how do you write a birthday speech for yourself

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A birthday speech for myself.

Birthdays are very special days around the world. It marks the beginning of a new year, a change in your parents’ lives, and is significant to many in other ways. Birthdays are a day when others come and celebrate your life. However, what many of us often fail to do is celebrate our own lives.

We must be as kind to ourselves as we are to others and give ourselves the love we deserve.

This article shows you one of many ways you can celebrate your birthday. You can celebrate by writing a birthday speech for yourself. To answer your doubt, “What should my birthday speech look like?” Here is an example:

Sample Speech

Thank you everyone for showing up and making this day wonderful. I must be really lucky to have so many amazing people in my life.  As I stand here wondering how to express my gratitude, I can feel my heart thumping loudly. It has been one of the best birthdays ever. I should thank each one of you for putting in the effort to make this day special. But here’s what I’m going to do instead. I’m going to share with you one of my best-kept secrets. I’m a philosopher by heart. I know, I know, that’s not something you expected. But, hear me out. I’ve turned 27 today and in these years of experiences, I have come to realize that there’s more to life than just having fun and going on new adventures. While it’s cool to have fun and adventure, there’s something way cooler than that. Do you know what it is? It’s called mindfulness.  Birthdays can serve as a reminder of how you have been living your life. In essence, it acts as a mirror showing how you have lived your life so that you can see what changes you need to make and make them when the time is right. As my birthday gift, I just want one thing from you – a promise. Please promise me that you will live your life more meaningfully. There is nothing as precious as this.  I would like to thank you once again for all your birthday wishes. I’m humbled by the fact that you had the patience to hear my speech. Thank you!  

A Birthday Toast

A “birthday toast” is quite like writing a letter to yourself. Everyone must try writing a speech for themselves, and when you do, you must pour your heart out, acknowledge the good and the bad that has happened, and create promises to yourself that you can fulfil.

Here’s a letter that you can use it to wish yourself a Happy Birthday. Trust me, it feels good.

Dear Self, Happy birthday. Its been 23 years since you have been born into this world. This world, full of sunshine, joy, and love. Of course, there are also viles in the world but I am so happy you have lived through it all. You are strong and brave, you are kind and powerful. I cannot thank you enough for taking care of yourself and for standing strong. Today, I want you to celebrate yourself. I want you to appreciate all that God has given you, all your parents have given you, and all of the things you have made possible for yourself. Without grit, you would have never made it so far in life. I want you to be kind to yourself, and love yourself a little more every day. I want you to take care of yourself just as you take care of others. I want you to vow that you will start prioritizing yourself more often. When I think about the life I have had, I am so grateful to be in the place I am today. When I see others around me who are suffering through physical and mental pain, I want to appreciate you even more for staying true and honest to yourself and not slipping through cracks by getting involved with people or deeds that are not good for you. I want to thank you for taking care of yourself throughout these 23 years and I really hope that you continually make an effort to keep this life as beautiful as it has been. All the best for this coming year. Don’t forget, YOU ARE INCREDIBLE!

Why should I write a speech for my birthday?

Imagine opening up a written speech or listening to a video of yourself a year back. Wouldn’t it be so great to see how far you have come? If you aren’t doing it for your present self, at least do it for your future self so that one day they can find a video or a page titled “a birthday toast to me” and be amazed by it.

This year, write a birthday speech, read it out for yourself on your special day, and get motivated.

I. Is it all right to share my secrets in the speech/letter?

If you are comfortable with sharing it, then yes. But keep in mind who your audience is. It is your day, so cherish and share what you think is suitable.

II. How long should it be?

The duration of the speech must be 3 minutes or under 3 minutes. It is easy to get swayed away in emotions but keep your guests in mind.

III. I am nervous, but I want to speak. How do I curb my nervousness?

Practice, practice and practice. Stand in front of a mirror and practice. Look right into your eyes. Otherwise, record yourself and see how you look and how others shall perceive you. The best way to deal with fear is to face it.

Read here to find more examples of messages you can use to inspire your speech.

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The best birthday ideas

Birthday speech

Putting a birthday speech together can be a very daunting process, especially if you have to write it for someone else.

Like many of us, unless you have a natural talent, it’s not uncommon to go blank when it comes to this topic. The usual spiel of thanking everyone and telling them to enjoy their night is satisfactory though can be quite boring and leave everyone yawning.

But dont worry, by following these easy tips and examples of speeches, you will be able to ensure your birthday speech is one that captivates your audience and makes the moment a memorable one.

5 tips to help you with your next birthday speech

1. write it all down.

Take a few moments to list all the qualities and funny moments in dot points to give you an understanding of what you want to highlight. After listing them all down, take the time to elaborate on the points.

2. Find a sample speech that works

Find a sample birthday speech that you feel is suitable for the occasion. Use the points and information that you had written previously and incorporate them into the sample speech. By using the sample speech as a template, you have the benefit of following a proven recipe. It allows for the speech to be structured so it becomes fluent and highlights your points more concisely.

3. Engage your audience

Add humor to the speech to captivate your audience with a few laughs to enhance the vibe of the event. Not sure what to add? Why not take a moment to ask a close friend or relative of some funny moments they have experienced with the birthday person. If the stories are not suitable or non existent, then consider looking up some great one liners and add them into your speech to lighten the mood.

Your aim is to ensure the audience is actively engaged in your speech by focusing on the qualities of the birthday person which they can relate to. Bringing up memorable stories which highlight great times or milestones helps to resonate qualities of the birthday person and Incorporating a story or two can also make a point of enhancing the qualities which resonates what that person is really about.

4. Show sincerity

Towards the end of the speech, mention a few kind words to show them that you care. Thank everyone for coming, especially those who helped out in organising the event.

5. Keep it short

When people are at a party, they tend to have a short attention span and that’s if they haven’t had a drink yet. A speech which is between 2-5 minutes long is more than sufficient. By keeping it short, deep and meaningful, you can be sure to have your audience’s attention.

How to give a birthday speech – From friend to guest of honor

Here are a few examples of free birthday speeches for your next occasion:

Birthday speech example 1 – Thank you speech

Firstly I would like to thank you all for coming to celebrate this milestone with me. I am not one to come out and say a speech, this is actually the first for me. Normally I would shy off, though I feel today is a time where it must be done.

The reason why you are all here is that in one way or another, you have been apart of my life and moulded me to the person I am today. I would truly like to thank you all for that.

I would like to thank both my mom and dad for not only putting up with me but being there when it counted and making me who I am. Thank you! Also to those who I have grown up with and have helped me over the years, you know who you are… I can say that I am truly blessed to have you all in my life!

Last but not least, I need to say thank you to everyone who has helped to set up and make today happen. Now that’s enough of me saying thank you. I hope everyone enjoys themselves. Lets all have a drink and have a great time.

Birthday speech example 2 – Thank you speech

I want to take a moment to say thank you for everyone who has come down to come celebrate this birthday with me. It means a lot that you have all taken the time and I must say that I am blessed to have each and every one of you in my life. Thank you

Birthday speech example 3 – Thank you speech

A birthday is very important to a child. The cake, the candles and gifts are something which they which they look forward to weeks on end. As we get older, we begin to realize that more important than materialistic things are the things we celebrate to those who are most closest to us. I would like to say thank you for not only your best wishes and lovely gifts but for being here and making it the night that it is. Thank you.

Birthday speech example 4 – Coming of age and gratitude

I have to say that I am not one to perform any birthday speeches though with the amount of work which was put into making this night and the sheer turnout of people, I simply could not live with myself if I didn’t at least say a few words.

I would like to give a big shout out to all people involved it the planning of this special day of mine. As you all can see, a lot of time and effort has been spent to make this venue look beautiful and I am truly appreciative. Thank you.

For all of you who made the effort to come down here and celebrate this milestone of mine. I could not be happier as all of you in one way, shape, or form have shaped me to be the person I am today and for that I am eternally grateful. Through good times and bad, through sickness and in health, I have been supported and guided every step of the way and that has only reassured to me what really matters in life.

I have been quick to learn that all the flashy and shiny things in life slowly begin to fade, though the one thing that continues to shine in my world is the true connections and relationships I have formed with my family and friends.

So enough about all this sentimental nonsense. It’s time to put the music back on and get everyone back on this dance floor. Thank you all for coming and I hope you enjoy the night. Thank you!

Birthday speech example 5 – Coming of age

So whilst I am up here talking about this amazing day today we are celebrating, I have to say all the beautiful memories don’t I? Wrong. All I remember is the most embarrassing moments because I laughed so hard my glasses fell off my head, then I wasn’t too happy because I had to buy new ones.

So where do I start, my memory isn’t the best the older I get, that’s why my wife makes me do a crossword puzzle a day. Little does she know that I cheat from the answers on the bottom of the cross word page Ha-Ha. So as I get older and reflect, I would have to say best moments through out my life would have to be drawn to three main beautiful ones.

First would be marrying this beautiful lady I call my cook… I mean wife Ha-Ha.

Second would be becoming a father to these beautiful children standing in front of me, I am blessed to have the opportunity to raise these amazing children of mine and have never been more proud.

And thirdly, to the many people here today celebrating my birthday. I would not be the person standing here before you if it weren’t for each and everyone of you shaping me to who I am today.

I felt like writing this speech took me few minutes though I was told I was writing for most of the bloody day! Ha-Ha.

Thank you everyone for coming here today and celebrating this unforgettable night with me celebrating another year younger.

Birthday speech example 6 – For partner

Let’s face the truth. Some of us are not the best when it comes to remembering birthdays, but there is no way I could forget the birthday for the one I love. We are all here today to celebrate because (Name) has touched our lives in one way or another.

Today I want to openly say how much they mean to me. This is their birthday, and birthdays are supposed to be days which stand out in life. So (Name), I want to say thank you for being so caring over the years and making me so proud to be your partner.

Birthday speech example 7 – Birthday speech for husband

To the superman in my life. Happy birthday! Words are unable to express the amount of love I have for you. For anyone who knows you, knows how much of a kind hearted and bubbly character you are. Your generosity and strong nature are unlike no other I have ever met.

From when you came over to me over 20 years ago to ask me for my number, to building a strong relationship, falling in love, creating an incredible family, and now celebrating this milestone of yours today. It seems like a fairytale dream where I need to pinch myself every so often to believe that it is all true.

To all of you that have made the time to make it here tonight, thank you all for coming. Only people who were important to his life are here and it’s amazing how many people are actually here tonight.

Now back to my loving husband, on your birthday tonight, I want you to enjoy it without a care in the world, because a man like you deserves to be spoilt once in awhile. Happy birthday my love, may you continue to live with passion.

Birthday speech example 8 -Birthday speech for wife

To one of the most sexiest, beautiful, most amazing person apart from myself… Ha-Ha! To my incredible wife. I am unable to express how surreal it feels to have fallen in love and married such a beautiful soul. Never would I ever have thought i’d be so lucky to have such an angel like you in my life. Your smile, your character, your loving nature are just the tip of the iceberg of the many things you possess.

For all who are lucky enough to know her, understand that she is one who would do more for others than she would for herself. A quality which i’m sure we all agree is very rare these days. She always looks to see the positive in life, no matter how dark and gloomy things may be, something which she has allowed for me to adopt which has changed my life dramatically for the better, and i’m sure many others who are also here tonight.

To those who made the effort to come here today and celebrate this beautiful day today, thank you. You have made this day memorable and something i’m sure my wife will never forget. Now the party is still not over, so all of you grab a glass of champagne, and let’s party on well into the night as we celebrate this girls beautiful birthday.

Birthday speech example 9 – From mother to child

From changing your nappies to feeding you every time you cry, to making your favorite food which was always apple pie. The memories I have shared with you while growing up by your side, it was well worth the struggles and bumpy rides.

I look at you know and can’t stop smiling, for a beautiful grown boy/girl that you have become, no matter what you will always be my baby boy/girl, happy birthday and may this be another memory you will never forget like they first day we met. When you were born on this special day.

Birthday speech example 10 – 1 st birthday speech from mother

Even though your only one and you’re probably staring at me thinking what it this lady doing, my feeding time is soon. I am going to say this speech in front of all the family friends that are gathered here today to celebrate my child’s 1st birthday, where the fun times just keep getting better and better.

I remember the first day that I felt so sick and then after that my pants wouldn’t fit. I started eating everything in sight and my pantry would always start full and now and by night there was nothing left to right. After that I couldn’t sleep and I would become a grump in the morning which was nothing of the unusual Ha-Ha.

Then my feet started to swell jeez now I can’t find shoes that will fit well. So after all that complaining and whining, the day came where you were brought into this world. Your father had fainted, which was nothing unusual and all I cared about was that you were finally out!

Now, as we celebrate your 1st birthday, you don’t understand anything right now, but when you do I’ll be saying another speech like this to embarrass you. More for the loving mother that I am to make sure you never forget something so important like this day.

Birthday speech example 11 – From father to son

I guess I will start with most that I know and the beautiful things I remember. I was the happiest man when I found out you were a boy, I was filled with joy! Everyday I would buy my little man a different toy, but there was a problem. Instead of playing with them, I would find you out in the garden. Eating dirt, mud, insects and even snails. You weren’t very good at hiding your muddy trails. How sweet and cute that was.

Then you would complain of feeling sick. Sometimes you were so difficult, just like trying to use a chopstick. You would always cry when I tried to feed you, and you loved to pee on me when I tried to change you. You were a sneaky little bugger and you loved to touch. I even remember having to pull you away from someone’s crotch. These are the beautiful memories that I remember.

Though enough with me embarrassing you with these funny times, this is you birthday so let it be filled with great times. So happy birthday to my great son, never forget that you are my number one!

Birthday speech example 12 – From friend

On this milestone that you have achieved, what an honor it is to be sharing this celebration with you. As we all know, this person has been determined since they were little, to strive and be the best they can, no matter what the circumstances were.

As (Insert name) continued to grow and mature, they created beautiful memories by making each moment count and radiating the love filled passions to each one that they came across. Im sure we can all say that we are eternally grateful that you have came into our lives and that you never lose your zest for life as you grow up into adulthood.

We all love you dearly and wish you nothing but the absolute best as that is what you truly deserve. Happy birthday!

Birthday speech example 13 – 21st Funny birthday speech from friend

Can I have your attention. We are all here today to realise something special. Something so worthwhile to celebrate. Something fun, enjoyable and memorable. We have come here together to recognise and share in the joy this moment brings. I am talking about the open bar! Ha-Ha!

On a more serious note, I would like to draw your attention to one of my best of friends whose 21st birthday we are celebrating here tonight. I have known (Insert name) for more than 10 years and during that time, we have had many moments of fun, adventure and as many of you may know, mischief. Whenever together, we always seemed to find a way to get ourselves into trouble.

Just like the time we decided to play a trick on his mom by colouring in his younger brothers face an interesting shade of green. We took the time to make it look realistic and ensured it was with a permanent marker so it couldn’t be easily rubbed off. I remember the look on his mom’s face as she freaked out and rushed the brother to the hospital. After the doctor giving it the once over and explaining to his mom the cause of the problem. I remember her glaring at us in a trance like state. Lets just say I had never seen someones face go that red before. We both found it to be funny at the time though I don’t think he saw the light of day for at least a month after that incident. Ha-Ha

Anyone who knows him, knows that he will go out of his way to ensure everyone is having a laugh. Even at his own expense, he wants to ensure everyone is having a great time.

He has taken on many challenges, and succeeded many times. Not by chance, but by perseverance and heart. Anyone who knows (Insert name), knows he is full of heart.

So on this milestone may you continue to strive for all that you want and just wanted to let you know that I am grateful to have such a great friend like you. Happy Birthday.

Birthday speech example 14 – 21st birthday speech

Yay! Im finally legal! Wow, this has been a long time coming for me, I mean now i can have a drink… Legally! Ha-Ha! Mum doesn’t seem to impressed!

