.

Length and Structure

Your toast should be concise, usually around 3-5 minutes. Any longer and you risk losing the audience’s attention. To keep your toast focused and impactful, structure it with a clear beginning, middle, and end. Start with an attention-grabbing introduction, like a quote about love or marriage. Then share your main story or message in the body. Finally, conclude with a heartfelt wish for the couple’s future together. Having a solid structure will help you stay on track and avoid awkward tangents.

Tone and Audience

The right tone is key for a great wedding toast. You want to balance humor with sincerity. A few lighthearted jokes can help put everyone at ease, but don’t let them overshadow the heartfelt sentiment. It’s also crucial to consider your audience. A room full of grandparents and young children may not appreciate off-color humor or inside jokes. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and keep things respectful and inclusive.

Practice and Delivery

Even the most beautifully written toast can fall flat without practice and good delivery. Rehearse your toast multiple times leading up to the big day. Read it out loud to get a feel for the pacing and flow. Practice making eye contact while you speak, rather than staring down at your notes. Focus on projecting your voice so those in the back can hear you. The more comfortable and confident you appear, the more engaged your audience will be. With enough practice, you’ll be able to deliver your toast smoothly and genuinely.

10 Traditional Wedding Toast Examples

Traditional wedding toasts are often short and sweet, focusing on universal themes of love, happiness, and the future ahead. They are timeless and heartfelt, capturing the essence of the occasion while conveying genuine emotions and well-wishes. These toasts are perfect for expressing your joy and admiration for the newlyweds in a concise and meaningful way. Here are some examples:

1. Best Man – Sentimental

Ladies and gentlemen, if I could have your attention, please! For those of you who don’t know me, I’m [Best Man’s Name], the best man and, more importantly, a lifelong friend of [Groom’s Name]. It’s an absolute honor to stand here today and share a few words about my best friend and his incredible bride.

[Groom’s Name] and I have been through thick and thin together. We’ve shared countless adventures, from our mischievous school days to our wild college years. Through it all, [Groom’s Name] has always been the one constant in my life, a friend who would drop everything to help you out, no questions asked.

When [Groom’s Name] met [Bride’s Name], it was clear that something special was happening. I’ve never seen him so happy, so full of life. [Bride’s Name], you’ve brought out the best in him, and for that, I am eternally grateful. You complement each other perfectly, and it’s evident that your love is built on a foundation of mutual respect, trust, and an abundance of laughter.

As I look at both of you today, I see a future filled with joy, adventure, and love. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness, to creating memories that will last a lifetime, and to always finding strength in each other.

Ladies and gentlemen, please raise your glasses and join me in toasting the newlyweds, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. May your life together be filled with love and endless laughter. Cheers!

 2. Maid of Honor – Humorous

Hello, everyone! For those who don’t know me, I’m [Maid of Honor’s Name], the maid of honor and [Bride’s Name]’s best friend. Today is a special day, and I promise to keep this toast short and sweet, just like [Bride’s Name].

I’ve known [Bride’s Name] for years, and let me tell you, she is one of the most amazing, funny, and slightly crazy people I know. We’ve shared countless memories, from late-night talks to our many misadventures that I probably shouldn’t mention here. But through it all, [Bride’s Name] has always been there for me, and I couldn’t ask for a better friend.

When [Bride’s Name] met [Groom’s Name], I knew something was different. Suddenly, she had this sparkle in her eye, and she couldn’t stop talking about this incredible guy she had met. [Groom’s Name], you are truly special, and it’s clear you make [Bride’s Name] incredibly happy.

Now, as we celebrate this beautiful union, I want to share a little advice with the happy couple. Remember, marriage is a partnership, and it’s essential to keep the romance alive. So, [Groom’s Name], don’t forget to bring home flowers for no reason, and [Bride’s Name], always pretend to love his cooking, even when it’s a disaster.

So, here’s to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. May your life together be filled with love, laughter, and endless adventures. Cheers!

3. Father of the Bride – Proud and Emotional

Good evening, everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m [Father’s Name], the proud father of the beautiful bride. Today is a day of immense joy and pride for me as I witness my daughter, [Bride’s Name], marry the love of her life.

From the moment [Bride’s Name] was born, she has been a source of immense pride and joy for our family. Watching her grow into the amazing woman she is today has been one of the greatest blessings of my life. She is strong, intelligent, kind, and beautiful inside and out.

When [Bride’s Name] introduced us to [Groom’s Name], I knew immediately that he was special. He has a kind heart, a good soul, and it’s clear that he loves my daughter deeply. [Groom’s Name], thank you for making [Bride’s Name] so happy and for becoming a part of our family.

As you embark on this new journey together, I want to share a piece of advice that has served me well in my own marriage: always communicate openly, support each other through thick and thin, and never forget to laugh together. Life will bring its challenges, but with love and commitment, you can overcome anything.

Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in raising a glass to the newlyweds, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. May your life together be filled with love, joy, and endless happiness. Cheers!

 4. Mother of the Groom – Warm and Welcoming

Hello, everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m [Mother’s Name], the proud mother of the groom. Today is a day of joy and celebration as we witness the union of two wonderful people, [Groom’s Name] and [Bride’s Name].

[Groom’s Name] has always been a source of immense pride for our family. He is compassionate, hardworking, and has a heart of gold. Watching him grow into the man he is today has been one of the greatest joys of my life. And now, seeing him marry the love of his life fills my heart with even more happiness.

[Bride’s Name], from the moment we met you, we knew you were special. You bring out the best in [Groom’s Name], and it’s clear that you two are a perfect match. You are kind, loving, and have become an integral part of our family. We are so grateful to have you as our daughter-in-law.

As you embark on this new chapter together, I want to share a little wisdom that has been passed down in our family: always cherish each other, never take each other for granted, and remember to show appreciation every day. Love is a beautiful journey, and it’s the little moments that make it truly special.

Ladies and gentlemen, please raise your glasses and join me in toasting the newlyweds, [Groom’s Name] and [Bride’s Name]. May your life together be filled with endless love, joy, and laughter. Cheers!

5. Best Friend – Touching and Personal

Good evening, everyone! For those who don’t know me, I’m [Best Friend’s Name], and I’ve had the pleasure of being friends with [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] for many years. Today is an incredibly special day, and I’m honored to stand here and share a few words about these two amazing people.

[Bride’s Name] and I have shared so many wonderful memories together. We’ve laughed, cried, and supported each other through life’s ups and downs. She is one of the most genuine, kind-hearted, and beautiful souls I know. And when she met [Groom’s Name], I knew she had found someone who truly appreciates and loves her for who she is.

[Groom’s Name], you have not only become a great friend to me but also the perfect partner for [Bride’s Name]. Your love and commitment to each other are truly inspiring. Together, you make a fantastic team, and it’s clear that you bring out the best in each other.

As you embark on this new journey as husband and wife, I want to offer a piece of advice that I’ve learned from my own experiences: always communicate openly and honestly, support each other’s dreams, and never forget to make time for fun and laughter. Marriage is a beautiful adventure, and with love and dedication, it only gets better with time.

Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in raising a glass to the newlyweds, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. May your life together be filled with love, happiness, and countless cherished moments. Cheers!

6. Sibling – Heartfelt and Fun

Hello, everyone! For those who don’t know me, I’m [Sibling’s Name], [Bride’s Name]’s sibling. Today is a day of immense joy and celebration, and I couldn’t be happier to stand here and share a few words about my amazing sister and her wonderful husband, [Groom’s Name].

Growing up with [Bride’s Name] was always an adventure. From our childhood antics to our teenage shenanigans, we’ve shared so many incredible memories. [Bride’s Name], you have always been my best friend, my confidant, and my partner in crime. You are strong, beautiful, and have a heart of gold.

When [Bride’s Name] met [Groom’s Name], it was clear that they were meant to be. [Groom’s Name], you have become a brother to me, and I am so grateful for the love and happiness you bring to my sister’s life. Together, you make a fantastic couple, and it’s clear that your love is built on a foundation of mutual respect, trust, and endless laughter.

As you embark on this new chapter together, I want to share a piece of advice that has always been important in our family: always support each other, communicate openly, and never forget to have fun. Life is full of challenges, but with love and commitment, you can overcome anything.

Ladies and gentlemen, please raise your glasses and join me in toasting the newlyweds, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. May your life together be filled with love, joy, and endless adventures. Cheers!

7. Close Friend – Inspirational and Warm

Good evening, everyone! For those who don’t know me, I’m [Friend’s Name], a close friend of both [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. It is an absolute honor to stand here today and celebrate the love and commitment of two incredible people.

I’ve had the pleasure of knowing [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] for many years, and their love story is truly inspiring.

They are both kind, compassionate, and have hearts of gold. Watching their relationship grow and flourish has been a joy, and it’s clear that they are a perfect match.

[Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], you have shown us all what true love looks like. Your unwavering support for each other, your ability to find joy in the little things, and your commitment to always lifting each other up are qualities that we all admire.

As you embark on this new journey together, I want to share a piece of wisdom that has always resonated with me: love is not just about finding the right person, but about being the right person. Continue to nurture your love, communicate openly, and always strive to be the best partners you can be.

Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in raising a glass to the newlyweds, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. May your life together be filled with endless love, joy, and cherished moments. Cheers!

8. Cousin – Nostalgic and Loving

Hello, everyone! For those who don’t know me, I’m [Cousin’s Name], [Bride’s Name]’s cousin. Today is a day of immense joy and celebration, and I am so grateful to be here to witness the union of two amazing people.

Growing up with [Bride’s Name] was always an adventure. From our family gatherings to our late-night talks, we’ve shared so many wonderful memories. [Bride’s Name], you have always been more than just a cousin to me; you are a sister and a dear friend. You are kind, beautiful, and have a heart of gold.

When [Bride’s Name] met [Groom’s Name], it was clear that they were meant to be. [Groom’s Name], you have become a part of our family, and we are so grateful for the love and happiness you bring to [Bride’s Name]’s life. Together, you make a fantastic couple, and it’s clear that your love is built on a foundation of mutual respect, trust, and endless laughter.

9. College Friend – Fun and Light-hearted

Hello, everyone! For those who don’t know me, I’m [Friend’s Name], and I had the pleasure of meeting [Groom’s Name] during our college years. It’s an honor to stand here today and share a few words about my great friend and his wonderful bride, [Bride’s Name].

College was a time of discovery, late-night study sessions, and unforgettable memories. [Groom’s Name] and I shared many of those moments together, and I can honestly say that he is one of the most genuine and kind-hearted people I’ve ever met. He was always the life of the party, but also the first to lend a helping hand when you needed it.

When [Groom’s Name] met [Bride’s Name], we all noticed a change in him. He was happier, more grounded, and completely smitten. [Bride’s Name], you have brought out the best in [Groom’s Name], and for that, we are all incredibly grateful. Together, you make an amazing couple, and it’s clear that your love is built on a strong foundation of friendship and mutual respect.

As you embark on this new chapter together, I want to offer a little advice: never stop having fun. Keep the spark alive, continue to laugh together, and always cherish the moments that make your love unique.

