1406 original lines written for each speaker, from the best man to the aunt of the bride, plus anniversaries, birthdays, retirements and eulogies. Pick your role, add a name and copy the ones that sound like you.
“For anyone I haven't met, I'm [Your Name], [Parent's Name]'s sister, which means I've had a front-row seat to [Bride]'s life since the day she was born. I've also kept every embarrassing photo, just in case.”
“I was [Age] when I first held [Bride] in the hospital, and I remember thinking two things: she's perfect, and she already looks like she's planning something.”
“Being an aunt is the best job in the family. You get all the fun, none of the homework, and you hand her back when she's cranky. [Groom], I'm sorry to say that last part doesn't apply to you.”
“[Bride] called me 'Auntie [Nickname]' before she could say her own name, so please forgive me if I get a little choked up calling her a married woman.”
“I married into this family when [Bride] was [Age], and she was the first one who made me feel like I belonged. [Groom], tonight I get to do the same for you.”
“Her parents gave her rules. I gave her ice cream before dinner. I like to think we each did our part.”
“I'm [Bride]'s aunt and her godmother, which means [Number] years ago I promised, in front of a room full of people, to look out for her. I'm happy to report she has mostly looked out for me.”
“Some of you know me as [Bride]'s aunt. [Bride] knows me as the person she called when she didn't want to call her mom. [Parent's Name], I promise I always sent her home.”
“I have nieces and nephews I love equally, and I'm saying that out loud so I still get invited to their weddings. But tonight is all about [Bride].”
“I've been to [Number] of [Bride]'s birthday parties and didn't cry at a single one. Tonight, I'm making no promises.”
“The last time [Groom] and I were at a wedding together in our best clothes, he was [Age] and carrying the rings at mine. It's a real joy to be standing up at his.”
“I held [Groom] when he was a few days old and very loud about it. Tonight I get to watch him marry [Bride], and aunts don't get many better days than this.”
“My name's [Your Name], and I'm [Groom]'s aunt, which means I've seen every haircut he'd rather you forgot. Don't worry, [Groom]. I'll only mention one.”
“My sister [Groom's Mom] gave me two rules for tonight: keep it under three minutes, and don't mention the [Embarrassing Childhood Phase]. I'll be keeping one of those.”
“[Bride], before I say a single thing about my nephew, I want to say this to you: welcome to the [Family Name] family. We're loud, we're usually late, and we're very glad you're here.”
“Hello, everyone, I'm Aunt [Your Name]. [Groom] called me '[Childhood Nickname]' until he was about twelve, and then, very suddenly, he stopped.”
“I married into this family [Number] years ago, so, [Bride], I can tell you from experience: the first holiday is loud, the second is easier, and by the third you'll be doing the teasing.”
“I've lived [Distance] away for most of [Groom]'s life, so I mostly watched him grow up in school photos and birthday phone calls. Tonight I'm very glad to have a front-row seat.”
“I'm [Your Name], [Groom]'s aunt. I don't have children of my own, so I've spent [Number] years borrowing this one, and tonight I'm very happy to share him with [Bride].”
“In our family, the aunts are in charge of the stories. So, [Bride], think of this as your official welcome briefing.”
“Good evening, everyone. I'm [Name], and for the last [NUMBER] years I've been [Groom]'s best friend, his emergency contact, and the guy he calls when he can't find his keys.”
“For those who don't know me, I'm [Name]. [Groom] and I met [WHERE YOU MET], and he's been stuck with me ever since. [Bride], as of today, you're stuck with me too.”
“I've known [Groom] since we were [AGE], which means I've seen every haircut he's ever had. I promised not to bring the photos. I never promised not to describe them.”
“[Groom] and I met [WHERE YOU MET] when we were [AGE]. I had no idea I was meeting my best friend, and I definitely didn't know I'd one day have to say nice things about him in public.”
“Hi, everyone. [Groom] has a lot of friends, and I'm honored he picked me to stand next to him today. I'm fairly sure it's because I know the most and he wanted to keep me close.”
“[Groom] has been my [ROOMMATE / TEAMMATE / CARPOOL BUDDY], my worst gym partner and my best friend. Tonight I get one more title: the guy who tells you what he's really like.”
“Most of you know [Groom] as [HIS JOB OR REPUTATION]. I know him as the kid who [CHILDHOOD QUIRK]. Both are true, and tonight you're going to hear about both.”
“I'm [Name], [Groom]'s best friend, and I want to start by saying how good he looks today. I lived with him in [COLLEGE / FIRST APARTMENT], so trust me, this is a huge improvement.”
“Before I start, I want to thank [Bride] for agreeing to share my best friend. We've worked out a custody arrangement. I get him for [SHARED TRADITION] and the occasional [SPORT] game.”
“I've been [Groom]'s friend for longer than I've been a driver, an employee or a reasonable adult. So when he asked me to do this, I knew it would be the most important speech I ever give.”