Firstly I’d like to give a massive shout out to my parents, for not only raising such an awesome child, Ha-Ha! But also for making me who I am, and making this beautiful day happen. To my beautiful family members who cooked up all this beautiful food and helped to decorate this place, thank you so much, it looks absolutely beautiful.

To my wacky and crazy friends. You are all a bad influence on me and I thank you for that. Don’t worry mum, i’m only joking… It’s more like the other way around… Ha-Ha! As I get older, I begin to appreciate the significance of true family and friends in one’s life. I have to say that I couldn’t consider myself any luckier to have all of you in my life.

So anyway, let’s get out the champagne and celebrate my 21st birthday!

Birthday speech example 15 – 40th birthday speech

I can’t believe my 30’s have left me… I think it’s about time I started acting more serious and more so, my age… Well, maybe after tonight…

I remember when I was much younger, I would look at someone who was 40 and say to myself, that’s an old person. Now that I have turned the big 4-0! I now realise it was just an old person who was trying to figure out where the hell all the time went! Ha-Ha! I guess time flies when you’re having fun. Well I Know it’s definitely true for me. I’ll tell you why.

Firstly I have an amazing wife who is nothing but a bundle of joy to be around, and is able to always find a way to put a smile on my face.

Secondly I have been blessed with two beautiful boys who are an absolute pain in my ass, Ha-Ha! Though I do love so dearly! Apart from my gorgeous wife, I never thought I would love these boys so much, as much as I do. It must be because they remind me so much of me when I was growing up… Ha-Ha!

And thirdly… To all of you beautiful people standing here before me today. How can I not enjoy having each and every one of you in my life. I mean how lucky can a man get to have such funny, supportive and caring friends. Blessed is the word I use to describe having all of you be apart of my journey through life. Thank you all for being here today. Its is honestly an honour to celebrate this day with all of you here tonight.

Anyway, enough with all this sentimental crap, let’s pump the music back up, all grab a drink and at least let me celebrate being 39 one more time! Ha-Ha! Thank you!

Birthday speech example 16 – 50th birthday speech

Wow, how time flies! It’s only yesterday I can remember starting my first job at McDonalds where I met my best friend. And now I have a glass of champagne in my hand, celebrating my 50th birthday in front of all of you amazing people.

Where do I start? Firstly I need to give a massive shout out to my beautiful wife who made tonight happen. To not only organise all of this, but also keep it a secret from me which I am blown away how much effort she put in. The amount of detail she has put into this venue is incredible. Such an amazing woman, and I mean look at her, even after all these years, she is still a stunner!

To my two boys, I am proud of both of you and must say you are both still a pain in my ass. Must be because you remind me of when I was a kid growing up. Ha-Ha, they do say that karma eventually comes around. I can now understand what I put my parents through when I was growing up! But jokes aside they a great boys and couldn’t wish for any better.

Obviously I need to give a shout out to mum and dad for putting up with me over my younger years. Considering i’m sure many of you agree, I was no angel growing up. I like to think I turned out alright. Ha-Ha! Though I do have to say they were always there for support and was truly blessed to have incredible parents. I love you both.

To all my close family and friends here tonight. Thank you all for coming and most importantly, thank you for being apart of my life. All of you, in one way or another have been apart of my incredible journey of being 50 years on this earth and I wouldn’t want it any way.

So everybody grab a drink and let’s turn this music up, because i’m pretty sure you will all agree that after all these years and crazy memories, who would have known I would have made it this far. Ha-Ha! Thank you all for coming and hope you enjoy your night. Thank you!

Birthday speech example 17 – From daughter to fathers 50th birthday speech

For those of you whose memories are fading or may have had a little too much to drink tonight, we are here to celebrate the birthday of my dad. Fifty years ago today, the world was given a great gift. A gift by the name of (Insert name). The first of three children, my father was and still is, a very funny and generous man. Throughout the years, he has told many of us his overly simplistic, corny jokes which keeps us all laughing to this day. Just earlier he told me a joke and had me giggling like a little girl again. He said “What do you call a cheese that’s not yours? Nacho Cheese!”. I know, corny right? But it still does the job.

I suppose the main reason why we all have a little laugh and look forward to his humor is that he always likes to remind us that life is not meant to be taken too seriously and that laughter helps to keep us grounded. To this day, I have incorporated this philosophy into my life and I am sure all of us look forward to the energy and humor that he gives us.

Married to his high school sweetheart for 28 years, and with two pretty awesome kids, Ha-Ha. Sorry but I had to add that in. He has shown to be the best role model any family could ask for.

He has always been one to lend a helping hand to anyone in need and is not shy to have a casual drink when in good company.

On this birthday, may you enjoy your night and continue to pass on your energy and happiness for many more years to come. Happy birthday dad!

Birthday speech example 18 – 60th birthday speech

I can’t believe that as I stand here before you, I have been on this earth for 60 years. Seems like a long time, though for me, it feels like only yesterday I was celebrating my 21st birthday. I ought to cut out drinking or before I know it, i’ll be 100 soon. Ha-Ha!

For me, I have experienced both the joys and miseries of life and through it all, I have been able to take one thing from it. Regardless of life’s ups and downs, its all about making the most out of each situation and being present in the moment. Because as I get older, I begin to appreciate all of the moments life has to offer and the truth of the matter is that nothing is owed to us. For every day we wake up is a blessing. And as I am now 60 years old and CONSIDERED wise… Ha-Ha! I feel that we should make the most of each passing day, and what better way with both family and loved ones.

Lucky for me, I have been extremely fortunate to have all of my nearest and dearest to me all here tonight and I have to say, I wouldn’t want to have tonight any other way. Although it may be the wine talking, I must say that I love each and everyone of you here tonight… Especially the caterer, the food served here has been delicious! Ha-Ha! Now let’s all embarrass ourselves by having a few more drinks and getting on the dance floor!

Birthday speech example 19 – From daughter to mother

Your loving touch is like no other, your smile is brightest of all. Your heart beats love and care, but sometimes truth be told you are unfair. You are the only best friend a daughter could ask for. The sacrifices you have made to make sure I have the right path of guidance. You are the best mother a daughter could ever have. Wishing you a happy birthday with many more fun filled ones to come.

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How to Write a Wonderful Birthday Speech

If you've been asked to write a birthday speech for a friend, colleague or family member, you're probably suffering from mixed emotions! On the one hand, it's an honor to be asked. On the other, you might feel entirely panic-stricken! What on earth will you say? How will you do the birthday boy/girl justice?

The tips on this page are designed to help - and at the end of the page, there are a couple of links to sample speeches which you can adapt and use yourself if you need to!

Tips for crafting a knockout birthday speech

Do your research.

If you're being asked to speak at a birthday celebration, then you probably know the person who is having a birthday pretty well. But that doesn't mean you can skip this all-important step!

Find out a little MORE about the guest of honor that you didn't know. Ask their friends or family members to tell you a unique story about the person you are honoring.These kinds of memories can make great material to put into your speech. Memories from family members tend to be of a touching, sensitive nature, whereas the recollections of friends are often hilarious! Using both will give you a well-rounded speech that will appeal to everyone. Plus, you'll get to know some of the guests better, so you'll be more at ease speaking in front of them.

Be Sensitive

Some people treat a birthday speech as an opportunity to roast the guest of honor. While a little bit of joking around is acceptable - and can be fun - don't try to embarrass the individual.

This is their special day, one which they should be enjoying. Make an attempt to really honor who they are, by acknowledging their contribution to your life and the lives of all the people in attendance.

Know the Audience

Ask a professional speaker, and they will tell you that you have to know the audience to deliver a great speech.

This doesn't mean that you have to be acquainted with every guest, but you should know the general make-up of the crowd.

Are the guests all family and close friends? Are there co-workers present? How about kids?

You have to be sensitive to the audience before you deliver your speech. Being prepared means inquiring about the people in attendance.

Leave on a High Note

Remember, your speech is meant to honor and celebrate someone on a momentous occasion.

Don't ramble or get muddled with complex topics. Keep the general tone light and celebratory. Be sure to tell the person a happy birthday and thank the person who invited you to speak.

Birthday parties are meant to be fun occasions. Make sure that you keep these tips in mind when you are asked to speak for friends or family members at their party.

You'll probably bring a gift to the party, but a great birthday speech may be the gift that the guest of honor will remember the most.

Looking for an example of a written tribute? Check out this 50th Birthday Speech for an idea on what to say and how to structure your presentation.

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You might like these.

40th Birthday Speech Example

This free 40th birthday speech should give you some great ideas on what to include when you're asked to speak on this very special occasion.

50th Birthday Speech

Birthday speeches honor and celebrate the person who has reached this milestone in their life. Here is an example of a 50th birthday speech.

Free Birthday Speech

Use this free birthday speech as a model for one of your own. Choosing one quality of the birthday girl/boy and expanding on it is a great way to start!

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Sample 40th Birthday Speech

Sample 50th Birthday Speech

Sample General Birthday Speech

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Sample Welcome Speech (plus tips)

Another Example of a Welcome Speech

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Birthday Speeches - Tips

Birthday speeches can be so nerve-wracking, especially when you're stuck for words. Don't know where to start your birthday speech? If you need professional speechwriting tips, you've come to the right place. I've written hundreds of speeches, so I have many insider tips for you.

By Kevin Nishmas   Updated: September 30, 2023

Tips to Make Birthday Speeches Memorable

To get started, take a look at my proven birthday speechwriting tips below and  check out some speech samples right here.

Because your loved one's birthday celebration is important enough to call for a speech from you, it's not enough to just get it right  — you need to make yours memorable.

Go the extra mile with these professional speechwriting tips.

8 things to consider before writing birthday speeches

1. Decide to write a formal or informal speech

• You'll need a formal speech (an average-length speech) for a formal reception
• Give an informal speech (a shorter version) for a casual house party

2. Consider your audience

• Find out who's invited to the birthday celebration.  Only family? Family and friends? Co-workers? The boss? 
• Tailor your speech to give your audience exactly what you think they want, need and/or expect to hear. For example, if your audience is mostly made up of family and friends, get a little personal with your birthday speech.
• Use a presentation style and project a personality that fits your audience.

3. Find out if you're the only speaker

• As the only speaker, you'll need to cover many topics.
• If you're one of many speakers, you may only have to cover one subject.

4. Pick the right tone of voice

• Generally, your tone should be light-hearted, funny, sincere, congratulatory and upbeat.

5. Avoid anything hurtful or embarrassing

• You can be humorous (i.e. tease the birthday boy or girl) but, as I mentioned above, be playful, not mean-spirited.
• Don't use any obscene language, unless the audience calls for it (again, know your room).
• Don't be off-color or pornographic in any way (most people don't enjoy anything too X-rated in mixed company).
• Never delve into any sensitive subject areas, like alcoholism (this will just turn the birthday celebration into a nightmare).

6. Determine how long you should speak

• If you're making an informal speech, make your birthday speech at least three minutes in length (the gold standard).
• Make your birthday speech longer than three minutes (but no longer than six or seven minutes) when it's for a major milestone birthday (40th, 50th, 60th, 70th, 80th, 90th or 100th birthday).
• Generally, use the KISS (Keep it Short and Simple) rule. The shorter the speech, the more memorable it will be.

7. Prepare and practice to stay calm 

• Preparation and practice will help you overcome a chunk of your public speaking fears. 
• Practice your speech until you can deliver it easily (until you have all the phrasing, pauses and timing exactly right).
• How long should you practice? That depends on you. But the rule of thumb is as follows: for every four minutes,you should practice four hours.
• Practice delivering the speech in front of a friend or family member you trust (this is one of the best ways to overcome stage fright).
• For more tips on calming your nerves before making a speech, take a moment to read this great article:  Crushing the Fear of Public Speaking . It's worth your time.   

8. Deliver your speech like a pro

• Scan the audience slowly (not too slow) and look at the birthday boy or girl as you speak. Basically, maintain eye contact with the birthday girl or boy and look just over the heads of the audience.
• Use your normal voice to deliver your speech (let the mic or the room's acoustics do the rest). 
• Write your speech on numbered index cards, which are so much easier to handle as you speak.

To round out your speechwriting knowledge,  check out 10 tips from Forbes magazine . 

To see my speechwriting tips in action, take a moment to  look at my custom-written speech samples.

Use a Time-Tested Outline to Write Birthday Speeches

1. Introduction

• Greeting: Start by welcoming everyone and expressing your pleasure to be speaking on such a special occasion.
• Relationship: Briefly describe your relationship with the birthday person.
• Purpose: Explain the reason for your speech, which is to celebrate the life and achievements of the birthday boy or girl.

2. Background

• Overview: Give a brief summary of the birthday person's life, focusing on the key events and achievements.
• Personal story: Share a personal story about the birthday person. This could be something fun, memorable or inspiring, which can showcase their character.

3. Achievements & Contributions

• Highlight their accomplishments in their personal or professional life or their contributions to the community.
• Describe how they've made a difference or had an impact on the lives of others.

4. Personal Appreciation

• Express your personal appreciation and feelings for the birthday person. What do they mean to you? How have they influenced or affected your life?
• Include any specific qualities or characteristics that you admire about them.

5. Birthday Wishes

• Present your personal birthday wishes to the birthday person. This could include your hopes for their happiness, health and continued success.
• Encourage others to express their wishes as well.
• Propose a toast to the birthday person, celebrating their past, acknowledging their present and looking forward to their future.
• Keep it heartfelt and positive, focusing on their qualities and the joy they bring to people's lives.

7. Closing Remarks

• Conclude with a final birthday wish or sentiment. This could be a quote, a proverb, or a simple expression of goodwill.
• Thank everyone for their attention and participation in the celebration.

Stuck for words?

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Use these 40 questions to write memorable birthday speeches.

Use the 40 questions below to write your speech. Try to answer each one. The more you answer, the better your speech will be.

• Can you please describe your relationship with the birthday person?
• What memorable experiences have you shared with the birthday person?
• What qualities do you admire most about the birthday person?
• How has the birthday person impacted or influenced your life?
• What personal birthday wishes or sentiments would you like to convey to the birthday person?
• Are there any specific anecdotes, stories or jokes you'd like to share?

About the Birthday Person

• Can you provide a brief summary of the birthday person's background (like where they were born and/or their upbringing)?
• What are some significant milestones or achievements in the birthday person's life? This could be educational, professional or personal.
• Are there any notable contributions the birthday person has made to their community or any significant influences on the lives of others?
• Are there any charities, causes or organizations that the birthday person is passionate about?
• Does the birthday person have any interesting or unusual hobbies, talents, or skills?
• Are there any challenges or obstacles the birthday person has overcome that you'd like to mention?
• What are some of the birthday person's most admirable qualities or characteristics?
• Are there any fun, amusing or interesting quirks about the birthday person that could be mentioned for a lighthearted moment in the speech?
• What are the birthday person's hopes, dreams, or aspirations for the future?
• Are there any significant life experiences or turning points in the birthday person's life that we haven't discussed?
• What are some of the birthday person's favorite things (e.g., music, movies, books, foods, places or activities)?
• How would the birthday person describe their own personality, values or life philosophy?
• Are there any specific cultural, historical or personal events that have had a significant impact on the birthday person's life?
• Can you share any lesser-known or surprising facts about the birthday person?
• Has the birthday person had any mentors, role models or heroes who have influenced their life?
• How would the birthday person like to be remembered, or what legacy would they like to leave?

About the Birthday Person’s Family

• Can you tell me about the birthday person's family? This includes parents, siblings, spouse, and children, if applicable.
• How would you describe the birthday person's relationship with their family?
• Are there any special family traditions or customs that the birthday person particularly cherishes?
• Has the family had any significant influence on the birthday person's life and choices? If so, how?
• Are there any memorable, touching or funny family moments, experiences or anecdotes that should be included in the speech or that the audience might appreciate?
• How have the birthday person's family relationships shaped them as a person?
• What role does the birthday person play in their family (e.g., peacekeeper, organizer, mentor, etc.)?
• Would any family members like to contribute personal messages, wishes, or stories to be included in the speech?
• How has the birthday person influenced their family members, and vice versa?