Ladies and gentlemen, please raise your glasses and join me in toasting the newlyweds, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. May your life together be filled with endless joy, love, and laughter. Cheers!

 10. Aunt/Uncle – Wise and Encouraging

Good evening, everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m [Aunt/Uncle’s Name], and I have the great honor of being [Bride’s/Groom’s Name]’s aunt/uncle. Today is a day of immense joy as we celebrate the union of two wonderful people.

I’ve had the pleasure of watching [Bride’s/Groom’s Name] grow into the amazing person they are today. They have always been a source of pride and joy for our family, and seeing them find true love with [Groom’s/Bride’s Name] is a blessing beyond words.

[Bride’s/Groom’s Name], from the moment we met you, we knew you were special. You bring out the best in [Bride’s/Groom’s Name], and it’s clear that you two are a perfect match. Together, you have a love that is strong, pure, and inspiring.

As you embark on this new journey together, I want to share a piece of wisdom that has been important in our family: always nurture your love, communicate openly, and support each other through life’s challenges. Marriage is a partnership, and with love and dedication, you can overcome anything.

These traditional toasts are classic for a reason – they’re simple, easy to remember, and universally relatable. They focus on the key elements of a happy marriage: love, laughter, and companionship. Delivering one of these tried-and-true blessings is a surefire way to wish the couple well.

How to Personalize Traditional Toasts

While traditional toasts are often generic, you can personalize them by adding specific anecdotes or stories about the couple. For instance, after delivering the classic line “to love, laughter, and happily ever after,” you could follow up with a story that embodies those qualities. Maybe it’s the time the groom accidentally wore mismatched shoes to his first date with the bride, proving that laughter has been a key part of their relationship from the start. Or perhaps you recount how the bride nursed her partner through a serious illness, exemplifying the depth of their love and commitment. Adding these personal touches will make even the most traditional toast feel unique and meaningful to the couple and the audience.

10 Humorous Wedding Toast Examples

Adding a touch of humor to your wedding toast can make the moment memorable and bring joy to the celebration. Whether you’re the best man, maid of honor, or a close friend, a funny toast can break the ice and get everyone laughing. Not only does a humorous toast lighten the mood, but it also helps everyone feel more relaxed and engaged. It’s a great way to highlight the fun side of the couple’s relationship and to share amusing anecdotes that everyone can enjoy.

When crafting a humorous wedding toast, it’s important to balance the jokes with heartfelt sentiments. You want to make sure that the humor is appropriate and that it complements the love and respect you have for the couple. A well-delivered funny toast can leave a lasting impression and create a memorable experience for everyone present. To help you get started, here are 10 full-length examples of humorous wedding toasts to inspire you:

1: Best Man – Lighthearted and Fun

Ladies and gentlemen, if I could have your attention, please! For those who don’t know me, I’m [Best Man’s Name], and I’ve had the pleasure of knowing [Groom’s Name] since our college days. I’ve seen him do some pretty incredible things, like the time he tried to cook pasta without water. But today, I’m witnessing his most amazing feat yet: marrying the love of his life, [Bride’s Name].

[Groom’s Name], I always knew you’d find someone who could tolerate your snoring, your obsession with fantasy football, and your questionable dance moves. And [Bride’s Name], you are a saint for loving him through it all. Here’s to love, laughter, and a happily ever after. Cheers!

2: Maid of Honor – Witty and Charming

Good evening, everyone! For those who don’t know me, I’m [Maid of Honor’s Name], [Bride’s Name]’s best friend and partner in crime. I remember the first time [Bride’s Name] mentioned [Groom’s Name]. She said, “He’s the one.” And I thought, “The one what? The one who’s going to eat all your fries?”

But seriously, seeing you two together has restored my faith in love and maybe even in fairy tales. [Groom’s Name], you’ve found a princess, and [Bride’s Name], you’ve found your prince… or at least a guy who won’t mind watching Disney movies with you. Here’s to a lifetime of magical moments. Cheers!

3: Father of the Bride – Amusing and Endearing

Good evening, everyone. I’m [Father’s Name], proud father of the beautiful bride. When [Bride’s Name] was a little girl, she used to tell me she wanted to marry someone just like me. Well, [Groom’s Name], I guess you’re stuck with her now!

In all seriousness, I couldn’t have asked for a better person to marry my daughter. [Groom’s Name], welcome to the family. [Bride’s Name], you’ve always made me proud. Here’s to the two of you sharing a lifetime of love, laughter, and endless dad jokes. Cheers!

 4: Sister of the Groom – Playful and Sweet

Hello, everyone! For those who don’t know me, I’m [Sister’s Name], [Groom’s Name]’s sister. Growing up with [Groom’s Name] was like living with a tornado. A very messy, very noisy tornado. But today, he’s finally met his match in the calm and collected [Bride’s Name].

[Bride’s Name], I hope you’re ready for a lifetime of misplaced socks, burnt toast, and spontaneous dance parties. But I know you two will tackle everything together with love and laughter. Here’s to the whirlwind romance of [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. Cheers!

5: Friend of the Bride – Sarcastic and Heartfelt

Hi, everyone! I’m [Friend’s Name], [Bride’s Name]’s friend and confidant. When [Bride’s Name] first told me about [Groom’s Name], I thought, “Great, another guy who’s going to steal my friend away.” But then I met him, and I thought, “Okay, maybe he’s worth it.”

[Groom’s Name], you’ve not only stolen [Bride’s Name]’s heart but also her terrible taste in reality TV shows. But I couldn’t be happier for you both. Here’s to a lifetime of bad TV, great love, and endless laughter. Cheers!

6: Mother of the Groom – Funny and Affectionate

Good evening, everyone. I’m [Mother’s Name], [Groom’s Name]’s proud mother. When [Groom’s Name] was born, I never imagined he’d grow up to marry someone as wonderful as [Bride’s Name]. Mostly because he refused to wear pants for the first five years of his life.

[Bride’s Name], you’ve brought out the best in my son. [Groom’s Name], always remember how lucky you are. And [Bride’s Name], always remind him of how lucky he is. Here’s to a future filled with love, laughter, and pants. Cheers!

7: Brother of the Bride – Hilarious and Honest

Hi, everyone! I’m [Brother’s Name], [Bride’s Name]’s brother. Growing up with [Bride’s Name] was like living with a tornado. A very neat, very bossy tornado. But today, I see her marrying someone who can handle all that and more: [Groom’s Name].

[Groom’s Name], welcome to the family. You’ve got a lifetime of unsolicited advice ahead of you. [Bride’s Name], you’ve found your perfect match. Here’s to the whirlwind of love that is [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. Cheers!

8: College Friend – Humorous and Heartfelt

Hello, everyone! I’m [Friend’s Name], and I’ve known [Groom’s Name] since college. We’ve shared many late-night study sessions, epic parties, and questionable decisions. But marrying [Bride’s Name] is by far the best decision he’s ever made.

[Bride’s Name], you’ve not only captured [Groom’s Name]’s heart but also his ability to make everything a competition. Here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and friendly rivalry. Cheers!

9: Co-worker – Funny and Genuine

Good evening, everyone. I’m [Co-worker’s Name], and I’ve had the pleasure of working with [Groom’s Name] for the past few years. If you’ve ever seen him at work, you know he’s dedicated, hardworking, and always up for a challenge. Except when it comes to keeping his desk clean.

[Bride’s Name], you’ve taken on the ultimate challenge: loving [Groom’s Name]. And you’re doing an amazing job. Here’s to a future filled with love, laughter, and maybe a little more organization. Cheers!

10: Neighbor – Amusing and Warm

Hello, everyone! I’m [Neighbor’s Name], and I’ve had the joy of living next door to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. I’ve seen their love grow through shared dinners, loud game nights, and the occasional borrowed lawnmower.

[Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], you’ve built a beautiful life together, one that’s filled with love and laughter. Here’s to many more years of neighborly love and joy. Cheers!

Balancing Humor and Sincerity

When delivering a humorous toast, it’s essential to balance the jokes with sincerity to ensure the couple feels honored and respected. Aim for a 70/30 split, with the majority of your toast focused on heartfelt sentiment. You can start off with a few lighthearted lines to get the crowd laughing, but then pivot to sharing what you genuinely love and admire about the couple.

For example, you might make a joke about how the groom’s dance moves at the reception prove he’s finally overcome his fear of rhythm. But then use that as a segue to talk about how he’s courageously overcome other obstacles in life with his partner’s steadfast support. Or poke fun at the bride’s obsession with color-coding everything for the wedding, but then highlight how that attention to detail is one of the many reasons she’ll make an incredible wife and partner.

Remember, a bit of humor is the icing on the wedding cake, but sincerity is the rich, delicious layers underneath. Make sure your toast reflects that balance.

10 Emotional Wedding Toast Examples

Emotional wedding toasts can create a memorable and touching moment. Here are some examples:

Wedding toasts that are heartfelt and emotional can touch the hearts of everyone present, leaving a lasting impression on the happy couple and their guests. These toasts are perfect for expressing deep love, gratitude, and well-wishes. Here are 10 full-length examples of emotional wedding toasts to inspire you:

1: Best Man – Deeply Moving

Ladies and gentlemen, if I could have your attention, please. I’m [Best Man’s Name], and I’ve known [Groom’s Name] for many years. Today, I stand before you to celebrate the beautiful union of [Groom’s Name] and [Bride’s Name]. [Groom’s Name], you’ve been a brother to me, and seeing you find the love of your life fills my heart with joy.

[Bride’s Name], you are the perfect match for [Groom’s Name]. Together, you create a love that is inspiring and true. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness, love, and endless memories. Cheers!

2: Maid of Honor – Heartfelt and Sincere

Good evening, everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m [Maid of Honor’s Name], [Bride’s Name]’s best friend. Growing up, [Bride’s Name] and I shared countless dreams about our future. Today, seeing her marry [Groom’s Name], I know that one of those dreams has come true in the most beautiful way.

[Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], your love for each other is a testament to the power of true partnership. May you always find joy in each other’s arms and strength in your love. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness together. Cheers!

3: Father of the Bride – Emotional and Proud

Good evening, everyone. I’m [Father’s Name], the proud father of the beautiful bride. [Bride’s Name], from the moment you were born, you have been the light of my life. Seeing you marry [Groom’s Name] today fills me with immense pride and joy.

[Groom’s Name], welcome to our family. I know that together, you and [Bride’s Name] will create a life filled with love, laughter, and endless happiness. Here’s to your beautiful journey ahead. Cheers!

4: Sister of the Groom – Touching and Warm

Hello, everyone. I’m [Sister’s Name], [Groom’s Name]’s sister. Growing up with [Groom’s Name] has been a blessing. He’s always been my protector, my confidant, and my best friend. Today, I see him marrying the love of his life, [Bride’s Name], and my heart overflows with joy.

[Bride’s Name], you bring out the best in [Groom’s Name], and together, you create a love that is pure and beautiful. Here’s to a lifetime of love, joy, and unforgettable moments. Cheers!