“Good evening, everyone. I'm [Your Name], [Groom]'s brother, which makes me the only person here, apart from Mom and Dad, who has seen the bowl-cut photos.”
“I'm [Your Name], [Groom]'s older brother. For [NUMBER] years I was told, "Be nice to your little brother." Tonight, I finally get a microphone.”
“Hi, I'm the younger brother. [Groom] has spent my entire life telling me what to do, so standing up here while he has to sit quietly and listen is the best gift I could ask for.”
“Mom, Dad, I'm sorry in advance. Some of these stories you're hearing for the very first time.”
“[Groom] could have picked any of his friends to be his best man. He picked the one guy he can't get rid of, because I came with the family.”
“Most best men can tell you how they met the groom. I can't. [Groom] was already there when I arrived, and he's been sitting in my seat ever since.”
“I've shared a bedroom, a car, a pile of hand-me-downs and at least one broken lamp with [Groom], so I think I'm qualified for this job.”
“[Bride], I've been looking forward to today for one reason: I finally get a sister who'll take my side at family dinners.”
“[Bride]'s family, you may be wondering who the guy with [Groom]'s nose is. I'm his brother, and I promise I got the better version.”
“I was [AGE] when [Groom] was born, and I was not impressed. It took me a while, but I came around, and today I couldn't be prouder to stand next to him.”
“Good evening, everyone. For those who don't know me, I'm [Your Name], [Groom]'s best man, and I've been preparing this speech for roughly as long as I've known him.”
“When [Groom] asked me to be his best man, I said yes before he finished the sentence. In hindsight, I should have asked what the job involved.”
“Hello, everyone. I'll keep this brief, because [Bride] told me I have four minutes and [Groom] told me I have none.”
“[Groom] gave me two rules for tonight: keep it clean and keep it short. I'm going to aim for one out of two.”
“[Bride], before I start, you should know that [Groom] has read this speech. He'd like me to point out that he did not approve it.”
“I've stood next to [Groom] through [SHARED HISTORY, e.g. exams, bad first jobs and three regrettable haircuts], so standing next to him today was easy. Talking about him in front of his grandmother is the hard part.”
“If you're wondering why I'm holding notes, it's because the last time I made something up on the spot around [Groom], we ended up [SHORT FUNNY CONSEQUENCE].”
“I met [Groom] [WHERE AND HOW YOU MET], and I've spent the [NUMBER] years since trying to keep him out of trouble. [Bride], tonight I'm officially handing that job over to you.”
“My name is [Your Name], and I'd like to start by thanking [Bride], because without her I would never have seen [Groom] in a suit that actually fits.”
“For those on [Bride]'s side wondering who I am: I'm the reason [Groom] [HARMLESS QUIRK, e.g. knows every word to a 90s boy band song]. You can thank me later.”
“For those who don't know me, I'm [Your name], [Bride]'s big brother, and for [number] years, her self-appointed bodyguard. As of today, I'm handing in my badge.”
“Hi everyone, I'm [Your name], [Bride]'s little brother. She's been telling me what to do my whole life, so it won't surprise you that she also told me how long this speech could be.”
“When we were kids, I thought being [Bride]'s brother meant [hiding her dolls and eating her Halloween candy]. Somewhere along the way it turned into [teaching her to drive and pretending I wasn't terrified]. I'm more nervous right now than I ever was in that car.”
“I'm [Your name], [Bride]'s brother, and the only person here she has beaten at [arm wrestling], [the spelling bee] and [a fight over the last slice of pizza], all in the same week.”
“I'm [Your name], the bride's brother. For [Groom]'s family: I'm the guy with all the old photos, and I've promised [Bride] I'll only describe two of them.”
“Good evening, everyone. I watched my sister walk down the aisle today, and for the record, I did not cry. Something was in my eye. For about forty minutes.”
“I'm [Your name], and I'm one of the few people here who has seen [Bride] lose a game of [Monopoly]. [Groom], you'll see it eventually. My advice is to let her win.”
“My name is [Your name], and I'm [Bride]'s brother. Dad should be the one standing here tonight. I'm going to do my best to say what he would have said, and maybe a few things he wouldn't have.”
“[Bride] has been my sister for [number] years, my babysitter for about three of them, and my toughest critic for all of them. So, no pressure on this speech at all.”
“Hi, I'm [Your name]. When [Bride] first brought [Groom] home, I had a list of tough big-brother questions ready. I'll tell you later how far I got.”
“Hey everyone, I'm [Your Name], the younger brother. I've known [Groom] my entire life, and he has spent most of it reminding me he was here first.”
“I'm [Your Name], [Groom]'s big brother. I was there the day Mom and Dad brought him home, and I've been keeping an eye on him ever since. Today I'm officially handing that job to [Bride].”
“[Best Man] is the best man today, and he'll do a great job. I'm just the brother, which, I'd like to point out, is a lifetime appointment.”