About the Birthday Person’s Friends

• Can you share some details about the birthday person's close friends?
• How would you describe the birthday person as a friend? What qualities make them a good friend?
• Are there any memorable, humorous, heartwarming anecdotes, experiences or adventures about the birthday person and their friends that would add a personal touch to the speech?
• Have the birthday person's friendships had a significant influence on their life? If so, how?
• What role does the birthday person play in their friend group (e.g., the planner, the listener, the comic, etc.)?
• Are there any humorous or heartwarming anecdotes about the birthday person and their friends that would add a personal touch to the speech?
• How have the birthday person's friendships evolved over the years?
• Do any friends wish to contribute personal messages, stories, or birthday wishes to be included in the speech?
• How have the birthday person's friends influenced them, and vice versa?

I've used these questions over and over again to write speeches for milestone birthdays, for both birthday boys and girls turning 30 to 100 years old. See my speech samples right now.

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Writing a Speech for a Birthday Celebration: Valuable Tips and Inspiring Examples

When it comes to birthday celebrations, speeches often serve as the emotional highpoint, providing a heartwarming moment that leaves a deep, indelible impression on attendees. Crafting a memorable birthday speech is as much an art as it is a science. This blog post will provide you with valuable tips and inspiring examples to help you pen a speech that will resonate with everyone in the room, and most importantly, the honored guest.

Whether you’re an experienced public speaker or someone who’s more comfortable in the quiet anonymity of a crowd, the task of writing a birthday speech can be daunting. Fear not, for this guide will walk you through the process, emphasizing the key elements that make a speech unforgettable: humor, warmth, and sincerity. Stay with us as we delve into the art of writing a birthday speech that will be cherished by all.

Table of Contents

Valuable Tips for Writing the Birthday Speech

• Understand Your Audience: Before you start drafting your speech, you need to understand who you’re addressing. Consider the age, interests, and background of the birthday celebrant and the audience. This will inform the tone, content, and style of your speech.
• Personalize Your Message: A memorable birthday speech is one that is personalized. Highlight meaningful experiences, shared memories, and unique traits of the birthday celebrant. This gives the speech an emotional depth and a personal touch.
• Be Clear and Concise: Use simple, clear language for your speech. Avoid complex phrases and jargon. Your aim is to communicate your feelings and thoughts, not to impress with your vocabulary.
• Inject Humor: A bit of humor can lighten the mood and make your speech more enjoyable. However, be mindful of your jokes – they should be in good taste and not offend anyone.
• Practice: Once you’ve written your speech, practice delivering it. Pay attention to your voice modulation, facial expressions, and body language. The way you deliver your speech can significantly enhance its impact.

Remember, the key to a great birthday speech is to speak from the heart. Let your genuine feelings of affection and admiration for the birthday person guide your words.

Inspiring Examples of Birthday Speeches

To get you started, here are some inspiring examples of birthday speeches.

Birthday Speech for Mom

“Ladies and Gentlemen,

Today, we gather to celebrate not just a birthday, but a woman who has been a pillar of strength, a beacon of wisdom and the embodiment of love in our lives. She is none other than my mother.

Mom, on your special day, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve shared together. From my first steps to my first heartbreak, you’ve been there at every juncture, providing guidance and comfort. Your unwavering support has been the bedrock of my confidence and the wind beneath my wings.

Your accomplishments are a testament to your resilience, determination, and indomitable spirit. As a young woman, you charted a path that was not always easy, but always worthwhile. As a mother, you’ve shown us the meaning of selfless love and sacrifice. Your ability to juggle various roles – a loving wife, a nurturing mother, a successful professional, and a compassionate friend – is simply awe-inspiring.

Through your actions, you’ve taught me the importance of kindness, respect, and humility. You’ve shown me that true strength lies in vulnerability, and true success lies in contentment. You’ve shown that life isn’t about the destination, but about the journey, and every day with you is a journey worth treasuring.

As we stand here today celebrating your life, I want to thank you. Thank you for your love that knows no bounds, for your patience that never wavers, and for your wisdom that never fails. Thank you for being the guiding light in my life.

On this special day, as we celebrate your life, I also want to promise you that I will strive every day to live by the values you’ve instilled in me. To be the person that you’ve shown me it’s possible to be. Mom, you are my hero, my role model, my best friend – and I am so proud to be your child.

Happy Birthday, Mom. Here’s to many more years of love, laughter, and cherished memories together. Thank you for being you.”

Birthday Speech for Dad

I stand before you today to celebrate a man who is not just the backbone of our family, but also my mentor, my friend, and my hero. A man who has lived his life with great character, profound wisdom, and tireless dedication. This man is my dear father.

Dad, on your special day, I want you to know how incredibly proud I am to be your child. From childhood to adulthood, you’ve been my guiding star, always leading the way with your wisdom and love. Whether it was teaching me to ride a bike, introducing me to your love for jazz music, or supporting me when I decided to pursue my unconventional career path, you’ve been there every step of the way.

Your love for books and the outdoors has deeply influenced me. I remember those weekend hikes we did together, where you taught me to appreciate nature and to live in the moment. Your love for literature has instilled in me a passion for reading and writing, which has shaped who I am today. And oh, how can I forget our funny dance-offs on family vacations? Those memories are etched in my heart, and they bring a smile to my face every time I think of them.

What strikes me most about you, dad, is your humility and kindness. You’ve taught me that real strength is not about being the loudest in the room, but about being the kindest. You’ve exemplified the importance of integrity, hard work, and respect for others. I am eternally grateful for these priceless life lessons.

Dad, you’re a man of few words, but your actions have always screamed volumes. Your unwavering love for mom, your dedication to our family, and your tireless efforts at work have shown me what it means to be responsible, committed, and loving. You are the embodiment of ‘Actions speak louder than words.’

As we gather to celebrate your special day, I want to thank you, Dad. Thank you for your unending patience, your constant support, and your unconditional love. Thank you for being a guiding light, a pillar of strength, and a source of inspiration.

On this momentous day, I want to make a promise to you. I promise to uphold the values you’ve instilled in me, to live a life of purpose just as you have, and to make you proud. Dad, you are my hero, my inspiration, and my guiding light.

Happy Birthday, Dad. Here’s to many more years of shared laughter, love, and timeless memories. I am beyond blessed to call you my father. Thank you for being you.”

Birthday Speech for Wife

Today, we gather to celebrate not just a birthday, but the presence of a remarkable woman in our lives – a woman who is my partner, confidante, and the love of my life. Today, my dear wife celebrates her [birthday number] birthday.

Sweetheart, on this special day, I want to express how profoundly you’ve impacted my life. Since the day we met, you’ve been a source of joy, inspiration, and change. Your love has transformed me into a better man, kinder, more understanding, and patient.

Over the years, we’ve built a treasure trove of memories, each one more precious than the last. Do you remember our first vacation together? We were lost in a foreign city, with no understanding of the local language. And yet, in the midst of that chaos, there was laughter, togetherness, and a promise of many more adventures to come. You turned a potential disaster into a fond memory, and that’s just one of the many reasons why I adore you.

During challenging times, your unwavering support has been my rock. You’ve stood by me like a warrior, encouraging me to fight my battles and celebrating my victories. Your faith in me, even in times I doubted myself, has made me stronger and more resilient.

And let’s not forget about your cooking experiments. While not all dishes make it to the ‘Hall of Fame’, your undying enthusiasm and the joy you find in feeding us your creations is simply endearing.

Your accomplishments, my love, are a testament to your unwavering determination and perseverance. You’ve shown me that success is not just about reaching our goals, but also about the journey of growth and self-discovery. I am in awe of your strength and tenacity.

As we celebrate this special day, I look forward to our future together. A future filled with love, laughter, and growing old together, side by side. I cannot wait to make more memories with you, to share more laughter, more triumphs, and even the occasional tear.

Sweetheart, on your [birthday number] birthday, I want to tell you just how much I love you. You are my strength, my solace, my best friend, and the most amazing partner I could ever wish for. Thank you for being you, and for being mine.

Happy Birthday, my love. Here’s to many more years of shared dreams, achieved goals, and a beautiful life together. I love you.”

Birthday Speech for Husband

Today, we gather to celebrate a truly special man, my partner in life, my best friend, my strength – my wonderful husband. Today, my dear husband celebrates his [birthday number] birthday.

Darling, on this incredible day, I want to take a moment to reflect on the journey we’ve shared together. From our first, somewhat awkward, date to the day we said ‘I do’, each moment has been an adventure, filled with laughter, love, and lessons learned. Do you remember that camping trip where you forgot the tent poles? We ended up sleeping under the stars and it turned into one of the most beautiful experiences we’ve ever had. That’s what you do, my love – you turn potential disasters into unforgettable memories.

Over the years, you’ve stood by me through the highs and the lows. You’ve been my rock during challenging times and my cheerleader in my moments of triumph. Your unwavering faith in me has given me the strength to reach for the stars. You’ve always said that behind every great man is a surprised mother-in-law, but I’d like to add that beside every great woman is a supportive and loving husband.

Your sense of humor, my love, is one of the things that I adore the most about you. The way you can make me laugh, even on the roughest days, is truly a gift. And let’s not forget your infamous ‘dad jokes’ – they’re so bad, they’re good.

But beyond all that, what I admire the most about you is your kind heart. You love selflessly and wholeheartedly, and I am beyond grateful to be the recipient of that love. Your generosity, your integrity, and your resilience inspire me every day.

So, as we celebrate your special day, my love, I want to tell you just how profoundly you’ve impacted my life. Your love has filled my life with joy, given me strength, and made me a better person. As your wife, my heart swells with pride and affection for the man you are and the man you continue to become.

Happy Birthday, darling. Here’s to many more years of shared dreams, joyful moments, and a beautiful journey together. I love you more than words can express, and I am profoundly grateful for your love and companionship. Thank you for being you, and for being mine.

Happy Birthday, my love. Here is to us, and to a future filled with love, laughter, and endless adventures. I love you, now and always.”

Birthday Speech for Sister

Today, we have come together to celebrate a truly remarkable individual who happens to be my sister. Today, my dear sister celebrates her [birthday number] birthday.

Sister, you are not just my sibling but also my confidante, my advisor, and my best friend. You are an embodiment of generosity, resilience, and boundless love. Your infectious laughter and positive outlook towards life have always been a source of inspiration for me.

Do you remember those summer vacations at Grandma’s place? Amidst the fields, under the blue sky, we built countless memories. From climbing trees to running through the sprinklers, we did it all. You were always the more adventurous one and I, your enthusiastic accomplice. And when we got into trouble (which was often), you always took the blame so I wouldn’t get scolded. These are priceless moments that I will cherish forever.

As we grew up, you turned into this outstanding woman. I saw you face challenges head-on, never giving up, always fighting, and emerging stronger. You’ve taught me that life is not about waiting for the storm to pass but learning to dance in the rain. Your unwavering strength and determination are awe-inspiring.

And let’s not forget your quirky sense of humor, your infamous imitations, and the way you can lighten up any atmosphere with your wit. You are the life of every party and the sunshine on a gloomy day.

On this day, I want to thank you, my dear sister, for being you. You are a pillar of strength, a reservoir of wisdom, a beacon of light, and a bundle of joy. Your presence in my life is a blessing I am grateful for every single day.

As you step into a new year of your life, I wish you endless joy, boundless love, infinite peace, and countless moments of laughter. I wish for all your dreams to come true and for every step you take to lead you to success.

Happy Birthday, sis. Here’s to many more years of shared dreams, achieved goals, and a beautiful life together. I love you more than words can express, and I am profoundly grateful for your love and companionship. Thank you for being you, and for being mine.

Happy Birthday, my dear sister. Here is to us, and to a future filled with love, laughter, and endless adventures. I love you, now and always.”

Birthday Speech for Brother

We are gathered here to celebrate an extraordinary individual, a man of unwavering character, a source of constant inspiration and hilarity, and, lucky me, my brother. Today, my dear brother marks another milestone as he celebrates his [birthday number] birthday.

My dear brother, our shared history is filled with humor, adventure, and the unique bond only siblings understand. Do you remember when we used to build forts out of sofa cushions in the living room? You, the fearless leader, and I, your willing accomplice, ready to defend our fortress at all costs. Those simple days of imagination and camaraderie have shaped who we are today.

Over the years, I’ve watched you grow into a man of integrity and kindness. You are the perfect blend of tenacity and compassion, pursuing your goals with a fierce determination, yet always making time to lend a helping hand to those in need. Your laughter is infectious, your spirit, indomitable, and your infamous ‘brotherly advice‘, though occasionally unsolicited, is a constant source of wisdom.

Your resilience, dear brother, is a beacon of inspiration. Through life’s ups and downs, you have shown me the power of optimism and perseverance. You’ve taught me to see challenges not as obstacles, but as opportunities for growth. And for all those times you’ve been my protector, my guide, and my supporter, I am eternally grateful.

I admire your strength, your courage, and your unwavering sense of humor that can lighten up even the darkest of days. You are my role model, my confidante, and most importantly, my dear friend. Your love and support have been invaluable to me, and I am beyond blessed to call you my brother.

So, on this special day, I wish you a year filled with joy, success, and fulfillment. As you embark on a new chapter of your life, may every step lead you closer to your dreams.

Happy Birthday, dear brother. Here’s to a future of shared dreams, endless laughter, and a beautiful journey together. I love you more than words can express, and I am eternally grateful for your love and companionship. Thank you for being you, and for being mine.

Happy Birthday, my dear brother. Here is to us, to a future filled with love, laughter, and endless adventures. I love you, now and always.”

Birthday Speech for Mother in Law

Today, we gather to celebrate not just a birthday, but a remarkable woman who has touched our lives in countless ways. Today, it’s my mother-in-law’s [birthday number] birthday.

Mother-in-law, you hold a unique place in my life, astoundingly managing to be a second mother, a dear friend, and a wise mentor simultaneously. Your kindness, grace, and strength are qualities I admire and strive to emulate.

I recall the first time I came over for dinner, nervous as can be, and you, with your usual warmth, put me at ease instantly. The burnt lasagna that night became our running joke and a symbol of our bond. Your ability to make light of an overcooked meal, and turn it into a fond memory, is but a testament to your unwavering positivity.

Your generosity and patience know no bounds, like the time you taught me your secret apple pie recipe, even though it took me several attempts (and a few kitchen disasters) to get it right. You never lost patience, and I finally did master that recipe, it’s a testament to your patience and my resilience.

And let’s not forget the time you squared up with that aggressive seagull at the beach to protect our picnic. That day, you showed us your hidden ninja skills and made us laugh until we cried.

Your wisdom, resilience, and infectious humor light up our lives. You are a pillar of strength, a beacon of wisdom, and a bundle of joy. Your presence in our lives is a blessing that we are eternally grateful for.

As we toast to another year, I want to express my deepest gratitude for your love, patience, and guidance. I wish you a year filled with happiness, health, and endless moments of joy. May your life continue to be an inspiring journey filled with love and laughter.

Happy Birthday, dear mother-in-law. Here’s to a future filled with love, laughter, and endless adventures. We have a small token of our affection to present, a [gift], as a symbol of our love and appreciation. I hope that it brings you as much joy as you bring to all of us.

Happy Birthday, and here’s to many more years of shared memories, hearty laughter, and a beautiful journey together. We love you, now and always.”

Birthday Speech for Father in Law

We gather here today to honor a man of remarkable character, wisdom, and spirit, my father-in-law, who is celebrating his [birthday number] birthday today.

Father-in-law, you are a true embodiment of wisdom and strength. The love and support you’ve extended to me and our family are immeasurable and I am truly grateful. The warmth of your personality and the depth of your wisdom have been a guiding light in our journey together as a family.

