examples of maid of honor speech for best friend

• Bridal Shower
• Bachelor & Bachelorette Parties
• Engagement Party
• Rehearsal Dinner
• Wedding Checklists
• Wedding Hairstyle Ideas
• Wedding Vows Readings
• Wedding Music

In This Article

• Speech Examples
• Speech Template
• How To Write The Best Speech
• Useful Speech Tips
• Quotes for the Speech
• Wedding Party & Reception

Best Tips for Maid Of Honor Speech 2024: Samples & Ideas

jennyyoonyc via Instagram

Crafting a memorable maid of honor speech can be both an honor and a daunting task. It’s a chance to celebrate the bride in a heartfelt way while engaging the audience. Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or feeling the nerves, this guide will walk you through simple and effective steps to create a speech that will leave everyone touched and smiling. Remember, the key to a great speech lies in authenticity and personal anecdotes – sharing genuine stories and emotions will make your words resonate with everyone present.

FREE Download: Speech Template

Quick Navigation

ADVERTISEMENT

Maid Of Honor Speech Examples

Best friend maid of honor speech.

After years of helping Maids of Honor deliver awesome speeches, founder of Speechy and author of ‘The Modern Couple’s Guide to Wedding Speeches’, Heidi Ellert-McDermott, shares her tips. The first three-fifths of the speech should include revealing, entertaining stories that give an insight into the bride and your relationship with her. Don’t be shy of some affectionate teasing. 

In our recent research on wedding preferences, the maid of honor choice was crystal clear: the bride’s best friend. This role isn’t just about tradition—it’s about an unbreakable bond. A best friend’s speech resonates deeply, filled with shared memories and heartfelt wishes.

“If you haven’t had the chance to meet me yet, my name is X. (Bride) and I have been best friends for about 10 years. We met in high school gym class, and we couldn’t stand each other at first. As you can see, things eventually changed for the better. When (Bride) first asked me to be her Maid of Honor I felt flattered. But as the big day approached, she also told me to give a speech and a toast. I’m kind of the shy type and tried my best to get out of it. But, as (Groom) can tell you, it’s almost impossible to tell (Bride) No and get away with it. I wanted to tell you both how absolutely spectacular you look today. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a better-looking couple (except for maybe my boyfriend and I). And I hope you’re all having a lovely evening and I’d like to I wish you two all the love and happiness in the world. How blessed you are to celebrate your love on this beautiful day. I know there are many happy years ahead for you. Let’s all raise our glasses to the bride and groom, and wish them a lifetime of love and happiness!”

“I never had a sister, but (Bride) has been like a sister to me for all these years. We have similar tastes, we like similar clothes… I knew (Bride) had found the one when (Groom) walked into her life. Well, I’m fine with that – she saw him first! Actually, you could see that it was love at first, second, and third sight. He is her Prince Charming and it seems to me he gives her all she needs – a strong arm, a sympathetic ear, and his credit card.”

“I met (Bride) 6 years ago, as we tried to survive in the concrete jungle of NY. To thrive there, your tribe is essential. We are quite protective of each other, so I was a bit skeptical of (Groom) when he first came into the picture. But as time goes by, I can’t imagine anyone else but him to be her one and only. They say that anyone can be passionate, but it takes a real pair of lovers to be silly. Well, together, (Bride) and (Groom) are two of the goofiest people I know.”

“Hello everyone, my name is X, and by my dress, you can tell that I am the Maid of Honor today. For many years, we have been through thick and thin, and we have shared many memories. Today is another great day to add to our collection of sweet memories, so I’m really looking forward to the cake! I know you will have challenges as all relationships do. But you know what’s great about love and relationships and marriages? It is learning to grow together. Caring and sharing, and lots of tenderness. And maybe a bit of patience, or maybe even a lot. So let’s raise our glasses to the power of love, that makes all these wonderful things happen! Today you start a completely new chapter of your lives. What can I say? Never forget the two most important replies: ‘you’re right, dear’ and ‘okay, buy it’. Love and cherish each other! These two are a rare find in today’s world. Here’s to the groom who has a bride so fair, and here’s to the bride with a groom who is so rare.”

How to write a maid of honor speech for best friend?

• Introduction: Begin by introducing yourself and expressing how honored you are to be the maid of honor for your best friend.
• Fond Memories: Share special and cherished memories you’ve shared together, highlighting the bond you both share.
• Praise and Qualities: Speak about your best friend’s wonderful qualities, accomplishments, and the ways they have positively impacted your life and the lives of others.
• The Friendship: Emphasize the strength and significance of your friendship, and how it has grown over the years.
• Love and Support: Show appreciation for the bride’s partner and express your excitement about their journey together.
• Gratitude: Thank the guests for being a part of this special day and acknowledge the couple’s families.
• Toast: Raise a toast to your best friend and their partner, wishing them a lifetime of love, joy, and happiness together.

The 60+ Best Engagement Gifts Any Couple Will Love

Sister maid of honor speech.

According to our research, the second most popular choice for the maid of honor role is the bride’s sister. While tradition often places the best friend in the spotlight, a sister brings a unique depth to the role. Their shared history, growing up together, and the intrinsic bond make a sister’s speech incredibly touching. With a wealth of childhood memories and a deep understanding of the bride, a sister’s words carry immense emotional weight. When delivering the speech, draw upon this shared journey, express genuine emotions, and celebrate the love that binds not only siblings but also the newlyweds.

“As you may know, I am the bride’s younger sister. As we were growing up, I always wanted to be like her. Do the things she did, have the things she had –  I was probably a bit annoying, I always wanted to tag along. She taught me how to care, how to share, and how to try to reach for the stars. And as I grew up I wanted to be just as beautiful, caring, smart, and successful as her. (Bride) has always set an example for me to follow. Over the years she has shown me how to love and care. Today she shows me how to find a best friend, a partner, and a true lover, all in one person. I hope that I am just as lucky someday. It’s a great happiness to find someone who loves you as much as (Groom) loves my sister. Today, I want to thank both of you for being a part of my life, and to celebrate the love you both share. Like many sisters, we weren’t always best friends. I remember fights, screaming, and door-slamming, but I couldn’t have picked a better sister and a friend. Now that we are older, I can finally admit how happy I am to have grown up with such a great sister. Having a sister is one of the greatest things in life. Having a little sister is even better because I liked to be bossy. (Bride) always wanted to be a bit more like me… But actually, there is so much that I admire about her! I have watched her grow into the gorgeous woman that she is. It is a great honor for me to be her big sister!”

“First of all, I want to thank you all for being here with us today. As most of you know I am (Bride’s) sister. As we grew, we were as close as can be. We were always in trouble and I remember wondering if there will be a guy brave enough for someone as wild as my sister is. Well, here he is!My sis has just tied the knot. And I do believe that (Groom) is her perfect match. And today I realize that all she needs is a guy who will love her just the way she is, with all her craziness. Their commitment to each other inspires all of us because that’s what we call true love. So let’s raise our glasses to this amazing couple!”

“I want you to know that it took me 3 weeks to write this speech over and over again. And I couldn’t think of anything perfect enough to describe just how much I love you. I couldn’t find words to define the kind of sister you are to me. This is your big day and there is so much I want to say… I Googled a lot of maid of honor speech examples. The one piece of advice I kept finding over and over again was to start off with a quote. I did some research and I think their love is best described by Dr. Seuss:

“You know you’re in love when you can’t fall asleep because the reality is finally better than your dreams.””

“Love, be true to her; Life, be dear to her; Health, stay close to her; Joy, draw near to her; Fortune, find what you can do for her, Search your treasure house through and through for her, Follow her footsteps the wide world over – And keep her husband always her lover. – By Anna Lewis, from “To the Bride””

How to write a maid of honor speech for sister?

• Introduction: Start by introducing yourself and your relationship with the bride, emphasizing your sisterly bond.
• Anecdotes: Share heartfelt and funny stories that highlight your sister’s qualities, achievements, or memorable moments you’ve shared together.
• Praise the bride: Compliment her personality, kindness, and the positive impact she has on others.
• Address the groom: Welcome him into the family and share a warm message about their relationship.
• Express gratitude: Thank the guests for attending and acknowledge your parents and other family members.
• Toast: Raise a glass and propose a heartfelt toast to the newlyweds and their future happiness together.

Instant Poll

Pick a Maid of Honor?

Funny Maid Of Honor Speech

As a close friend of the bride, you would have a lot of material for wedding speeches bridesmaids, you just need to know how to put them all together. A few sample wedding speeches would give you the right kind of inspiration to get you on your way.

“Well, for those of you who I haven’t had the chance to meet yet, my name is [NAME]. [BRIDE] and I have been best friends for around the last 10 years. We first met at work one day, when she stole my carrot cake out of the fridge in the lunchroom and I threw away her pineapple yogurt cartons in revenge.

I never had a sister, but [BRIDE] has been my stand-in sister for all these years. You could say we are even closer than sisters. We don’t fight like sisters, but we do wear each other’s clothes. Somehow she can still fit into my clothes but I can’t fit into hers anymore. I’m sure that is just because her dryer must be shrinking them. I knew [BRIDE] had found the one when [GROOM] walked into her life. Sure, she dated a few guys…after I was done torturing them.

But [GROOM] was different. Unlike those jerks, he was kind and thoughtful. And he had a job. You could see that it was love at first, second, and third sight. Clearly [GROOM] is charming and it seems to me he offers her what she needs – a strong arm, a kind ear, and an American Express Black Card.

I trust [BRIDE] and [GROOM] completely. I remember the time I asked them to watch my dog Benji when I went skiing in Europe. They were so nice to help out. I got back and Benji was so happy to see me. He was 40 pounds lighter and now he sees a therapist twice a week. Of course, we are having fun today. The test of this relationship will be over the long term. Will she still love [GROOM] when he leaves his underwear on the floor and cuts his toenails at the dinner table?

The answer is no. God, please, disgusting.

No, seriously, I know they will have challenges as all relationships do. And [GROOM] will learn what all men learn eventually. Keep your wife happy! Happy wife, happy life. No, really, what’s great about love and relationships and marriage is learning to grow together. The communication it takes to keep a marriage going is massive. But half the fun is working things out, talking, communicating, and launching kitchen appliances at each other – real love. Today has been a great day. Family and friends are here, the sun is shining and the champagne is flowing. And we’ll need it to get through this chicken dinner.”

Sometimes the hardest part of being a maid of honor to your bestie might be writing the wedding speech. Speaking with your friend face to face is always easy, however, making toasts or speeches in front of a group of people would be totally different and not as easy. This is why anecdotes and funny wedding speeches maid of honor could help you cruise through your speech while giving the wedding guests a laugh at the same time.

Funny Lines For Maid Of Honor Speech

• “I did some research on how to give the perfect maid of honor speech, and the first tip I found was to imagine everyone in their underwear. So, here we are, ladies and gentlemen, welcome to my nightmare!”
• “Being the maid of honor is like being a ninja. You have to be quick on your feet, prepared for anything, and ready to attack at a moment’s notice. But instead of throwing shurikens, I’m armed with embarrassing stories about the bride.”
• “As the maid of honor, I’ve been given the responsibility of keeping the bride calm and relaxed throughout the wedding planning process. Which is why I’ve been slipping her Xanax in her coffee every morning.”
• “When the bride asked me to be her maid of honor, I was thrilled. But then I realized it meant I had to give a speech in front of all these people. So if I faint halfway through, just drag me off stage and make it look like part of the act.”