“I'll keep this short, because [Best Man] has the long speech. Which is a shame, really. He's known [Groom] for [NUMBER] years. I've known him for [NUMBER].”
“If you're on [Bride]'s side and wondering who this is: I'm [Your Name], the brother. If [Groom] has ever told you a story that starts with "my brother and I," I apologize. It was mostly his idea.”
“Growing up, [Groom] and I shared a room, and he guarded his side like a border. Tonight I'm happy to report he's finally found someone he'll share it with.”
“I'm [Your Name], [Groom]'s twin brother. For the record, I'm the better-looking one, and he's the one who got married first, so I think we're even.”
“Mom asked me to say a few words tonight, and [Groom] asked me to say very few. I'm going to try to make them both happy.”
“Tomorrow, [Best Man] gets the microphone and the big speech. Tonight the family gets a turn, and as [Groom]'s brother, I asked to go first.”
“I've been [Groom]'s brother for [NUMBER] years. Tonight is the first time I get to stand up in front of everyone and tell him how proud I am of him.”
“For anyone on [Groom]'s side wondering who I am, I'm [Your Name]. [Bride]'s mom and my dad are sister and brother, which means [Bride] and I have spent every [Holiday] of our lives at the same kids' table.”
“Hi everyone, I'm [Your Name], [Bride]'s cousin. We're [Number] months apart, so for most of our childhood, family photos showed the two of us in matching outfits neither of us chose.”
“Some people meet their best friend at school. I got [Groom] at birth. Our parents happened to be siblings, so I never had a say in it, and I'm so glad I didn't.”
“I'm [Your Name], one of [Bride]'s [Number] cousins. We held a family vote on who should give this speech, and I'd like to thank everyone who muted the cousins' group chat that week.”
“[Bride] and I aren't sisters, but every summer at [Grandparent]'s house in [Place], nobody could tell the difference.”
“When [Bride] asked me to be her maid of honor, my first thought was, 'Finally, I get to tell the [Family Event] story in public.' My second thought was, 'She'll never speak to me again.' Relax, [Bride], I picked a different one.”
“Being [Groom]'s cousin means I'm standing next to him in every family photo from his awkward years, usually in the same bowl cut. Tonight, I come in peace.”
“[Bride] is the cousin who taught me to ride a bike, sneak a second dessert and apologize to Grandma with a straight face. I still use two of those skills.”
“We grew up [Number] hours apart, so [Groom] and I saw each other twice a year, at [Holiday] and [Holiday]. Somehow that was enough to make him one of my favorite people on earth.”
“There are [Number] grandchildren in our family, and I've been told I'm not allowed to say [Bride] is the favorite. So I'll just say she's the one who always organized the rest of us.”
“Good evening, everyone. I'm [Your Name], [Bride]'s dad, and on behalf of [Bride's Mother] and myself, welcome to the day [Bride] has been planning since she was old enough to boss me around.”
“I've been rehearsing this speech for weeks, and [Bride] has given me just one instruction: 'Dad, please don't cry.' I'm making no promises.”
“Welcome, everyone. If I pause for a long time in the next few minutes, I haven't lost my place. I'm just looking at my daughter.”
“When [Bride] was little, she gave me nightly speeches about why bedtime was unfair. After [Number] years, it's finally my turn to talk.”
“I'm [Your Name], father of the bride, which for the last year has mostly meant nodding at cake samples and saying, 'Whatever you think, sweetheart.'”
“Before we eat, a quick word from the man who's been told, several times, to keep it short. On behalf of our family and the [Groom's Surname] family, welcome, and thank you for coming from [Place] and beyond.”
“I've driven [Bride] to a thousand [Soccer Practices], waited up past midnight more times than I can count, and today I walked her down the aisle. That was the shortest trip of the lot, and the hardest.”
“When [Groom] asked for my blessing, I said yes straight away. Let's be honest: [Bride] had already decided, and I haven't won an argument with her since she was [Age].”
“Before I say a word, take a look at her. I think you'll agree [Groom] is a very lucky man, and I'm a very lucky dad.”
“[Number] years ago I held [Bride] for the first time and promised I'd always be there for her. Tonight I get to keep that promise in front of everyone we love.”
“Good evening, everyone. I'm [Your Name], [Groom]'s dad. [Bride's Father] just told you about the daughter he raised. I have the easier job: telling you how glad we are that she's joining our family.”
“If we haven't met yet, I'm [Your Name], [Groom]'s father. He got his looks from his mother and, I'm sorry to say, his sense of humor from me.”
“I taught [Groom] to ride a bike, tie a tie and change a tire. Finding someone like [Bride], he managed all on his own.”
“I'm not much of a public speaker. [Groom] once timed my Thanksgiving grace at eleven minutes. So I promise to keep this short, but I'll mean every word.”
“Thank you, [Bride's Father]. You've set the bar high for every dad in this room, so I'll do what any sensible father of the groom would: keep it short and agree with everything you said about [Bride].”
