by Kat Sarmiento
To give a very short answer to the question in the title above: no, not traditionally.
When sticking to good ol’ wedding traditions, brides are not required to give wedding toasts, as they are usually reserved for the father of the bride, the groom, and the best man. Sometimes, the father of the groom might say a few words. Occasionally, the maid of honor might prepare a short one to dazzle the crowd with personal anecdotes and well wishes for the couple.
A bride’s speech is not a necessity, but one great thing about modern weddings is that you can throw tradition right out the window.
Don’t hesitate to grab that mic and say a few words of adoration to your new spouse or express your gratitude to your guests. Just look at celebrity weddings! Meghan Markle broke tradition by giving a bride’s speech. She thanked the Royal Family and read Harry a poem that expressed how blessed she felt to have met him.
It’s romantic. It’s an awesome gesture. And on top of all that, it’s a memorable addition to your already amazing big day.
Why Should You Give A Bride’s Speech?
- Because people don’t expect it. There’s no pressure on you to do it, but it will definitely delight your guests.
- Because you get to formally thank your maid of honor and bridesmaids for everything they have done to make your big day even more remarkable.
- Because it’s a great way to personally give the parents their gifts.
- Because you get to express gratitude to all your guests who took time out of their lives to be with you on your special day.
- Because you can tell your love story from your perspective.
- Because it doesn’t have to be too long. It can be a moment to pause where you can make everyone tear up at just how cute you and your partner are.
Just How Long Should My Bride’s Speech Be?
Yes, it’s one of the most extraordinary days of your life, but let’s face it: lengthy, drawn-out speeches aren’t everyone’s cup of tea. You don’t want your speech to be in the way of all the other festivities in your wedding timeline because there will likely be other toasts for the guests to listen to.
Remember: the shorter the bride’s speech, the better. Keep it between two and five minutes, tops.
What Should Be In My Bride’s Speech?
So you’ve decided to give your own speech—what now? If you have no idea how to get started yet, below is a list of elements that can be included in your speech.
Welcome and express your gratitude to your guests. Begin your bride’s speech by extending a warm welcome to your guests and thanking them for attending your wedding.
Thank your VIPs. After your general greeting, take a minute to thank your most honored guests, such as your parents, in-laws, and grandparents. Keep in mind that while it would be nice to thank your wedding party and wedding vendors during the reception, you’re free to skip them if the speech runs on for too long. You can thank your bridesmaids and groomsmen during the rehearsals instead, or send them handwritten notes. Don’t forget to leave your vendors a positive review after the wedding!
Tell a very brief story about you and your spouse. Next, add some warmth to your bridal speech by telling a story or two about how you and your new husband or wife met or how your relationship blossomed—anything that will touch your guests’ hearts.
Make a connection between the narrative and your wedding day. Find a way to tie the wonderful anecdote you just told to your wedding day.
Lastly, a wedding toast! End your bride’s speech on a high note with a bride toast that expresses your thanks for your guests’ presence at your wedding celebration.
How Should I Deliver My Bride’s Speech?
Once you’ve crafted your perfect bride’s speech, the next step is to actually deliver it during your wedding reception. It’s okay to feel terrified! Breathe in and prepare yourself for a great delivery. Below are just a few tips to help you nail it.
It’s Okay Not To Memorize Your Speech
We get it. And so will your guests. There’ll be a lot going on on your wedding day, and emotions will be running high, but in the best way possible.
You don’t want to fret about the little things, such as forgetting your speech. It’s definitely okay for you to print your speech! Pro tip: carry two extra copies in case one gets misplaced.
Practice Out Loud
Even if you’ll be reading your speech, rehearse how you will deliver it at least three to six times so you can maintain genuine eye contact while giving your speech.
Practice in front of someone you know who will give you constructive comments. Alternatively, you can take a video of yourself to catch those embarrassing “ums” before your wedding videographer captures them.
Use a Mic
This guarantees that you won’t have to shout for everyone in the reception to hear you. When you move your head, remember to move the mic as well, so the sound doesn’t get lost or muffled.
Relax and Speak Slowly
While you may only have a limited time, that doesn’t mean you have to rush into things too quickly. Observe how the professionals do it. They always talk slowly and carefully, unconcerned about the timing of their words. Remember that comedians who make you laugh always take a breather before carrying on.
Your guests are interested in hearing what you have to say. Look at the people around you instead of looking down at the floor, up at the ceiling, or at a fixed place at the rear of the room.
Don’t worry about being emotional because your guests won’t be surprised. It’s okay to shed a tear here and there. You’re more than welcome to give yourself a few minutes to compose yourself. After a few inhales and exhales, you can carry on.
Keep Your Bride’s Speech Memorable and Fun!
If you’ve prepared and given yourself enough time to work on your bridal speech, relax and just enjoy it. Remember that everyone whose attention is all yours is on your side and wants to hear what you have to say. A bride’s speech is just a one-time thing, so make the most of it!
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