Bridesmaid Wedding Speech

A list of example wedding speeches maid of honor could act as a template of sorts, helping you figure out just how to structure your speech.

Some of the best wedding speeches maid of honor, shine a light on the friendship between the bride and her maid of honor, as well as the beautiful personality of the bride. Most introductions begin with the story of meeting the groom for the first time. The intro is usually a good time to inject a funny quote, poem, or actual occurrence.

“Hi everyone, I am one of the bridesmaids at this wedding and I just wanted to say how happy and lucky I am to be here to celebrate [bride] and [groom’s] wedding with everyone. Today, everything looks effortless.

From the beautiful wedding ceremony to the food, music, and decorations at this venue, every little detail was planned by [bride] and [groom.] And lots of time was spent shopping for dresses and doing fittings. When you get to peek behind the scenes, you see how much work really gets put into planning a wedding. There were a lot of late nights and hours spent working on this wedding and I have to say that it all turned out quite beautifully. Let’s all give a round of applause for [bride] and [groom.]

[Bride] and [groom,] thank you for such a wonderful day. I raise my glass to the two of you and wish you nothing but the best in your life together. May each day be full of love and laughter between the two of you.”

Speeches are generally not as difficult as we imagine. So, you can relax, go through these samples, and create one of the best wedding toast speeches made of honor.

Short Maid Of Honor Speech Examples

“Greetings to all of you. I’m [Name], the maid of honor. I would like to express a few words about the lovely bride and groom. [Bride] has always been a wonderful friend to me, and it’s an honor to be her maid of honor today. And [Groom], I am delighted that you are joining our family. You two are a perfect match, and I wish you all the happiness and love in the world. Let’s raise a glass to the happy couple!”

“Hello, everyone. I’m [Name], the maid of honor. [Bride], you look breathtakingly beautiful today, and I feel grateful to be a part of your extraordinary day. [Groom], you’re a fortunate man! [Bride] is intelligent, gorgeous, and has a heart of gold. I am confident that you both will have a lifetime of love and happiness together. Congratulations on your special day!”

“Good evening, all. I’m [Name], the maid of honor, and for those who don’t know me, it’s lovely to meet you. I have known [Bride] for several years, and I have never seen her as happy as she is with [Groom]. You two bring out the best in each other, and it’s evident that you are destined to be together. It’s an honor to stand here today as a witness to your love and commitment. Congratulations to the joyful couple!”

“Hello everyone, I’m [Name], the maid of honor. [Bride], you’re my best friend and I couldn’t be happier to see you marry [Groom]. You two are perfect for each other and I wish you a lifetime of love and happiness. Congratulations!”

“Good evening, all. I’m [Name], the maid of honor, and I’m honored to celebrate [Bride] and [Groom]’s special day. [Bride], you’re my best friend and I’m so happy to see you with someone as wonderful as [Groom]. Wishing you both a lifetime of love and happiness. Congratulations!”

“Hi everyone, I’m [Name], the maid of honor, and I’m thrilled to celebrate my best friend [Bride] and her groom [Groom]. [Bride], I’m so proud of you and I know that [Groom] is the perfect partner for you. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness and love. Congratulations!”

“Good evening, everyone! For those who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], and I have the incredible honor of standing by [Bride’s Name]’s side today as her maid of honor. First and foremost, I want to say how breathtakingly beautiful she looks tonight. As I stand here, I can’t help but reflect on the journey that led us to this moment. [Bride’s Name] and I have been inseparable since childhood, and I am beyond grateful for the memories we’ve created together. We’ve laughed together, cried together, and supported each other through life’s ups and downs. And now, as I watch her embark on this new chapter with [Groom’s Name], my heart overflows with joy. I’ve witnessed the love between them grow and flourish, and it’s truly something special. [Groom’s Name], thank you for making my best friend the happiest she’s ever been. To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your love continue to blossom and may your journey together be filled with laughter, love, and adventure. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness. Cheers!”

“Hello, everyone! I’m [Your Name], and I have the honor of being [Bride’s Name]’s slightly crazy, but totally awesome, maid of honor! When [Bride’s Name] asked me to take on this role, I knew it would be an adventure. From choosing the perfect dress to planning wild bachelorette parties, we’ve had our fair share of laughs and tears. And let’s not forget about all the emergency wedding dress fittings! But in all seriousness, I couldn’t have asked for a better friend. [Bride’s Name] is compassionate, hilarious, and always there to lend a helping hand. She lights up every room she enters, and I know that [Groom’s Name] feels incredibly lucky to have her as his partner in crime. [Groom’s Name], welcome to the family! We’ve all been waiting for someone to take on the challenge of dealing with [Bride’s Name]’s terrible dance moves, and it looks like you’re up for it. To the happy couple, may your love be as endless as the dance floor at the reception. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness, laughter, and love. Cheers!”

“Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, and most importantly, the beautiful couple of the day, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. I’m [Your Name], and I have the privilege of being [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor. Today, I stand here with a heart full of emotions, for I’ve had the honor of witnessing the love between [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] blossom into something truly extraordinary. Their love is like a gentle breeze, calming our souls and reminding us of the beauty in life. [Bride’s Name], you’ve always been the ray of sunshine in my life. Your kindness, grace, and unwavering love inspire all who know you. And now, as you embark on this new journey with [Groom’s Name], I know that you’ll be a guiding light in his life as well. [Groom’s Name], thank you for cherishing and loving [Bride’s Name] with all your heart. Your dedication to making her happy is evident in every glance you share.

Let us all raise our glasses to the newlyweds. May your love continue to grow, like the mighty oak standing tall through the changing seasons. May your days be filled with laughter, and your hearts forever intertwined. Congratulations, and here’s to a lifetime of happiness and love!”

When delivering a speech, remember to speak from the heart, keep it concise, and maintain a positive tone. Make sure to customize the speech to fit your relationship with the couple and the overall vibe of the wedding.

How to write a short wedding speech?

• Start by introducing yourself and briefly mentioning your relationship with the bride. This will help the audience understand your perspective and why you were chosen to be the maid of honor.
• Take a moment to express your gratitude for being a part of the special day and your well wishes for the newlyweds.
• Say a few words about the bride and groom, highlighting their qualities and how they complement each other. You can talk about their journey as a couple and your hopes for their future together.
• End your speech by raising a toast to the newlyweds.

Maid Of Honor Toasts

One of the tips for giving good wedding speeches – to use a good toast. A toast is basically well wished to the newlyweds and their family, followed by a signal for guests to raise their glasses.

If you are unsure what exactly to say, here are some beautiful maid of honor toast examples to inspire you.

• “And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight. – Philippians 1:9”
• “Be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. – Ephesians 4:32”
• “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Here’s to love, laughter and happily ever after. – Romans 12:10″
• “As (Groom) and (Bride) start their new life together, Let’s toast to the new husband and wife!”
• “Here’s to the husband And here’s to the wife; May they remain Lovers for life.”
• “Here’s to the health of the happy pair; may good luck follow them everywhere; And may each day of wedded bliss be always as sweet and joyous as this.”
• “May you grow old on one pillow. May their joy be as bright as the morning, and their sorrows be shadows that fade in the sunlight of love.”
• “Let’s drink to love, which is nothing—unless it’s divided into two with someone you love. May your joys be as sweet as spring flowers that grow.”
• “As bright as a fire when winter winds blow; As countless as leaves that float down in the fall; And as serene as the love that keeps watching over us all.”

As the maid of honor, you need to find the one speech, that is short and sweet, and resonates with you! Great Maid of Honor wedding speeches often includes great quotes . Famous quotes have a way of painting a picture that our own words can’t seem to do on their own.

The Maid Of Honor Speech Template

Infographic.

The biggest worry that most maids of honor have is freezing and forgetting the speech. A great solution is breaking your speech into sections and writing them down on cards that you carry with you. As you practice your speech it will be easier to memorize, and having all the words with you will keep you from panicking.

To get you started, stick to our basic Maid Of Honor Speech Outline:

• Introduce yourself (your name, your relationship to the bride, and how long you’ve known each other)
• Thank everyone involved in the wedding planning for their hard work
• Talk about the bride (why she’s a good person and friend, share a story to illustrate it)
• Tell the love story (The most romantic version of how the bride and groom met)
• Talk about the groom (Compliment him, why he’s great for your friend, what he does for her etc)
• Celebrate the couple (Why they’re so good together)
• Wish the newlyweds wonderful things for the future You could also insert a quote or a poem.
• Toast to the bride and groom – Raise your glass, say: “Here’s to the happy couple”, take and sip and voila! You’ve nailed it!

How To Write The Best Maid Of Honor Speech Ever

We’ve all seen when speeches go wrong, so how you do you get it right? After years of helping Maids of Honor deliver awesome speeches, founder of Speechy , Heidi Ellert-McDermott, shares her tips.

• Introduce yourself & explain how you know the bride.
• Include humor throughout. Yes, your speech should be a loving tribute to a true friend, but it’s also meant to entertain a crowd.
• Once you’ve written your speech, try to edit it in half. Promise, your speech will be better the punchier it is. No one ever wished a speech was longer!
• Pay tribute to the bride’s partner with than a cursory platitude. Prove you genuinely know and like them!
• Rehearse as often as you can but use notes on the day. Delivering the speech shouldn’t be a memory test.
• Remember to smile throughout your delivery. It’s a powerful (and infectious) communication tool.

Don’t

• Resort to cheesy cliches about love and friendship.
• Google gags.
• Thank anyone. It’s not your job.
• Take up more than 10 mins mic time.
• Pretend the bride is perfect. Instead cherish the crazy character she truly is, with all her quirks and eccentricities.
• Talk over laughter when you deliver your speech. If you’ve written a funny line, leave a pause after you’ve said it to allow your audience to get the joke and respond. Don’t start talking till the last giggle has died down.
• Drink more than a glass of bubbles prior to your speech. Alcohol actually increases the stress hormone.

How to Get Started Maid of Honor Wedding Speech

• Know Your Audience: Consider the bride and groom’s personalities, the formality of the event, and the sensibilities of the guests. Tailor your speech to the audience.
• Start Early: Begin writing your speech well in advance. This allows time for revisions and practice. Don’t wait until the last minute.
• Personalize It: Share anecdotes and stories that reflect your relationship with the bride. Highlight special moments and inside jokes.

Examples of How to Get Started:

• Opening with a Quote: Start with an inspiring or humorous quote related to love or marriage. For instance,

“Maya Angelou once said, ‘Love recognizes no barriers.’ Today, we’re here to celebrate a love that knows no bounds.”

• Anecdotal Introduction: Begin with a personal story about your friendship with the bride.

“As I stand here today, I can’t help but think back to the time we met in kindergarten. Who would’ve thought that our friendship would lead us to this beautiful wedding?”

• Express Your Gratitude: Begin by expressing your gratitude for being chosen as the maid of honor.

“First and foremost, I want to thank [bride’s name] for giving me the honor of standing by her side today as her maid of honor.” Remember, the key to a memorable maid of honor speech is sincerity and a touch of humor, sprinkled with personal anecdotes that capture the essence of your relationship with the bride.