5: Mother of the Groom – Sentimental and Loving

Good evening, everyone. I’m [Mother’s Name], [Groom’s Name]’s mother. From the moment [Groom’s Name] was born, he has been my pride and joy. Today, I see him standing beside the love of his life, [Bride’s Name], and I couldn’t be happier.

[Bride’s Name], you are a wonderful addition to our family. Together, you and [Groom’s Name] create a love that is strong and enduring. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness and cherished memories. Cheers!

6: Brother of the Bride – Emotional and Heartwarming

Hi, everyone. I’m [Brother’s Name], [Bride’s Name]’s brother. Growing up with [Bride’s Name] has been an incredible journey. She has always been my rock, my friend, and my guide. Seeing her marry [Groom’s Name] today fills me with immense pride and happiness.

[Groom’s Name], you have found a treasure in [Bride’s Name], and I know that together, you will create a life filled with love and joy. Here’s to your beautiful journey ahead. Cheers!

7: College Friend – Moving and Heartfelt

Hello, everyone. I’m [Friend’s Name], and I’ve known [Groom’s Name] since college. We’ve shared countless memories, dreams, and aspirations. Today, seeing him marry the love of his life, [Bride’s Name], fills my heart with joy.

[Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], your love is a beautiful testament to the power of true partnership. May your life together be filled with endless love, joy, and unforgettable moments. Here’s to your future. Cheers!

 8: Co-worker – Genuine and Heartfelt

Good evening, everyone. I’m [Co-worker’s Name], and I’ve had the pleasure of working with [Groom’s Name] for the past few years. During this time, I’ve seen his dedication, hard work, and incredible spirit. Today, I see him marry the love of his life, [Bride’s Name], and I couldn’t be happier for them.

[Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], your love for each other is inspiring. Here’s to a future filled with love, happiness, and endless joy. Cheers!

9: Neighbor – Touching and Genuine

Hello, everyone. I’m [Neighbor’s Name], and I’ve had the joy of living next door to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. I’ve seen their love grow through shared dinners, game nights, and the occasional borrowed lawnmower. Their love is genuine and beautiful.

[Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], you’ve built a life together filled with love and happiness. Here’s to many more years of joy and cherished moments. Cheers!

 10: Childhood Friend – Deeply Emotional

Good evening, everyone. I’m [Friend’s Name], and I’ve known [Bride’s Name] since we were children. We’ve shared countless memories, dreams, and aspirations. Today, seeing her marry [Groom’s Name] fills my heart with joy and pride.

Tips for Delivering an Emotional Toast

Delivering an emotional toast can be challenging. It’s easy to get choked up or overwhelmed by the significance of the moment. Here are some tips to help you maintain composure and deliver your heartfelt message effectively:

1. Practice, practice, practice. Rehearse your toast multiple times leading up to the wedding day. The more familiar you are with your words, the less likely you are to get tripped up by emotions in the moment.

2. Write it down. Even if you plan to speak from the heart, having a written version of your toast can be a helpful safety net. You can refer to it if you lose your place or get too emotional.

3. Take deep breaths. If you feel yourself getting overwhelmed during your toast, pause and take a few slow, deep breaths. This will help you center yourself and regain composure.

4. Speak slowly and clearly. When we’re emotional, we tend to speak quickly or mumble. Make a conscious effort to slow down your speech and enunciate each word. This will make your toast easier for the audience to understand, even if your voice is shaking with emotion.

5. Embrace the emotion. Remember, it’s okay to get choked up or even shed a few tears during your toast. Your emotional response is a testament to the depth of your love and affection for the couple. So don’t be afraid to let your feelings show – it will only make your words that much more meaningful.

The most important thing is that your toast comes from a place of sincere love and support for the newlyweds. If you speak from the heart, even if your voice shakes or you shed a few tears, your message will resonate with the couple and the audience.

Quirky and Unique Wedding Toasts

Crafting a quirky and unique wedding toast is an art form that can truly captivate the audience and make your speech stand out as a memorable highlight of the celebration. Let’s explore several examples of quirky and unique wedding toasts that are sure to leave a lasting impression:

1. **The Storyteller’s Delight:** Imagine starting your toast with a whimsical tale about how the couple’s love story unfolded, sprinkled with magical elements and humorous twists. You could narrate their meeting as if it were a fairy tale, with unexpected characters and plot twists that lead to their happily ever after. This storytelling approach adds an element of fantasy and delight to your toast, engaging the audience’s imagination and setting a playful tone for the rest of your speech.

2. **The Songbird Serenade:** For a musical twist, consider crafting a wedding toast in the form of a song or a parody of a popular tune. You could rewrite the lyrics to reflect the couple’s journey together, incorporating inside jokes and heartfelt sentiments. Singing your toast or enlisting the help of a musical friend adds a dynamic and entertaining element to the celebration, leaving the audience humming along and smiling at the personalized lyrics.

3. **The Culinary Connoisseur’s Tribute:** If the couple shares a love for food and culinary adventures, why not create a wedding toast inspired by their favorite dishes and dining experiences? You could metaphorically compare their relationship to a delectable recipe, highlighting the perfect blend of ingredients that make their love so special. Incorporate food-related anecdotes and analogies that showcase their unique flavors and shared culinary adventures, adding a deliciously quirky touch to your toast.

4. **The Time Traveler’s Journey:** Transport the audience through time with a whimsical toast that imagines the couple’s future together in different eras or settings. Picture them as adventurers exploring ancient civilizations, futuristic worlds, or even alternate realities where their love remains constant and enduring. Use vivid descriptions and creative storytelling to paint a vivid picture of their journey through time, weaving in humorous anecdotes and heartfelt wishes for their timeless love story.

5. **The Quirky Quiz Show:** Turn your wedding toast into an interactive quiz show that tests the audience’s knowledge of the couple’s quirks and idiosyncrasies. Ask fun trivia questions about their favorite hobbies, inside jokes, and memorable moments together, encouraging guests to participate and laugh along. Incorporate prizes or funny penalties for correct and incorrect answers, adding an element of lighthearted competition and entertainment to your toast.

6. **The Literary Lover’s Tribute:** Craft a wedding toast inspired by famous literary works or genres that resonate with the couple’s interests and personalities. You could incorporate quotes from beloved books, poetry readings, or even create a short story that mirrors their own narrative. Infuse your toast with literary flair and eloquence, celebrating their love story through the timeless language of literature.

7. **The Retro Revival:** Take a trip down memory lane by infusing your wedding toast with nostalgic references from past decades or iconic pop culture moments. Incorporate retro-themed props, costumes, or references that reflect the couple’s shared nostalgia and fond memories. Whether it’s a throwback to the ’80s, ’90s, or any other era they cherish, adding a touch of retro charm to your toast creates a fun and memorable experience for everyone.

8. **The Nature’s Symphony:** Embrace the beauty of nature in your wedding toast by drawing parallels between the couple’s love and the natural world. Use metaphors inspired by elements like seasons, flowers, or celestial bodies to symbolize their journey together. For example, compare their love to a blooming garden, with each season representing a different phase of growth and renewal. Incorporate nature-inspired imagery and poetic language to evoke a sense of awe and beauty in your toast.

9. **The Tech-savvy Tribute:** If the couple shares a passion for technology and innovation, consider incorporating tech-themed elements into your wedding toast. Use digital presentations, interactive gadgets, or playful references to tech trends and gadgets that hold significance for the couple. Create a virtual journey through their relationship milestones, highlighting how technology has played a role in bringing them closer together in this digital age.

10. **The Cultural Celebration:** Celebrate the couple’s diverse backgrounds or shared cultural heritage in your wedding toast by incorporating traditions, customs, or language that hold special meaning for them. Pay homage to their roots with music, dance, or rituals that reflect their cultural identity and values. Embrace multiculturalism and inclusivity in your toast, fostering a sense of unity and celebration of diversity within the wedding festivities.

Each of these quirky and unique wedding toast ideas offers a creative and personalized way to celebrate the couple’s love and entertain the audience. Choose the approach that resonates most with the couple’s personalities and interests, adding your own heartfelt touch to create a truly unforgettable toast that will be cherished for years to come.

10 Examples of Quirky Wedding Toasts

Embarking on a journey to create a memorable and quirky wedding toast is like sprinkling a touch of whimsy and laughter into a momentous celebration of love. In this collection, you’ll discover ten delightful examples of quirky wedding toasts that are sure to bring smiles, chuckles, and heartfelt warmth to the newlyweds and guests alike. From humorous anecdotes to clever wordplay and unexpected twists, these toasts offer a refreshing and light-hearted take on celebrating love and partnership. So, grab your glass, raise it high, and let’s dive into a world of charming quirkiness and joyful celebration!

Toasting to Fine Wine Love

“To [Bride] and [Groom]: May your love be like a fine wine – complex, intoxicating, and only getting better with age. And may you always have a well-stocked cellar to keep the romance flowing.”

Cheers to Wild Adventures

“Here’s to a lifetime of adventures, inside jokes, and never having to share the remote. May your marriage be as wild and wonderful as your first date at that weird underground art show.”

A Fairy Tale Written by a Mad Scientist

“In a world full of ordinary love stories, yours is a fairy tale written by a mad scientist. It’s quirky, it’s unpredictable, and it’s 100% uniquely you. Here’s to embracing the beautiful weirdness of your love.”

Choose-Your-Own-Adventure Marriage

“To the bride and groom: May your marriage be like a thrilling choose-your-own-adventure novel, filled with plot twists, surprise endings, and always landing on the page that says ‘happily ever after.'”

Embracing Quirks and Delightful Weirdness

“Love is patient, love is kind, and apparently love is also really into [Groom’s unique hobby/interest]. [Bride], thank you for embracing all of [Groom’s] quirks and loving him for the delightfully weird human he is. And [Groom], thank you for finding someone who gets your brand of crazy. You two are proof that there’s a lid for every pot.”

A Best-Selling Love Story

“May your love story be a best-selling novel full of passion, comedy, and the occasional plot twist. And may the sequel be even better than the original.”

Quirky Couple in Life’s Rom-Com

“In the great romantic comedy of life, you two are the quirky couple that everyone’s rooting for. Keep writing your own script, keep laughing at your own jokes, and keep showing the world what true love looks like. Cheers!”

Ultimate #RelationshipGoals

“To [Bride] and [Groom], the Pam to my Jim, the cheese to my macaroni, the Netflix to my chill: Thank you for being the ultimate #RelationshipGoals. May your love be as evergreen as an episode of The Office.”

Finishing Each Other’s Sandwiches

“Here’s to a lifetime of finishing each other’s sandwiches and being each other’s lobsters. May your love be as strong as [Groom’s] coffee and as sweet as [Bride’s] famous chocolate chip cookies.”

Game Night Love

“To [Bride] and [Groom], may your life together be like a thrilling game night: full of laughter, healthy competition, and the occasional heated debate over Monopoly rules. Remember, in love and in board games, the goal is to have fun and enjoy the person you’re playing with.”

These quirky toasts think outside the box, drawing on the couple’s unique interests, inside jokes, and pop culture references. They’re equal parts clever and heartfelt, engaging the audience with their creativity while still expressing genuine affection for the newlyweds. The key is to tailor the quirkiness to the couple’s personalities, ensuring the toast feels special and authentic to their love story.

