Whoever is hosting the event should speak first and should take the microphone as soon as guests have found their seats. This first toast is most often made by the parents (or father) of the bride and should combine both a toast to the happy couple and a welcome message to the guests.
The traditional wedding speech order goes father of the bride, groom, best man and other toasts. "In same-sex weddings, it is also common for both partners to speak but sometimes only one does," explains Marc.
Traditionally, the father of the bride is the first to speak in the wedding speech sequence, especially if he has contributed financially to the wedding. The bride's father's speech should include; — A welcome to all the guests, and an expression of gratitude for their attendance and participation in the wedding.
The Couple's Parents - could be anything from one to four speeches. The Couple's Closest Friends and/or Siblings - these might include Best Man, Maid of Honour, Groomsmen, Bridesmaids, Groomsmaids, Bridesmen, members of the wedding party or non-members. The Couple - speaking either together or separately.
Who Gives a Wedding Toast? Tradition dictates that the best man is the master of ceremonies at a wedding reception and kicks off the toasts. This is a great point to keep in mind when selecting a best man—in addition to his ability to plan a stellar bachelor party, of course.
Traditionally, there's a father of the groom speech, as well. You'll want to keep your toast short and sweet, but be sure to tell your son how much you love them, address their new spouse, thank everyone for coming to the wedding, and offer some parting wisdom or advice for the newlyweds.
During the reception it is customary for the father of the bride to make a short speech, thanking the guests and those that have helped with the wedding planning, and talking a little about his daughter and new son-in-law. At the end of the speech the father of the bride usually proposes a toast to the happy couple.
More and more mums are choosing to deliver a mother of the bride speech at their daughter's wedding. It's a moving moment in the day which will mean so much to both you and her. It's traditional to have a father of the bride speech, but that certainly doesn't mean that mums can't give speeches too!
On top of all this, you'll also be tasked with presenting a mother of the groom speech. In honor of your son's special day, you'll have the honor of toasting to your son and new son-in-law or daughter-in-law as they embark on this new chapter together as newlyweds.
Wedding Speech Opening Lines: Simple and Sincere Opening Lines. "Good evening, ladies and gentlemen, and thank you (name) for the kind introduction." "Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. As (name's friend/relative), I'm delighted to welcome you all here tonight."
While many experts will tell you to keep your talk to 3 minutes or less, Chertoff says the best wedding speeches usually last three to five minutes.
Traditionally the wedding speeches are made after the main course and before dessert. However, these days it is becoming more common for couples to bring them forward to the beginning of the meal.
Give Speeches Once Entrées Are Served
This part of the meal is the longest, so it allows for a little more time for talking without interruptions from the waitstaff. Make sure your caterer serves your VIP tables first, so anyone giving a toast can enjoy their meal while it's hot.
From a performer's perspective the best time for wedding speeches will be at the end of the meal. (Just as an aside, if you'd like to have your crowd properly warmed up before the speeches, check out my Wedding Emcee page. All the best performers use a warm-up man!)
The mother of the bride should avoid trying to control every aspect of the wedding, criticizing the bride's decisions, or creating unnecessary drama.
Raise a Toast
After all your appreciation for everyone and sharing some stories, it is now time to end your mother of the bride speech. Invite the wedding guests to raise a toast for the happy couple and congratulate them.
It's the perfect opportunity for you to thank your bridal party and family but also drop a few love bombs. While you're at it, throw a few compliments at your spouse, as well.
A ring dish or jewelry box is a great wedding day gift. Many ring dishes and jewelry boxes can also be personalized with the bride's new name and wedding date to make it a keepsake she will never forget. If you want to give a really generous gift, you could gift a piece of jewelry with the ring dish or jewelry box.
“When you and I shared that moment earlier, that glimpse of the eye as I walked you down the aisle – just know that's a moment I will cherish forever.” “To you both, it's worth bearing in mind that neither of you will ever be perfect, but you can be perfect together.”
The mother of the bride is traditionally escorted by her son if she has one. Otherwise, any close male relative, the best man, or a groomsman walks with the mother of the bride during the procession.
Mother of the Groom with the Father of the Groom
Traditionally speaking, the mother of the groom will walk down the aisle with the father of the groom.
On your wedding day I wish you all the best, my son. And after this, may your life together be one based on mutual respect, as you shower each other with care. I hope you always look back and remember how much we cherish the love you two share.