“[Groom] asked me to keep this under four minutes. [Wife's Name] asked me to keep it under three. After [Number] years of marriage, I know which one of them to listen to.”
“The last time I talked about [Groom] in front of this many people was at his [Little League banquet / school prize-giving], and he begged me to stop. Today he asked me to speak. I'm calling that progress.”
“[Bride]'s family has spent the last [Time] getting to know [Groom]. I've had a [Number]-year head start, so let me fill in a few blanks.”
“In our family, speeches usually happen at Christmas, and they're usually about who burned the turkey. This one is a lot more fun to give.”
“Most of you came today for [Bride] and [Groom]. So did I, plus the chance to say a few things to my son that I don't say often enough.”
“Hi, everyone. I'm [Your Name]. The bride has been my aunt for exactly [Your Age] years, which is my whole life, and she's been my favorite grown-up for all of them.”
“Most of you are here because you love [Bride]. I've loved her since before I could say her name. For the first three years I called her '[Toddler Nickname],' and she still answers to it.”
“When Aunt [Bride] asked me to give a speech, I said yes right away. Then I remembered I'd have to stand up in front of all of you. So if my hands are shaking, that's why.”
“My [mom/dad] says Aunt [Bride] was the first person after my parents to hold me. I'm told she cried. Tonight, it's my turn.”
“Aunt [Bride] and I are only [Number] years apart, so growing up she was my aunt on paper and my big sister everywhere else.”
“I'm [Your Name], the [niece/nephew] who spent every [summer/school holiday] at Aunt [Bride]'s house eating cereal for dinner. [Mom/Dad], this is the first time you're hearing about the cereal.”
“Aunt [Bride] once paid me [a dollar/a pound] to stop singing in the car. Today she handed me a microphone, so I think I've finally been forgiven.”
“Today Aunt [Bride] gets a husband and I get a brand-new uncle. Honestly, I think we both did really well.”
“Aunt [Bride] taught me how to [Skill She Taught You] and how to keep a secret. Don't worry, [Bride], I'm only telling the [Skill] story tonight.”
“Some people have an aunt. I had a second mom, a big sister and a best friend, all in one person. And today, she's the bride.”
“[Groom] held me when I was two days old. My [mom/dad] says he looked terrified. Today I'm the one holding the microphone, and now I know exactly how he felt.”
“For those who don't know me, I'm [Groom]'s niece. He's been my uncle for [Number] years, and for most of them he's also been my ride, my tech support and my biggest fan.”
“I'm [Your Name], I'm [Age] years old, and I asked if I could say something today because [Groom] is the best uncle in the world. I checked with my cousins, and they mostly agree.”
“When I was little, I thought Uncle [Groom] could do anything. I'm [Age] now and I still mostly think so, even though I found out his famous 'secret' pancake recipe is the box mix.”
“There are only [Number] years between [Groom] and me, so I've never been sure if he's my uncle or the big brother I got for free. Today I get to stand up for him, which feels fair after all the times he stood up for me.”
“Over the years I've asked Uncle [Groom] for a lot: rides, advice, money for the ice cream truck. This time he asked me for something, a few words at his wedding, so here goes.”
“Most of my childhood photos have Uncle [Groom] somewhere in the background, usually pulling a face. Today, for once, he's the one in the middle of the picture.”
“Hello everyone. [Groom] is my [mom's/dad's] little brother, and growing up he was the uncle who always had time for one more game of catch, one more story and one more 'don't tell your parents.'”
“I've had a lot of titles for Uncle [Groom] over the years: chauffeur, coach, emergency pizza supplier. Today he gets a new one: [Bride]'s husband.”
“Most best men have a college story about the groom. I have [Number] years of family holidays with him, so, Uncle [Groom], you might want to sit down for this.”
“For those who don't know me, I'm [Your Name], [Parent's Name]'s dad, which makes me [Bride]'s grandpa. [Grandmother's Name] and I have been married for [Number] years, so I've learned one thing about weddings: keep the speeches short.”
“I've given a few speeches in my life, but this is the first time a granddaughter has asked me to. [Bride], thank you. I'll try not to embarrass you. Much.”
“[Bride] asked me to walk her down the aisle today and to say a few words tonight. The walk was the easy part.”
“[Number] years ago, I stood up at [Parent's Name]'s wedding and said it was the proudest day of my life. [Parent's Name], I'm sorry, but that record has just been broken.”
“[Your Age] years have taught me to say what matters and then sit down. So here's what matters: [Bride], you are one of the great joys of my life.”
“Good evening. I'm [Bride]'s grandfather, and I'm probably the oldest person here who still plans to dance tonight, so I'll keep this quick and save my knees.”
“I taught [Bride] to [Skill You Taught Her, e.g. bait a hook / play gin rummy]. Within a week she was better at it than me, and she's been showing me up ever since.”
“This family started with two people at a kitchen table in [Town]. Looking around this room tonight, I'd say it got a little out of hand, and I couldn't be happier about it.”