There is a treasure trove of fond memories that we’ve gathered along the way. Be it a fishing trip where you showed incredible patience as you untangled my hopelessly knotted fishing line, or the times you indulged my penchant for spicy food, gamely trying the hottest sauce in the restaurant, only to end up downing a gallon of water. Your spontaneous laughter at these moments is still fresh in my memory, reminding me of your infectious spirit and your zest for life.

Your life journey is an inspiring tale of resilience, courage, and unyielding optimism. You’ve shown us that age is just a number, and life is but a series of adventures to be embraced wholeheartedly. Your humor and jovial nature often light up our gatherings, and your wisdom continues to guide us.

On this special day, I want to express my heartfelt appreciation for your love, support, and guidance. You are not just a father-in-law, but a mentor, a guide, and a dear friend. I wish you good health, endless happiness, and a year filled with joy and peace.

So here’s to you, a man of great honor and love, who has made an indelible mark in our lives. As we raise our glasses in a toast to celebrate your special day, we honor your contributions to our family and the joy you bring into our lives.

Happy Birthday, dear father-in-law. Here’s to a future filled with love, laughter, and shared memories. May your journey be filled with blessings and may your life continue to be an inspiration to us all.

Happy Birthday, and here’s to many more years of shared memories, hearty laughter, and an incredible journey together. We love you, now and always.”

Birthday Speech for Friend

As we gather to celebrate a milestone birthday, I am honored to stand before you. Today, a dear friend of mine, [friend’s name], is celebrating his/her [age] birthday.

[friends’s name], we’ve come a long way since our early days. I still remember the time when we were kids, going on adventurous treasure hunts in the backyard, thinking we were going to be world-famous treasure hunters, only to discover the ‘treasure’ was a few old coins we had forgotten about.

Our friendship has been a constant in a world of change, growing and evolving just as we have. From sharing our childhood dreams to supporting each other in our adult challenges, we’ve never failed to be there for each other. I recall the time you stayed up all night to help me prepare for my first big job interview, even though you had your own work to handle the next day. That’s just who you are — selfless, caring, and always ready to lend a hand.

Your strengths and achievements are countless. Your passion for [mention a skill or hobby] is not just impressive, but also inspiring. You’ve shown us what dedication and hard work can yield, and you should be incredibly proud of all that you’ve accomplished.

Now, as we toast to your [age] birthday, and to the many more to come, I want to wish you a year filled with laughter, love, and fulfillment. Remember, age is not just a number, it’s a testament to the wonderful journey you’ve had and the exciting adventures that still await.

So, let’s raise a glass to [friend’s name], not just my friend, but a brother/sister in spirit, a partner in crime, and a beacon of inspiration. Here’s to a year of new beginnings, endless possibilities, and exciting adventures. May your journey be filled with blessings and may your life continue to inspire those around you.

Happy Birthday, [friend’s name]. I look forward to many more years of shared memories, hearty laughter, and an incredible journey together. I am grateful for your friendship, and I cherish it more than words can express.

Happy Birthday, and here’s to you, a friend in a million.”

Birthday Speech for Son

As we gather here to celebrate a pivotal milestone, it brings me immense joy to share a few words about my beloved [son/daughter], who is stepping into [his/her] [age] year today.

My dear [son/daughter], it seems like only yesterday when the nurse placed your tiny little form into my arms, and I held you for the first time. Your wide-eyed gaze met mine, and in that moment, I knew that my world had changed forever. From your first steps to your first words, every milestone has been a joy to behold, and I watch in awe as you grow and evolve each day.

There is a unique light within you that never fails to amaze me. I remember when you were just [a young age], and you insisted on saving a portion of your pocket money every month to donate to our local animal shelter. That benevolent spirit is just one of the many things that makes you special.

Your journey so far has been filled with achievements, and I am proud of the person you’re becoming. Your passion for [mention a skill or hobby] is inspirational, and the dedication you’ve shown towards honing your skills is commendable. The values that you uphold, the care you show for others, and the way you embrace life’s challenges are all qualities that will serve you well as you continue to navigate life’s journey.

As we toast to your [age] birthday, let me share my hopes for you. I hope that you continue to chase your dreams fearlessly, as you’ve always done. I hope that life offers you opportunities to learn, grow and make a difference. And above all, I hope that your journey through life continues to be filled with love, happiness, and success.

So, let’s raise a glass to my [son/daughter], who has been, and will always be, the greatest gift in my life. May your path be smooth, your burdens light, and your joys plentiful. May your heart be filled with love, your spirit with courage, and your life with the unrestrained pursuit of your dreams.

Happy Birthday, dear [son/daughter]. Here’s to a future filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments. I am immensely proud of you, and my love for you is boundless. Happy Birthday, and here’s to many more years of shared memories, hearty laughter, and a wonderful journey together. I love you, now and always.”

Birthday Speech for Daughter

Today marks an incredibly special occasion, the celebration of my [son’s/daughter’s], [child’s name], [age] birthday. As we gather here in this moment of joy and celebration, I am thrilled to share with you the journey of my precious child.

[child’s name], it’s a pure delight to see you grow, evolve, and step into your own. Your first day of school feels like just yesterday, when you clutched my hand tightly and flashed me that toothy grin before boldly stepping into your new classroom. Now, you are taking on the world with that same courage and determination, making us incredibly proud.

This past year has been a rollercoaster, but you’ve managed to ride the highs and lows with remarkable grace. I am in awe of how you’ve met challenges head-on, especially when you balanced your schoolwork with your passion for [mention their hobby or interest]. Your achievement in the [mention a recent achievement] is not only impressive but also a testament to your relentless pursuit of your dreams.

But it’s not just your achievements that make you special. You have a heart full of kindness and compassion, always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need. The way you rallied your friends to help clean up the local park last summer – that was just one of the many moments when you’ve made us proud.

And then there’s your sense of humor! Your ability to make us laugh, regardless of the situation, is something we all treasure. Remember the time when you [mention a funny anecdote]? We still laugh about that!

Your mother and I have a little surprise for you today [mention a surprise gift or event], but no gift could ever match the joy and fulfillment you bring into our lives. As you embark on this new chapter of your life, our wish for you is simple: May your days be filled with love, may your heart be full of joy, and may you never stop chasing your dreams.

So, let’s raise our glasses to our [son/daughter], [child’s name], who fills our lives with laughter, joy, and boundless love.

Happy Birthday, [child’s name]. Here’s to a year filled with new adventures, endless laughter, and phenomenal growth. We love you more than words could ever express, now and always.”

Happy Birthday, my dear [son/daughter]. Here’s to many more years of shared memories, hearty laughter, and the most incredible journey together. Your mom and I couldn’t be more proud, and we love you, now and always.

How to Enhance a Birthday Speech

• Personalize Your Speech: Make sure to include personal anecdotes and experiences that capture the essence of the person you’re honoring. This not only makes the speech more relatable but also helps create a deeper connection with the audience.
• Include Humor: Light-hearted moments or funny stories help to keep the audience engaged and make the speech more enjoyable.
• Celebrate Achievements: Highlighting the person’s accomplishments, no matter how small, can make them feel appreciated and valued.
• Express Genuine Emotion: Express your love, admiration, and pride for the person. Genuine sentiments could make the speech more impactful and memorable.
• End on a High Note: Conclude the speech with a toast or a heartfelt wish for their future. This adds a celebratory tone to the conclusion and rounds off the speech nicely.

Remember, the key to a great birthday speech is to speak from the heart, keep it genuine, and make it about the person being celebrated.

In conclusion, delivering a compelling birthday speech can indeed be an arduous task, but with the right balance of personal anecdotes, humor, celebration of achievements, and genuine emotion, you can create a memorable moment that the birthday person and attendees will cherish. Always remember, the essence of your speech should resonate with the love and admiration you hold for the person, making it a unique tribute to their journey so far.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: how long should a birthday speech be.

A: Ideally, a birthday speech should last from two to five minutes. It’s long enough to express your sentiments and share a few anecdotes, but short enough to keep the audience engaged.

Q: Should I rehearse the speech?

A: Absolutely! Rehearsing ensures a smooth delivery and helps you become familiar with the flow of your speech.

Q: Should I include humor in my speech?

A: Yes, if it feels natural. Humor can make your speech more engaging and enjoyable for the audience, but it should never be forced.

Q: How can I make my speech more personal?

A: Include personal anecdotes, talk about the person’s achievements, and express your genuine feelings for them.

Q: Is it necessary to include the person’s achievements in the speech?

A: While it’s not mandatory, mentioning their achievements can make them feel appreciated and valued.

Q: What if I get emotional while giving the speech?

A: It’s perfectly fine to get emotional. It shows your genuine feelings and can make the speech more impactful.

Q: Should I write down my speech or can I just wing it?

A: Writing down your speech helps structure your thoughts and ensures you don’t forget important points. However, try to avoid reading it verbatim to maintain a natural delivery.

Q: What if I forget what to say in the middle of the speech?

A: Don’t panic. Take a moment to collect your thoughts, and if you still can’t remember, move on to the next part of your speech.

Q: How should I end the speech?

A: Conclude with a toast or a heartfelt wish for the person’s future. It rounds off the speech on a celebratory note.

Q: How can I manage my stage fright?

A: Practice and preparation are key. The more familiar you are with your speech, the less nervous you’ll be. Also, remember that you’re speaking in front of friends and family who are there to celebrate, not judge.

Olivia Smith is an experienced life advisor and lead author at Life Advisory. She holds a degree in Psychology and has spent over a decade helping individuals navigate life's many challenges. Her passion for understanding the human experience shines through in her insightful blog posts, where she offers practical advice and heartfelt birthday wishes. Her writing style is relatable and empathetic, making complex topics digestible for all readers. When she's not penning thoughtful messages or lifestyle blogs, Olivia enjoys reading novels, exploring nature, and practicing mindfulness.

View all posts

Sally Wells is a co-author at Life Advisory and a self-proclaimed life enthusiast. With a background in Sociology and a knack for observing societal trends, Sally brings a unique perspective to the team. Her writing reflects her deep interest in human behavior, lifestyle trends, and the art of crafting meaningful messages. She strives to inspire readers with her birthday wishes and life blogs, hoping to spark joy and positivity. In her spare time, Sally is an avid traveler, soaking up inspiration from different cultures around the world.

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Free birthday speech tips

By:  Susan Dugdale  

How to write good birthday speeches

Birthdays are a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the joy of living, family, and friends while focusing on that one special person whose  happy "day" it is.

After singing "Happy Birthday", blowing the candles out, making a wish and eating the cake, it's time for the speeches to begin.

And that's what you're here for - to grab a few tips to write a birthday speech!

Use these suggestions to tailor your talk

1. gather your background information.

Before you write the speech get the background information you need. This will determine what you'll put in, and the tone of the language you'll use. It will also help you make sure that your speech is a success! 

Get your friends and family to help you

You'll want the answers to these questions.

• Is the planned birthday celebration formal or informal?
• Who is invited? Is it strictly family? Family and friends? Work colleagues?
• Are you the only speaker? If so, what theme would the family/friends/work colleagues like you to focus on?  
• What tone would they like you to use? Generally, the tone is light, humorous, sincere and positive. Yes, you may tease the birthday person a little, but within the boundaries set by the occasion. Too much roasting, use of language too spicy or smutty, or delving into sensitive subject areas could change the event from a happy to an unhappy birthday. Be really careful!
• If you're not the only speaker: who are the others and what are they likely to cover? Also find out where on the speaking order you come.
• How long are you expected to speak for?

2. Inspiration from quotations

If the birthday is a special one marking a significant milestone celebrate it by picking an appropriate quotation or two to use in your speech.

Click the link to find a large selection of  birthday quotations .

I've arranged them under the headings " Wisdom ", " Wit " and " Milestones " so can find what you need quickly.

3. Read these sample birthday speeches

Reading example speeches will help you get an overview of the end result - the goal of going through this process! 

I've got three birthday speeches you can look at.

One is a  50th birthday speech  for a man. It is written as if from a close male friend.  The second is a  40 birthday speech  for a daughter and the speech is written as if it comes from her mother.

And the third is an  18th birthday speech of thanks . The speaker is thanking his/her family and friends for coming along to his/her 18th birthday celebration.

You are welcome to use them as a template for the speech you need to write.

4. Other content suggestions

What personal milestones (other than age) have been reached? Has a special goal been attained?

What endearing characteristics or traits does the person have?

What does the future hold? What special (personal or career) goals are they aiming for?

If the birthday is for an older or elderly person, as the song says: " accentuate the positive" . Life is for living regardless of age or circumstance. For instance, when we celebrated my mother-in-law Winnie's eighty-fifth birthday the speeches remembered the past: her life-long vibrant energy and passion for teaching speech and drama but they also spoke of her ongoing work. 

The grandchildren of her first pupils were coming to her for lessons!

One of her goals was to  keep  right on teaching. And she did until her eyesight failed. Those young people gave her so much joy.

What hobbies does the birthday girl/boy have?

Is there a specific song or saying that could be their signature theme?

What core values does the person have and how are they shown in their life?

What did the person say they wanted to be when they were young and how has it turned out?

What special relationships does the person have? How have they added to their life?

5. Perhaps you'd like to place the birthday in an historical context?

Try these suggestions. Use a search engine for the first two, and family members in the know for the others.

• What other significant events happened on this day in history ?
• What popular songs were being sung at that time?
• Where was the family living?
• Were there any extraordinary circumstances around the birth itself?

Once your notes are done you are ready to  write

Write like a sandwich.

Use the standard  3 part "sandwich" speech writing format:

• an introduction (one slice of bread)
• the middle (the filling where you expand on your theme)
• and a conclusion , (another slice of bread).

Your opening and ending hold the middle in place.

Get more info on writing

If you'd like more information about speech structure and the writing process, read my " how to write a speech " page.

You'll find detailed instructions as well as a quick "see-at-a-glance" overview of the process for those of you just needing a refresher.

And the last  tips are:

• Remember to include a thank-you for the opportunity to prepare and give a speech. It could be either at the beginning or end, or in both places!
• After your closing summary invite everyone to raise a toast to the birthday person.
• If you're new to making speeches and a little nervous, write your speech notes up on cue cards  to avoid the possibility of embarrassment through stumbling or temporary memory loss.

• (If you need help to prepare cue cards or don't know what they are go to my   how to make and use cue cards  page. You'll find full explanations there. A good set of cue cards will help you deliver your speech with confidence.)
• Run through your speech several times out loud before delivery. (And better still, rehearse thoroughly. See my notes below.)

Make time to rehearse

Do read my page on  how to rehearse .    Rehearsing makes a huge difference. Try it and see for yourself. You'll find out if your speech is too long, too short, not funny enough, phrased awkwardly ...  Rehearsing exposes any glitches and allows you to fix them, privately.

Think of the speech as a gift

It may be difficult to prepare. However giving the birthday toast can be the ultimate enduring gift.

Words live on in the minds of those who hear them long after the bouquets of flowers drop their petals and the last of the chocolates has been eaten.

A birthday speech given from the heart with love, wit and wisdom can last a lifetime. That makes it well worth your effort!

PS. If it's your birthday and you're delivering a speech to welcome and thank everyone for coming to celebrate it with you, apply these suggestions to yourself. And, yes, you can toast yourself!

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Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

Birthday Speech [From Celebrant or For a Guest]

Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class.

In this article:

Birthday Speech Topics From The Celebrant

Birthday speech ideas for a guest, birthday speech topics for the celebrant and guests.

Birthday speech template including 8 samples for the celebrant and 18 for a guest at the anniversary party.

The tone is personal, congratulatory, lighthearted and sincere. So, come up with nice entertaining birthday thoughts, funny remarks and tell humorous stories or even jokes.