Engaging Your Audience with Unique Toasts

The best wedding toasts are the ones that captivate the audience from start to finish. A unique, personalized toast is more likely to grab and hold everyone’s attention than generic platitudes. Here are some tips for crafting a toast that will have the crowd hanging on your every word:

1. Tell a story. People love a good narrative, so weave a compelling story into your toast. It could be the tale of how the couple met, a funny anecdote from their courtship, or a heartwarming moment that encapsulates their love.

2. Use vivid details. Don’t just say the couple’s love is inspiring – paint a picture of how they inspire you. Describe the way they look at each other, the little gestures of affection they share, the laughter that fills the room when they’re together. The more specific and vivid your details, the more engaged your audience will be.

3. Incorporate audience participation. Get the crowd involved in your toast! You could ask them to raise their glasses every time you mention the word “love,” or have them join in on a meaningful quote or song lyric.

4. Get creative with structure. Who says your toast has to follow the standard introduction-body-conclusion format? You could frame your speech as a top 10 list, a mock news report, or even a mini skit. Just make sure your creative structure enhances your message rather than overshadowing it.

5. Make it personal. Above all, your toast should be a reflection of your unique relationship with the couple. Share stories, jokes, and sentiments that could only come from you. The more personal your toast, the more memorable it will be for the couple and the audience.

Remember, a little creativity goes a long way in making your toast stand out. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and let your personality shine through. As long as your toast comes from a place of love and sincerity, you can’t go wrong.

Cultural Wedding Toasts

Cultural wedding toasts honor traditions and add a unique element to the celebration. Here are some examples:

1. **Irish Blessing**: “May the road rise to meet you, may the wind be always at your back, may the sun shine warm upon your face, and rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.”

2. **Jewish Toast**: “ Mazel tov! May you be like Ruth and Boaz, may you be deserving of praise. Strengthen them, Oh Lord, and give them life that is long. May this couple be blessed with happiness all life long.”

3. **Spanish Toast**: “Que vuestro amor sea infinito, que dure para siempre. Que vuestros esfuerzos sean compartidos, y que vuestra felicidad sea la prioridad en vuestras vidas. ¡Vivan los novios!” (May your love be infinite, may it last forever. May your efforts be shared, and may your happiness be the priority in your lives. Long live the newlyweds!)

4. **African American Toast**: “ To \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], as you embark on this journey of marriage, may you always remember the love, strength, and resilience of those who came before you. May your love for each other be a reflection of the love that has sustained our community for generations. To Black love, family, and joy – may they be the cornerstones of your marriage.”

5. **Chinese Toast**: “Xǐshǒu yī bēi, zhù nǐmen bǎinián hǎo hé. Aìqíng ru jiǔ, yuè jiǔ yuè nóngliè!” (Let’s propose a toast, wishing you a harmonious union for a hundred years. May your love be like wine, growing stronger as it ages!)

6. **Mexican Toast**: “¡Arriba, abajo, al centro, pa’ dentro! ¡Viva los novios! Que su amor sea fuerte como el tequila, dulce como la miel, y que dure para siempre. ¡Salud!” (Glasses up, down, to the center, drink up! Long live the newlyweds! May your love be as strong as tequila, sweet as honey, and may it last forever. Cheers!)

7. **Filipino Toast**: “Mabuhay ang bagong kasal! Ang pag-ibig ninyo ay parang kanin, laging mainit at laging punung-puno. Sana ay pagpalain kayo ng Diyos ng walang hanggang pagmamahalan.” (Long live the newlyweds! May your love be like rice, always warm and always plentiful. May God bless you with everlasting love.)

8. **Greek Toast**: “Stin ygeia sas! Na zisete, na agapate, ki’ o ouranos na einai panta galanos gi’ afto to zeygari!” (To your health! May you live, may you love, and may the sky always be blue for this couple!)

9. **German Toast**: “ Ein Toast auf das Brautpaar! Möge eure Liebe so stark sein wie deutsches Bier, so beständig wie eine Schwarzwälder Kirsch, und so tief wie der Rhein. Prost!” (A toast to the bride and groom! May your love be as strong as German beer, as enduring as a Black Forest cake, and as deep as the Rhine. Cheers!)

10. **Indian Toast**: “Vivah ki shubhkamnayein! Aapke vivah ke is shubh avsar par, main aap dono ke liye pyaar, samarpan, aur anant khushiyon ki kamna karta hoon. Aapka sath sada banaa rahe.” (Congratulations on your wedding! On this auspicious occasion of your marriage, I wish for you both love, devotion, and infinite happiness. May your togetherness last forever.)

These cultural toasts honor the rich traditions and heritages that the couple brings to their union. They incorporate language, blessings, and symbolism specific to each culture, making the toast feel deeply meaningful and personal. Whether you share the couple’s cultural background or simply want to celebrate their heritage, a cultural toast can add a beautiful, unique element to the wedding festivities.

Respecting and Honoring Cultural Traditions

When delivering a cultural wedding toast, it’s crucial to approach the task with respect, understanding, and an open heart. You want to honor the couple’s heritage in a way that feels authentic and meaningful. Here are some tips for doing just that:

1. Do your research. If you’re not familiar with the couple’s cultural traditions, take the time to educate yourself. Read up on the history and significance of the rituals, Talk to family members or friends who share the couple’s background.

2. Incorporate language mindfully. If you plan to include phrases in the couple’s native language, make sure you have the pronunciation and meaning correct. Practice with a native speaker if possible, and provide translations for the rest of the audience.

3. Use symbolism appropriately. Many cultural traditions involve specific symbols or metaphors. For example, the Irish often use images of roads, wind, and sun to represent life’s journey. If you incorporate these symbols into your toast, make sure you understand their significance and use them respectfully.

4. Avoid stereotypes. It’s important to honor cultural traditions without relying on stereotypes or generalizations. Focus on the specific elements that are meaningful to the couple and their families, rather than broad or potentially offensive tropes.

5. Be inclusive. Remember, not everyone in the audience may share or be familiar with the couple’s cultural background. Make sure your toast is accessible and welcoming to all, providing context and explanations where necessary.

Ultimately, a cultural wedding toast is about celebrating the fusion of two families and two heritages. By approaching the task with respect, sensitivity, and an open heart, you can deliver a toast that honors the couple’s unique story and brings everyone together in shared joy and understanding.

75 Wedding Toast One-Liners to Include

Whether you’re the best man, maid of honor, a family member, or a friend, crafting the perfect toast can be both a joy and a challenge. In this curated collection, you’ll find 75 diverse and delightful wedding toasts that capture the essence of love, celebration, and cherished memories. From traditional sentiments to quirky anecdotes and heartfelt blessings, these toasts are sure to inspire and delight as you raise a glass to the newlyweds. Cheers to love, laughter, and happily ever after!

1. To love, laughter, and happily ever after. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], your love story has been a beautiful tale of all three. Here’s to the next chapter being the best one yet.

2. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], your love is like a fine wine – it’s only gotten better with time. Cheers to a lifetime of savoring every precious moment together.

3. They say that love is not about gazing at each other, but about looking outward together in the same direction. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], may your gazes always be fixed on the beautiful future ahead of you.

4. A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], may you continue to fall head over heels for each other every single day.

5. \[Bride\], I’ve watched you grow from a little girl with big dreams into the incredible woman you are today. And \[Groom\], I’ve watched you become the man worthy of her dreams. Here’s to your happily ever after.

6. \[Groom\], I’ve been by your side through thick and thin. But I’ve never seen you as happy, as complete, as utterly in love as you are with \[Bride\]. Cherish each other always.

7. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], your love is proof that soul mates exist. Watching you find each other and build this beautiful life together has been one of the great joys of my life. Cheers to your eternal love.

8. Marriage is a mosaic you build with your spouse. Millions of tiny moments that create your love story. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], may your mosaic be filled with joy, laughter, and countless cherished memories.

9. \[Bride\], you are the Pam to his Jim, the Rachel to his Ross, the Topanga to his Cory. \[Groom\], you are the Harry to her Sally, the Noah to her Allie, the Carl to her Ellie. Your love is a romance for the ages.

10. \[Groom\], I’ve never seen you as happy as you are with \[Bride\]. And \[Bride\], I’ve never seen you shine as brightly as you do with \[Groom\]. Your love brings out the best in each other, and that’s a rare and beautiful thing.

11. To the bride and groom: may your love be modern enough to survive the times and old-fashioned enough to last forever. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], your love has already withstood so much. I know it will only grow stronger with time.

12. \[Bride\], you are the yin to his yang, the sunshine to his rain, the laughter to his seriousness. \[Groom\], you are the calm to her storm, the rock to her roll, the steady hand to her wild heart. Together, you are perfect balance.

13. Love isn’t perfect. It isn’t a fairytale or a storybook. And it doesn’t always come easy. But when it’s real, it’s always worth it. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], your love is as real as it gets. Never forget that.

14. \[Groom\], take care of \[Bride\]’s heart. It’s the most precious thing she’ll ever give you. And \[Bride\], take care of \[Groom\]’s dreams. They’re the most valuable thing he’ll ever entrust you with.

15. May your love be like the wind, strong enough to move the clouds, soft enough to never hurt, loud enough to hear in the dark, and gentle enough to never be a burden.

16. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], you two are a perfect match, like bacon and eggs, peanut butter and jelly, Netflix and chill. Your love is comforting, satisfying, and always leaves us wanting more.

17. A great marriage is not when the ‘perfect couple’ comes together. It is when an imperfect couple learns to enjoy their differences. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], your quirks and contrasts are what make your love so special.

18. \[Groom\], remember: happy wife, happy life. \[Bride\], remember: the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Keep each other happy and well-fed, and you’ll be just fine.

19. \[Bride\], I’ve never seen you glow as much as you do when you’re with \[Groom\]. And \[Groom\], I’ve never seen you as content and at peace as you are with \[Bride\]. Your love is a beautiful thing to behold.

20. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], your love is like a cup of coffee – warm, comforting, and the perfect start to every day. May your marriage be filled with countless perfect mornings together.

21. Love is not about how many days, weeks, or months you’ve been together. It’s all about how much you love each other every single day. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], watching you choose to love each other deeply every day is an inspiration to us all.

22. \[Groom\], you are the Jim to her Pam, the Chandler to her Monica, the Marshall to her Lily. \[Bride\], you are the Lucy to his Ricky, the Morticia to his Gomez, the Leia to his Han. Your love is a sitcom romance come to life.

23. Marriage is not just about finding the right person. It’s also about being the right person. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], you bring out the best in each other, and that’s what will make your marriage truly great.

24. May your love be as endless as your wedding rings. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], your love knows no bounds, no limits, no end. It’s a love that will last a lifetime and beyond.

25. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], your love is a beautiful dance. Sometimes you lead, sometimes you follow, but you’re always in perfect sync. Keep dancing through life together, and never miss a beat.

26. Love is a friendship set on fire. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], your friendship has been the kindling, your passion the spark, and your commitment the fuel. May your love burn bright for all your days.