How To End A Maid Of Honor Speech

When figuring out how to write a maid of honor speech, keep in mind that the latter part of the speech should be where you talk about the couple. In that vein, it’s also important to know how to end the speech flawlessly. Here are a few tips.

• Keep it short and sweet. While you might have a lot to say, there are time slots for each speech, so keeping things short would be best.
• Use sentimental wedding quotes. You might have a maid of honor speech template you follow but adding inspirational quotes to your speech is a great way to wrap things up.
• Finish with a toast. At the very end, it is customary to raise a toast to the happy couple.

10 Maid Of Honor Speech Tips

After years of helping Maids of Honor deliver awesome speeches, founder of Speechy and author of ‘The Modern Couple’s Guide to Wedding Speeches’, Heidi Ellert-McDermott, shares her tips.

Planning Your Speech

• Think of the speechwriting process as writing a dissertation (only this time, don’t leave it till the night before your deadline!).
• Firstly, jot down all your ideas and favourite stories and then construct a central idea (narrative theme) that you stick to through. It could be that your friend is always right, or maybe the newlyweds prove that opposites really do attract. Whatever it is, make sure your speech flows from one idea to the next, rather than being a list of random thoughts.

Speech Structure

• Remember to introduce yourself and how you know the bride at the start of the speech and try to include humor within the first 30 seconds. Resist the urge to include any of those tired googled-wedding-gags and ensure your line is original and relates to the couple themselves or the surroundings you find yourself in.
• The first three-fifths of the speech should include revealing, entertaining stories that give an insight into the bride and your relationship with her. Don’t be shy of some affectionate teasing.
• Towards the latter half of the speech, introduce her partner and explain why the couple are suited. Again, make sure to include some good-natured humour here.
• The final fifth of your speech could be a full-on love-bomb of a tribute to your friend. Make sure you avoid the usual cliches and platitudes about friendship and instead, try to nail the bride’s individual characteristics and quirks that make you love her.

Edit Your Speech

• When you’ve finished writing your speech, try to edit it in half. You may not achieve it but once you get editing, you’ll be surprised by the amount of needless waffle that’s in there.
• Remember, a speech is better punchy, so be brutal. A good maid of honour speech is generally between 700 and 1,100 words. No more than 10 minutes airtime!

Choosing Quotes for a Memorable Maid of Honor Speech

Talking about love and trying to sum up a friendship, can be hard. Luckily, some other clever people have already done it and we can all exploit their genius! Whilst plagiarism isn’t ever cool, finding the perfect quote to supercharge your speech is a great idea. Founder of Speechy (the bespoke speechwriting service), Heidi Ellert-McDermott, shares her tips for hunting the perfect quote to honour your bestie.

How to Use Quotes

• Don’t resort to a generic ‘marriage advice’ quote. They’re over-used.
• Don’t overload your speech with quotes. One, maximum two.
• Quote recognisable names – or at least provide some context. Don’t quote someone you need to Google or someone who’s a random ‘relationship coach’.
• Once you add the perfect quote to your speech, script a comedy back ref or put it into the context of the couple’s real-life relationship.
• Remember, quotes can be used to add the necessary humor, as well as the sentiment.

Where to Find Quotes

• Don’t just search for ‘wedding quotes’ on Pinterest.
• Quotes become more meaningful if they come from somewhere that means something to the couple. Could the quote come from the bride’s favourite book, her partner’s favourite film, or maybe it’s from that song you play when you’ve both had a few too many dirty martinis.
• Quotes can be found everywhere from children’s books to rom-coms, from hip-hop classics to the great philosophers, from historical icons to classic sitcoms so enjoy the search!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the maid of honor have to give a speech.

It’s definitely customary for the maid of honor to give a toast to the newlyweds at the reception, but usually, she gave a sweet speech.

How long should a maid of honor speech be?

A maid of honor speech should ideally be around 3 to 5 minutes in length. This timeframe allows you to convey your message effectively without losing the audience’s attention or making other speeches feel rushed.

What should be avoided in a maid of honor speech?

When delivering a maid of honor speech, there are a few things to avoid to ensure it is memorable for the right reasons:

• Avoid embarrassing or offensive stories: You shouldn’t share anything that may make the bride uncomfortable or might be inappropriate for the audience.
• Steer clear of inside jokes: Inside jokes may exclude or confuse other guests who are not familiar with the context. Keep your speech inclusive and relatable for everyone present.
• Don’t overshadow the couple: Avoid making the speech all about yourself or unrelated topics that detract from the celebration of the couple’s special day.
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can impair your ability to deliver a coherent and meaningful message.
• Don’t go on for too long: Avoid rambling or dragging out the speech, as it may lose the interest of the audience.

Remember, the maid of honor speech is an opportunity to celebrate the couple and express your love and support for them.

We hope that now you have everything you need for your perfect maid of honor speech. So just keep all of this in mind as you prepare and deliver your maid of honor speech, and you will be amazing. Make the bride proud she chose you!

Stories You Might Like

Black And White Wedding Cakes: Trends,...

Ideas Mexican Wedding Decor For 2024

A Catalog Of Stunning And Trendy...

Inspiring Celebrity Speeches To Create...

Wedding Vows For Him 2024: Examples You...

Unforgettable Moments: Cherishing Family...

24 Brooch Wedding Bouquets That Will...

Top 100+ Heart Warming Love Songs For...

Modern Wedding Decor Ideas [2024 Guide...

Rehearsal Dinner Ideas That WOW In 2024

Top Summer Wedding Colors: How To Pick...

21 Unexpected Awkward Wedding Photos

25 Free Wedding Planning Checklists

Fill in all required * fields below to receive the checklists bundle.

By submitting this form you agree to receive promotional emails from Wedding Forward about other checklists, wedding planning articles, products, and other wedding related topics. You may unsubscribe at any time. Check out our Privacy Policy for more information.

🚚FREE SHIPPING STOREWIDE ORDERS $80+

10% OFF on Formal Dresses（CODE:FD10）

10% OFF on New Arrivals（CODE:NEWIN）

Subscribe Us & Get 15% Off For Your First Order

• All New Arrivals
• New Evening Dresses
• New Plus Size Dresses
• New Bridesmaid Dresses
• New Wedding Guest Dresses
• New Wedding Dresses
• New Prom Dresses
• New Mother of the Bride Dresses
• New Maternity Dresses
• New Flower Girl Dresses
• New Custom Size Dresses
• Delivered Within 4 Business Days
• Dresses in this Season
• Custom Size Dresses
• Flower Girl Dresses
• Sweater Dresses
• Accessories

BEST SELLERS

• All Formal Dresses
• Plus Size Formal Dresses
• Spring Formal Dresses
• Formal Wedding Guest Dresses
• Formal Mother Of The Bride Dresses
• Long Formal Dresses
• Sequin Formal Dresses
• Chiffon Formal Dresses
• Glitter Formal Dresses
• Long Sleeve Formal Dresses
• Velvet Formal Dresses
• Black Formal Dresses
• Pink Formal Dresses
• White Formal Desses
• Dusty Navy Formal Dresses
• Sage Green Formal Dresses
• Navy Blue Formal Dresses
• Burgundy Formal Dresses
• Gold Formal Dresses

• 2024 Formal Dress Guide
• Spring Bridesmaid Dresses
• Modest Bridesmaid Dresses
• Maternity Bridesmaid Dresses
• Bridesmaid Dresses Under $60
• Pink Bridesmaid Dresses
• Purple Orchid Bridesmaid Dresses
• Burgundy Bridesmaid Dresses
• Sage Green Bridesmaid Dresses
• Dark Green Bridesmaid Dresses
• Black Bridesmaid Dresses
• Navy Blue Bridesmaid Dresses
• Burnt Orange Bridesmaid Dresses
• Plus Size Bridesmaid Dresses
• Long Bridesmaid Dresses
• A Line Bridesmaid Dresses
• One Shoulder Dresses
• Short Bridesmaid Dresses
• Long Sleeve Bridesmaid Dresses
• Chiffon Bridesmaid Dresses
• Tulle Bridesmaid Dresses
• Lace Bridesmaid Dresses
• Satin Bridesmaid Dresses

2024 Bridesmaid Dresses Guide

• All Dresses
• Spring Dresses

Choir/Concert Dresses Guide

• Bodycon Dresses
• Black Dresses
• Red Dresses
• White Dresses
• Blue Dresses
• Formal Dresses

Evening Dresses & Gowns

• Bridesmaid Dresses
• Wedding Guest Dresses
• Wedding Dresses
• Prom Dresses
• Mother Dresses
• Maternity Dresses
• Choir Dresses
• Concert Dresses
• Homecoming Dresses
• Cocktail Dresses
• Party Dresses
• A Line Dresses
• Empire Waist Dresses
• Strapless Dresses
• Mermaid Dresses
• Backless Dresses
• Sequin Dresses
• Short Sleeve Dresses
• Velvet Dresses
• Chiffon Dresses
• Tulle Dresses
• Satin Dresses
• Glitter Dresses
• Lace Dresses
• Short Dresses
• Midi Dresses
• High Low Dresses
• Maxi Dresses

FORMAL DRESSES

• All Plus Size Dresses
• Plus Size Wedding Guest Dresses
• Plus Size Evening Dresses
• Plus Size Prom Dresses
• Plus Size Wedding Dresses
• Plus Size Cocktail Dresses
• Plus Size Holiday Dresses
• Plus Size Party Dresses
• Long Plus Size Dresses
• Plus Size Empire Waist Formal Dresses
• Plus Size Sequin Dresses
• Plus Size Maxi Dresses
• Modest Plus Size Dresses
• Pettie Plus Size Formal Dresses
• Long Sleeve Plus Size Formal Dresses
• Plus Size Elegant Dresses

• All Evening Dresses & Gowns
• Evening Dresses For Weddings
• Maternity Evening Dresses
• Elegant Evening Dresses
• Custom Size Evening Dresses
• Long Evening Dresses
• Long Sleeve Evening Dresses
• Evening Dresses With Sleeves
• Empire Waist Evening Dresses
• A-Line Evening Dresses
• Off The Shoulder Evening Dresses
• Cold Shoulder Evening Dresses
• Sequin Evening Dresses
• Chiffon Evening Dresses
• Velvet Evening Dresses
• Tulle Evening Dresses
• Glitter Evening Dresses
• Lace Evening Dresses
• Satin Evening Dresses
• Black Evening Dresses
• Navy Blue Evening Dresses
• Burgundy Evening Dresses
• Green Evening Dresses
• White Evening Dresses
• Purple Evening Dresses
• Pink Evening Dresses

• All Wedding Dresses
• Simple Wedding Dresses
• Long Sleeve Wedding Dresses
• Mermaid Wedding Dresses
• Beach Wedding Dresses
• Wedding Accessories
• White Wedding Dresses
• Blue Bridesmaid Dresses
• Green Bridesmaid Dresses
• Midi Dresses For Wedding Guest
• Long Sleeve Dresses For Wedding Guest
• Mother Of The Bride & Groom Dresses
• Plus Size Mother Of The Bride Dresses
• Plus Size Mother of the Groom Dresses

2024 Wedding Guest Dresses Guide

2024 Mother Dresses Guide

• Long Prom Dresses
• Short Prom Dresses
• Prom Dresses with Sleeves
• Tulle Prom Dresses
• Sequin Prom Dresses
• Mermaid Prom Dresses
• Chiffon Prom Dresses
• Lace Prom Dresses
• Satin Prom Dresses

Prom Dresses Guide

All Prom Dresses

• Burnt Orange
• Purple Orchid
• Evening Dresses
• Mother Of The Bride Dresses
• Floor Length Dresses

• Lucky Bag:3 Dresses for $29.99
• 3 Dresses For $99
• Up To 70% Off For Clearance
• Plus Size Formal Dresses Under $50
• Plus Size Formal Dresses Under $100

Hot Searched

• Pink Dresses
• Black Prom Dresses
• Delivery Within 4 Business Days
• Plus Size Dresses
• Burgundy Dresses
• Summer Dresses

Your cart is empty

15 Best Examples of Maid of Honor Speeches for Inspiration

As the maid of honor, delivering a speech at your best friend's wedding is a great honor and responsibility. You want to express your love, appreciation, and support for the bride and groom while also sharing some funny and heartfelt memories. However, writing and delivering a speech can be nerve-wracking, especially if you're not used to public speaking. That's why we have compiled this list of 15 best examples of maid of honor speeches for inspiration. These speeches are heartfelt, funny, and unique, and they will help you create a speech that perfectly reflects your relationship with the bride and groom. So, whether you're looking for a speech that is sentimental, humorous, or a mix of both, these examples are sure to inspire you to deliver a maid of honor speech that will be remembered for years to come.