“[Bride]'s father, my son [Father's Name], should be standing here tonight. I know exactly what he'd want to say, so I'll do my best to say it for both of us.”
“In my day, a young man asked the father for permission and hoped the grandfather approved. [Groom], I approved the day you [Small Thing He Did For You].”
“Good evening. For those on [Groom]'s side, I'm [Your Name], [Parent's Name]'s mother. To [Bride], I've been [Nana / Grandma / Gran] for [Number] years, and it's still my favorite name.”
“[Number] years ago I helped [Bride's Mother] into her wedding dress. This morning I watched [Bride] step into hers, and I'm still not sure where the time went.”
“In [Number] years I've cooked for this family, cried with this family and danced at plenty of its weddings, but this is the first time anyone has handed me the microphone. Let's see how it goes.”
“[Bride], when you were small you stood on a chair in my kitchen to help me make [Family Recipe]. Tonight I get to stand up and help you celebrate. Well, I'll stand for a minute or two.”
“I promised [Bride] I wouldn't cry tonight, and I've never broken a promise to her. So if my voice wobbles, please blame my age.”
“I'm [Your Name], the bride's grandmother, which means I've had [Number] years of practice spoiling her. [Groom], I'm officially handing that job over to you.”
“When [Parent's Name] asked if I'd like to say a few words, I said yes. Then I asked, 'Only a few?'”
“I was married to [Partner's Name] for [Number] years, and I learned a thing or two about love. I'll share just one of them tonight, because I can see you're all hungry.”
“[Bride] taught me how to send a text, make a video call and keep my thumb off the camera. Tonight it's my turn to teach her something.”
“When [Bride] walked down the aisle today, I saw the little girl who used to [Childhood Habit] at my house and the remarkable woman she's become, both at once.”
“Good evening, everyone. For those who don't know me, I'm [Your Name], [Groom]'s grandmother, his dad's mother, and I've been waiting [Number] years to say a few words at this wedding.”
“The first time I held [Groom], he fit in the crook of one arm. Tonight he's taller than me, wearing a suit and marrying [Bride], and I'm still not sure how that happened so fast.”
“For those on [Bride]'s side, I'm [Groom]'s grandpa. I'm the one who taught him to [Skill You Taught Him], so if he ever gets it wrong, you know who to blame.”
“I'm speaking tonight for both of us, me and [Spouse's Name], who's sitting right over there pretending not to be teary already.”
“[Groom] couldn't say 'Grandma' when he was little, so he called me [Nickname]. He's a grown man now, he still calls me that, and I hope he never stops.”
“Some people are lucky enough to see their children get married. If you're very lucky, like me, you get to see your grandchildren do it too.”
“When [Groom] was small, he spent every [Summer / Saturday] at our house. [Spouse's Name] and I thought we were looking after him. Looking back, he was looking after us.”
“I'll keep this short. At my age, I've learned the best speeches and the best naps are the ones that don't go on too long.”
“[Number] years ago I watched [Groom's Mom or Dad] carry this little boy out of the hospital like a carton of eggs. Today I watched him walk back up the aisle with [Bride] on his arm, steady as anything.”
“[Groom], over the years I've told you a lot of things, mostly to wear a coat and call your mother. Tonight I just want to tell you how proud I am.”
“Hi everyone, I'm [Name]. I've been [Bride]'s best friend for [NUMBER] years, which means I've approved every outfit, every haircut and, eventually, [Groom].”
“For those who don't know me, I'm [Name], the person [Bride] has texted 'are you awake?' at 2 a.m. more times than either of us would like to admit.”
“Good evening. I'm [Name]. [Bride] and I met [WHERE YOU MET] when we were [AGE], and I've been her hype woman, her therapist and her getaway driver ever since.”
“Some of you have known [Bride] since the day she was born. I only got her from [AGE] onward, but I'd argue I got the most interesting years.”
“Hello, everyone. I'm [Name]. If you've ever received a voice note from [Bride] that lasts longer than nine minutes, you already understand our friendship.”
“[Bride] and I have been friends for [NUMBER] years. In that time we've survived [SHARED EXPERIENCE], three apartments and one very ambitious attempt at bangs.”
“When [Bride] asked me to be her maid of honor, she gave me two rules: keep it short, and don't tell the [STORY NAME] story. I'll be honoring one of those.”
“I'm [Name]. I met [Bride] on [FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL, COLLEGE OR WORK], and by lunchtime I knew two things: she was going to be my best friend, and she was going to be in charge.”
“Good evening. I'm [Name], and for [NUMBER] years I've had the best seat in the house for [Bride]'s life, including the night she came home from her first date with [Groom].”
“She could have asked anyone in this room to stand up here tonight. She asked me, and I've been trying not to let it go to my head for [NUMBER] months.”
“Hi everyone, I'm [Your Name], [Bride]'s little sister and maid of honor. She bossed me around for [NUMBER] years, so these last few months of telling her where to stand have been very healing.”