27. \[Groom\], remember: a happy wife is a happy life. \[Bride\], remember: behind every great man is a woman rolling her eyes. Keep each other laughing, and you’ll never go wrong.

28. \[Bride\], you are the cheese to his macaroni, the syrup to his pancakes, the sprinkles to his ice cream. \[Groom\], you are the crust to her pizza, the milk to her cookies, the bacon to her eggs. Your love is a perfect pairing.

29. Love is patient, love is kind, love means slowly losing your mind. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], your love has survived the craziness of wedding planning – it can survive anything!

30. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], your love story is one for the books. It’s got romance, comedy, a little bit of drama, and a happily ever after that’s just beginning. Cheers to the greatest love story ever told.

31. May your love be like a fine wine – rich, robust, and only getting better with age. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], I can’t wait to see how your love story unfolds over the years.

32. \[Groom\], you are the avocado to her toast, the salsa to her chips, the guac to her tacos. \[Bride\], you are the hummus to his pita, the tzatziki to his gyro, the tahini to his falafel. Your love is a flavorful fusion.

33. Love is not about possession, it’s about appreciation. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], the way you appreciate and cherish each other is a beautiful example for us all.

34. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], you two go together like rama lama lama ka dinga da dinga dong. Your love is a catchy tune that we can’t help but sing along to.

35. May your love be as endless as your honeymoon, as exciting as your wedding day, and as sweet as your first kiss as husband and wife.

36. \[Bride\], I’ve watched you dream of this day since we were little girls playing dress-up. And \[Groom\], I’ve watched you become the man of her dreams. Cheers to dreams coming true.

37. \[Groom\], remember: happy spouse, happy house. \[Bride\], remember: the quickest way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Keep each other happy and well-fed, and your marriage will thrive.

38. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], your love is like a box of chocolates – sweet, surprising, and always leaving us wanting more. May your life together be filled with countless delicious moments.

39. Love isn’t about finding the perfect person. It’s about seeing an imperfect person perfectly. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], you see each other’s flaws and love each other all the more for them.

40. \[Bride\], you are the avo to his toast, the milk to his cookies, the cheese to his wine. \[Groom\], you are the peanut butter to her jelly, the chips to her guac, the cream to her coffee. Your love is a match made in foodie heaven.

41. A great marriage is not about the big moments, it’s about the million little moments. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], may your life together be filled with countless little moments of love and laughter.

42. \[Groom\], you are the rhythm to her blues, the melody to her harmony, the beat to her heart. \ Bride\], you are the lyrics to his song, the poetry to his prose, the meaning to his music. Together, you make beautiful music.

43. Love is not about grand gestures or expensive gifts. It’s about the little things – a smile across the room, a hand held during a hard day, a laugh shared over a silly joke. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], your love is built on a thousand perfect little things.

44. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], your love story is like a rom-com – it’s got meet-cutes, misunderstandings, grand gestures, and a happily ever after that’s just beginning. Can’t wait to see the sequel!

45. May your love be as deep as the ocean, as constant as the tides, and as vast as the sea. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], your love knows no bounds.

46. \[Groom\], remember: happy wife, happy life. \[Bride\], remember: a way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Keep each other happy and well-fed, and you’ll be just fine.

47. \[Bride\], you are the sunshine to his rain, the spring to his winter, the bloom to his frost. \[Groom\], you are the shade to her heat, the autumn to her summer, the harvest to her seed. Your love weathers all seasons.

48. Love isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being perfect for each other. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], your quirks and flaws fit together like puzzle pieces, creating a beautiful, complete picture.

49. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], your love is like a good book – it’s got adventure, romance, a few plot twists, and a story that keeps us turning the pages. Can’t wait to read the next chapter!

50. May your love be as sweet as your wedding cake, as intoxicating as your champagne, and as fun as your reception. Cheers to a lifetime of sweetness, celebration, and joy.

51. \[Bride\], I’ve watched you grow from a little girl with big dreams into the incredible woman you are today. And \[Groom\], I’ve watched you become the man worthy of her dreams. Here’s to your happily ever after.

52. \[Groom\], you are the Batman to her Catwoman, the Spider-Man to her MJ, the Superman to her Lois Lane. \[Bride\], you are the Hermione to his Ron, the Leia to his Han, the Buttercup to his Westley. Your love is a superhero story come to life.

53. Marriage is a journey, not a destination. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], as you embark on this adventure together, remember that the best part of any journey is who you have beside you.

54. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], your love is like a good wine – it’s complex, it’s rich, and it only gets better with time. Cheers to a lifetime of savoring each other.

55. Love is not about being inseparable. It’s about two people facing the world together, side by side. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], you are each other’s partner, ally, and best friend. Together, you can face anything.

56. \[Groom\], remember: a happy wife is a happy life. \[Bride\], remember: the key to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Keep each other happy and well-fed, and your love will never go hungry.

57. \[Bride\], you are the Thelma to his Louise, the Bonnie to his Clyde, the Cher to his Sonny. \[Groom\], you are the Johnny to her June, the Jay-Z to her Beyoncé, the Johnny Cash to her June Carter. Your love is a duet for the ages.

58. Marriage is not about finding someone you can live with. It’s about finding someone you can’t live without. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], you are each other’s necessity, each other’s home, each other’s heart.

59. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], your love is like a good cocktail – it’s got the perfect blend of sweetness, strength, and a little bit of kick. May your marriage be a lifelong toast to your love.

60. May your love be as limitless as the sky, as steady as the earth, and as renewing as the rain. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], your love is a force of nature.

61. \[Groom\], remember: happy spouse, happy house. \[Bride\], remember: the quickest way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Keep each other happy and well-fed, and your home will always be full of love.

62. \[Bride\], you are the Luna to his Harry, the Ginny to his Harry, the Cho to his Cedric… wait, scratch that last one. \[Groom\], you are the Ron to her Hermione, the James to her Lily, the Arthur to her Molly. Your love is a magical tale.

63. Love isn’t about the big moments. It’s about the million little moments that make up a life together. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], may your life be filled with countless perfect little moments.

64. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], your love is like a good cup of coffee – it’s warm, it’s comforting, and it’s the perfect way to start each day. May your marriage be filled with countless perfect mornings together.

65. May your love be as eternal as the stars, as constant as the moon, and as bright as the sun. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], your love lights up the sky.

66. \[Groom\], remember: happy wife, happy life. \[Bride\], remember: the secret to a happy marriage remains a secret. Keep each other laughing, and you’ll never go wrong.

67. \[Bride\], you are the Leia to his Han, the Padmé to his Anakin, the Rey to his Finn. \[Groom\], you are the Westley to her Buttercup, the Inigo to her Fezzik, the Miracle Max to her Valerie. Your love is a fairy tale in a galaxy far, far away.

68. Marriage is not about being perfect. It’s about being perfect for each other. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], your quirks, your flaws, your silly habits – they’re what make you so perfectly matched.

69. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], your love is like a good book – it’s got romance, adventure, a few plot twists, and a story that keeps us turning the pages. Can’t wait to read the next chapter!

70. May your love be as intoxicating as your wedding champagne, as sweet as your cake, and as joyful as the laughter filling this room. Cheers to a lifetime of love, laughter, and happily ever after.

71. \[Groom\], take care of my girl. She’s the most precious thing I’ve ever held, until the day I hold your first child. And \[Bride\], take care of this man. He’s been my best friend, my brother, and now, he’s your husband. Love each other fiercely.

72. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], your love is proof that soulmates exist. Watching you find each other, choose each other, and commit to each other for life has been one of the greatest joys of my life. Your love is a light in this world.

73. Marriage is a mosaic you build with your spouse. Millions of tiny moments that create your love story. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], may your mosaic be filled with adventure, passion, laughter, and unwavering commitment.

74. \[Bride\], I remember the day you called me, giddy and breathless, telling me about this amazing man you’d just met. And \[Groom\], I remember the day you told me, with a smile I’d never seen before, that you’d found the one. I’ve watched your love story unfold, and it’s been the privilege of my life. Here’s to the next chapter.

75. \[Bride\] and \[Groom\], your love is a testament to the power of friendship, the importance of laughter, and the joy of finding your perfect partner in crime. As you embark on this grand adventure of marriage, know that you have an army of loved ones cheering you on, today and always. Cheers to your happily ever after. It’s only just begun.

10 Wedding Toast Templates

Crafting a memorable wedding toast is a special opportunity to honor the love and commitment between two people as they begin their journey together. Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or new to toasting, having a structured template can help you convey your heartfelt sentiments with grace and sincerity. In this collection, you’ll find ten carefully crafted wedding toast templates, each offering a unique approach to celebrating the couple’s love story. From heartfelt reflections to light-hearted humor, these templates provide a versatile foundation for creating a toast that captures the essence of the occasion. Here’s to crafting beautiful words that resonate with love and joy on this special day!

1. The Childhood Friend Toast

[Introduction] Good evening everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], and I’ve had the pleasure of being [Bride/Groom]’s friend since we were [age] years old.

[Shared Memory] I still remember the day we first met, [brief anecdote about your first meeting or early friendship]. Even then, I knew that [Bride/Groom] was someone special, someone who would change lives with their [key quality].

[Transition to Couple] And then, [he/she] met [Partner’s Name]. I remember [Bride/Groom] calling me after their first date, gushing about this amazing person they’d just met. I could hear the excitement in their voice, and I knew that this was the start of something incredible.

[Couple’s Love Story] Over the years, I’ve watched [Bride/Groom] and [Partner’s Name]’s love grow. I’ve seen them support each other through [challenge], celebrate each other’s triumphs like [achievement], and create a bond that’s truly unbreakable. They bring out the best in each other, and their love is an inspiration to us all.

[Toast] So let’s raise our glasses to [Bride/Groom] and [Partner’s Name]. May your love continue to grow stronger with each passing year. May you always find laughter, comfort, and joy in each other’s company. And may your life together be filled with all the happiness you so deeply deserve. To the happy couple!

2. The Sibling Toast

[Introduction] Hello everyone, I’m [Your Name], [Bride/Groom]’s [older/younger] [brother/sister].

[Sibling Bond] Growing up with [Bride/Groom] was an adventure. We had our share of [shared childhood experience], and through it all, [Bride/Groom] was always my [role model/confidant/partner in crime]. I learned so much from [him/her] about [life lesson].

[Welcoming Partner] When [Bride/Groom] first introduced me to [Partner’s Name], I could immediately see how happy they made my [brother/sister]. [Partner’s Name], you’ve been a wonderful addition to our family. You’re the [characteristic] to [Bride/Groom]’s [characteristic], and together, you make a perfect team.

[Love and Support] [Bride/Groom] and [Partner’s Name], your love has weathered [challenge] and grown stronger through [milestone]. You’ve built a relationship based on [key quality], and it’s been a joy to witness. I know that you’ll continue to support and cherish each other in the years to come.

[Toast] Let’s raise our glasses to [Bride/Groom] and [Partner’s Name]. May your marriage be filled with the same laughter, love, and [inside joke] that’s always defined your relationship. May you continue to bring out the best in each other. And may your love story be a shining example of what true partnership looks like. Cheers!

