So You’re the Best Man…

Now what do you do? You and I know that you’re expected to toast the newlyweds and give a speech that’s meant to entertainn the guests. I know the role can be quite daunting especially if you’re not used to public speaking.

Image: Flickr

Our best man did a fantastic job at our wedding. He gave a witty, funny yet sentimental speech. I still remember the words he used like it was yesterday.

If you are not so confident about giving a speech, here are some handy tips to get you through the ordeal

Reading vs Memorizing your Speech – People won’t mind if you read it but please, not word for word. Try to familiarize yourself with your speech.

Practice - It is always a good idea to rehearse your speech. Practice in front of the mirror. Practice smiling, pausing between sentences. Practice even the way you lift your glass for the toast. There is a lot to be gained with practising. There is nothing worse than a nervous-looking best man giving the speech that will set the tone of the wedding reception. Yes, no pressure!

Slow Down! – It is always a good idea to slow down. Don’t zap through the whole speech a mile a minute. Yes you’ve rehearsed your speech but rehearse the speed as well and occasional eye contact with the newlyweds will be good too.

Body Language – even if you don’t feel it, act confident, stand up straight. Look up from your cue cards. Make eye contact. All of these will help.

Laughs – If you expect a laugh – wait for it. If it doesn’t come tell people they were supposed to laugh and refuse to go on until they do. That will kick start them. Don’t begin again until the laughter has died down – enjoy it.

Interruptions. – don’t get peeved off when someone interrupts you with a ‘here, here’ or a joke. Savor it. Gives you time to relax when you see that everyone’s enjoying your speech and feel relaxed enough to join in the fun!

Drink – Don’t drink too much. Please. There’s nothing worse than a drunk best man slurring his speech.

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Via Hitched