15 Examples of Maid of Honor Speeches

• "Good evening, everyone. As the maid of honor, it is an honor to stand here and celebrate the union of my best friend and her partner. I remember the first time she told me about [partner's name], and I could see the twinkle in her eye. I knew from that moment that they were meant to be together. As I have watched their relationship grow, I have seen the way they support and challenge each other, and I am in awe of the love they share. [Share a personal story about your friendship with the bride, highlighting the moments when you knew she had found the one.] I am so grateful to have [bride's name] in my life, and I cannot wait to see the beautiful life that she and [partner's name] will build together.
• "To the happy couple, I am honored to stand here as the maid of honor and witness the start of your new journey together. [Share a personal story about the couple, highlighting the moments when you knew they were meant to be together.] From the moment I met [partner's name], I could see how much they adored [bride's name]. Their love is contagious, and it has brought so much joy and laughter into our lives. I am grateful to have witnessed their love grow, and I know that they will continue to be each other's best friend and support system. Congratulations on finding your forever love.
• "Dear family and friends, I am thrilled to be the maid of honor and celebrate the love between the bride and groom. [Share a personal story about the couple, highlighting the moments when you saw their love grow stronger.] From the first time I met [partner's name], I could tell that they were something special. Their love is a beautiful example of how two people can bring out the best in each other. I have seen them support each other through thick and thin, and I am grateful to have them in my life. [Add a personal anecdote or joke to lighten the mood.] I know that they will continue to bring love and light into the world, and I am honored to be here to witness it.
• "To my dear friend and her partner, I am so grateful to be standing here as the maid of honor, celebrating your love and commitment. [Share a personal story about the bride and groom, highlighting the moments when you saw their commitment to each other.] From the first time I saw [bride's name] and [partner's name] together, I could tell that they were meant to be. Their love is a beautiful example of how two people can work together to build a life full of love and happiness. [Add a personal anecdote or joke to lighten the mood.] I am so excited to see what the future holds for you both, and I am honored to be a part of your journey.
• "Good evening, everyone. As the maid of honor, I am honored to be here and celebrate the union of two amazing people. [Share a personal story about the bride and groom, highlighting the moments when you saw their love and admiration for each other.] From the moment I met [bride's name] and [partner's name], I could see the love and respect they had for each other. Their relationship is a beautiful example of how two people can support and challenge each other to be the best versions of themselves. [Add a personal anecdote or joke to lighten the mood.] I am so excited to see the amazing things they will accomplish together, and I am honored to be a part of their journey.
• "To the bride and groom, it is an honor to stand here as the maid of honor and celebrate your love and commitment to each other. I have had the privilege of seeing your relationship grow from the beginning, and I have been in awe of the way you two complement each other. [Share a personal story about the couple, highlighting the moments when you saw their love and connection.] Your relationship is a testament to how two people can come together to create something beautiful and powerful. [Add a personal anecdote or joke to lighten the mood.] I am grateful to have [bride's name] as my friend, and I know that [partner's name] is the perfect match for her. I cannot wait to see the adventures and experiences that you two will share together as you embark on this new chapter of your lives.
• "Dear family and friends, I am thrilled to be here as the maid of honor to celebrate the love between [bride's name] and [partner's name]. [Share a personal story about the bride and groom, highlighting the moments when you saw their love and dedication to each other.] Their relationship is a true testament to how two people can grow and evolve together, and it fills me with joy to see the love and respect they have for each other. [Add a personal anecdote or joke to lighten the mood.] I am grateful to have [bride's name] as my friend, and I am so excited to see what the future holds for her and [partner's name]. Congratulations on finding your forever love.
• "To the happy couple, it is an honor to be standing here as the maid of honor and witness the start of your new journey together. [Share a personal story about the couple, highlighting the moments when you saw their love and connection.] From the first time I met [bride's name] and [partner's name], I knew that they were something special. Their love is a beautiful example of how two people can support and uplift each other, and it has been amazing to see them grow together. [Add a personal anecdote or joke to lighten the mood.] I am so excited to see the adventures and memories that you two will create together. Congratulations on your wedding day.
• "Good evening, everyone. As the maid of honor, I am honored to be here and celebrate the love between [bride's name] and [partner's name]. [Share a personal story about the couple, highlighting the moments when you saw their love and dedication to each other.] Their relationship is a beautiful example of how two people can come together to create something powerful and meaningful. [Add a personal anecdote or joke to lighten the mood.] I am grateful to have [bride's name] as my friend, and I know that [partner's name] is the perfect partner for her. I cannot wait to see the adventures and experiences that they will share together as they start this new chapter in their lives.
• "To my dear friend and her partner, it is an honor to be standing here as the maid of honor, celebrating your love and commitment to each other. [Share a personal story about the bride and groom, highlighting the moments when you saw their love and admiration for each other.] Your relationship is a beautiful example of how two people can work together to create something powerful and lasting. [Add a personal anecdote or joke to lighten the mood.] I am so excited to see what the future holds for you both, and I am honored to be a part of your journey. Congratulations on your wedding day."
• "Good evening, everyone. I am honored to be standing here as the maid of honor for my dear friend [bride's name] and her partner [partner's name]. [Share a personal story about the bride and groom, highlighting the moments when you saw their love and connection.] Their love is truly inspiring, and it fills me with joy to see them together. [Add a personal anecdote or joke to lighten the mood.] I know that they will have an amazing life together, and I cannot wait to see all the incredible things they will achieve as a couple. Congratulations, [bride's name] and [partner's name], on your wedding day."
• "To my best friend and her partner, it is an honor to be here today as the maid of honor, celebrating your love and commitment to each other. [Share a personal story about the bride and groom, highlighting the moments when you saw their love and dedication to each other.] Your relationship is a beautiful example of how two people can come together to create something truly special. [Add a personal anecdote or joke to lighten the mood.] I am grateful to have [bride's name] in my life, and I know that [partner's name] is the perfect match for her. I wish you both a lifetime of happiness and love."
• "Dear family and friends, I am thrilled to be here today as the maid of honor for [bride's name] and [partner's name]'s wedding. [Share a personal story about the couple, highlighting the moments when you saw their love and connection.] Their love is truly one of a kind, and it has been amazing to see how much they have grown together. [Add a personal anecdote or joke to lighten the mood.] I know that they will have a lifetime of love, laughter, and happiness together. Congratulations, [bride's name] and [partner's name]."
• "To the bride and groom, I am honored to stand here as the maid of honor and celebrate your love for each other. [Share a personal story about the bride and groom, highlighting the moments when you saw their love and connection.] Your love story is one for the ages, and it has been a privilege to witness your journey together. [Add a personal anecdote or joke to lighten the mood.] I know that you will have a beautiful life together, filled with love, laughter, and countless adventures. Congratulations, [bride's name] and [partner's name]."
• "Good evening, everyone. As the maid of honor, I am overjoyed to be here today to celebrate the love between [bride's name] and [partner's name]. [Share a personal story about the bride and groom, highlighting the moments when you saw their love and dedication to each other.] Their love is truly inspiring, and it has been an honor to witness their journey together. [Add a personal anecdote or joke to lighten the mood.] I know that they will have a lifetime of happiness and love, and I cannot wait to see what the future holds for them. Congratulations, [bride's name] and [partner's name]."

In conclusion, delivering a maid of honor speech can be a daunting task, but with the right inspiration and guidance, you can create a speech that perfectly reflects your relationship with the bride and groom. The 15 best examples of maid of honor speeches we have provided are a great starting point for anyone looking to craft a heartfelt and memorable speech. Whether you choose to incorporate humor, sentimentality, or a combination of both, these speeches will help you find the perfect words to express your love and appreciation for the happy couple. So, take a deep breath, use these examples as a guide, and have confidence that you wil l deliver a speech that will be cherished by the bride, groom, and all in attendance.

If you're in need of more examples of wedding speeches, the following content may be helpful to you.

• 10 best examples of wedding speech for brother for inspiration
• 17 Best Examples of Wedding Speech for Father of the Bride for Inspiration
• 28 Best Examples of Wedding Speech for Mother of the Bride for Inspiration
• Comprehensive Resource List of Wedding Vows 2023 For Him & He

RECENT POSTS

Ultimate Guide: What to Wear to Graduation Ceremony in 2024

Where to buy formal dresses that don't look like prom dresses or bridesmaid dresses？

20 Mouthwatering Easter Sunday Dinner Ideas to Wow Your Guests

The Symbolism Behind Mother's Day Flowers: What Each Bloom Represents

Your Essential Guide to Summer Wedding Guest Dresses: Dos and Don'ts!

Get Love Tips Sent Straight To Your Inbox . Subscribe To Our Newsletter !

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Maid of Honor Speech Examples

January 3, 2017 By Kate

When it comes to giving a Maid of Honor speech, there are a few things that you will want to keep in mind. Even if you are using a speech example below, you will want to make sure that you add personal details. In this article, we have listed numerous Maid of Honor speech examples to help you with the writing process.

How To Write a Maid of Honor Speech

When you start your speech, make it a point to let the crowd know who you are and what your relationship to the bride is. How do you know her? Where did you meet? You can just mention these facts briefly before you begin to delve into your speech.

Another thing that you can do in your speech is tell a story about a bride. You can even tell a story about the first time that you met the groom. Most of the best Maid of Honor speeches start with the bride and end with the couple.

Some details worth including are what the bride was like before she met the groom, and what she is like now that the groom is in her life. From seeing her laugh a lot more to noticing how much more she smiles now, these are details that the guests will love to hear.

While it might be common sense for some, you will want to make sure that you know what not to say in a wedding speech. Avoid talking about ex boyfriends or embarrassing stories where the bride got too drunk.

As for preparing for the actual event, make sure that you rehearse the speech. Practice it in front of at least one person. Rehearsing a speech in a room alone is just not the same.