3. The College Friend Toast

[Introduction] Hi everyone, I’m [Your Name], and I had the good fortune of meeting [Bride/Groom] on our first day at [college name].

[College Memories] Those college years were unforgettable. We navigated [shared college experience] together, and through it all, [Bride/Groom] was always the [key quality] one. I remember [funny college anecdote].

[Meeting Partner] And then, in our [year] year, [Bride/Groom] met [Partner’s Name]. I’ve never seen [Bride/Groom] so smitten. They couldn’t stop talking about this [charming/brilliant/hilarious] person they’d met. It was clear from the start that this was something special.

[Couple’s Journey] Over the years, I’ve watched [Bride/Groom] and [Partner’s Name] build a life together. They’ve supported each other through [milestone], laughed together through [funny moment], and created a love that’s truly one of a kind. Your relationship is a testament to the power of [key quality].

[Toast] So let’s toast to [Bride/Groom] and [Partner’s Name]. May your marriage be filled with the same [key quality] that’s always defined your relationship. May you continue to be each other’s [silly nickname]. And may your love only grow stronger with each passing year. To the perfect couple!

4. The Parent Toast

[Introduction] Good evening everyone. As [Bride/Groom]’s [mother/father], I want to start by saying how incredibly proud I am of the [man/woman] [Bride/Groom] has become.

[Childhood Memories] From the moment [Bride/Groom] was born, [he/she] filled our lives with [key quality]. I remember [childhood anecdote showcasing key quality]. Even then, we knew [Bride/Groom] was destined for great things.

[Welcoming Partner] And then, [Bride/Groom] met [Partner’s Name]. [Partner’s Name], from the first time we met you, we knew you were perfect for our [son/daughter]. You [key quality] them in a way we’ve never seen. You’ve become such an integral part of our family, and we’re so happy to officially welcome you today.

[Marriage Wisdom] [Bride/Groom] and [Partner’s Name], as you start this new chapter, always remember the importance of [marriage advice]. There will be challenges, but face them together. Celebrate each other’s successes. Be each other’s shelter in the storms of life. And never forget the love that brought you here today.

[Toast] Let’s raise our glasses to [Bride/Groom] and [Partner’s Name]. May your marriage be blessed with [blessing]. May you always find strength in each other. And may your love be a guiding light, not just to each other, but to all who know you. To the newlyweds!

5. The Best Friend Toast

[Introduction] Hi everyone, I’m [Your Name], and I’ve been lucky enough to be [Bride/Groom]’s best friend for [length of friendship].

[Friendship History] [Bride/Groom] and I have been through it all together. From [shared experience] to [milestone], we’ve always had each other’s backs. I remember [funny or touching anecdote about your friendship].

[Bride/Groom]’s Love When [Bride/Groom] first told me about [Partner’s Name], I knew this was different. The way [his/her] face lit up, the way [he/she] couldn’t stop smiling – it was clear that [Partner’s Name] was someone very special.

[Couple’s Relationship] Watching [Bride/Groom] and [Partner’s Name]’s relationship blossom has been one of my life’s greatest joys. You two are a perfect match, balancing each other out and bringing out the best in one another. Your love is built on [key quality], and that’s something truly rare and beautiful.

[Toast] So let’s toast to [Bride/Groom] and [Partner’s Name]. May your love continue to be the [key quality] force it’s always been. May you always find joy, comfort, and laughter in each other. And may your marriage be a shining example of what true love looks like. Cheers to the happy couple!

6. The Work Colleague Toast

[Introduction] Good evening everyone. I’m [Your Name], and I’ve had the pleasure of working with [Bride/Groom] at [company name] for [length of time].

[Professional Praise] In the office, [Bride/Groom] is known for [his/her] [professional quality]. [He/She] brings [key quality] to everything [he/she] does, and it’s been an honor to work alongside [him/her]. I remember [work anecdote showcasing key quality].

[Seeing Love Blossom] But as impressive as [Bride/Groom] is in the office, it’s been even more wonderful to watch [him/her] find love with [Partner’s Name]. The joy that [Partner’s Name] brings to [Bride/Groom]’s life is palpable. It’s clear that you two are truly meant for each other.

[Couple’s Compatibility] [Bride/Groom] and [Partner’s Name], your relationship is a testament to the power of [key quality]. You balance each other perfectly, and your love has only grown stronger through [milestone/challenge]. It’s clear that you’re not just partners in love, but partners in life.

[Toast] So let’s raise our glasses to [Bride/Groom] and [Partner’s Name]. May your marriage be filled with the same [key quality] that you bring to everything you do. May you always be each other’s [role]. And may your love continue to inspire all who know you. To the newlyweds!

7. The Maid of Honor / Best Man Toast

[Introduction] Hello everyone. As [Bride/Groom]’s [Maid of Honor/Best Man], I have the privilege of toasting this incredible couple today.

[Friendship with Bride/Groom] [Bride/Groom], our friendship has been a cornerstone of my life. From [shared experience] to [milestone], you’ve been my [role]. I remember [anecdote showcasing Bride/Groom’s key quality].

[Meeting Partner] When you first introduced me to [Partner’s Name], I knew this was something special. The way you [looked at/talked about] [him/her] – I’d never seen you so [key emotion]. And [Partner’s Name], I quickly understood why. Your [key quality] perfectly complements [Bride/Groom]’s [key quality].

[Couple’s Journey] Watching your love story unfold has been a true privilege. You’ve weathered [challenge] together and celebrated [milestone]. You bring out the best in each other, and your love is a beautiful reminder of what true partnership looks like.

[Toast] So let’s raise our glasses to [Bride/Groom] and [Partner’s Name]. May your marriage be filled with the same [key quality] that’s always defined your relationship. May you continue to be each other’s [role model/support system/best friend]. And may your love be a guiding light, today and always. To the perfect pair!

8. The Short and Sweet Toast

[Introduction] Hi everyone, I’m [Your Name], [Your Relation to the Couple].

[Couple’s Love] [Bride/Groom] and [Partner’s Name], your love is a beautiful thing. It’s [key quality], it’s [key quality], and it’s an inspiration to us all.

[Well Wishes] As you start this new chapter, know that you have a community here that loves and supports you. We’re so happy to celebrate with you today.

[Toast] So let’s raise our glasses to the newlyweds. May your love continue to grow, may your laughter never cease, and may your happiness know no bounds. To [Bride/Groom] and [Partner’s Name]!

9. The Funny Toast

[Introduction] Good evening everyone. I’m [Your Name], and I’ve been [Bride/Groom]’s [Your Relation] for [length of time].

[Funny Anecdote] Now, I could stand up here and tell you about all of [Bride/Groom]’s wonderful qualities, but instead, I’m going to share a little story that I think sums up [his/her] [key funny quality] perfectly. [Humorous anecdote].

[Couple’s Humor] But what’s even better is that [Partner’s Name] not only puts up with [Bride/Groom]’s [funny quality], but matches it with [his/her] own [complementary funny quality]. Together, you two are like [funny comparison]. It’s a joy to watch.

[Heartfelt Sentiment] But in all seriousness, [Bride/Groom] and [Partner’s Name], your love is truly special. You’ve found in each other a [key quality] that’s rare and wonderful. Your relationship is built on [key quality] and [key quality], and that’s something to be celebrated.

[Toast] So let’s raise our glasses to [Bride/Groom] and [Partner’s Name]. May your marriage be filled with the same laughter and [inside joke] that’s always been a hallmark of your relationship. May you continue to [funny well wish]. And may your love be a source of joy, today and always. To the happy couple!

10. The Sentimental Toast

[Introduction] Good evening everyone. I’m [Your Name], and I’ve known [Bride/Groom] for [length of time].

[Emotional Connection] [Bride/Groom], our friendship has been one of the greatest gifts of my life. You’ve been there for me through [difficult time], and you’ve celebrated with me during [happy milestone]. Your [key quality] and [key quality] have made you an invaluable part of my life.

[Love for Partner] And then you met [Partner’s Name]. I’ve never seen you so [key emotion]. The love between you two is palpable – it radiates in your smiles, your laughter, your every interaction. [Partner’s Name], you bring out a [key quality] in [Bride/Groom] that’s truly beautiful to see.

[Future Wishes] As you start this new chapter, I wish for you a lifetime of that same love and happiness. May your marriage be a testament to the power of [key quality]. May you always find solace, joy, and strength in each other. And may your love story be one for the ages.

[Toast] So let’s raise our glasses to [Bride/Groom] and [Partner’s Name]. To a love that’s [key quality], [key quality], and everything in between. To a partnership that’s as beautiful as it is strong. And to a lifetime of happiness together. Cheers to the newlyweds!

How Bridesmaid for Hire Can Help

Bridesmaid for Hire can offer invaluable support in crafting and delivering the perfect wedding toast. Here’s how:

Professional Toast Writing Services

Writing a wedding toast can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not confident in your writing skills or you’re unsure of how to structure your speech. That’s where Bridesmaid for Hire comes in. Our professional toast writing services can help you craft a speech that perfectly captures your unique relationship with the couple and the essence of their love story.

When you work with Bridesmaid for Hire, you get: – A dedicated toast writing expert who will take the time to understand your relationship with the couple and your unique voice and style. – A fully customized toast tailored to your specific needs and the couple’s unique story. – Unlimited revisions to ensure your toast is absolutely perfect. – Coaching and guidance on how to deliver your toast with confidence and poise.

We understand that every relationship is unique, and every toast should be too. That’s why we take a highly personalized approach , working closely with you to craft a speech that truly reflects your bond with the couple. Contact Bridesmaid for Hire today to learn more about our toast writing services and how we can help you create a speech that will be remembered for years to come. Use our speech and vow generator.   Write an engaging wedding toast that’s guaranteed to be memorable (for the right reasons).

Public Speaking Coaching

Giving a wedding toast can be nerve-wracking, even if you’ve written the perfect speech. That’s where Bridesmaid for Hire’s public speaking coaching comes in. Our experts can help you deliver your toast with confidence, clarity, and poise.

With our public speaking coaching, you’ll learn how to: – Manage your nerves and speak with confidence. – Use your voice, body language, and eye contact to engage the audience. – Handle unexpected interruptions or distractions with grace. – Infuse your delivery with genuine emotion and sincerity. – Pace yourself and use pauses for maximum impact.

We understand that public speaking isn’t everyone’s forte, but we firmly believe that with the right guidance and practice, anyone can deliver a compelling toast . Our coaching is tailored to your individual needs and comfort level, so whether you’re a seasoned speaker or a nervous novice, we can help you shine.

Contact Bridesmaid for Hire today to learn more about our public speaking coaching and how we can help you deliver a toast that truly celebrates the happy couple and their love. Book a 30-minute speech delivery session . Get expert help on how to deliver your speech so the jokes land and the audience listens.

Related posts:

1-800-BRIDESMAID

The newlywed card game, something extra to love.

Read the weekly newsletter from Bridesmaid for Hire, 1-800-Bridesmaid , to hear about real stories, from strangers, who need advice on love, life, friendship, and so much more.

