tips & advice
Speech! Speech! Wedding Speech 101
At certain points during your pre-wedding and wedding celebrations, you will feel obliged to address a group of people to either thank them or acknowledge their participation, or just to say, "Let the party begin!". As the bride or groom, it will be much appreciated by your guests, either at a rehearsal dinner, bachelor/ette party, even during the reception to acknowledge them. Never mind that you will earn huge points from your new in-laws! That is, if you do it right. Here are some tips to giving a speech. These are also good points to pass on to your Maid-of-Honor, Father, or anyone else a little nervous about standing up in front of a crowd.
1. Stand Up and Deliver
People want to be able to see who is talking, and you will sound better, too.
2. Speak with Confidence
So you are shy, and hate talking in front of big groups. It's time to step up to the plate and be an adult. You can do this! Practicing your speech will cut down on you nervousness. Remember, it doesn't have to be a long speech. Throw in a personal story, and make the crowd laugh or cry and you've got them hooked!
3. Make Eye Contact
Staring down at your notes the entire time, or transfixing on the Exit sign on the doors behind your audience will make for an awkward moment. Scan the crowd, and also make eye contact if you're speaking about a specific person in the crowd.
4. You Are Not A Marble Statue
This doesn't mean you should walk around the entire room, but don't stand there like a flag pole either. Gesture with your hands is a great way to emphasize your story, within reason of course!
5. Can You Hear Me Now?
Practice your speech with your voice turned up a couple notches on the volume button. Also, cut out any words or phrases that you keep stumbling on. Don't make this harder than it hast to be.
6. Drunk-Talking
Some people would prefer to do a shot or two of their favorite liquor to help calm their nerves before public speaking. However, we've all seen the home videos or heard the stories of the Best Man who has had one too many and ends up telling inappropriate stories from the bachelor party in front of all 150 wedding guests. Don't take a chance. Wait until after your speech for that cocktail.