It is even better to practice the speech in front of one of the bridesmaids. Keep practicing the speech. You do not need to memorize the speech, but the words in it should feel like second nature.

If you are worried about your nerves during the actual wedding speech, you can try to focus your eyes on the bride. Seeing a familiar face as you speak can help to ease your nerves.

Make sure that it is clear when the speech is over. Some phrases that will indicate this include, “let us toast to the bride and groom, “congratulations to the happy couple, and so on.

These are just some tips when it comes to preparing a great speech. Read the sample speeches below for more inspiration.

1. Once in a while, in the middle of an otherwise ordinary life, love bestows on us a fairy-tale, a romance that is true and pure. I have never seen another couple as in love as these two people here who have been married today and I am so honored to know and love them. Congratulations to you both and to the beautiful future that lays ahead of you.

2. Love is not always perfect, but when the right people are together, they will always fight to make it work. Nothing in the world can tear them apart. These two people sitting in front of me are the epitome of true love and I am so lucky to have been a part of this special day and bear witness to this proclamation of love. Let us toast to the happy newlyweds.

3. When I first met [bride’s name], we were both just young girls. Even then, I knew that she was someone special. She is one of the kindest, most generous people that I know.

And now, she is no longer a girl but a woman who has met her equal, another person in this world that is as deserving of her as she is of him. Together, they make a wonderful pair and I know that they will make each other so happy in their new life together.

4. As some of you know, I am fiercely protective of [bride’s name.]  I would do anything for her and she is one of the most important people in my life. Over the years, we have laughed together, cried together, and had so many amazing memories. I am truly blessed to have someone like her in my life.

Since I am so protective of her, you can imagine how skeptical of [groom’s name] I was when he first came into the picture. I wondered what his intentions were. Was he good enough for such a unique and special person?

I soon learned that [groom] is just as amazing as [bride.] He worships her and would do anything to see her smile. They complement each other in the most perfect way. They are two twin souls that were destined to find each other. And I could not be happier for the two of them.

5. Before I begin my speech, I would just like to say that [bride’s name,] you look absolutely beautiful tonight and [groom,] you don’t look so bad yourself. It has been quite a day. An unforgettable, whirlwind of a day that celebrates the fact that two people fell in love.

Not only do I feel privileged to know these two people, I also feel lucky enough to have witnessed the love they have for each other. Their love for one another has made them even better people than they were before. Together, they are even stronger. Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. _________!

6. Anyone can be passionate, but it takes a real pair of lovers to be silly. When bride and groom are together, they let their guard down. Together, they are two of the goofiest people I know, and I mean that in the best way possible.

7. They say that a successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person. Many of us have been lucky to fall in love before. But real love is when you are able to fall in love with that same person over and over again.

8. You are able to surprise each other in ways that are always new. And it is not always just good times that make you fall in love. You can fall in love during the hard times as well, when you have to lean on each other and cry on each other’s shoulders.

9. With bride and groom, I see this kind of love. For all the time that they have spent getting to know each other, they still continue to fall in love as if they are still in the honeymoon stages. To never get tired of one’s smile, the little gestures of thoughtfulness that they show that they still care, even after all this time. That is real love.

10. I know I am not alone when I say that it is a joy to see bride and groom fall in love with each other, day after day. The beauty of such a love is something that words cannot fully describe.

So I end my speech by raising my glass to the bride and groom. Let us continue to witness and celebrate the remarkable love that this remarkable, beautiful couple shares.

11. Thank you all for coming here. Some of you have traveled far and wide to be here today. Some of you drove and some of you even flew to all be in the same room today, all so we could celebrate the love of these two people who are beautiful both inside and out.

It is amazing to see all the people who love bride and groom in the same room as they embark on this new adventure together.

12. When I first met [bride], I knew that there was something special about her. We were drawn to each other as friends and my life truly would not be the same without her. Over the years, we have shared some really great memories.

But little did I know that something in her life was still missing. I realized that when she met [groom’s name.]

After she met [groom], it was as if something clicked. We didn’t know it just then, but something was planted that would continue to flourish and grow.

Ever since these two met, something has changed. [Bride] is not exactly the same person she was before. She was strong before, but she is even stronger now. And while she was happy then, she is even happier with [groom] by her side.

With [groom], [bride] is the best version of herself. And I think [groom] is much better with [bride] in his life as well. Here’s a toast to the two of you.

13. These two newlyweds are a rare find in today’s world. Between the two of them, this couple has beauty, brains, and two hearts of gold. Here’s to the groom who has a bride so fair, and here’s to the bride with a groom who is so rare.

14. There can be so much sadness and loss in the world, but we also know that there is good in this world as well. With all of the things that happen that make us feel caught up in a storm, some of us are lucky enough to have something or someone to hold on to.

The best thing to hold onto in life is each other. When you have something to hold on to, then you have hope for the day and for many days to come

When I look at the bride and groom, I know that what they have will stand the test of time. Their love was made to weather the toughest of storms and their trials and tribulations will only further prove their love and devotion to one another. May the love that you have for each other continue to grow each and every year.

15. Growing up, [bride] was a little cynical. She did not really believe in true love or fairy-tale endings. I, on the other hand, was the more romantic one. I would tell her, much to her annoyance, that she only felt that way because she had not met the right one yet. And guess what? I was right.

When [bride] met [groom,] it was as if the universe had shifted. All the birds were singing and it was as if the sun had never shined brighter. That is how the world was through [bride’s] eyes when she finally fell in love with [groom.] As a romantic person, I have been lucky enough to watch this love story unfold.

Now we are all seated here, celebrating the union of two people who are very special to us. Let us toast to their health and the many happy years that they will share together.

16. As many of us know, marriage is not happy all the time. There will be disagreements and sometimes there will even be arguments. Whether To keep your marriage brimming with love in the loving cup, whenever you are wrong, admit it, and whenever you are right, shut up.

17. Whether you are a firm believer of destiny or think that happy things can just happen by accident and mere chance, there is no denying that these two amazing people are perfect for each other. Either way, these two have happened each other. It is a once in a lifetime love, and we are all so lucky to be able to be along for the ride.

18. Hello, everyone. Thank you all for coming together to celebrate the love that [bride and groom] share. Many of you know that I am [bride’s] older sister. As most older sisters are, I have always been overprotective of her, even before she was born. When she was born, she was my baby sister.

I was determined to look after her, take care of her, and protect her, though I did push her around a little bit. But if someone else messed with her, then they had to answer to me.

As we grew older, the need to protect her didn’t go away. I wanted to always have her back at school and throughout her relationships and friendships with people. I always wanted her to know that I’d be there for her, especially when things got tough.

And then one day, [bride] met [groom.] I came to realize that this person really, truly cared her. Not only did her care about her, he loved her. From the way he looks at her to the way he always tries to make sure that she is okay, there is no mistaking his love.

And I will admit, it was hard to let go of my sister a little. We have always been inseparable. But I am so happy that she found someone who cares about her so much. I know that [groom] will keep her happy. And she will keep him happy as well.

19. Helping to plan the wedding has been an absolute whirlwind full of emotions both good and stressful. Planning a wedding takes lots of work and lots of people made this beautiful day happen. [Bride] and [groom,] thank you for taking me on this journey with you. It has been a beautiful day and we all still have plenty of dancing and celebrating to do.

Maid Of Honor Speeches For Sister

20. Hi everyone, I am [bride’s] sister. As many you all know, the two of us come from a big, happy, wacky family. Through all of the years together, my many siblings and I have loved each other with everything that we had, but we would also often fight each other with all of our strength, especially when it came to sharing, taking turns, and agreeing on who got to be in charge.

Throughout the years there have been a lot of laughs and a few fights, but my brothers, sisters, and I have always maintained our shared belief that a family is life’s greatest blessing of them all.

When [bride] finally introduced all of us to [groom], I was a little worried for him. Maybe we would be too big of a family or we would scare him away. But he was brave and he ended up fitting right in, and now I can proudly say that he is one of us. He belongs to our clan now and I certainly hope he feels that way.

Welcome to the family, [groom.] To [bride] and [groom,] may they keep our family growing one day.

21. Hello, everyone. I am [bride’s] older sister. When our parents first let me know that I was going to have a little sister, I was so excited. The day that she was born, I couldn’t believe how beautiful my baby sister was.

Growing up, she was always my playmate and best friend and I made sure that she was my sidekick. Over the years, [bride] and I had many adventures together.

Of course as we grew older, we grew apart at times and began to forge our own paths. But we always found our way back to each other. I admit that when we became older, there were times that I really missed her and how we used to be.

But seeing who [bride] has become and what she has accomplished has made me feel in awe of her. I knew that whoever could win her heart would have to be someone special. And [groom] is certainly just as special as [bride.] Together they make a formidable pair.

Congratulations to my sister and to my new brother-in-law.

22. As [bride’s] older sister, I have always felt responsible for her. I wanted to protect her from everything and growing up, I always tried to keep her safe by my side. For a while she was so much small than me, after all. But then she grew, and grew, and next thing I knew it, we weren’t little girls anymore. Sometimes I can’t believe how much she has grown, how old we’re both getting.

And when I met [groom,] I was a little skeptical. I still felt like the overprotective big sister, and sometimes I still do, but I quickly learned that [groom] was the real deal. But I am glad that she found such a wonderful person to spend the rest of her life with.

I know that these two newlyweds will be happy together. And [groom,] you take good care of my baby sister.

23. Hi, everyone. Thank you all so much for being here today. Most of you know that I am [bride’s] sister. For those of you who don’t know the pair of us too well, we were peas in a pod, two wild kids always looking for trouble.

We were always running to fast, knocking things over, and laughing a little too loud. But boy were we always happy. My sister is a free spirit with a knack for adventure and as we got older I remember thinking, “good luck to the guy that’s able to tame her.”

Well, as you know, she just tied the knot with [groom.] And I realized that she never needed anyone to tame her at all. She needed someone to love her for who she is. [Groom] is just as crazy as [bride] in the best way possible. They encourage each other to be fearless and they are always strong for each other. That is true love.

Let us all raise a glass to this beautiful cowgirl and her handsome cowboy.

24. Hello everyone, I am [bride’s] sister. I don’t think I surprise anyone when I say that I love my sister. She is worthy of all the love in the world and I am beyond thrilled that she has found that in [groom.] They are so like each other and so perfectly matched. I know that [groom] will take care of her and that [bride] will take care of him.

25. I am [bride’s] sister and maid of honor. Through the years, we have been through ups and downs. No matter where life took us, love was always there through the best and worst of times.

When one of us was crying, our love for each other comforted us and when we were celebrating, our love helped us to share that happiness with one another. In that way, love is food for the soul.

It is said that where there is great love, there are always miracles. No matter where you are, no matter what you are doing, love is the thing that can sustain you and keep you going. It can give you hope and fill you with so much optimism for the future ahead.

The love that [bride] and [groom] have for each other is something that is truly magical and miraculous and I for one am grateful to be able to witness it.

26. You all know that I am [bride’s] sister. We were brought up in a home full of love and laughter by two amazing parents who are sitting right there. If you haven’t already guessed it, we are a very closely knit family. Even as adults, we all still maintain a close relationship with our parents and with each other.

So how exactly did [groom] manage to infiltrate our family? He was a great listener, always fun to talk to, and he has a great sense of humor. He is also pretty generous and thoughtful.