“I'm [Your Name], [Bride]'s big sister. I've been looking after her since she was [AGE], so being her maid of honor felt less like a new job and more like a promotion.”
“For anyone on [Groom]'s side who doesn't know me, I'm [Your Name], the bride's sister and maid of honor. I'm the one next to her in every childhood photo, wearing the same outfit and a much less happy face.”
“Being [Bride]'s maid of honor is a big job. Being her sister is a bigger one. Luckily, I've had [NUMBER] years of training.”
“Most maids of honor met the bride at school or at work. I met [Bride] the day I was born, and she's been telling me what to do ever since.”
“Our mom says [Bride] and I argued every single day until I was [AGE], and we haven't stopped talking since. Tonight you get the talking part.”
“When [Bride] asked me to be her maid of honor, she said, 'You're my sister, so you have to say yes.' That's been her argument for everything since [YEAR].”
“I've been [Bride]'s sister my whole life and her maid of honor for [NUMBER] months. The second job came with a lot more group chats.”
“Mom and Dad, you'll be relieved to hear I've cut the story about [HARMLESS CHILDHOOD DISASTER]. Mostly.”
“I'm [Your Name], [Bride]'s twin sister and maid of honor. We've shared everything since before we were born, except tonight's spotlight. That one is all hers.”
“Good evening, everyone. I'm [Your Name], and for the last [NUMBER] years I've been [Bride]'s emergency contact, her plus-one and her unpaid fashion advisor. Tonight I'm officially handing over two of those jobs.”
“Hi, I'm [Your Name], [Bride]'s maid of honor. If you've ever been out with [Bride], you've probably met me already. I'm the one holding her shoes at the end of the night.”
“When [Bride] asked me to be her maid of honor, she cried, I cried, and then she handed me a color-coded schedule. If you know her, that's the most [Bride] thing you've ever heard.”
“Hello, everyone. I promised [Bride] I wouldn't cry during this speech, so I'd like to apologize to her now, in advance.”
“For those who don't know me, I'm [Your Name]. [Bride] and I met [HOW YOU MET], and she has been stuck with me ever since. [Groom], that's now your problem too.”
“I've known [Bride] since we were [AGE], so I have enough stories to keep us here until breakfast. [Groom], you can relax. I picked the nice ones.”
“Good evening. I've stood next to [Bride] for a lot of big moments: [BIG MOMENT ONE], [BIG MOMENT TWO], and now this one. This one is my favorite by a mile.”
“Before I start, [Groom], I want you to know that everything I'm about to say about your wife is true. Even the parts she asked me to cut.”
“Hi everyone, I'm [Your Name], the maid of honor, which means I get a microphone and five minutes with no interruptions. [Bride], I've been waiting [NUMBER] years for this.”
“Most of you know [Bride] as [ONE QUALITY PEOPLE SEE]. I know her as the person who [SPECIFIC HABIT ONLY CLOSE FRIENDS KNOW], and I'm about to tell you why that matters.”
“Good evening, everyone. I'm [Your Name], [Bride]'s mom, and I've waited [Number] years to say this: welcome to my daughter's wedding.”
“For those who don't know me, I'm the mother of the bride. I'm the one who's been crying since the hair appointment at 8 a.m.”
“[Bride], I've packed your lunches, braided your hair and talked you through every heartbreak. Tonight I get to talk about you, and you can't stop me.”
“This morning I helped [Bride] into her dress, and for a second I saw the little girl who wore my high heels around the kitchen. Then she turned around, and she was all grown up.”
“[Bride's Father] and I agreed to split this speech. He gets the jokes, and I get the tissues.”
“Tradition says the mother of the bride smiles, cries quietly and leaves the speeches to everyone else. [Bride] knows I've never been good at quiet, so here we are.”
“When [Bride] was born, the nurse handed her to me and said, 'This one has opinions.' [Number] years later, I can confirm the nurse was right.”
“For [Number] years it's been [Bride] and me against the world. Tonight our team gets a lot bigger, and I couldn't be happier about it.”
“[Bride], look around this room. Everyone here loves you, but I want it on record that I had a nine-month head start.”
“I promised [Bride] I wouldn't tell the story about [Hint at an Embarrassing Story]. I'm a woman of my word, mostly.”
“Good evening, everyone. I'm [Your Name], [Groom]'s mom. I've been practicing this speech in the car for three weeks, so if you've seen me talking to myself at a red light, now you know why.”
“Today I watched my son wait at the front for [Bride], fiddling with his [tie / cuffs] the way he did on his first day of school. Then she walked in, and he went completely still.”
“For those on [Bride]'s side who haven't met me yet, I'm [Your Name], the woman who taught [Groom] to say please, thank you and 'Yes, Mom.' I hear he's already practicing 'Yes, dear.'”
“[Number] years ago, I held a very small, very loud baby boy and wondered who he'd grow up to be. Tonight I get to tell you: he turned out even better than I hoped.”
