Giving any speech sends my heart into a flutter. Making it a public one? I have all the anxiety. All of it. Every last bit. As someone who lives with anxiety, my best tip is to prepare and then prepare some more. It's not something that is exactly taught though. Luckily, I've filmed and photographed several wedding speeches. I have witnessed and heard the storylines, the inside jokes, etc. I'm here to help! You're welcome ;)
- Where You Should Begin: Your Relationship.
If you can do this without the, "For those of you who don't know me..." you get bonus points. It's better to be straight forward - no one likes a super long toast speech. You could start with "Hi, I'm Katelyn, the groom's sister." I've even heard a few rambunctious openers like this "I'm the bride's sister, Katelyn. For those of you who are family, I'm truly sorry"
- The Couple: How They Met
This can vary depending on when and if you knew the couple before they met. If you weren't there when they met, talk about how much you like their S/O and how you met them. If you were there when they met, make sure it's appropriate to speak about in front of the grandparents, I would get the OK from the couple first!
- The Story: Love and Stuff
You can talk about the good they bring out in each other. For example, are they normally super shy but shine when they're around their fiancé? Maybe one's super tough all the time but has a soft side only when they're around? Maybe they challenge each other in the best way and no one has ever done that before? Their love can be so truly amazing and consuming that it makes you believe in true love? Highlight what makes them stronger together, as a couple.
- What to Stay Away From: The Scandalous
You don't have to tell your couple the entire speech, but, like I said, I would definitely, DEFINITELY get the OK about any stories that you may be telling. Maybe it's not even scandalous but embarrassing, you wouldn't want someone to bring up an embarrassing story that you didn't care for on one of the most important days of your life, would you? Definitely get the OK. If they give they OK, they won't mind. Everyone just wants to have a good time. You could probably even tell those embarrassing stories at the bachelor party or bridal shower!
- With Them The Best: Congratulations
There are very few times in your life when you can straight-out tell a friend what they mean to you and how much you cherish them, this is your opportunity. Take this opportunity to express your gratitude and your sincerest well wishes for the couple! This will only happen once, use the opportunity to your fullest advantage!
BONUS TIP:
I can't stress this enough, use your mic! If they've provided one, speak clearly into it and try not to touch it while you are speaking! This will make a huge difference in audio for guests, vendors, and the couple! It'll make your toast that more memorable!