But none of that would not have mattered if he did not love [bride] with all of his soul. When we all saw how much he loved her, we knew that he belonged in our family. And when we see how much she loves you, it is something that is so beautiful to witness.

So, [groom], welcome to the family. We might be wacky and even crazy at times, but you are one of us now!

27. As [bride’s] sister I am pretty used to having her all to myself. We always played together as children and sometimes we did fight. And as we grew older, we continued to hang out all the time. I got so used to having her all to myself.

When [groom] came into the picture, it took some getting used to. I never had to really share my sister before. And [groom] was someone new, I didn’t know him that well at the time.

Time passed and as I got to know [groom,] I learned that he was a pretty cool guy. I even think of him as a friend now, though now that he is married to my sister, he is my brother now too.

Over time I realized that [groom and bride] share a really special bond. I’ve seen the way they look at each other, as the rest of you have, and when I see how real their love is, it makes me hope that one day I find someone like that. I am glad that [groom] is in my life, and more importantly, I am thrilled that he and [bride] found each other.

I like to think of it this way: I have not lost a sister. Instead, I have gained a brother, and an amazing one at that. Welcome to the family, [groom.] Let us all raise a glass to the happy newlyweds.

28. As most of you know, I am [bride’s] younger sister. Growing up, I was the baby of the family. I always had a lot to learn and [bride] was my biggest example of how to be. I have to admit, being the baby sister can be really annoying. A lot of the time, you find yourself wanting to break out of your shell. At the same time, [bride] set a lot of great examples for me as an older sister.

As a sister, [bride] taught me how to share. She taught me how to be a caring sister and friend and she taught me what it means to be a good person. As much as I tried to resist it, I found myself often following in her footsteps? How could I not want to be the smart, sensitive, and successful person that she is?

Even now, [bride] has set a huge example for me by finding someone who is worthy of her love. She has found a person who is her soul mate, her better half, and her equal. I hope to one day find someone who is right for me the way that these two have found each other. I am equally lucky to have both bride and groom in my life, and I am so happy that they found each other.

You may also enjoy Mother of the Bride Speeches.

29. Hi, everyone. I am [bride’s] sister. Since we are so close in age, we would play together all the time. We had our dolls to play with and we would pretend to be princesses.

She was always looking for her Prince Charming. Prince Charming was handsome, thoughtful, generous, loving, and kind. Of course we got older and we grew up. We realized that fairytales aren’t real and yet, one day, she met [groom.]

Now, many of you know [groom.] He’s a modern man and I don’t think he would exactly describe himself as a Prince Charming. But in a way, that’s what he is to [bride.] He is thoughtful, kind, generous, loving, and he isn’t ugly to look at either.

And while he doesn’t have a coat of arms or a valiant horse to ride on, he sure swept [bride] off her feet. And no one has ever been able to do that before, not even when we were playing pretend as little girls.

Sure, we’re in the 21 st century now. But what these two have is a modern fairytale, a true romance that is one for the books. Let’s raise a glass to these two storybook lovers who have finally tied the knot.

Maid Of Honor Speech For Best Friend

30. Hello, everyone. For those who do not know me, I am a good friend of [bride.] We have known each other for [number of years] years. After all this time, I feel like I know [bride] inside and out. And after knowing [groom] for [number of years] years, I am proud to say that I can call him a good friend as well.

To be a part of this close circle of friends that has gotten to know bride and groom individually, is a blessing. But to be a part of the group that has gotten to watch them grow as a couple and become man and wife is a truly wonderful experience that has given me hope and brought tears to my eyes.

I cannot think of another couple that is more perfectly matched in their own unique way and like the rest of the people in this room, I look forward to the next chapter in their lives.

Infographics

How to Give A Perfect Maid of Honor Speech: A Step-by-Step Guide

• The Speaker Lab
• March 15, 2024

Table of Contents

Standing by the bride’s side on her wedding day comes with the duty of delivering a maid of honor speech . This toast is more than just words; it’s a celebration, an embodiment of sisterhood, and a gift to be remembered. As you embark on crafting this pivotal message, our guide offers practical steps for creating an address that echoes your unique connection with the bride and touches every heart in attendance.

Dive into tips that will help you share heartfelt stories about your bond, balance humor with sincerity for laughs without tears, and project confidence as you speak from the heart. Whether you’re best friends or siblings doesn’t matter—we’ve got insights tailored to make sure your maid of honor toast honors not only tradition but also personal style. Here are a few tips on turning your thoughts into an unforgettable tribute to love and friendship.

Crafting Your Maid of Honor Speech: A Step-by-Step Guide

When it’s time to craft your maid of honor speech, starting with the bride and ending with the couple sets a narrative that flows from personal affection to shared joy. Think about how you first met or a moment that embodies her spirit. Brainstorming ideas can help capture those perfect tidbits for your outline.

Mention the Couple in Your Speech

Your bond with the bride is unique, so let your speech reflect that. Kick things off by highlighting her quirks, strengths, and endearing traits. But remember, today marks not just another chapter in her life but also in their shared story as a couple. Transition smoothly from talking about just the bride to talking about her and her partner, celebrating their union. This shift will resonate well during any wedding reception.

Utilize Anecdotes

Anecdotes are like spices—they make good stories great. Weave these stories throughout your speech to paint an authentic picture of your relationship with memorable moments. If she’s always been there for you through thick and thin or if she has dance moves that could rival Beyoncé’s—now’s your chance to share these laugh-out-loud instances while crafting an unforgettable tribute.

Incorporating heartfelt anecdotes within speeches strengthens connections—not only between speakers but also among everyone gathered here today who came together thanks to true love blossoming between two amazing individuals.

End Positively

Aim high as you close out—a toast wishing future happiness for the couple brings smiles all around. Wish them laughter-filled days ahead because nothing beats seeing our loved ones happy.

Personalizing Your Speech with Heartfelt Stories

Your maid of honor speech is not just another wedding toast. It’s a narrative that weaves your life with the bride into an unforgettable tale. Personal anecdotes are the threads that turn this speech from ordinary to extraordinary, making every guest feel like they’ve been part of your journey.

Best Friend Memories That Shine

You’re her maid of honor for good reason: you have stories that span years and heartbeats. In your speech, reflect on those shared moments, whether it was spontaneous dance moves at concerts or hours spent plotting future happiness over coffee. Witnessing true love blossom between the couple has surely impacted you deeply too—share these observations by weaving their journey through your narrative seamlessly. It’s about showcasing the sisterly bond between best friends—one that will continue through marriage and beyond.

Sisterly Bonds That Last a Lifetime

If she’s not only your friend but also your sister, there’s even more depth to explore in your tribute. Growing up together means sharing everything: secrets, clothes (sometimes begrudgingly), and countless firsts—from steps to crushes to major milestones like graduating college. Mentioning experiences unique to siblings adds layers of emotion others can appreciate, because who hasn’t felt love tug sharply during family moments?

Talk about how being the bride’s younger sister has shaped both of you—how her strength inspired yours or how sibling antics paved the way for mutual respect and understanding today. Here’s where storytelling excels, painting pictures so vivid every listener feels part of those cherished childhood scenes.

Free Download: 6 Proven Steps to Book More Paid Speaking Gigs in 2024​

Download our 18-page guide and start booking more paid speaking gigs today!

The Art of Humor in Maid of Honor Speeches

Injecting humor into a maid of honor speech is like adding the perfect amount of spice to a dish—it enhances the flavor without overpowering it. When you’re aiming to make the maid of honor speech funny and entertaining, remember that timing is everything. Adding humor to your maid of honor speech means striking a balance. You want guests chuckling with fondness, not cringing in their seats.

Balance Funny Lines with Sincerity

Finding just the right mix can be tricky but think about those moments shared with your best friend (or sisterly bonds if she’s family). These relationships are treasure troves for humorous yet endearing stories. If she’s been known for her questionable dance moves since childhood, share that anecdote before tying it back to her lovely personality—this way laughter arises from affection rather than embarrassment.

When brainstorming ideas to add comedic elements into your tribute, look at experiences that shine a light on who she truly is. Letting personal anecdotes lead naturally toward touching insights offers up plenty more than laughs. It speaks volumes about depth behind sisterly love or friendship long cherished.

Incorporate Shared Experiences

To ensure your jokes land well with all wedding guests, consider how well they know both bride and groom—the audience should feel included in each jest. After all, love story references hit differently when even distant relatives nod along because they understand where you’re coming from.

Respect Wedding Party Etiquette

While humor adds spice to any good story, it’s crucial not to mention exes or bring up anything inappropriate in your wedding speech . Instead, choose uplifting memories—maybe ones revolving around wedding planning or other milestones leading up till now. Whatever you choose, know that weaving genuine sentiments within jokes ensures laughter doesn’t overshadow sincerity. 

Wedding Words and Speechy provide excellent resources if looking for help writing such messages effectively.

Tips for Public Speaking Mastery

Public speaking can feel like dancing on a tightrope, but with the right techniques, you’ll have the audience in the palm of your hand. One essential skill is mastering anxiety. If public speaking makes you nervous, using breathing techniques and visualization can transform nerves into compelling energy.

Overcoming Public Speaking Anxiety

Anxiety before public speaking is like an unwelcome guest at weddings—it shows up uninvited. To send this gatecrasher packing, try grounding yourself with deep breaths. Alternatively, visualize delivering that killer toast amidst roaring applause from guests. This is just one effective way to set positive expectations for your performance.

Practicing Your Maid of Honor Speech Delivery

The artistry of wedding speeches lies not only in what you say but how you say it. To get comfortable with how you deliver your speech, practice plenty. Recite your speech out loud in front of a mirror until your words feel smooth and effortless. As you practice, pay attention to your timing. After all, a well-placed pause after delivering a joke invites laughter and builds rapport with wedding guests who hang on every word.

Using Breathing Techniques and Visualization

A deep inhale has power beyond filling lungs—it centers focus too. When anxious thoughts arise while standing before wedding reception attendees, take slow breaths to reclaim composure.

Etiquette Essentials for Maid of Honor Speeches

Making sure your maid of honor speech hits all the right notes is about striking a balance between humor and sentimentality, while also being mindful of proper etiquette. Crafting such an address isn’t just about writing; it’s also delivering a message that resonates with the wedding guests and honors the happy couple.

Dos and Don’ts When Writing Your Speech

The first rule in maid of honor speeches is to be respectful at all times. Remembering this will help you avoid common mistakes like mentioning exes or inside jokes that might not sit well with everyone present. Keep your anecdotes tasteful and ensure they highlight the beautiful bond you share with the bride or her partner.

Avoid going off on tangents by sticking to a concise speech outline . This structure should guide you through touching upon key moments shared without losing focus on what makes this union remarkable.

Proper Etiquette in Timing Your Toast

Brevity is soulful wit’s friend when addressing wedding guests during such momentous occasions as these. Ideally your speech will last about two minutes.

Balancing Humor with Sentimentality

Funny lines are welcome breathers amid heartfelt sentiments. However, never lets laughs come at someone else’s expense nor derail from your main points.

What Type Of Speaker Are You?

Click below to discover your Speaker Archetype and how to start getting booked and paid to speak!

FAQs on Giving a Maid of Honor Speech

What does the maid of honor say in her speech.