A guest can roast the celebrated person a little bit with giving special birthday gifts. But don’t go to far. How far you can go depends on the ambiance of the occasion.

So, it is good to know who is on the guest list:

• Do they know each other?
• How close to the celebrant are they?

Okay, I’ve made my point: don’t include insulting or smutty public speaking speech content. After all, it’s a happy day for she / he is a jolly good fellow  Just a small note before we start: were I wrote She or Her in my free birthday writing templates, you can read He or Him also.

Can We Write Your Speech?

Get your audience blown away with help from a professional speechwriter. Free proofreading and copy-editing included.

Pick out the ones you like. These are sample speech topics. If you are the celebrant then speak after all other speakers. Keep your speech short.

• Welcome and thank all the guests for attending this beautiful party celebration.
• Thank all for their party gifts and best wishes.
• Thank the family members who have organized the party. Especially if it is a surprise party.
• Look back at the past. Mention one or two important milestones in your life. E.g. your partner, the birth of your children or their graduation, memorable moments with friends, trips around the world, special projects, hobbies, etc. Warm and funny birthday speech topics about family ties always do the trick.
• Thank all with one entertaining sentence, in which you capture the importance of your family and friends.
• Tell the attendants about your plans and hopes.
• What do you want to realize?
• What do you want to change? And why?

And those popular and famous speech topics bring me to the next birthday gifts idea.

• If it is a very special event – you reached a special age, for example – your 30th, 40th of 50th birthday – then pay attention to it. Tell a joke about people who reached this age related to the little surprise you want to hand over.

Otherwise, mention certain circumstances if they occur and influence the events. But do not sound sad, try to approach them in a positive way.

• End your speech with praising the guests. Just say you hope that they will be back. At the party next year…

These topic ideas are suitable for every public speaking job.

INTRODUCTION

• Thank for the invitation to be guest.
• Thank for the invitation to give a birthday speech.
• Congratulate the person who enjoys all as center of the attention.

THE PARTY ITSELF

• Mention a nice, funny or emotional moment at the annivesary till now.
• If you are one of the people who organized the party: look ahead. What’s coming up next? Lunch, dinner, you are moving to another location, room or place later this day or evening, other speakers, maybe mystery guest at the annivesary?
• Mention the special circumstances, if appropriate. For instance think about the weather, the location, the number of people who are attending the birthday party, and so on. Look around and use your imagination.
• What age? Is it a jubilee year? Is it a 18th, 21st, 40th, 50th, 60th or a 70th birthday speech, or even a 80th, 90th or 100th? Did she said something herself about reaching this age? Mention this unique number and its merits and uniqueness.
• What happened today in history?
• Are there memorable events on the date of birth?
• Was she born at a special place?
• Is she happily married? Describe this relationship.
• Children, grandchildren?
• Other notewirthy developments within the scope of the family ties? Mention those themes and don’t forget to congratulate her family.

ROAST A LITTLE BIT

Tease and roast the celebrant, but avoid any personal stuff that might upset or annoy the celebrant or a guest:

• Roast the girl or boy a little bit. Can you characterize her personality?
• What have other people said about her?
• Mention her talents, hobbies or passions.
• Are there noteworthy developments or achievements in her work and career? What has she always wanted to be?
• What are her pet peeves?
• What are her values of life? How does she propagate them?
• Look ahead to her future. What were and/or are her goals or hopes in life? Do you think she will succeed? Be optimistic and supportive. Or – if you want to spoof somewhat – tell your disagreeing point of view with a wink …
• Recapitulate the wishes and congratulations. Try to summarize all the best you wish in one well-meaned special speech topic statement.
• And then of course, at last but not least, the closer: the toast. Propose a toast to the health of the girl, so to speak.
• Give her a present or hand over the gift on behalf of all people who join. Don’t forget to tell you speak on behalf of everybody!

Have a nice party and may this information helps to enjoy preparing your birthday speech. Happy anniversary to you and to your relative or friend!

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Birthday Speech Examples For A Festive Celebration

A birthday speech to acknowledge the special day of a friend, family member, or colleague introduces and honors the person and wishes them welcome. Many birthday speech examples are available as templates to craft a birthday speech appropriate for the person celebrating.

Along with a festive song around the birthday cake, parties honoring someone celebrating a birthday often include a short toast or birthday speech. You might have the opportunity to speak if you are close to the birthday boy or girl.

How do you know if you should plan to speak? How do you choose the right words? Should you give a funny birthday speech or a serious one? As always, when you have questions, we have answers.

Table of Contents

What Do You Say In A Birthday Speech?

When framing a birthday speech , you need to consider a few things:

• Who is the guest of honor?
• What is their relationship to you?
• Is the birthday boy or girl more likely to appreciate a serious or funny birthday speech?
• How many people are speaking?
• Will there be a set time to give birthday toasts or speeches, or will it be a simple, impromptu thing?

How Do You Start Birthday Speech Examples?

Starting a memorable occasion speech is especially easy if you are the first (or only) speaker. Then, a simple “Good morning” or “Good evening” is an appropriate way to greet the guests. Once you give that traditional greeting, jump into what you want to say.

“We are gathered here tonight for a birthday celebration to honor our close friend (name). Growing up with (name), I found myself wondering if we would see our 60th birthdays. Remember riding our dirt bikes? Jumping off of the roof into your aunt’s pool? And how could we forget our 21st birthday? But the point is we survived youth craziness, and here we are. Let’s all raise a glass to (name) on his special day. Happy birthday, my friend.” 

What Do You Say In A Birthday Speech If You Are A Parent?

If you are the parent, are you hosting the event for your son or daughter? There are certain milestone birthdays that a parent might still be likely to host, such as the 16th or 18th birthday.

A parent giving a birthday speech might thank all of the wonderful people for coming to celebrate with their son or daughter on their birthday. How you word the rest of the speech depends on how close your relationship is with your child and your child’s gender and age.

For example, a dad talking about his little girl at her Quinceanera will acknowledge that his daughter is now considered a woman. The speech will include points of pride and love for his daughter. At a Quinceanera, a tradition in Hispanic culture that happens on a young woman’s 15th birthday, it is tradition for many guests to give a short speech.

Of course, there are occasions in all cultures where a parent would give a birthday speech. Many young women celebrate a Sweet Sixteen with a party. Since most mothers hope to be their daughter’s best friend one day, this party is a lovely time for a mother to state this hope.

Here is an example birthday speech from a mom for her daughter’s sweet sixteen,

“Thank you for coming to (name’s) sweet sixteen party. My little girl is practically grown up now, and it is hard to believe because it all happened in the blink of an eye. I want to express my birthday wishes to (name). We have built many beautiful memories over your lifetime, (name). You have grown into a beautiful young woman and quickly moved from being my daughter to being a great friend. I want to extend birthday wishes on behalf of your dad and me. Happy birthday, princess.”

What Should I Say In A Birthday Speech For A Coworker?

When celebrating a coworker’s birthday, ask yourself about your relationship before making a speech and offering a toast. It might be appropriate for you to talk about how much positive energy they add to the workplace. Another tactic could be to discuss how they are such a team player.

Never bring up anything negative at a person’s birthday party. If you find them annoying or lazy as a coworker, say nothing.

What Should I Say In My Friend’s Birthday Speech?

If it is your best friend’s birthday, there are many angles to approach for giving a great birthday speech. First, you might share some  fun stories.  This is especially great if you have been friends for a long time and have some  great memories  to talk about. Using  touching quotes  is another way to approach the speech.

While certain birthdays are conducive to poking fun about the person’s age, we want to caution you that not everyone takes these well. If your friend seems to be struggling with age, sharing stories might be more appropriate than pulling  out the old fart jokes.  Bring out the hilarity and jabs for friends who love a  good roasting !

Do You Focus On Age In A Birthday Speech?

You certainly can focus on age in a birthday speech, but you don’t have to. If the person’s age seems essential to the angle you are taking in your remarks, mention it. However, you don’t need to.

What Do You Include In Speeches For Milestone Birthdays?

• 16th Birthday:  The 16th birthday , called a sweet sixteen for girls, should include something about the guest of honor practically being an adult.
• 18th Birthday:  As the official entry into adulthood in many countries, the 18th birthday is a big one. Make sure to recognize this in any birthday speech.
• 21st Birthday:  Even though people can legally drink alcohol at much younger ages in other countries, in the United States, this is the magic number for being able to drink. For this reason, this birthday is often accompanied by a party. A parent often will recognize that fact in a speech or toast.
• 30th Birthday:  Also called the “dirty thirty,” this is a fun milestone birthday to celebrate what many see as the end of their youth. Speeches and toasts for this birthday typically include birthday quotes about getting older and recognition of the next stage of life. You certainly can use some funny one-liner jokes, quotes, or tidbits.
• 40th Birthday:  Middle age is between 40 and 50, so this birthday sometimes takes work for people, especially women. It is always appropriate to wish the birthday person long life and health. If you know the person well enough to be sure they will handle gentle ribbing well, you could make some “getting old” jokes in your speech.
• 50th Birthday:  When giving a 50th birthday speech, people commonly start to make “old fart” jokes and give gag birthday gifts. Everything “over the hill” is appropriate for celebrating a loved one’s “Happy 50th birthday.”
• 60th Birthday:  Wishing someone good health and happiness as they turn 60 are relevant topics for this birthday speech. Another birthday where people often joke about how old the person is, don’t be surprised if the birthday cake’s theme is “older than dirt.” When giving a speech at a milestone birthday for someone older, take your cues from others. If the guest of honor is struggling with getting older or in poor health, give a touching speech rather than one full of jokes.
•   100th Birthday:  Living this long is a very big deal, and a 100th birthday is likely to be met with many people who want to say a few words. At this age, leave all jokes aside. Celebrate the centenarian’s life with birthday quotes and stories of special places and events you have seen together.

Birthday Speech Template

• Introduction:  Introduce yourself and state how you know the guest of honor.
• Body:  Tell a couple of stories or share a special birthday quote.
• Conclusion:  Every speech needs to be wrapped up. You might do this by offering up a birthday toast or simply by giving a closing remark like,  “I am so blessed to be your friend, (name) and hope you have a beautiful celebration.”

How Do You Say Thank You For A Birthday Speech?

As the guest of honor, you will be expected to say a few words at your own birthday celebration . Acknowledging those who have shared kind words and stories about you is appropriate. This does not have to be long. You can say,  “I appreciate everyone for coming to share in my special day, especially everyone who said such lovely things about me. Thank you all for coming.”

You should also acknowledge whoever hosted the party. For example,  “Thank you to my husband and best friend for throwing this lovely surprise party for me. I appreciate all the work that went into planning every detail, from the venue to the food to everyone who spoke. I appreciate you all.”

A former English teacher and currently an elementary principal in a rural school, Pam has honed her speaking skills in the classroom and before professional groups. Pam enjoys sharing her insights about public speaking almost as much as she enjoys running, which she does daily.

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50th Birthday Speech Samples That Make A Powerful Impression

Have an upcoming party and want to see some 50th birthday speech samples ? If you need help with your birthday party speech, there are some ideas for crafting your own perfect oration below.

Feel free to borrow these ideas and customize them to your own situation. I hope it makes your party plans so much easier!

Check out this page, too , if you’re looking for roasting jokes to use on your loved one.

50th Birthday Speech Samples

When you want to make their special day even more memorable, a great speech for a best friend or a close family member is a great way to do it. You can cap off the ending of the 50th birthday party with a beautiful, heartfelt speech for the guest of honor. Or, you can use this birthday speech as the kickoff for the party. What matters the most is how you express your happy 50th birthday message, and a great speech can help you do exactly that.

Let’s take a look at some sample speeches. First, we have a sample 50th birthday speech for an adult child to their mother. Then after that, you’ll see some other popular examples.

Need a great 50th birthday card? Here are some great ones you can easily customize:

• photo collage giant birthday card
• fabulous 50th birthday card
• modern minimalist 50 & fabulous card
• 50th birthday seashell coral card

50th Birthday Speech – Adult Child to Mother

A poignant speech dedicated to a caring mom. Could you customize this for your birthday party?

Tonight we celebrate the 50th birthday of a woman who’s been the light of all our lives for many years. She’s been a beacon for my brothers, my sisters, and me, and she’s always, always, always been there when we needed her.

Since her talents and kindness have touched us in such a special way, it seems only fitting to take the time to honor her with this party.

When I say talents, I’m referring to her culinary skills and the incredible pies she makes us. So good!

I’m also referring to her financial prowess and knowledge of tax law. Who needs Turbo Tax , when you have a mom like ours?

But as I said, Mom has always been there and when you live with someone, you really get to know them. You get to know their funny quirks like how they always double and triple-check that you remembered things like your books or your lunch before leaving the house for school in the morning.

In Mom’s case, she’d follow us down the street to make sure we had our things in hand. One time, one of our friends thought we were being stalked, but we assured them this was just how our Mom was.

Or how about the time I forgot my science project at home? She actually nearly pulled together a police escort to get the thing delivered to the school on time for the Science Fair. That was great, but all the other kids saw it and we didn’t hear the end of THAT for quite some time. I was always proud of her passion, even if some people thought it was a bit “obsessive.” (And I mean that in a good way, Mom!)

Another very cool thing was that Mom is/was also psychic. Whenever my sisters and I would come home just five minutes late, Mom would be standing inside the door as though she knew the exact moment we’d arrive. Sometimes we’d wonder if she’d been standing there all night! (My brother is nodding his head, yes. So maybe she really did hover near the door when we girls were on dates.)

I know all of these things make it seem that Mom was overly protective, but she really wasn’t. She was just very interested in her kids. In fact, she came to every one of our sports games, every school play, and every field trip. Of course, as a fantastic baker, she participated in every bake sale we had. It always kept her busy.

We are all so grateful for the love, the help, and the wonderful meals she made for us. Mom always took very good care of her family. Hopefully, this party will show her just how much we really love her.

Thank you, Mom! Love you!

50th Birthday Speech From Wife to Husband

This is a good idea if you want to give hubby a loving jab in the ribs and guests a good laugh…

He may be an old fart, but he’s still young at heart! I want to thank you all for being here. I’m going to use it … the ultimate “F” word: John’s turned fifty!! Even scarier is knowing I’m not far behind!

Though many years have passed, I can still remember every one I’ve spent with him like it was yesterday. He is truly one of a kind, and I am delivering this speech to honor him and the amazing memories he’s created that we cherish.

50 is a big number and I’ve been lucky to spend the last 30 of them with him:

• 30 years and nothing has changed – except less hair and more love
• 30 years to make the perfect butt indent in the couch
• 30 year-long “honey-do” list … and I’m proud to say, it’s half done!
• And we’ve had 30 years to grow more in love.

I can say the fishing tales continue as usual, but that fish that got away keeps getting bigger!

The “honey-do” list keeps getting longer.

And his ability to forget birthdays and anniversaries has never improved.

Even with all these quirks, he is still the most wonderful man, husband, and father. He can now add “wonderful grandfather” to that list, too!

He’s been teaching for 30 years and this passion will continue even after retirement with four grandchildren hanging on his every word.

He always makes us laugh – like the time he had that “big catch” of a fish that he attempted to reel in. He was concentrating so hard, he fell straight into the water! And after all that, including the wet clothes, he realized his big catch was a large tree stump!

He has always been the shoulder to bear the weight of my problems – ensuring that no matter what, his family and friends are happy.

Let’s take this night to celebrate John and all his amazing qualities, as well as the impact he has on our lives.

Raise your glasses and let’s toast to an amazing husband, loving father, caring grandfather, and great friend. And most of all … a precious gem we’re all grateful to have in our lives.

50th Birthday Speech for that Special Father

A very nice speech for Dad, whether you’re male or female.

First and foremost, Happy Birthday to the world’s greatest dad!

Thank you to everyone for joining me in celebrating my father’s 50th birthday. I hope you’re all enjoying the evening as much as we are.