“I promised [Groom] I wouldn't cry. I also promised I wouldn't bring out the baby photos. I'm only going to be able to keep one of those promises.”
“Thank you, [Bride's Mother]. You've had [Number] years of loving [Bride]. I've had [Number], and I'm doing my best to catch up.”
“I'm [Your Name], and I've been [Groom]'s mother for [Number] years. Today I get a new title, mother-in-law, and I'm hoping to give it a much better reputation than the jokes do.”
“When [Groom] was five, he told me he'd never get married because he was going to live with me forever. [Bride], thank you for changing his mind. I'm only a little bit sad about it.”
“Before I say anything about my son, I want to say one name: [Bride]. Because the best thing I can tell you about [Groom] is the person he chose.”
“Hello, everyone. I'm [Groom]'s mum, and I'll be the one crying in every photo today. I've made my peace with it, and I'm wearing waterproof mascara.”
“Hi everyone, I'm [Your name], [Bride]'s little sister. For [number] years I've borrowed her clothes, her makeup and her taste in music. Tonight I'm borrowing one more thing: your attention, for about three minutes.”
“I'm [Your name], [Bride]'s big sister. I've been giving her advice since the day she was born. She has ignored almost all of it, and look how well she's done.”
“For anyone who doesn't know me, I'm the bride's sister. That makes me the only person here who has seen [Bride] cry over [a cancelled TV show], and the only person sworn never to talk about it.”
“[Bride] and I shared one bathroom for [number] years, so I know exactly how long she takes to get ready. [Groom], today was worth the wait. Most days, you'll just be late.”
“Good evening. I'm [Your name]: [Bride]'s sister since birth, her roommate for [number] years, and her unpaid stylist, therapist and alibi for most of them.”
“When [Bride] asked me to give a speech, she had one rule: nothing from [the year she had the perm]. So I've had to cut about half my material.”
“I'm [Your name], [Bride]'s twin sister. People always ask what it's like to have a twin. Honestly, it's like having a best friend who knows exactly which buttons to push, and pushes them anyway.”
“Hi, I'm [Your name], the bride's sister. [Maid of honor's name] has known [Bride] for [number] years. I've known her for all of them, so I'll take care of the early chapters.”
“Some of you know [Bride] as [her job]. Some of you know her as the friend who always [her habit]. I know her as the girl who made me play [game] until I gave in. Let me introduce you to her.”
“I've practiced this speech in front of the mirror for weeks, and every single time I got to the part about [Bride], I cried. So if it happens tonight, just know it means the speech is working.”
“Hi everyone, I'm [Your Name], [Groom]'s big sister. I've been telling him what to do for [NUMBER] years, and tonight I finally have backup. Welcome, [Bride].”
“For [Bride]'s family who haven't met me yet, I'm [Your Name], the groom's little sister. I'm the reason he knows how to braid hair, and I'm not sorry.”
“I'm [Your Name], [Groom]'s sister. When he was six, I made him walk down the aisle in our living room at my doll's wedding. Today he did it for real, and he chose a much better partner.”
“Good evening, I'm [Groom]'s only sister. I grew up outnumbered by boys at the dinner table, so [Bride], thank you for finally evening the odds.”
“I'm [Your Name], [Groom]'s twin sister. We've shared a birthday, a bedroom wall and every cold for [NUMBER] years. This is the first big thing he's done without me, and I've never been happier to be left out.”
“For [NUMBER] years, I was the second most important woman in [Groom]'s life, right after Mom. Tonight I'm very happy to move down a spot.”
“I'm [Your Name], [Groom]'s sister. I was his first ever plus-one, at [Cousin]'s wedding in [YEAR], and he stepped on my feet all night. [Bride], I hope he's had lessons since.”
“When [Groom] decided to propose, I was the first person he called. Not to share the news, but to ask if the ring was too much. [Bride], I told him it was perfect, and I was right.”
“I'm [Your Name], [Groom]'s older sister. I taught him to tie his shoes, ride a bike and slow dance in the kitchen before his first school dance. [Bride], you're welcome.”
“[Groom] was my first best friend and my first business partner. At [AGE] we sold [lemonade] at the end of our driveway, and he gave half of it away to the neighbors. [Bride], that big heart is still there; just keep him away from the budget.”
“Good evening, everyone. I'm [Your Name], [Bride]'s stepdad, and I've had the privilege of being in her corner for [Number] years.”
“For those who don't know me, I'm [Your Name]. I married [Bride's Mother] when [Bride] was [Age], and I've been working on [Bride]'s approval ever since. Tonight she handed me a microphone, so I think I'm finally in.”
“The first time I met [Bride], she was [Age], and she shook my hand like she was interviewing me for a job. I'd like to think I got the position.”
“I didn't get to see [Bride]'s first steps. But I've seen plenty of steps since, including the ones she took down the aisle today.”
“[Bride] calls me [Nickname], and no title I've ever had has made me prouder.”