Looking for the perfect wedding gift for someone you adore? Grab The Newlywed Card Game. It's a fun and interactive game they can play on their honeymoon or future date nights.

Love Letters from a Professional Bridesmaid

Our adventure is one of the epic stories, honest tips, and heart-warming advice. We put it all inside a weekly newsletter delivered straight to your inbox. Join 50,000 others who eyeball what’s inside. 

Hey! I'm Jen Glantz

I started Bridesmaid for Hire 10-years-ago after being a bridesmaid for lots of friends. I’m a nonfiction author and content creator who lives in Brooklyn with Goofy (the dog), Gemma (the baby), and Adam (the husband). I love to share: advice & tips, secrets with strangers, and pizza. I eat a lot of pizza.

speech tool

Testimonials, maid of honor, watch tiktok, read the true stories, become a pro bridesmaid, get on the email list, instant adventures.

Copyright 2023 Jen Glantz & Bridesmaid for Hire 

Terms of Services

Follow me on IG

Refund Policy

Privacy Policy

Welcome, friend!

Choose your

Read the Book

• Father of Bride
• Father of Groom
• Maid of Honor
• Mother of Bride
• Wedding Resource

How to Write Wedding Vows: A Step-by-Step Guide

May 27, 2024 moneyspeech Wedding Resource

Deciding to write your wedding vows can be a pivot towards creating a more intimate and personal ceremony. The act of expressing your love and commitment in your own words adds a unique touch that traditional vows may not always capture. However, knowing how to write wedding vows that resonate with both you and your partner, while also engaging your guests, can feel like a daunting task. This guide is designed to demystify the process of writing vows, from finding inspiration and understanding the traditional  vow structure  to putting your own romantic twist on them, ensuring every word you pen is heartfelt and authentic.

In the sections that follow, we’ll explore how to reflect on your relationship to draw genuine  vow inspiration , establish a cohesive vow structure, and offer tips on how to write your wedding vows with confidence. Whether you’re weaving romantic vows that echo your deepest feelings or seeking a how to write your own wedding vows template that helps you articulate your emotions, our step-by-step approach simplifies the process. We’ll also touch on the importance of practicing and revising your vows, to ensure they sound just as you intended when the big day arrives. It’s our aim to help you create vows that not only capture the essence of your unique bond but also hold meaning and significance throughout your married life.

Table of Contents

Reflect on Your Relationship

Reflecting on your relationship is a vital step in  crafting vows  that are both personal and meaningful. This process involves delving into the journey you’ve shared with your partner, identifying significant milestones, and drawing inspiration from the depth of your experiences together. By exploring these aspects, you lay a solid foundation for vows that genuinely represent your bond.

Brainstorm Moments and Milestones

• Identify Key Milestones : Begin by listing the pivotal moments in your relationship. These can vary greatly from couple to couple and may include events like your first date, moving in together, or overcoming a significant challenge. Recognizing these milestones is not only about celebrating them but also acknowledging their role in shaping your relationship.
• Appreciate the Unconventional : Understand that milestones aren’t always the traditional markers of progress. In relationships that embrace a less conventional path, such as polyamory, milestones might include the first time saying “I love you,” sharing a key to your place, or creating a playlist together. These moments, chosen from a place of personal significance, add depth to your vows.
• Detail What Each Milestone Means : After identifying these milestones, delve deeper into what each one represents. Reflect on what you learned, how you felt, and why these moments are significant to you. This exercise not only brings clarity but also helps you articulate the essence of your relationship.

Gather Inspiration

• Reflect on Your Journey Together : Think about the challenges you’ve faced, the adventures you’ve embarked on, and the everyday moments that have brought you closer. These reflections will serve as a rich source of inspiration for your vows.
• Document Your Thoughts : Keep a journal, scrapbook, or digital photobook of these memories. This not only serves as a tangible reminder of your journey but can also spark ideas when you’re writing your vows.
• Use Prompts for Deeper Reflection : Consider prompts like what makes your love story unique, moments that made you laugh or cry, and how your partner has supported you through tough times. These prompts can help uncover the profound, emotional layers of your relationship.
• Balance Playfulness and Seriousness : Remember, the most memorable vows strike a balance between light-heartedness and depth. Reflect on both the joyful and challenging aspects of your relationship to create vows that are reflective of your true journey together.

By thoughtfully reflecting on your relationship and gathering inspiration from your shared experiences, you lay the groundwork for vows that are deeply personal and resonate with the essence of your bond. This process not only aids in writing your vows but also reaffirms the love and commitment you share with your partner.

Create a Structure

After reflecting on your relationship and gathering inspiration, the next step in how to write wedding vows is creating a  structure . This structure will serve as a blueprint, guiding you through the process of translating your thoughts and feelings into words that effectively convey your commitment and love.

Decide on Length and  Tone

Before diving into the specifics, it’s crucial to decide on the overall length and tone of your vows. Wedding vow and speech writer Katelyn Peterson suggests that vows should run between two to five minutes. Keeping vows concise ensures they capture the essence of your feelings without losing the attention of your audience. As for the tone, consider the balance you want to strike between seriousness and playfulness. Vows that mix heartfelt sentiments with light-hearted moments often reflect the dynamics of a relationship more accurately and keep the ceremony engaging.

• Length : Aim for two to five minutes. Brevity ensures your message is clear and impactful.
• Tone : Choose a tone that represents your relationship. A blend of serious and humorous elements can add depth to your vows.

Outline Key Points

With a clear understanding of the length and tone, you can now outline the key points to include in your vows. Following Peterson’s advice, a comprehensive structure might include:

• Address Your Partner : Start by directly addressing your partner, setting an intimate tone for your vows.
• Recap Your Love Story : Briefly recount your journey together, highlighting moments that have strengthened your bond.
• Admire Your Partner : Share traits and qualities you admire in your partner, reinforcing your love and respect for them.
• Appreciate Your Relationship : Reflect on what you cherish about your relationship, acknowledging its unique aspects.
• List Specific Promises : Make three to six promises that are meaningful and attainable, forming the core of your vows.
• Envision Your Future Together : Conclude by sharing your hopes and dreams for the future, emphasizing the enduring nature of your commitment.

By adhering to this structure, you can ensure your vows are well-organized and cover all essential aspects of your relationship and commitment. Remember, the most powerful vows are those that come from the heart, so feel free to personalize this structure to better reflect your unique bond.

Write Your Vows

When embarking on the journey of writing your wedding vows, it’s essential to remember that these vows are a direct conversation between you and your partner, not a performance for the congregation. They encapsulate your  promises  to each other, marking a  profound commitment  rather than recounting your entire love story. This distinction is crucial as it sets the stage for a deeply personal exchange, witnessed by your loved ones but intimately shared between the two of you.

Express Your Emotions

The essence of your vows should capture the depth of your feelings, making it imperative to express your emotions candidly. Begin by acknowledging the significance of the moment and the journey that has led you here. It’s not about saying everything but saying something meaningful. A ceremony may last only 25-30 minutes, yet within this brief window, your vows should encapsulate the essence of your bond. This is your opportunity to share heartfelt sentiments, acknowledging both the joys and challenges that have strengthened your relationship. Remember, genuine expressions of love are never corny or cheesy if they come from the heart. If you find yourself grappling with public speaking fears, consider the level of detail you’re comfortable sharing in front of an audience. For some, a simple recitation of vows is enough, while others may prefer a more elaborate declaration of their love.

Include Personal Stories and Promises

Incorporating personal stories into your vows adds a layer of authenticity and uniqueness. Choose anecdotes that highlight what makes your relationship special, whether it’s a memorable adventure, a shared passion, or a challenge you’ve overcome together. These stories provide a glimpse into your life as a couple, making your vows resonate not just with your partner but also with those witnessing your commitment.

When it comes to promises, they should reflect a balance between the aspirational and the realistic. Vow to support and cherish each other through life’s inevitable ups and downs, but also include promises that speak to the everyday aspects of your shared life. Whether it’s vowing to always kill spiders or to be the one who makes coffee in the morning, these lighter, more personal commitments add a touch of humor and realism to your vows.

Writing your wedding vows is a deeply personal process that allows you to articulate your love and commitment in a way that resonates with your unique relationship. By expressing your emotions, sharing personal stories, and making heartfelt promises, you create vows that not only celebrate your love but also fortify your bond for the journey ahead.

Practice and Revise

Read out loud.

When preparing your wedding vows, it’s crucial to practice them out loud to ensure they sound as heartfelt and genuine as they are meant to be. This practice helps in smoothing out any awkward phrases and ensures the vows flow naturally. Individuals should consider reading their vows multiple times, refining their delivery each time to enhance clarity and emotional impact. It’s beneficial to rehearse in front of a mirror or a trusted person who can provide constructive feedback. Recording oneself can also be a valuable method, as it allows one to see and hear their delivery from an outsider’s perspective, making it easier to adjust tone, pace, and expression.

Edit for Clarity and Tone

Editing is an essential step in the vow-writing process. Each sentence should be clear and contribute a new idea or sentiment to avoid redundancy. It’s important to remove any unnecessary words to make the vows more articulate and impactful. The tone of the vows should align with the couple’s relationship, whether it’s romantic, humorous, or a blend of both. Specific details that show rather than tell feelings can make the vows more vivid and memorable. Feedback from a close friend or a professional, like a wedding vow consultant, can also help refine the language and ensure the vows truly reflect the couple’s voice and emotions.

By diligently practicing and revising their vows, couples can ensure that their words not only convey their love and commitment but also resonate deeply with each other and their guests on their special day.

As we’ve explored, writing wedding vows is a descent into the heart of your relationship, highlighting its unique journey, milestones, and the profound love that binds you and your partner. This guide has offered a scaffold, from drawing inspiration and structuring your vows to embedding personal anecdotes and promises that echo your shared experiences. Remember, the core of crafting touching vows lies in the authenticity and depth of your emotions, aiming to encapsulate the essence of your bond and the unwavering commitment to each other’s journey through life.

In conclusion, the act of penning your wedding vows is more than just a ceremonial tradition; it’s a  personal pledge , a  narrative of love  that is uniquely yours. As you reflect on your relationship and articulate your vows, let each word be a stepping stone toward a future woven with love, resilience, and companionship. Practice and refine your vows, not just for the eloquence of their delivery, but for the truth they hold, ensuring they resonate not just on your wedding day, but throughout the lifetime of your marriage.

How Can I Write My Wedding Vows Step by Step?

To craft your wedding vows, follow this structured approach:

• Start by expressing your love.
• Commit to being there for each other through all life’s challenges.
• Incorporate personal anecdotes.
• Make genuine promises to each other.
• Recognize the support you’ll need from friends and family.
• Avoid procrastination.
• Begin by jotting down all your thoughts.
• Aim to write up to three drafts of your vows.

What Should the Opening Line of My Wedding Vows Be?

A traditional way to start your wedding vows could be: “I, [Your Name], take you, [Partner’s Name], to be my husband/wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish; until death do us part.”