When I think of my dad, I think of the person I look up to and always strive to be like. My dad has always made sure his loved ones were cared for (even if he wasn’t). He always made sure even in the roughest times, we kids never knew about or “felt” the struggles.

Like everyone else, my childhood was less than perfect, but dad always made the best of it and made it perfect for us.

Dad has always been known for his calm and soothing demeanor. A running joke is that dad has two speeds “slow” and “reverse.” He always takes every day one at a time and doesn’t sweat the small stuff. I swear dad will live to be 150 because he never stresses about anything.

If any of you have spent enough time with dad, you know what I mean when I say dad has an amazing sense of humor, though his jokes are, shall we say … different. But I admit, I laugh so hard I almost cry. The famous dad joke … wait for it…

What is orange and green and red all over?? A wounded cheezie hopping in the grass!

It goes without saying, but my dad means the world to me and I will always be daddy’s little girl!!

Hopefully, these 50th birthday speech samples give you some great ideas for your very own speech. Good luck and get creating!!

Toast Your Dad’s 50th Speeches

These are best for a son to use to toast his dad.

A Funny idea to toast your dad’s 50th

Dad, you’re always there when I need you.  You managed to make all my football games and only got thrown out once!  But don’t worry about that. That ref didn’t know what he was talking about. You weren’t swearing … you were just being … passionate!

Seriously, Dad, you’ve been a wonderful father all these years.  You’ve helped me through thick and thin and I’m not even referring to my recent weight loss! You’ve always given a kind word of support at just the right time and your encouragement has gotten me countless things in my life.

• Like the time my science project blew up and you stayed up all night fixing it for me, so I’d have something to take to school the next day.
• Or the time my girlfriend broke up with me and you took me out that entire weekend to get my mind off of it.

Yeah, sometimes you were more like a friend than a father.

• Like that fishing trip where we tipped over in the boat and showed up at home soaking wet from head to toe.

Mom’s a good sport. She puts up with us both. Thanks, Mom!

Now that you’re 50, Dad, I don’t want you thinking you’re old. Even though your birthdate looks like something out of a history book, you’re not old at all. You can still play basketball better than me, although it does help that you’re 6 inches taller.

And as long as you have a nap you can stay up all night, just like me!  Some people might think you’re old, but not me. I know I can still count on you to go camping, even if we have to camp closer to the bathrooms now.

I know I tease and poke fun, but you really mean a lot to me…to all of us.  We hope you enjoy your party because we had a great time putting it together. We did it to show you how much we love you and to make sure you didn’t get depressed!

Here’s to Dad, everyone! [Raises glass]

A More Serious Idea to toast your dad’s 50th

Dad, we’ve gathered here tonight to honor you as an individual.  You are a special person to everyone in this room and too often, we don’t get around to telling you that. We hope you enjoy everything we’ve done for you here and take it in the spirit it was intended: a light-hearted expression of how we feel about you.

It’s also time to reflect and appreciate all the things you’ve accomplished in your life, including raising three great kids and making our mom so happy.  We all appreciate what you’ve done for us.

You’ve worked for 30 years at the same job, lost sleep over our teenage antics, and in the end, still liked us enough to help pay for our college education.

I don’t know where this family would be without you.  Who in the world is willing to put up this crazy family? You have one daughter who’s a rock musician, another daughter who’s a bookworm, and me, a nut for obscure computer programming languages.

With such a diverse interest base, it’s hard to figure out what any of us have in common, yet we all get along great! That is mostly due to you and your diplomatic ways. Not to mention your talent for conversation.

Anyway, Dad, this party is to thank you for everything and to let you know we appreciate you. Have a great time tonight and know that we love you!

50th Birthday Speech Writing Ideas

A 50th birthday party is a perfect time for a great speech to honor the birthday guest of honor. We’ve got all the tricks and tips you need to write great 50th birthday speeches. The best way to show how much you care about the birthday “girl/boy” is to write a speech to share at their birthday celebration. When you want to share best wishes, reminisce over past memories, and highlight the many years of the awesomeness of having them in your life, a birthday speech is a great way to do it. But what if you can’t find the right words to say what you want to say? I’ve got some great speech writing ideas to help you out.

These speeches can be:

• Sentimental
• A walk down memory lane
• Stories of experiences you have had together
• A tear-jerker

You can use lines like “From the bottom of my heart” when talking about a great friend or beautiful child. You could also work some 50th birthday poems into your speech and recite them for everyone.

Step by Step Guide to Birthday Speeches

• Decide on what kind of birthday speech you want to present (from our list above or any other you can think of).
• Brainstorm the main points you want to cover in this speech. Make some form of notes with these ideas.
• Decide how long you want to talk. Keep in mind what kind of setting you will be in to give this 50th birthday speech. Remember one page would probably take about 3-5 minutes depending on how quickly you speak (You may speak more quickly when you’re nervous, so keep this in mind as you estimate the time.)
• Decide if you need to write out your speech word for word, or if you can just use bullet points and “wing it” from there.
• Get out the paper and start writing!
• Practice! You want this to be perfect, so sit with a friend and practice – or a mirror can work too. Practice in your car and record yourself if you are not comfortable practicing with someone else.

Some other tips when writing birthday speeches:

• If it’s shorter, you can always memorize it so you’re not holding paper while presenting.
• If you are good on the spot, you can just improvise while you’re presenting and you won’t need to write it out.
• Make the speech a keepsake. Write out your speech on fancy paper to give something tangible to the birthday person, which they will cherish.

With these easy steps, you can create the perfect 50th birthday speech.

50th Birthday Speech Writing Tips

Looking at a sample speech is a great way to help you get started on writing your own. Now that you have some great speech ideas and 50th birthday speech examples, let’s take a look at some speech writing tips to help you write your own. If someone special to you is celebrating a milestone birthday like the half-century mark, that deserves a very special speech. But don’t worry if you don’t know what to say, or if you get nervous about giving speeches because I’m going to tell you everything you need to know about it below.

How to write a 50th birthday speech

Do you need to write a 50th birthday speech, but don’t know where to start?

To help you do your part and create an awesome birthday celebration, I’ve created this helpful guide with tips and tricks for writing your perfect speech.

Writing a speech isn’t as difficult as you might think. The key is to break it down into easy-to-do steps and then do first things first. So, let’s do it, shall we?

First Step: Brainstorm

This is where you’ll decide on the theme and direction of your speech.  It’s a list of ideas you can add to as you go.  You’ll do this brainstorming step before anything else, then plug these ideas into the rest of the steps below.

So how do you do this?

Well, you’re going to write down all the important points you want to convey in this 50th birthday speech.

Ask yourself these questions and write them down.  If doing this brings to mind other things, by all means, include them as well:

• Who is the speech for? (A spouse, parent, sibling, friend, or another relative?)
• What style do you want to attain? (Funny, serious, inspirational, etc.)
• And how long do you want your speech to be?  (Short and sweet, or more lengthy because you have a lot to say?)
• What do you know about the person?  What are their notable characteristics? Do they have any charming personality quirks?  High life achievements? Admirable habits?
• What is the funniest situation you’ve shared with that person?
• What is the most serious situation you’ve shared with that person? (Also, you can list the most outrageous, touching, challenging, etc. Whatever stands out in your memories of them.)
• If you had one chance to tell this person anything, what would it be? (Because guess what? Here’s your chance!)
• Write down anything else that comes to your mind.

You can make these items bullet points for now. You can flesh everything out later. Think about how you want to wish them good health, happy times with the ones they love, and what other types of beautiful things you may want to say. This is a happy day to express yourself and how much this person means to you in more than you can squeeze onto a birthday card. This is the type of birthday greeting that will be cherished for many years to come.

Now that you have a big list of items that are personalized to your birthday person, let’s look at the next step.

The 50th Birthday Speech Structure

This part is a flash from the past, going back to school days when we, as students, had to do some writing as part of the curriculum.  Hopefully, you have fond memories of this from your growing-up years!

Back in those days, we students had to write essays and book reports.  We didn’t just blurt out our reports any old way we chose. We used a structure.  That same structure can be applied to writing a speech.

Here it is. Does it ring any bells from your schoolday memories?

• Introduction
• Body Idea #1
• Body Idea #2
• Body Idea #3, etc.  (As many or as few of these as you wish.)

Using this basic arrangement will help you know what to write.  You’ll plug in the ideas from your brainstorm list and simply write each section — separately, if necessary.  Then tie each section together.  Plus, since your oration will be well-organized, your audience will be very impressed with your public speaking skills!

Now I’ll cover some tips and tricks for each section of your 50th birthday speech.

Content Ideas

Okay, now you have some idea of messages you want to convey or things to include from the brainstorm above. They can be married together into an overall theme or simply included as a body idea item. The good news is, you’re part of the way there already!

Here might be some examples:

• You want to honor and convey your love for that person.
• They’ve had a significant impact on your life and you want to thank them.
• You want to express the joy they bring to your life.
• You want to take the opportunity to give them a hard time.  😉
• Anything else you might think of.

Moving on, if you completed the brainstorming step and feel okay about it, you have numerous ideas of sentiments and ideas to cover in your speech.

Beyond that, if you want to take it to the next level, here are some ideas to make your speech more interesting or even entertaining:

• Use some famous quotes, funny birthday quotes, or sayings.
• Personal milestones they have achieved in their life.
• Highlight their endearing characteristics and qualities.
• Mention or focus on special goals they wish to achieve in the future.
• Touch on their hobbies and pastimes.
• What did they want to be when they grew up, and what did they actually become?
• What are some special memories and experiences you’ve had with that person?
• What does this person mean to you?
• What historical events happened on their birthday?
• What popular songs or movies were out the day they were born?
• Extraordinary adventures they’ve been on.
• The story of how you two met.

Okay, now that we’ve covered all of that, let’s put this all together.

Writing Your 50th Birthday Speech

Here’s a suggestion on how to get this masterpiece to take shape:

• Write the body of your speech first. Once you have a solid body, you can complement it with the introduction and conclusion.
• After your body is ready, write the conclusion.
• And once the conclusion is completed, move on to the introduction. (Notice the intro is at the end.  That is so you can get your main ideas down, then create a really nice lead-in introduction that works nicely with the body.)

But!  Let’s say things are just not flowing. What do you do?

• If things just aren’t flowing well, write what does flow first.  Just get it down on paper. Then, take the next thing that comes to mind and write that.
• There is no perfect plan for everyone, it’s whatever works that matters. You’re not going to be graded on this.
• If in doubt, ask a friend or loved one to read it. They can advise you on how it sounds and where might be going off track.

Once you get through your draft, make sure to:

• Read it out loud.  Listen to how the words flow and if the ideas are cohesive.  How does it sound?
• Have someone else read it, as I said above.  What may sound good to you, might sound funny to someone else or it may sound great and you’re just too close to it to tell.

Rehearse Your 50th Birthday Speech

Even if you’re an expert public speaker, it never hurts to rehearse.  And if you’re a novice, you will especially want to practice.  Why?  Because practicing your speech will make you feel more relaxed and comfortable.  A lot of what will make your speech a success is how you deliver it, so practice!

• Say your speech in the mirror. This gives you a chance to make sure it flows, the grammar and language are okay, and you’ve covered everything you wanted.
• If you can, try to recruit an audience of friends or family members to critique what you have to say.
• Incorporate any reasonable changes.

Now for some extra tips for putting the polish on your work.

Writing the introduction

• Make sure your intro is something that grabs everyone’s attention.
• Small jokes or good-natured pokes at their age may be appropriate.
• Your introduction is the first impression.
• Use a hook – something that catches attention.

How about your speech’s conclusion?

• End with a thank you for having the opportunity to present your speech.
• Use a call to action – something like a toast to the guest of honor.
• Make your 50th birthday speech conclusion highly memorable.
• If applicable, introduce the next person.

Other Tips and Hints for a Winning 50th Birthday Speech

• Make your speech between 3 to 5 minutes in length.
• Must be appropriate to your audience, should there be children make sure it’s family-friendly.
• Light-hearted humor works well.
• Be sincere. Don’t make stuff up that you don’t truly believe, people will see through a lie – and that can ruin a party.

I hope these guidelines on how to write a 50th birthday speech make your task easier.  I also hope it helps you write a memorable speech for your guest of honor. It’s their big day, make their celebration great by making them feel special!

Good luck to you. I know you can do it!

You can give your birthday speech right before you cut the birthday cake, or before dinner, if there’s going to be a fancy birthday dinner. Whenever you do it, and whatever you say, just know that a special milestone birthday like this is worth celebrating in all the most beautiful ways you can. Enjoy!

Other pages that might interest you:

• 50th Birthday Party Decorations
• 50th Birthday Party Planning Tips

Amazing Over The Hill 50th Birthday Party Ideas - Major Birthdays

Thursday 16th of December 2021

[…] Another idea: instead of memento gifts, you can have everyone write a short speech as well. Check out our 50th birthday speech samples. […]

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How to Write a Speech About Yourself

Last Updated: July 13, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Michelle Golden, PhD . Michelle Golden is an English teacher in Athens, Georgia. She received her MA in Language Arts Teacher Education in 2008 and received her PhD in English from Georgia State University in 2015. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 854,456 times.

There is a lot of work and preparation that goes into writing a speech. If you're writing a speech about yourself, you need to consider a variety of factors, including your audience, the purpose of the speech, and how long your speech should be. With a good amount of preparation, planning, and editing, you can craft a speech that introduces yourself effectively and entertainingly.

Sample Template

Prewriting Your Speech

• One method for brainstorming is to create a mind map. You can do this with a paper and pencil, starting by writing your central idea or theme in the middle of the page. Then use lines to connect ideas and points that branch off from this central idea. For a speech about yourself, you might start with a central bubble labeled "Me". Then you might have three or four bubbles connected to the central one that say things like "Interests", "Aspirations", etcetera. Then as you continue branching out the bubbles will get more specific.
• There are other methods for brainstorming you might find useful. You could try the alphabet method, where you list a few things related to the subject of your speech for each letter, starting with A and working down.
• Another brainstorming method is the three perspectives method. You think about the subject of the speech in three perspectives. First, describe the subject, which is yourself in this case. Then, trace it. Trace your history, where you came from and where you've come to, and how you've changed over that journey. Finally, map it. Think about who and what has influenced you and how. How do you fit into the bigger picture. [3] X Trustworthy Source University of North Carolina Writing Center UNC's on-campus and online instructional service that provides assistance to students, faculty, and others during the writing process Go to source

• It's worth thinking about various aspects of the audience, because this will determine various aspects of your speech, such as its length, its tone, etcetera.
• For example, if your audience is a wedding reception, and this is a best man speech, your audience will be most interested in your relationship with the groom and your history with him. You also don't want a speech like this to drag on because the best man isn't the focal point of the event.

Writing Your Speech

• The most important difference between a long and a short speech is the amount of detail. A two minute speech in which you introduce yourself to a class will have a short intro that might be just your opening statement. There might be only a paragraph or two in the body of the speech, and the conclusion will probably be only a sentence or two.
• A ten to fifteen minute speech will have an introduction that in itself has a beginning, middle, and end, an opening statement, an introduction fo the main points of speech, and a summary of the main theme. The body might consist of four to six paragraphs, and each one will include both explanations of the main points, as well as examples. The conclusion will be a lengthier summary, and might include a sentence or two that ties the theme of the speech into a broader context.

• Depending on the length of your speech, you may need to break up the body section into multiple parts, like "Paragraph 1," "Paragraph 2," etcetera.
• Speeches two minutes and shorter should have one or two main points, which can probably fit into a single body paragraph.
• Speeches between two and five minutes should have two to three main points, given a paragraph each in the body.
• Longer speeches, over five minutes, should have up to five main points, given a paragraph each in the body.
• At this stage, you should also begin thinking about how your content will be organized. For a speech about yourself, it would make sense to either organize your content chronologically, with each main point being a different period in your history, or topically, with each main point as a different topic related to yourself.

