Who Gives Speeches At Weddings? [EXPLAINED]

Wondering who gives speeches at weddings? Here at Easthampstead Park, we understand the importance of this beloved tradition and our comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know.

Typically, the speeches are delivered during the wedding reception, either before or after the meal. They offer a chance for the couple and their dear ones to express gratitude and affection, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening. 

While there aren't strict rules dictating who speaks and when, we're here to offer inspiration on what typically unfolds. 

Who Gives A Speech At The Wedding? And What To Say!

Father Of The Bride

Traditionally at weddings, the father of the bride or a parent figure takes the lead in giving the first speech, which is often a deeply touching and emotional tribute to the bride.

Alongside this tribute, the father of the bride extends a warm welcome to the guests, expresses gratitude to the groom for his care towards his daughter, formally welcomes the groom into the family, and concludes with a heartfelt toast to the newlywed couple.

Groom

Following the father of the bride’s speech, it's customary for the groom to take the stage. He should graciously respond to the father's toast, expressing gratitude for welcoming him into the family and promising to always cherish and care for his daughter.

The groom’s speech is a heartfelt opportunity to express love and appreciation to his bride, as well as to extend thanks to the wedding party, guests, and both sets of parents. 

Best Man

The best mans speech is eagerly awaited at the wedding reception, often being one of the highlights of the evening. It's his opportunity to reminisce about the groom and share short anecdotes. Alongside this he may raise a toast to the happy couple, offering compliments, particularly to the bride. 

While the speech should be light-hearted and entertaining, it's crucial to maintain respect and appropriateness throughout.

Watch the video below for inspiration on what to say in your best man speech.

Maid Of Honour

If the bride has a maid of honour, it's typical for her to deliver a speech. During this time the maid of honour expresses her affection and appreciation for the bride, often sharing heartfelt memories of their friendship.

The speech is expected to be heartfelt and emotional with the maid of honour concluding with a toast to the newlyweds.

Other speakers

Following the speeches by the best man and maid of honour any additional speakers at the wedding, such as the mother of the groom, bridesmaids, father of the groom, siblings, or other members of the wedding party, may have their turn. These speeches should be brief yet genuine and heartfelt.

Traditional Order For Wedding Speeches

Typically, wedding speeches adhere to a traditional order beginning with the father of the bride, followed by the groom, best man, maid of honour, and concluding with any additional toasts. However feel free to mix it up to suit your style and preferences, we've seen it all at Easthampstead Park! 

When is the Best Time for Speeches? 

Traditionally, wedding speeches are delivered after dinner. However, nowadays couples are increasingly mixing up the order of speeches. 

Some opt to have speeches before the wedding breakfast so that the speakers can then relax and enjoy the meal. Others may choose to intersperse speeches between courses, preventing guests from enduring a long string of speeches all at once.

If you're considering this approach it's important to discuss it with your wedding venue or caterers to ensure it's possible. You wouldn't want the meals to go cold while someone speaks for too long!

Ultimately, the best timing for wedding speeches depends on your day's schedule. If there's a big gap between the ceremony and reception, guests may not want to wait until the end of the speeches to eat. 

For many couples having speeches after dinner works well as guests are satisfied and have had time to unwind.

Tips To Ensure Your Wedding Speeches Run Smoothly

When arranging the order of wedding speeches, whether you choose to stick to tradition or not, there are several important factors to keep in mind.

1. Set the stage with time limits for each speaker. Keep it concise and captivating.
2. Skip the awkward intros. Ask the previous speaker to introduce you, so you can dive right into your speech with confidence.
3. Keep the line up tight! Too many speakers can make guests fidgety. Quality over quantity is key.
4. Team up with other speakers to coordinate your content. Avoid repeats and spice up the speeches with a mix of jokes, toasts, and heartfelt stories.

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We hope you enjoyed our article on "Who Gives Speeches At Weddings".

For more great wedding-related reads check out: "Why Do Brides Wear Something Blue?," "12 Great First Dance Alternatives," and "Which Countries Wear Wedding Ring On Their Right Hand?".

And if you're on the hunt for a beautiful Wedding Venue in Berkshire check out Easthampstead Park.
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Frequently Asked Questions Related To: Who Gives Speeches At Weddings?

Who normally does speeches at a wedding?
The decision of who speaks at your wedding is entirely up to the couple. Traditionally, speeches are given by the father of the bride, best man, groom, and maid of honour. 

Who should speak first at wedding?
Traditionally, the father of the bride is the first to speak but this can be personalised to include the mother, a parent figure, or any other chosen speaker. Ultimately, its up to the bride and groom or couple to choose a order that works for their wedding day.

Does the groom toast the bride?
After saying a few words, it's customary for the groom to raise a toast to his new bride.

Does a maid of honour do a speech?
Yes, traditionally the maid of honour does give a speech at the wedding reception. This speech is typically a heartfelt tribute to the bride. If the maid of honour feels comfortable and willing to give a speech, it can add a lovely personal touch to the celebration.