What Are Some Examples of What to Say in Wedding Vows?

When writing your vows, consider including sentiments such as:

• “I am yours forever and always.”
• “I will fight with you and for you.”
• “I promise to help, cherish, work, create, and explore this life with you.”
• “I pledge to honor you, love you, and cherish you as my partner today and every day.”

How Long Should Wedding Vows Be?

Aim for your vows to be about two to three minutes in length. This duration is sufficient to share the essence of your love story, highlight your partner’s qualities, and articulate your commitments, all while keeping the attention of your audience.

Privacy Overview

Entertainment Speech

Ai generator.

An entertainment speech is a type of speech designed primarily to amuse, engage, and captivate the audience. Unlike speeches that aim to inform, persuade, or instruct, the primary goal of an entertainment speech is to provide enjoyment and create a pleasant experience for the listeners. This type of speech can be delivered in various settings, such as social gatherings, celebratory events, or professional environments where the mood needs to be lightened or the audience needs to be energized.

What is Entertainment Speech?

An entertainment speech is a type of presentation designed to captivate and amuse an audience. Unlike informative or persuasive speeches, its primary goal is to provide enjoyment, lift spirits, and engage listeners through humor, storytelling, and engaging delivery.

Entertainment Speech Bundle Download

Entertainment Speech Format

1. introduction.

Greeting : Start with a friendly and engaging greeting. Example : “Good [morning/afternoon/evening], everyone!”   Attention Grabber : Use a joke, funny anecdote, or surprising statement to capture attention. Example : “I once tried to write a song about a tortilla, but it turned out to be more of a wrap.”

Main Points : Develop your main points through engaging and entertaining content.   Storytelling : Share funny or interesting stories.   Humor : Incorporate jokes and witty remarks.   Relatable Content : Discuss common experiences or popular culture references that the audience can relate to.

3. Transitions

Smooth Flow : Use transitions to maintain the flow and keep the audience engaged.   Example : “Speaking of unexpected moments, let me tell you about the time…”

4. Conclusion

Memorable Closing : End with a strong, memorable punchline or a heartfelt message.   Example : “Remember, life is like a camera—focus on what’s important, capture the good times, and if things don’t work out, take another shot.”

5. Thank the Audience

Gratitude : Thank the audience for their time and attention.   Example : “Thank you all for being such a wonderful audience!”

Entertainment Speech Example

Good evening, Ladies and Gentlemen! It’s a pleasure to be here tonight, and I’m excited to share a few laughs with all of you. Now, let’s start with a little confession: I once tried to write a song about a tortilla, but it turned out to be more of a wrap.   Speaking of wraps, let me tell you about my first attempt at cooking. I was about 12 years old, and my parents decided it was time for me to contribute to the family barbecue. My job was to grill the hot dogs. Simple enough, right? Well, let’s just say I managed to set the grill on fire and nearly invited the fire department to our family gathering. Now, whenever we have a barbecue, my only job is to bring the napkins—much safer that way!   But life is full of these little moments that make for great stories later on. Like the time I was late for an important meeting. I rushed out the door, hopped in my car, and of course, the car decided it was the perfect time to have a flat tire. There I was, in my best suit, trying to change a tire on the side of the road. By the time I got to the meeting, I looked like I had just run a marathon.   Or how about the time I finally got to the front of the line at my favorite coffee shop, only to realize I had left my wallet at home. I had to sheepishly tell the barista, “I’ll be right back,” and then sprint back to my apartment. When I returned, the barista greeted me with, “Welcome back, Usain Bolt!”   We’ve all been there—those moments when life throws a curveball and all you can do is laugh. And that’s what makes life so entertaining. It’s these shared experiences, these little hiccups, that remind us we’re all in this together. We all have our own unique stories, and those stories are what connect us.   You know, there’s a saying that life is like a camera. Focus on what’s important, capture the good times, and if things don’t work out, take another shot. It’s a reminder to not take ourselves too seriously, to find humor in the everyday mishaps, and to cherish the moments that make us smile.   So, as we enjoy this evening together, let’s remember to laugh at the little things, share our stories, and most importantly, have fun. Life is too short to be anything but entertained by its unpredictability.   Thank you all for being such a wonderful audience. Have a fantastic evening!

Short Entertainment Speech Example

Good evening, Ladies and Gentlemen! It’s wonderful to see all of you here tonight. Let’s kick things off with a little humor: I once tried to write a song about a tortilla, but it turned out to be more of a wrap.   Life is full of these funny little moments. Take my first attempt at cooking, for instance. I was supposed to grill hot dogs at a family barbecue. Simple, right? Well, I managed to set the grill on fire. From that day on, my only job at barbecues is to bring the napkins—much safer!   Or how about the time I rushed to an important meeting, only to have my car get a flat tire? There I was, in my best suit, trying to change a tire on the side of the road. By the time I got to the meeting, I looked like I had just run a marathon.   These mishaps are what make life so entertaining. They remind us not to take ourselves too seriously and to find joy in the unexpected.   Remember, life is like a camera. Focus on what’s important, capture the good times, and if things don’t work out, take another shot.   Thank you all for being such a fantastic audience. Enjoy the rest of your evening!

• Entertainment Speech for Students

Edit & Download

• Entertainment Speech for High School

• Entertainment Speech About Education

More Entertainment Speech Topics

• Funny Speech for Kids
• Entertainment Speech about life
• Entertainment Speech about friendship with jokes
• Entertainment Speech for College Students
• Entertainment Speech for Wedding
• Entertainment Speech for Birthday
• Entertainment Speech for Party
• Entertainment Speech about Love
• Entertainment Speech on Celebrity Gossip
• Entertainment Speech on the Best Movies of All Time
• Entertainment Speech on the Role of Comedy in Society
• Entertainment Speech About Music Festivals

How to Write Entertainment Speech

1. start with a greeting.

Capture the audience’s attention immediately.

Example: “Good [morning/afternoon/evening], everyone!”

2. Open with Humor

Begin with a joke, funny anecdote, or surprising statement.

Example: “I once tried to write a song about a tortilla, but it turned out to be more of a wrap.”

3. Engage with Relatable Content

Share personal stories or experiences that the audience can relate to.

Example: “Let me tell you about my first attempt at cooking. It was a disaster, but now it’s a great laugh.”

4. Incorporate Transitions

Smoothly move from one point to the next to maintain flow.

Example: “Speaking of unexpected moments, let me share another story…”

5. Use Creative Elements

Include imaginative language, unexpected twists, or vivid descriptions.

Example: “I once tried to change a tire in my best suit—imagine the scene!”

6. Build to a Memorable Conclusion

End with a punchline, heartfelt message, or inspiring thought.

Example: “Remember, life is like a camera—focus on what’s important, capture the good times, and if things don’t work out, take another shot.”

7. Thank the Audience

Express gratitude for their attention and engagement.

Example: “Thank you all for being such a wonderful audience!”

Tips for Entertainment Speech

• Know Your Audience : Tailor your content to the interests and preferences of your audience.
• Start with a Bang : Use a joke, funny anecdote, or surprising statement to grab attention.
• Be Relatable : Share personal stories and experiences that the audience can connect with.
• Use Humor : Incorporate jokes, witty remarks, and light-hearted humor throughout your speech.
• Keep it Engaging : Use dynamic delivery, expressive body language, and varying tone to keep the audience interested.
• Include Transitions : Smoothly move from one point to another to maintain a natural flow.
• Be Creative : Use imaginative language, unexpected twists, and vivid descriptions to keep the content fresh.
• End on a High Note : Conclude with a memorable punchline, a heartfelt message, or an inspiring thought.
• Practice : Rehearse your speech multiple times to become comfortable and confident in your delivery.

Uses of Entertainment Speech

• Comedy Shows : Comedians use entertainment speeches to deliver stand-up routines. These speeches are crafted to evoke laughter through jokes, anecdotes, and humorous observations about everyday life, politics, culture, and human behavior.
• Award Ceremonies : Hosts and presenters at award ceremonies use entertainment speeches to engage the audience, introduce award categories, and celebrate the achievements of recipients. These speeches often include witty commentary, light-hearted jokes, and memorable stories about the nominees.
• Weddings : At weddings, the best man, maid of honor, and even the newlyweds often deliver entertainment speeches. These speeches are filled with humorous stories, heartfelt anecdotes, and well-wishes, making the celebration more enjoyable and memorable for all attendees.
• Corporate Events : During corporate events, entertainment speeches can be used to lighten the atmosphere, foster team spirit, and make the event more enjoyable. These speeches might include humorous reflections on the workplace, motivational stories, or entertaining observations about the industry.
• Fundraising Events : Entertainment speeches at fundraising events can help engage the audience, making the event more enjoyable and encouraging donations. Speakers might share inspiring and amusing stories related to the cause, helping to connect emotionally with attendees.
• Social Gatherings : At parties, reunions, and social gatherings, entertainment speeches can be used to entertain guests and enhance the overall experience. These speeches often include humorous anecdotes, personal stories, and playful commentary on shared experiences.
• After-Dinner Speeches : After-dinner speeches at banquets and formal dinners are often entertaining. These speeches aim to amuse the guests with humorous anecdotes, witty observations, and light-hearted reflections on the event or the organization hosting it.
• Talent Shows and Competitions : Hosts of talent shows and competitions use entertainment speeches to introduce acts, fill time between performances, and keep the audience engaged. These speeches are typically lively, humorous, and designed to maintain the energy of the event.
• Festivals and Cultural Events : During festivals and cultural events, entertainment speeches can introduce performances, celebrate traditions, and engage the audience with stories and humor. These speeches help set a festive tone and enhance the overall experience.
• Public Speaking Events : In public speaking events, motivational speakers and entertainers use entertainment speeches to captivate their audience. By combining humor, storytelling, and engaging content, they can make their messages more impactful and memorable.

How do you start an entertainment speech?

Start with a catchy hook or anecdote to grab the audience’s attention and set the tone for your speech.

What are common topics for entertainment speeches?

Common topics include personal stories, humorous events, celebrity anecdotes, and popular culture references.

How do you make an entertainment speech engaging?

Use humor, vivid descriptions, relatable stories, and interactive elements to keep the audience engaged.

What role does humor play in entertainment speeches?

Humor lightens the mood, makes the speech enjoyable, and helps connect with the audience.

How long should an entertainment speech be?

An entertainment speech typically lasts between 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the occasion and audience.

What is the purpose of an entertainment speech?

The purpose is to entertain, engage, and sometimes inform or inspire the audience through storytelling or humor.

How do you choose a topic for an entertainment speech?

Choose a topic you are passionate about and that will resonate with your audience, making them laugh or think.

What is the best way to end an entertainment speech?

End with a memorable punchline, a thought-provoking statement, or a call to action that leaves the audience satisfied.

How do you incorporate anecdotes in an entertainment speech?

Incorporate anecdotes by sharing personal or humorous stories relevant to your topic, making them relatable and entertaining.

Can entertainment speeches be informative?

Yes, entertainment speeches can inform while entertaining by blending humor with valuable information or insights.

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

10 Examples of Public speaking

20 Examples of Gas lighting