• If this is a simple, short speech, meant to introduce you to your class or group, you can start with a basic introduction that includes a brief greeting, your name, and the purpose of the speech. This can look something like "Good morning everyone! My name is so-and-so and I'd like to take this chance to introduce myself to the group."
• If this speech about yourself is for a more specific purpose than just introducing yourself, you may want to make the introduction a little more entertaining and interesting. You can start with a provocative question, a shocking fact, a joke, or an evocative image. For example, if your speech is about an interesting aspect of your life, like your unusual profession, you can start with something like "Imagine waking up every morning to sound of safari wildlife in every direction around you."

• For example, if you're giving a small speech about yourself to your class you can say something like "First I'll tell you a little bit about my past, and then I'll tell you about some of my interests and aspirations. I'll close with my plans for my career."

• For example, if you're writing an introductory speech for a college organization, like a photography club, you might start the body with a paragraph about how you got interested in photography. The opening sentence might go like "Photography caught my interest very early on, especially with its ability to caption and preserve life's precious moments." The closing sentence might look like "Since then, I've been eagerly pursuing more knowledge on the ins and outs of what makes a photo great."

• For example, if your speech was about your interest and experience in the film industry, you can tie your own experiences with the idea of cinema on a grand scale. The conclusion should focus on the overarching importance of the topic of your speech.
• If your speech is simply to introduce yourself, you can end with a less grand conclusion. The conclusion of a self-introduction speech should reiterate and summarize the most important parts of your speech, the main details about yourself that you shared.

Improving Your Speech

• Read your speech out loud as well. This will help you hear the rhythm of the speech and make adjustments to improve its flow. Fragments are okay, as long as they're used sparingly. Use active verbs in favor of passive ones.
• When reading your speech out loud to yourself, note any sentences that are too long to be spoken comfortably in one breath. Split these sentences up as you edit.

• When running through a short list of ideas, numeric signposts are used like "first," "second," and "third," or "firstly," "secondly," and "thirdly."
• Signposts that show how two ideas relate to each other include, "furthermore," "in addition," "nevertheless," "however," "subsequently," and "for instance."
• Major signposts tell the listener where in the speech you are. For example, the first paragraph will often start with something like, "I'd like to start by..." and the final paragraph will often start with something like "To summarize..."

• What do you replace cliches with? First you have to deduce the basic meaning of the cliche phrase, then you can either think of a more interesting way to say the same thing, or, in many cases, you can forgo the phrase entirely.
• For example, the phrase "in conclusion" means that you are signaling that you going to summarize all the ideas previously stated. This can be replaced by something like, "So what does this all mean?" or "I've told you a lot about myself. Here's the reason."
• Often, cliche phrases are just filler that don't add anything important to the speech. Instead of saying, "Today I'll be talking to you about..." just start talking about it.

• Avoid speaking too highly of yourself. For example, saying "everyone know's that I'm the best soccer player on the team..." when receiving the captain award in the presence of your entire soccer team probably won't go over well.
• If, for example, you're the best soccer player on your team, you can instead humbly highlight your accomplishments by saying something like, "I've beat my personal record this season and scored 12 total goals. While it feels great to set this record, I know that it wouldn't be possible without the hard work and help of my teammates."
• If you feel uncomfortable, it's okay to add some humor or briefly acknowledge that you feel awkward about talking about yourself. This will just make your audience feel like they can relate better to you.

Community Q&A

• Make cue cards, these are good because if you've practised well enough, you will be able to be reminded on what you're saying by looking at a couple of words written on some card. Your flow will come out more naturally and you can also ad lib around it (if you're allowed). Avoid reading directly from the card. Thanks Helpful 14 Not Helpful 0
• Always stay connected to your audience and make eye contact with them. Thanks Helpful 19 Not Helpful 1
• When you've written your speech, be sure to practice it until you feel comfortable. Thanks Helpful 166 Not Helpful 36

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.hawaii.edu/mauispeech/html/your_purpose.html
• ↑ https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/WC116
• ↑ http://writingcenter.unc.edu/handouts/brainstorming/
• ↑ http://pac.org/content/speechwriting-101-writing-effective-speech
• ↑ http://writingcenter.unc.edu/handouts/understanding-assignments/
• ↑ https://open.lib.umn.edu/publicspeaking/chapter/10-2-keeping-your-speech-moving/
• ↑ https://www.lib.sfu.ca/about/branches-depts/slc/writing/organization/conclusions

About This Article

Before you start writing a speech about yourself, create an outline on a blank page with the headings Introduction, Body, and Conclusion. Then, add bullet points under each section, and fill them in with the key issues you want to discuss. In the Introduction, tell your audience who you are and explain briefly what you'll cover in the speech. Additionally, you'll want to have 1-2 main ideas in the body if the speech is for 2 minutes, or 3 ideas if it's a 5-minute speech. Finally, write a conclusion to sum up the main points you've made. For tips on how to take inspiration from other speeches and how to edit your first draft, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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50 Great Birthday Speeches for All

Struggling to craft a sweet and touching happy birthday speech to a loved one or acquaintance? If that is what you are battling with, you have come to a place that will help you easily surmount that challenge.

Below we have put together some beautiful speeches that you can deliver on the birthday celebrations of the wonderful people in your life. You can use these fine orations the way they have been published here or pick ideas from them to write your own.

Table of Contents

Birthday speech for a friend, funny birthday speeches, birthday speech for mom, birthday speech for dad, 60th birthday speech, birthday speech for your husband, birthday speech for your wife, 21st birthday speech from mother/father to daughter, birthday speech for your daughter, birthday speeches for your son, birthday speeches for your brother, birthday speech for your sister, birthday speech for your boss, birthday speeches for your working partner.

Whether it’s your best friend or a friend from middle school that you haven’t seen for years, you’ll find what you need here.

• You’ve been my best friend since 6th grade. I’ll never forget you walking into my math class and sitting right next to me like you knew we were meant to be best friends. Ever since that day, I have had the privilege of watching you grow as a person. I’ve made plenty of mistakes in my life, but I’ve always had a safe place to go where I wouldn’t be judged. So, thank you for always being on my side for the last 10 years. Thank you for being my best friend. Happy Birthday.
• Thank you for thinking of me on your special day. We haven’t seen each other for years, but it’s amazing how we talked today like no time went by. I hope you are having a great time. I know I am. You’ve grown so much as a person since we last saw each other. I’m so excited to get to know you again and pick up where we left off back in the day.

• (NAME), your ability to keep me out of trouble has been one of the greatest attributes I admire a lot about you. I still remember back in the days when we were kids and how you used to keep the adults very busy with your amazing antics, just to make sure I never got spanked for my mischievous doings.
• On special days like today, I think we should make merry and let the whole world know that we are celebrating the most important day of the year. I pray for many days like today for you, but I hope you know that more birthdays come with more wrinkles on your face. Anyway, I know you love birthdays and wouldn’t mind having many wrinkles on your face just to celebrate another birthday. May this anniversary bring joy and happiness to you, (NAME).
• Being a truly special day today, ladies and gentlemen, I’d like to use this opportunity to invite you all to become wildlife supporters so that we can all have a fabulously wild party!

• It affords me much pleasure to have the privilege to deliver this speech in honor of the birthday celebration of a dear friend of mine. (NAME), I will like to take advantage of this outstanding day in your life to let you know how much your presence in my life means to me. I might not say it to you very often, but you mean the world to me. (NAME), you and I have been the best of friends since we were little. I know you inside out and you know me inside out. But you are really more than just a mere friend to me; you are my brother/sister and inspiration.
• All my life I’ve never seen anyone that is as loving and caring as you. And in addition to that you have an excellent sense of humor, which makes you the more wonderful. I wouldn’t trade your company for all the gold in the world. How blessed I am to have a magnificent person like you whom I call my friend and brother/sister.
• On this special day of your life, I wish you all the good fortune in the world. May this anniversary celebration mark the beginning of breathtaking accomplishments in your life. You deserve it. You have really come a long way and achieved a great deal in many spheres of your life despite the challenging circumstances and obstacles that stood in your way.  I’m so proud and honored to be counted among your closest friends. Have a gloriously happy birthday celebration and a long life accompanied by good health, happiness and peace.

This category could fit anyone in your life. So, if you want to stand out and make them laugh, this is for you.

• Happy birthday to one of maybe 3 people that I don’t need Facebook to help me remember that you’re aging. We’re all here to celebrate you, and you should really appreciate that. I mean, I gave up my evening of doing absolutely nothing to be here with you. But seriously, you’re the family member I’m least ashamed of being related to. So, thank you for that and enjoy your day.
• Well, I was going to joke about you getting older, but then I remembered that every year you get older, I also get older. So, I had some wine and thought about it. Age really does get better with wine. Anyway, here’s to one year closer to being that crazy cat lady, talking to ourselves and being the only ones laughing at our own jokes. Oh wait, we’re already there.
• Dearest (NAME), I congratulate you and wish you a happy birthday for growing a year older. It is always nice to be in your company because you are such a fun loving person.  It amazes me how you are able to perfect the art of putting smiles on faces of people around you. Indeed, you should be contesting for the award of the “The World’s Funniest”. On Sundays. In April. In leap years.

Whether you’re best friends with her, or just love your mom dearly, this list is for her:

• Thank you for being my best friend and confidant for so many years. Not everyone is blessed to have a caring, loving mom like I am. And I want you to know that I am truly thankful. I have always been able to come to you with anything, and that has helped me become the confident person that I am today. So, thank you, and I wish you all the best on your special day and every day after.
• Mom, I haven’t known you for my entire life, but I struggle to remember a time that you weren’t there. Thank you for accepting me as yours. Blood isn’t everything and you have shown that by taking me in and treating me like your own child. I know I’ll never be able to repay you for that, but just know that today and every day, I appreciate it.

This category is for your dad, whether it’s a father figure or your actual father.

• Hey Dad, today is your special day and I want to make sure you know how much I appreciate you. Every time I needed advice about life, or my car was making a funny noise, I always knew I could come to you. Thank you for teaching me how to take care of myself. Although I still might have to call you when something breaks, you have taught me how to be a good person above all.
• I know you weren’t there when I was born, and you didn’t see me take my first steps. But you will always be my dad. You have come into my life and taught me how to be a self-sufficient person. You taught me what love really is, and I want you to know that I wouldn’t trade you for the world. Thank you for choosing me and never giving up on me. Happy Birthday dad.

50th birthday speech

• The easy joke is calling you over the hill or halfway there, but the truth is that you’ve been on this earth for half of a century. That sounds like a long time, but it’s really not. Life is so short. Time truly flies. But I’m so lucky to have known you for some/all of those 50 years.
• You’ve been alive for 50 years, and you are still the kindest person that I know. You have grown with such grace and empathy. Some people get cold as they get older, but after being here for 50 years, you are still just as kind as the day we met. I wish you continued happiness on your journey.

Happy 50th Birthday Wishes!

• Although you’re 60 today, it continues to amaze me how much you still want to learn and grow. This age is the perfect time to try something new. So, let’s try yoga or go horseback riding. Either way, if I’m there with you, I know it’ll be a blast. It has been an absolute pleasure knowing you, and I wish you an even better year than the last.
• Today, you’re 21,915 days old. Sure, that sounds like a lot, but you have truly used all of those days to do your best. For 60 years, you haven’t stopped giving, caring and loving those around you. You always make sure the people around you know that you care about them and what they have to say. So, today is for you. We’re celebrating, giving, caring and loving you today because you deserve it.

Happy 60th Birthday Wishes!

• To my darling husband, (NAME), on your birthday, I say, “Thank you from the bottom of my heart for always being by my side to love, support, encourage and protect me”. You not only make my heart happy but also my entire body as a whole. God really blessed me abundantly the day He brought us together.
• You are such a phenomenal friend and husband to me. Honey, not even all the words in the dictionary will be sufficient to express to you the amount of love that this heart of mine has for you. Such is the depth of my love for you. Thank you for every beautiful thing you have done for me.
• Prior to meeting you, I always wondered who would ever feel the great vacuum in my life, but then you came into my life and not only filled that emptiness in my but whisked me to paradise. Having an amazing friend and husband like you is worth more than all the diamonds and money in the world. I truly love you from the bottom of the deepest cores of my heart and soul.

• To all the beautiful people here, who took time off their busy schedules to attend the birthday celebration of my beloved wife, I say, “Thanks for being so wonderful to us”. I can forget everything in my life, but never will I forget the birthday of my beloved (NAME), who is not only my sweet wife but also my best friend and mentor.
• On your anniversary, honey, I have a confession to make. When you go to bed, what you don’t know is the fact that very often I wake up in the middle of the night and stare at you as you sleep peacefully finding it hard to believe that a wonderful woman like you chose me to be her husband. How I became so lucky to have you in my life is something I will never understand. You are indeed the greatest treasure of my life – there’s absolutely no two ways about it!
• (NAME), thank you for being an incredibly caring, loving and supportive wife to me. Thank for touching my life in a way that no other has and will ever do. From the deepest part of my heart, I wish you a long, happy life. May every desire of your heart that hasn’t yet materialized begin materializing in grand style from today onwards. I love you so much, honey. Thank you for being my superwoman and the love of my life. Happy birthday!

• We’ve come a long way from the Cinderella-themed parties when you were young. Now I am suddenly looking across the table at an adult. I’m not sure where the time went, but I am so proud of the sweet, intelligent, beautiful girl you’ve become. As you explore adulthood, I just hope you are happy, safe and stay true to yourself no matter what.
• For 21 years, I have watched you grow, learn, struggle and overcome, but one thing I was always so proud of is your determination. That fire inside of you has been there for your entire life. Whether it was learning to walk or to drive, you always had that fire in your eyes, and I can’t wait to see where that determination takes you. I’m endlessly proud of you.

Happy 21st Birthday Wishes!

• My sweet angel, as you turn a new age today, know that there’s nothing in this world that I wouldn’t do to put happiness in your heart and smiles on your beautiful face. You are my rainbow and everything I treasure in this world.
• Sweetheart, I only have one advice for you today. Work hard and never stop having faith in yourself. If you do this, all you big dreams will always come to fruition and you will certainly be all the things you want to be.
• You are a beautiful young woman who brings glory to me all the time, and for that I shall forever be thankful to my lucky stars. Sunshine, may the good Lord be with you every moment of your life and guide your every step. Happy birthday, my dearly beloved daughter. I love you so much.
• Son, you are one of the biggest reasons I wake up with a smile on my face every morning. You make me exceedingly proud to be a father/mother every second of my life. I couldn’t have asked God to bless me with a better son. For as long as I live, I shall support you physically and spiritually. I shall always be there for you through the good times, the not so good times, and the bad times.
• Before I take my seat, I’d like to take this opportunity to ask everyone here to kindly join me to wish my dear son and friend a super duper happy birthday! I love you so much, son.

• Happy birthday to the best brother in this world!  I know I can always count on your support during difficult and pleasant times. You are someone who always seeks to have a positive impact on everyone who comes into your life, which I believe is the reason why you have attracted so many good friends. Planet earth will be a very wonderful place to be if everyone had a brother like you who is so selfless and very tolerant as well.
• (NAME), we have had many amazing moments together and I can remember our childhood days when we used to do a lot of wild and crazy stuff. Growing up was really fun with you around. I want you to know that I cherish every moment that I spend with you. Brother, you are the reason I am who I am today and this is because you always inspire and encourage me to seek greater heights in life.
• Today, being a very important day in your life, I want to use this moment to express my sincerest gratitude to you for all your support, care and above all the extraordinary love that you have shown me. My prayer for you is to have a life that overflows with joy, happiness, and good health. Happy birthday, dear brother!
• Happy birthday, lovely sister! I truly think that you deserve an award for the “Best Sister of the Year”, and to be honest this is not because you have been an amazing person to me, but your exceptional qualities as a person and a woman for that matter needs to be applauded.