The maid of honor toasts with anecdotes, praises for the bride, well-wishes for the couple, and usually a splash of humor.

What is an ideal maid of honor speech?

An ideal toast blends warmth, wit, and wisdom about the bride’s journey and her future with her partner.

How do you start off a maid of honor speech?

Kick things off by warmly greeting guests before diving into your heartfelt connection with the bride.

What is an example of a maid of honor speech for best friends?

“As we’ve journeyed from carefree days on the swing set to this moment, you’ve proved to be a loyal, kind friend. I can’t express how happy I am to know that now you’ve found a friend like that in your spouse. I wish both of you a lifetime of love and laughter. Cheers!”

Remember, a great maid of honor speech starts with the bride and ends with the couple. Share those anecdotes that speak to the bride’s personality and don’t be afraid to use a little humor.

In the days leading up to your speech, practice your public speaking skills so you can deliver your speech with confidence. Steer clear from taboo topics—this is about celebration, not airing dirty laundry.

As you stand before friends and family, remember: today you’re not just giving a toast—you’re weaving memories into every guest’s heart.

• Last Updated: March 22, 2024

Explore Related Resources

Learn How You Could Get Your First (Or Next) Paid Speaking Gig In 90 Days or Less

We receive thousands of applications every day, but we only work with the top 5% of speakers .

Book a call with our team to get started — you’ll learn why the vast majority of our students get a paid speaking gig within 90 days of finishing our program .

If you’re ready to control your schedule, grow your income, and make an impact in the world – it’s time to take the first step. Book a FREE consulting call and let’s get you Booked and Paid to Speak ® .

About The Speaker Lab

We teach speakers how to consistently get booked and paid to speak.  Since 2015, we’ve helped thousands of speakers find clarity, confidence, and a clear path to make an impact.

Get Started

Let's connect.

[email protected]

Copyright ©2023 The Speaker Lab. All rights reserved.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Nailing Your Maid of Honor Speech

• Chapelle writes articles for The Knot Worldwide. She covers all things wedding-related and has a personal interest in covering celebrity engagements and fashion.
• Before joining The Knot Worldwide, Chapelle was an editorial intern for Subvrt Magazine.
• Chapelle has a degree in English writing from Loyola University New Orleans.

As a wedding party member, you'll likely be asked to speak at the wedding. In fact, giving a maid of honor speech is one of the most important maid of honor duties to complete on the big day. You may be a gifted orator, which means writing (and giving) a speech will be a breeze. But if the thought of speaking in front of a crowd makes you a little nervous, don't panic. With the help of Heidi Ellert-McDermott, professional speech writer and founder of Speechy , we've provided you with everything you need to know about the matron of honor speech. Learn what to say, how to say it and exactly how to get rid of any nervous butterflies. Use these tips, template, outline and more to write a perfect maid of honor speech that'll bring the house down.

In this article:

Printable Template | How to Write | Examples | Tips | FAQs

Printable Maid of Honor Speech Template

For those looking for a quick and simple reminder of how to write a maid of honor speech, bookmark this template. You could even save it as your phone or laptop wallpaper while you're writing to keep you on task.

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech Outline

So, how do you write a matron of honor speech? It helps, but you don't need to be a professional speechwriter to write a special toast for the newlyweds. Use this guide to create a heartfelt message that'll make everyone laugh, cry or both.

1. Reflect on your relationship with the couple.

Think about your relationships with each person in the couple. This is your time to write down any personal moments you shared with them. These moments can bring some tears or laughs, but they show the wedding guests how you know the happy couple. Maybe you and one of the newlyweds went on an epic trip to Europe together. Or you and the newlyweds have known each other since high school and have plenty of silly and embarrassing stories from that time. No matter which memory you choose for your maid of honor speech, pick your favorite (appropriate) story and have fun with it.

2. Celebrate the couple's relationship.

Another part of your matron of honor speech should be dedicated to the couple's relationship. You can talk about when they first met, when you knew they were in love, or how you knew they were meant to be. If some details are a little fuzzy, talk with the other honor attendants or close friends of the couple to help refresh your memory. Overall, you want to paint a picture of how the couple was when they first met, how they've grown together and why they complement one another.

3. Avoid taboo topics.

There are certain topics you shouldn't have in your maid of honor speech. It doesn't matter how you try to deliver it. These taboo subjects are liable to offend someone:

• Negativity about marriage in general.
• Past relationships.
• Previous marriages/divorces.
• Drinking, drugs, gambling.
• "Adult" humor or any other mention of sex.

Remember, you don't want to cause any drama. Keep the focus of your speech on uplifting the happy couple and celebrating their love for one another.

4. Add jokes—but not too many.

Feel like you have a comedic gift? Consider adding some jokes, one-liners or funny marriage quotes to your maid of honor speech. Ensure you don't use any inside jokes or references only you and the newlyweds would understand. Your speech should be something every wedding guest can appreciate and laugh at. This also means your jokes shouldn't be too harsh or bring up any taboo wedding speech topics we previously listed.

Be deliberate about where you put your jokes and spread them out. You want them to add comedic relief to a sentimental toast, not seem like a stand-up routine. Start your speech with a funny opening line so the guests can laugh and get an idea of what kind of person you are—plus, laughs give you time to overcome any nerves you might have.

5. Create your maid of honor speech outline.

Get creative and personalize your maid of honor speech as much as you want. A customized script is much more endearing for guests. But when it comes down to it, a great wedding toast will include the following remarks:

• Start with an introduction—along with an explanation about your connection to the happy couple.
• Next, give a word of thanks to the couple for inviting you to be part of their special day.
• Say one or two personal anecdotes, like a favorite memory, joke or sweet sentiment that most guests will understand.
• Provide encouraging advice or a thoughtful quote about the newlyweds' future.
• Finish with a closing remark and an invitation for guests to raise their glasses.

Maid of Honor Speech Examples

Need more than a maid of honor speech template to help you? Then choose your favorite sample maid of honor speech below and use it to help get your creative juices flowing.

Funny Maid of Honor Speech

Hello! For those of you who haven't had the chance to meet me yet, my name is [Your Name]. [Newlywed's Name] and I have been best friends since high school, which means we've been on each other's top eight friends list for a while. That's for my old Myspace users out there.

Typically, public speaking makes me beyond nervous, but I knew I had to make a speech for one of the most important people in my life. I've known [Newlywed's Name] for a long time and have appreciated every special moment we've shared over the years. [Newlywed's Name] has a beautiful soul, and I'm so happy that [Newlywed's Name] has found someone who complements it.

As everyone probably knows [Newlywed's Name] isn't a shy person, so the fact that [Newlywed's Name] would always giggle and blush whenever referring to 'the hot coworker' and I knew something special was going to come out of it. I've gotten to know [Spouse's Name] really well over the years, and I can honestly say [Spouse's Name] is one of the most genuine and caring people I've ever met.

Everyone aims to find their one true love, their soulmate, the person that's going to love and cherish them for the rest of their lives. And that moment came for [Newlywed's Name]...when they met me 18 years ago. But in all seriousness, I wish you and [Spouse's Name] a long and wonderful marriage. Congrats to you both, and I hope you find a lifetime of happiness together. Cheers!

Find your kind of venue

Maid of honor speech for best friend.

Good evening everyone! I thought the most nerve-wracking part of being a maid of honor was giving the speech, but fixing [Newlywed's Name] shoe malfunction before the wedding ceremony is high on the list.

I think I've calmed down by now, so I'll continue. My name is [Your Name], and I've known [Newlywed's Name] since college. We sat next to each other one time in an eight A.M. Spanish class and have been inseparable ever since. We've known each other for so long I would consider us siblings now, and I'm so blessed to have such a wonderful person in my life.

[Spouse's Name] is charming, intelligent, thoughtful and to quote [Newlywed's Name] after their first date, 'sooo cuteee.' I consider myself a top-notch wingwoman and matchmaker, but even I couldn't have picked a better person for [Newlywed's Name] to fall in love with. Anyone can take one look at them together and see that they're a perfect example of 'meant to be.'

I'm honored that you both have not only chosen me to be a significant part of your big day but also a significant person in your lives. I'm excited to watch you two enjoy this new chapter in your lives as a married couple. I love you both so much!

Maid of Honor Speech for Sister

Hello everyone! If you couldn't tell already from our almost identical faces, I'm [Bride's Name] sister. We're only two years apart, so we've always been really close. We would do everything together, like that one time we got gum stuck in our hair on the same day and spent hours combing peanut butter into each other's hair to help get the gum out. Unfortunately, this didn't work out, and we had to chop a lot of hair off.

Regardless of all the trouble we've got ourselves into, I can't imagine sharing such fun memories with anyone else. I've always looked up to [Bride's Name] and continue to think of her as a great role model to me and many others. I feel so happy and proud to call [Bride's Name] my sister.

[Spouse's Name], you've come into our lives seamlessly, and I've never seen my sister happier. You're such a funny and loving person, and to this day, every time my sister talks about you, she gets giddy. I really do think you guys are perfect for one another, and I can't wait to see how you grow even more as life partners.

Everyone raise your glass to congratulate [Bride's Name] and [Spouse's Name]. May each day be full of love and laughter!

Maid of Honor Speech for Cousin

Shout out to Ellert-McDermott for writing the passionate maid of honor speech below.

Ladies and gentlemen, friends and family and all you lucky souls who scored an invite to the wedding of the century. My name is [Your Name], and I have the pleasure of being the maid of honor today, or as I like to call it, the 'official party planner, the emergency dress fixer and human tissue dispenser.'

You all know [Bride's Name] as this gorgeous, successful, brilliant person you see before you today, but I know her as my little cousin. And I don't care how many promotions she gets, how many exotic countries she visits or how married she gets, that's who she'll always be to me. Yes, the girl who, for several years, ate nothing but chicken nugget sandwiches and had a special tree she liked to wee behind when we visited Grandma.

Being the only girls in our tribe of siblings, we quickly became best friends and partners in crime. We loved playing dress-up, but rather than pretending to marry our Prince Charmings, we'd pretend to be lawyers or scientists. And we wonder why no one wanted to hang out with us.

Our geekiness lasted well into our teens and developed into a mild addiction to One Direction, "Glee" and astronomy. We'd spend hours staring into our telescopes, wondering what we would say when we became the first astronauts to land on Mars. Sadly, that dream never came to fruition, but [Bride's Name], as we all know, did become a lawyer—an incredibly successful one at that.

But seriously, watching [Bride's Name] achieve her dreams has been a delight because she's quite simply one of life's special people. I feel incredibly lucky to have been blessed with such a fun-loving, wise and caring cousin––a special type of friend who's duty-bond to be in my life forever.

I always knew that [Bride's Name] deserved to be loved by someone special, and I'm delighted to say that person is [Newlywed's Name]. I've had the privilege of getting to know [Newlywed's Name] well over the last three years, and I must say, you're a brave soul for marrying into our family and having to cope with our crazy Christmas traditions. But I think you've figured out our secret. The louder we are, the more we like you. And just to clarify, we like you very much.

You have a kind heart, a wonderful wit and you're willing to dance to One Direction after we've had a few beers. I can also see how much you love my cousin. I can see that you 'get her;' that you know just how she likes her coffee, that you understand her sarcasm is a sign of affection and that you appreciate how intelligent she is even if she insists on watching "Selling Sunset" at every opportunity she can.

