A best man’s speech is one of the most anticipated moments of any wedding reception. Great best man speeches are the perfect blend of humor, heartfelt emotion, and storytelling – all designed to entertain the guests while honoring the newlyweds. But let’s be honest, delivering a speech that strikes the right balance can feel like a daunting task. That’s where expert guidance comes in.
Mike Stevenson, a public speaking expert and creator of How to Prepare a Brilliant Best Man’s Speech on URVEDA, has helped countless best men craft and deliver unforgettable speeches. Here, he shares his top tips to ensure your speech is not just great – but legendary.
Start Strong: Hook the Audience
The first few seconds of your speech set the tone for everything that follows. A strong opening should grab attention and put the audience at ease. Consider starting with a light-hearted joke, a fun anecdote about the groom, or even a heartfelt thank-you to the hosts. For example:
“Ladies and gentlemen, before I start, let’s all take a moment to appreciate how incredible (Bride’s Name) looks today! And let’s give a round of applause to (Groom’s Name) for dressing himself.”
This immediately gets a laugh while showing warmth toward the couple.
Keep It Short and Sweet
No one wants to sit through a 20-minute monologue. A great best man’s speech should be around five minutes – long enough to make an impact, but short enough to keep everyone engaged. Structure your speech with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
Tell a Story, Not a List of Jokes
The best speeches revolve around storytelling. Share a memorable (but appropriate!) story about the groom that highlights his personality. Maybe it’s the moment you knew he had fallen for his bride, or a funny childhood memory that shows his unique charm. Remember, your goal is to celebrate the groom, not roast him mercilessly.
Mike Stevenson advises: “The most powerful speeches are those that make people feel something – whether it’s laughter, nostalgia, or admiration.”
Balance Humor with Heartfelt Moments
While humor is key, don’t forget the emotional element. Express genuine appreciation for the groom and his journey to finding love. A heartfelt moment about how the bride brings out the best in him will add depth to your speech.
For example:
“I’ve known (Groom’s Name) for years, and while he’s always been an incredible friend, I’ve never seen him as happy, as confident, or as in love as he is with (Bride’s Name). Together, they are truly something special.”
End on a High Note
Wrap up your speech with a toast. Keep it simple and heartfelt, ensuring it leaves a lasting impression.
“To (Bride’s Name) and (Groom’s Name) – may your love be endless, your laughter be plentiful, and may today be just the beginning of a lifetime of happiness. Cheers!”
With these expert tips from Mike Stevenson, you’ll be ready to deliver a best man’s speech that is both brilliant and unforgettable. Cheers to making wedding day magic!