• Sweet sister, whenever the thought of you crosses my mind (which it often does), it brings memories of very exciting moments that we have shared together. You are caring, smart and full of fun, which always makes me feel that I am the luckiest sibling on this earth, knowing that I have someone very special like you in my life.
• (NAME), I can’t thank you enough for all the awesome things that you have done for me. You have been my best friend, and I can’t imagine how my world would be without you. I want to congratulate you on adding another year to your life and I hope that this birthday brings you an abundance of happiness and joy. Happy birthday, dear sister!
• Hi everyone! I always count myself to be one of the luckiest persons in this world to have such an extraordinary boss like you. Your relationship with your employees transcends the usual. To me, you are a best friend and a brother as well. I will be forever grateful to you for all the support you have given me and most importantly for giving me the opportunity to be a part of this wonderful Company.
• Your leadership style is one of the best one can think of. You are always on the lookout for the best in terms of the welfare of your employees and the Company as a whole. Professionally, I consider you to be the best boss I have ever met. You have made the workplace one of the most enjoyable places to be.
• I can’t thank you enough for having a good impact on the lives of all your employees. I want to use this special day to wish you all the best in life. I pray that the Almighty Lord will keep on blessing you with many more exciting days like your birthday today. Once again, I wish you a fantastic birthday, dear boss!
• To me and this business, you have proven to be a valuable asset. Words cannot express how much pleasure it gives me to work with such a dedicated person like you. I am really amazed and impressed by the professional way you go about your work, especially in solving very tedious problems. Your exceptional decision-making skills have yielded awesome results for this business. You deserve a standing ovation for the professionalism you bring to this business.
• Again, (NAME), words cannot sufficiently express how grateful I am to you for all the sleepless nights and backbreaking tasks that you had to go through just to make sure that the business is on the right path. Your loyalty to this partnership has always been true and you are indeed the ideal person to do business with.
• This business has been successful, and I believe that it will only get better because of a special partner like you who has always been there through thick and thin. I want to use this moment to let you know that you are my inspiration and I am thankful for having you in both my professional and personal life. I wish you all the best as you commemorate this special day which marks your birthday.

Related:  200 of the Best Birthday Messages to Make Someone’s Day Special

You may also like:

#MySpecialDay | 199 Birthday Instagram Captions

99 Clever and Funny Birthday Wishes to Make your Greetings Stand Out

Professionally Yours : Happy Birthday Wishes for my Boss

Yiannis Kalliantas (He/Him) has worked for more than 15 years in the hotel industry, organizing all kinds of social events like birthday parties and wedding receptions.

He has an MBA in Tourism, and is an avid city photographer. His recent work on street photography in Athens, Greece can be found on his website IWalkAthens.com .

SEE ALL CONTRIBUTORS

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70th Birthday Speech

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(*Of course, if you’re looking for more than ‘advice’, check out all the different ways the Speechy team can help you write & deliver a great speech. Or check out our new AI-powered team member, SpeechyAI .)

HOW TO WRITE A WITTY & HEARTFELT 70TH BIRTHDAY

• Brainstorm – go back over old memories for all the content you’ll ever need
• Connect your stories with a theme – find a common motif to link anecdotes together
• Don’t go on and on – you never need more than 8 minutes
• Back up your claims – don’t just say your loved one is fabulous, explain how!
• Have a laugh – humour is the best way to show affection
• The sweet spot – a little love bomb goes a long way after making people cry-laugh

Let’s explore these stages in more detail…

It’s likely you have years of memories you can whip into a good storyline. That said, memories are funny things that don’t always work when we want them to. So brainstorming is essential.

Remember you’re not celebrating just any old septuagenarian – the people listening to your speech will be thrilled to actually recognise the person you’re talking about. Take an evening to go through photo albums and even consider asking friends and family about their funniest or most poignant memories of the birthday boy or girl.

Leave room for unplanned moments where someone may spur up a memory you hadn’t thought of before, that you can share a laugh about, before bringing it back to your speech. It’s important in these moments to remember that you are in a safe space full of supportive and loving people who won’t sway you from your speech unless they think you can handle it.

CONNECT YOUR STORIES WITH A THEME

Your role is to paint a picture with words that reminds everyone why the person you’re all here to celebrate is so wonderful. Take a recurring theme like a well-known saying or character trait to weave your anecdotes together and anchor you back to each section’s conclusion.

Allude to the theme throughout but you don’t have to be heavy handed with it. A few subtle references and some wordplay (if your theme is about your loved one’s prolific athletics career, you might use words like ‘flexible’ or ‘hurdles’ to refer to their personality or life experiences). And, staying on theme ourselves, don’t rush yourself towards the finish. Remember everyone in the room fully supports you.

DON’T GO ON AND ON

Be selective about the content you choose to keep and a plan for any interjections, because although they can be very welcome and add to the buzz of the moment, they may also sway the story off course and stretch out the length of the overall speech.

Contribute only your favourite – the funniest, most surprising, or warmly familiar – anecdotes to the speech. Your audience will love you for keeping it punchy so aim to leave them wanting more.

BACK UP YOUR CLAIMS

Relate instances that illustrate what you’ve said about your loved one. If they’re ‘kind’ – pay tribute to their years of volunteering at Oxfam. If they’re ‘funny’ – share the time they got you through a 10-mile hike of the Brecon Beacons on two blistered feet with ridiculous jokes in a Welsh accent.

Everyone thinks their friends and family are nice – go further and really home in on the birthday boy or girl’s character traits and show you really ‘see’ them.

HAVE A LAUGH

Humour is everything in a speech. It breaks the ice, locks the audience in, and makes everyone feel good. Keep yours as light, inclusive, and entertaining as possible. Give the subject and the audience stories they can be humbled by, or laugh along with, without wanting the earth to swallow them up.

Look for familiar quirks and inconsistencies in character. Are they broadly known to be quite serious by nature in work situations, but love to play the joker and rebel when no one’s watching?

Public speaking makes most people nervous, but don’t feel you have to put such pressure on yourself or leap out of your comfort zone. Everyone there just wants to have a good time and celebrate the person you all. They’re not expecting a stand-up routine or an Oscar winner’s speech.

The last place you should acquire humour from is the internet. Your loved one is worth more than recycled jokes or reruns of celebrity roasts. And resist leaning into insulting humour – there’s a fine line between well-meant teasing and actually being a bit mean.

THE SWEET SPOT

If you’ve followed the plan so far, your audience will respond kindly and affectionately to some well-timed sentiment as you close your speech. Acknowledging just how special the subject is to everyone in the room is a wonderful way to close your speech.

Trade on all the good feelings and memories you’ve stirred up and drop a love bomb that ties in everything you’ve said. Done well, your speech will add to that growing bank of feel-good memories!

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Your Birthday Speech

Persuasive words to create a memorable moment.

A birthday speech can use persuasive words to create that warm, fun and memorable moment.

A birthday is one thing you can rely on in life, and periodically an important one appears which needs a special celebration.

Even if this birthday is not one of those famous numbered ones and you are likely to "say a few words" then here you will find just the ideas to assist you.

Persuasive words to create a memorable moment is what you need.

Time to relax

If time is of the essence, you can use an expert who can write your speech for you , or have it written and you adjust it for your audience.

If you feel anxious about this occasion, then here are ways to relax , and even music that can calm your mind.

Significant birthday speech occasions

There are several times in our lives when significant birthdays occur

Each of these occasions has different audiences, and different expectations which are explained at the above links.

At persuasive-SpeechesNOW, we have lots of ideas to assist you with your speech from Outlines to Samples and Examples that show you what can be done and you can consider in the light of this Birthday Speech occasion.  So after you have the essence of your speech from one of the above pages, check out the links on the page, or the navigation bar for further ideas.

All the best for your speech for this auspicious occasion.

Home > Birthday Speech

This article was printed from Persuasive-SpeechesNOW.com

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How to Write a Memorable Tribute Speech: Step-By-Step

Updated 04/19/2024

Published 11/16/2019

Sam Tetrault, BA in English

Contributing writer

Cake values integrity and transparency. We follow a strict editorial process to provide you with the best content possible. We also may earn commission from purchases made through affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more in our affiliate disclosure .

A tribute takes on so many different meanings, it can be hard to remember what it’s supposed to be. But when you write a tribute speech, you can get to its true purpose, which is to honor a specific person. Usually, you can hear tribute speeches at funerals, memorials, and celebrations -- but all tend to follow a similar formula.

Also see our tribute speech topic ideas and tribute speech samples below for some ideas to get you started.

If you’re speaking at a funeral or at a memorial, you might need to write a tribute speech. Or even if you’re speaking at a celebration and simply focusing this piece on a loved one who has died, this guide is for you. 

You want your tribute speech to use the right words and to paint an accurate, admirable picture of the person. A heartfelt speech evokes emotion in the listeners and conveys a clear message.

Tip : While speaking at a virtual event, like a live-streamed memorial organized by a service such as GatheringUs , practice your speech using your video conferencing software ahead of time so you can anticipate and fix any audio issues.

Here is a quick overview of the steps for writing a tribute speech:

• Think About the Person
• Write an Outline
• Get the Audience’s Attention
• Make Your Points
• Finish Strong
• Practice Your Speech

Step 1: Think About the Person

What purpose does your tribute speech serve? Are you sharing a particular moment in a loved one’s life, writing about their successes, or about their positive attributes? Do you want the audience to come away with a particular message or understanding of your loved one?

Brainstorm a few characteristics or key points you’d like to include in the tribute speech. With these kinds of speeches, it’s ok to evoke emotion and share that feeling with your audience. What emotions do you want your audience to feel? If you’re giving your speech at a memorial, you might want your words to highlight a sense of fondness or happiness. Make sure you are considering your audience as well as the person you’re writing about.

After all, writing a tribute speech for your mother will be very different than writing one for a friend.

Share your final wishes, just in case.

Create a free Cake end-of-life planning profile and instantly share your health, legal, funeral, and legacy decisions with a loved one.

Step 2: Write an Outline

Before you begin writing, create an outline. Writing an outline helps you organize your thoughts before putting pen to paper. Most tribute speeches follow the same format. Here’s a quick guideline to follow:

• Introduction: Who is the speech about? What is your relation to this person?
• Main point 1: Start off with a key characteristic of the person you’re talking about, such as their caring nature or listening skills.
• Evidence: What evidence do you have that supports your main point? For instance, if they were a caring person, talk about a time they helped others.
• Main point 2: What’s another point you’d like to make about the person?
• Evidence: Again, support your point.
• Conclusion: Repeat your crucial points and end with something meaningful.

You can include as many main points as you’d wish, but less is usually more. If you’re giving a speech at a funeral, there may be time limits to consider. Knowing what to say when someone dies is never easy. Using an outline organizes your thoughts in a clear way no matter the purpose of your speech. 

Step 3: Get the Audience’s Attention

The hardest part of a tribute speech is often the introduction. How do you capture the audience’s attention? If your speech is during a funeral, for instance, emotions are already high. If you’re giving a speech at another event or celebration, you similarly need to capture attention. How do you hook listeners with your tribute?

Start by relating to the listeners themselves. You need to appeal to the audience on a personal level to develop a connection with your words. If you’re speaking at a funeral, remind them how the deceased person brought everyone together. Open with your relationship with this person, and talk about your loved one’s role in your life. 

A good way to start is with a personal story. Humans naturally are drawn to stories. Including one at the beginning of your speech brings the audience closer to you. From there, it’s easier to share your main points with the listeners’ full attention. 

Step 4: Make Your Points

It might be tempting to drag out your introduction, especially if you’re using a personal take to capture the audience’s attention. Consider keeping the introduction brief so you can get to your point sooner rather than later. A concisely worded speech makes more of an impact through brevity and pauses than long drawn-out sentences.

With a tribute speech, you might include any of the following:

• The person’s characteristics
• The person’s accomplishments
• The person’s lasting impact
• Your experience with the person

All of these need real-life evidence. Memories, attributes, and physical creations provide plenty of support for what your loved one did in their life, and how they made you feel. How you share these main points is up to you.

Consider how you knew this person personally. Do you have a particularly funny or touching memory that was not shared widely? Did you see a special side of this person? These are all valuable questions to answer when writing a memorial tribute.

Step 5: Finish Strong

Finish your tribute speech on a high note. Popular quotes or poems can provide a way to tie up your speech. Or even ending with a quote or familiar saying from your loved one can leave your audience fondly remembering the person. Wrapping up your tribute speech can also be used to recall your main points and making a final statement about the person. 

You might ask the audience to remember their own favorite memory of this person or to think of them when they visit a certain place. Either way, leave them with something memorable.

Step 6: Practice Your Speech

Finally, before you present, it’s time to practice. If you’re anxious, use these tips to put you at ease:

• Think of your speech as a performance, not just a reading
• Make eye contact with your audience
• Stand up straight and tall
• Focus on your storytelling skills
• Let your passion show

As long as you’re putting emotion into the topic, this shines through for the audience. Practice really does make perfect. Don’t be afraid to share your speech with your friends and family before the big day.

Tribute Speech Topic Ideas

For inspiration planning your tribute speech, review these topic ideas below. Your tribute can be about anything that matters to you.

• Write about a physical tribute to made for your favorite person. 
• Write about a loved one who passed. 
• Describe an event involving yourself and a loved one. 
• Share a memory.
• Give a tribute to a place that matters to you.
• What movie or book inspired you?
• Did an incident ever change your life?
• Give a toast to someone who matters to you. 
• Share someone or something that changed your mind. 
• Explain the relationships that mean the most to you.

Tribute Speech Samples

To get a strong feel for what a tribute speech looks like, read through these samples below. Each speech serves a different purpose, but you’ll see how they impact the audience through storytelling and compassion. 

Tribute to a friend after their passing

"Good evening, everyone. Thank you for joining me to celebrate the life of my dear friend, Julian. All of us here admired Julian’s devotion to his family. I first met Julian through his wife, Stephanie. There was never a time when he wasn’t raving about Stephanie and all of their adventures together. I remember specifically one late night at work. Julian was the first to tell the whole office to head home. He always said nothing was more important than family, and that was certainly true. That’s the legacy Julian leaves behind: his shining family. I know we’ll all remember him even though he’s no longer with us. We still see Julian in his son and daughter, Mark and Mandy. Let’s make sure he’s never forgotten."

Tribute to a coworker "Thanks for joining me at this year’s celebration. Today, I’d like to highlight the success of Luisa, one of our best underwriters. Luisa is dedicated to her clients and helping them secure the home of their dreams. When Luisa first began working here, she would spend hours pouring over each applicant’s documents. She wanted to get everything right the first time. “The family is counting on us,” she would say. Luisa is right. It’s this kind of passion and attention to detail that makes her such an asset to our company."

Tribute to a sibling for a wedding

"I’m so thankful to be speaking about June on her wedding day. June and I have known each other for basically our whole lives, give or take the two years of me being an only child. Since then, June has always been the one who had my back. From the playground to college, she was always there. June is the first person I want to tell about my day — even if she’s bad at answering her phone! I am so grateful for our special bond. I just wanted to say thank you to my little sister for being my rock.:

Write a Powerful Tribute Speech

With the steps and examples listed above, hopefully you have some inspiration to help you write a top-notch tribute speech. From learning how to hook listeners to find the right words to say, you have many paths you can take with a tribute.

And in the end, a tribute speech is a commemoration of someone special. Whether you’re giving your speech as a sympathy message at a funeral or at a celebration, make the most of this opportunity. 

Everyone deserves to be remembered. Creating a tribute speech is a powerful way to evoke emotion and build strong relationships. They are for personal and professional relationships, remembering those who have died, and even just reminding us of the things we love most. It’s time to put your own pen to paper in honor of someone special. 

For more help finding the right words, read our guide to what to say on a death anniversary .

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