“Good evening. I'm [Bride]'s stepfather, which means I joined this family partway through the story. I'm so grateful I didn't miss this chapter.”
“[Bride's Father] has already said it beautifully, so I'll be brief. I'm [Your Name], [Bride]'s stepdad, and I'd like to add a few words from another man who's been lucky enough to love her.”
“When I married [Bride's Mother], everyone told me I was gaining a wife. Nobody mentioned I was also gaining a [Age]-year-old who would correct my grammar at dinner.”
“Stepdads don't get a manual. [Bride] wrote me one anyway, mostly in sighs and eye-rolls, and I've been studying it for [Number] years.”
“[Bride], thank you for asking me to say a few words tonight. Being asked is the best gift you could have given me.”
“If we haven't met, I'm [Your Name], [Parent's Name]'s brother. That makes me [Bride]'s uncle, her former [Job, e.g. summer boss], and her most frequent loser at [Game].”
“Most of you know why I'm the one up here. [Father's Name] should be. I won't try to give his speech, but I'm going to say a few things I know he'd want said.”
“I joined this family when [Bride] was [Age]. At my first [Holiday], she asked me [Number] questions, including my middle name, and I'm pretty sure she was deciding whether I could stay.”
“Every family has one uncle who's a little too loud at the cookout. Hi, I'm that uncle, and [Bride] has made me promise to keep this clean.”
“I've been [Bride]'s uncle for [Number] years, her personal driver for about [Number] of them, and her emergency contact more times than her parents know.”
“When [Bride] asked me to say a few words today, I said yes, then sat in my car for ten minutes. Nobody warns you how much that question means.”
“Some uncles teach you to ride a bike. I taught [Bride] to [Funny Skill, e.g. bluff at poker], and I've been apologizing to her mother ever since.”
“The first time I held [Bride], she screamed until I handed her back. It took her about [Number] years to warm up to me, and I'm so glad she did.”
“When [Bride] was [Age], she made me promise I'd dance with her at her wedding. I said yes because I figured she'd forget. She didn't, so nobody film me later.”
“An hour ago I walked [Bride] down the aisle in [Father's Name]'s place. I've never been so nervous or so proud, and this part was supposed to be easier.”
“Good evening, everyone. I'm [Your Name], [Groom]'s uncle on his [mom's/dad's] side. For those on [Bride]'s side wondering who the guy in the loud tie is, now you know.”
“I'm [Your Name], [Groom's Parent]'s [older/younger] brother. I've known [Groom] since the day he was born, and I like to think I taught him everything he knows about [Skill]. The bad habits, he picked up elsewhere.”
“[Groom] asked me to speak tonight, and then, very politely, asked to read it first. Smart man. Most of what follows has been approved.”
“I'm [Your Name]. I married [Groom]'s Aunt [Aunt's Name] [Number] years ago and got a nephew in the deal. Best bargain I ever made, both of them.”
“I'm the uncle who taught [Groom] to drive, so before anything else, I'd like to apologize to every curb in [Hometown].”
“Most of you know [Groom] as the sensible one. I knew him as the [Age]-year-old who [Funny Childhood Mishap], so forgive me if I'm still a little amazed he's in charge of anything today.”
“[Bride], [Bride's Parents' Names], I'm [Your Name], [Groom]'s uncle. You've met most of our family by now, so you know we're [Family Trait]. I'll try to be the exception for the next three minutes.”
“[Groom's Dad] just told you about the boy he raised. I'm going to tell you about the one who turned up at my door with the questions he wasn't ready to ask his dad.”
“[Late Parent's Name] was my [brother/sister] and [Groom]'s [dad/mom], and [he/she] would have had this room laughing by now. I'll settle for making [him/her] proud.”
“The first time I took [Groom] [fishing/camping/to a ballgame], he was [Age] and asked about forty questions before we left the driveway. The best question he ever asked, though, got a yes from [Bride].”
Frequently asked questions
How do you start a wedding speech?+
Introduce yourself and how you know the couple in one or two sentences, then go straight to something warm or funny. Skip 'For those who don't know me' if everyone does, and never open by saying you're nervous or not good at speeches.
What is a good first line for a speech?+
A good first line is short, personal and sets the tone: a quick, kind joke, a surprising fact about the person, or a line that shows why you're the one speaking. The lines above are sorted by speaker so they fit your relationship.
How do you end a wedding speech?+
Finish with one sincere line to the couple, then ask everyone to raise their glasses and name who you're toasting: 'To Maya and Josh!' Keep the last sentence short so the room knows exactly when to drink.
Should I memorize my opening line?+
Yes. Memorizing the first two sentences and the final toast lets you make eye contact at the two moments that matter most, even if you read the middle from cards.
Can Toastful write the rest of my speech?+
Yes. Share a few stories and Toastful writes a full personal draft in your voice, with a free preview. Full speeches unlock from $9.95 with a 30-day money-back guarantee.