You're an incredible couple, and I've no doubt your love will continue to grow with every passing day. As your maid of honor, I couldn't be happier for you, and I look forward to sharing more happy memories with you guys in the future. And with that, everyone please join me in a toast to the happy couple and a life filled with love and laughter.

Short Maid of Honor Speech

I would like to quote the famous American author, Mark Twain, who once said, 'To get the full value of joy, you must have someone to divide it with.' This perfectly explains why [Newlywed's Name] and [Spouse's Name] have always radiated so much joy since they've met each other.

I do not doubt [Newlywed's Name] has found the person they will spend the rest of their life with. You both make a beautiful couple and may you continue to get the full value of joy out of life with one another.

Congratulations, [Newlywed's Name] and [Spouse's Name]!

Maid of Honor Speech Tips

Completing your matron of honor speech is a big accomplishment, but the work doesn't stop when you write the closing line. The right delivery is what makes it. Here are confidence tips for your maid of honor speech and other speaking engagements.

Don't procrastinate.

We recommend you start writing your maid of honor speech at least two months before the wedding day. As an honor attendant, you're expected to attend and plan numerous prewedding events, like dress fittings, the bach party and the rehearsal dinner , which means you won't have much time to write as the wedding day approaches. Also, it doesn't hurt to write a few drafts and ask someone you trust to edit your work. By preparing in advance, you'll be able to focus on writing a toast you're excited to read in front of a crowd and not have to worry about leaving a wedding event early so you can go home and write.

Add stories, not adjectives.

"Adjectives are just white noise in wedding speeches. Describing the newlywed as 'kind,' 'fun' or 'beautiful' is nice but doesn't really add much. Illustrate their characteristics and qualities by sharing the evidence of them in action," Ellert-McDermott, author of "The Modern Couple's Guide to Wedding Speeches," says.

Be true to yourself.

This is the time to open your heart and share a few favorite memories or silly stories that capture your relationship with the newlyweds. So don't feel pressured to write a maid of honor speech that sounds overly professional. A great maid of honor toast is about speaking honestly and naturally, so write how you generally speak. Don't forget this isn't the time to use inappropriate language since you'll be speaking to the couple's nearest and dearest. Your writing should feel like a natural extension of the way you talk. A genuine speech from the heart is impactful.

Remember to mention the partner.

"Yes, the focus of your speech is your friend and your relationship with them, but don't forget what the day's actually about. Try to make your tribute to their partner seem like more than a cliched afterthought," Ellert-McDermott advises.

Write it down.

Yes, you're expected to make an amazing speech, but that doesn't mean you must memorize it. Writing the entire speech word for word or just jotting down bullet points of your speech's outline can work wonders for your confidence. We suggest you read your maid of honor speech on index cards instead of reading it off your cell phone. Phones are more convenient, but the phone screen light that washes over your face as you're reading your speech distorts wedding photographs. To avoid ruining any wedding images, write your speech down instead. ( Psst. People say handwritten notes boost brain activity and optimize memory.)

Practice in front of an audience.

Practicing your speech is just as important as writing it. As with any public speaking gig, you'll become more comfortable with the material as you practice it. Read your toast aloud a few times to catch any spelling or grammar errors. This will also help you find a rhythm—you'll know exactly when you want to pause for reactions and emphasize certain points, which is key for staying within a designated time frame. You can also read your words to another wedding party member for feedback. When the time comes to stand up in front of the crowd, you'll be grateful for the pre-performance audience.

Stay calm, cool and collected.

Whether this is your first time giving a wedding speech or you're a pro, it's normal to feel a little nervous beforehand. Take a few deep breaths to calm your nerves and collect your thoughts. Speak slowly and clearly, and remind yourself that guests are excited to hear what you're saying. As nerve-wracking as it might feel to give a big speech at your loved one's wedding, their heartfelt reaction to your words will make your efforts worth it. As soon as your speech is over, you'll be free to celebrate with the newlyweds and the rest of the wedding party.

Don't forget to smile.

"Because they're nervous, speakers often forget to smile as they deliver their speech, but it's a simple and effective way to create a good vibe in the room. A smile is literally infectious, so make sure it looks like you're actually enjoying your time on the mic," Ellert-McDermott says. Putting on a soft smile also helps the photographer capture stunning pictures of you killing your speech.

Maid of Honor Speech Frequently Asked Questions

Delivering a unique maid of honor speech can seem daunting, but we're here to help you take the stress out of it. Here are answers to common questions regarding the maid of honor speech.

Does the maid of honor have to give a speech?

It's expected for a maid of honor to give a speech, especially if the other honor attendants are planning on giving one, but it's not required. Giving a maid of honor speech can be a fun experience, but it isn't for everyone. If public speaking makes you nervous, you can express yourself in other ways, like through song, dance or by creating a sweet love story presentation about the happy couple.

How long should a maid of honor speech be?

In addition to the matron of honor speech, there might also be a best man speech , toasts from the couple's parents or even a thank-you message from the newlyweds. Since there are several speeches to fit in with meal courses, dancing, games and additional reception activities , keep your salutations short and sweet. Aim to make your maid of honor speech a minimum of four minutes and at most six minutes—Ellert-McDermott suggests anything between 700 and 1000 words.

Wedding guests will be excited to hear your well-wishes and funny stories, but a long MOH speech can lose the wedding guests' interest (especially if it's full of too many personal inside jokes). A four-minute speech gives you enough time to speak about the couple's love story, offer a personal anecdote or two and finish with encouragement for married life.

How to Start a Maid of Honor Speech

"Like every other speaker, the maid of honor should say a quick hello and introduce themselves to the guests. They should explain how they know the bride and try to add some humor early on too. Tailor your speech to suit the style of the wedding. Is it a rock n roll affair or a traditional bash with children present? Consider your audience and decide if 'ladies and gentlemen' is necessary or overly formal (generally, it's the latter)," Ellert-McDermott notes.

How to End a Maid of Honor Speech

"Towards the end of the speech, the maid of honor should reiterate their joy in seeing their friend getting married. They may refer back to special memories they share with the bride and explain why she is such a great friend to them. The final few lines should be about wishing the couple well in their future life together and proposing a toast to them both," Ellert-McDermott suggests. Here is an example of a personal maid of honor toast ending from Ellert-McDermott:

Here's to a lifetime of drinking mojitos and dancing on tables. To Sophie and Taylor.

When does the maid of honor give a speech?

If the couple is following the traditional wedding speech order , the maid of honor gives her speech after the newlyweds' parents. Typically, following the maid of honor is the best man. That wedding speech order isn't for everyone since a couple's wedding party size and reception timeline impact the order too. Also, sometimes couples opt to have all the wedding speeches delivered during the rehearsal dinner. So check with the to-be-weds about the order to confirm your spot in the toast lineup.

What to do if there are multiple maids of honor?

If you are one of the multiple maids of honor , you and the others should keep your maid of honor speeches to three to five minutes long. Before delivering your speeches, we suggest you and the other maids of honor go over them together to make sure they aren't too similar (and if they are, to adjust accordingly). If you and the other maids of honor have a close relationship, want to create only one speech or you don't want to give your speech alone, consider doing a joint maid of honor speech. By doing a combined speech, you have more opportunities to be creative, like setting each other up for jokes or performing a heartfelt song together.

• Games, topic printables & more
• The 4 main speech types
• Example speeches
• Commemorative
• Declamation
• Demonstration
• Informative
• Introduction
• Student Council
• Speech topics
• Poems to read aloud
• How to write a speech
• Using props/visual aids
• Acute anxiety help
• Breathing exercises
• Letting go - free e-course
• Using self-hypnosis
• Delivery overview
• 4 modes of delivery
• How to make cue cards
• How to read a speech
• 9 vocal aspects
• Vocal variety
• Diction/articulation
• Pronunciation
• Speaking rate
• How to use pauses
• Eye contact
• Body language
• Voice image
• Voice health
• Public speaking activities and games
• About me/contact
• Speech examples

Maid of honor speech examples

Two unique maid of honor speeches to help you prepare a perfect maid of honor speech of your own

By:  Susan Dugdale  | Last modified: 10-06-2023

What's the best way to share the happy couple's love story at the wedding reception on their big day?

The bride's your great friend, an amazing person. You love her to pieces which is why you said 'yes' when she asked you to speak on her wedding day.

However, maybe this is the first time you've given a maid of honor toast. Perhaps, in addition, you find public speaking, talking in front of a crowd and making eye contact as you do, a little bit nerve wracking.

You're in the right place. The goal of this article is to empower and enable you to write and deliver the best maid of honor speech you can. Begin by reading the speeches!

What's on this page

• 2 unique maid of honor speech examples - a heartfelt maid of honor speech - a light-hearted maid of honor speech
• how to begin - suggestions for getting started on your own MOH speech
• a link to ' How to end a Maid of Honor speech: 20 examples '
• a link to a maid of honor speech template
• how to test and rehearse your speech
• links to other resources to help you give the best maid of honor speech you can

A heartfelt Maid of Honor speech example

This example is written from the point of view of a childhood friend: someone who's shared the best and most difficult of times with the bride. The friendship between them is enduring and the speech is sincerely heartfelt: full of personal stories everybody will relate to.

Said aloud, it is approximately 5- 6 minutes long. 

Maria's MOH speech at Sonja & Mark's wedding

"Some one very wise, and obviously someone who knew Sonja and Mark said, “Don't marry a person you can live with. Marry somebody you can't live without."

That's what we're witnessing today – the union of two people who belong together. A perfect match!

My name is Maria and I'm delighted to be the Maid of Honor for my very dear friend Sonja.

We've been close friends since we were little girls and, as we are hitting our 30s, it feels like forever. I can scarcely remember life without her.

Sonja and me, we've gone from crayons to perfume together, with stops in between for learning to read and write, ride a bike, play with dolls, dress up, climb trees, scrape our knees... We’ve done our high school homework, got into trouble for staying out late, turned 21 together… And now here we are, all grown up.

A big night these days is a glass of wine, staying in and watching Netflix together.

From the time we were 13 and had to run to escape a mad, snarling, barking dog I knew Sonja was truly there for me. I was slower than her but she did not leave me behind. And she's been there to pick me up ever since.

Like when I've misplaced my confidence and haven't been able to find it. (Is it under the sofa? No! Behind the kitchen door? No!)

Or when I’ve needed someone to talk to about a personal life situation, for instance, another crappy boyfriend.

Over the years Sonja has been my touchstone, my wise go-to sister, and although there have been times when we have been physically apart that has never been true of our hearts. She is part of my identity, of who I am.

So when she asked me to be her Maid of Honor, the honor was all mine. Naturally I said yes.

Another “yes”, a previous and much more important one, is the reason we're here today.

Mark, that was one you received.

All Sonja's family members and friends, like me, take her best interests to heart. They look out for her, and I know, that like me, they are delighted that you and she have agreed to live your lives together.

Mark, your care, and love of Sonja over the last few years has demonstrated to us all you are indeed the right man, who was in the right place, at the right time. We've seen the good times you've shared together but most importantly we've also witnessed how you handled the tough ones.

You were there to shelter, cherish and nurture her through the period when her Father passed. And I know that meant everything to her. I feel certain not only he but also her brother, Matthew, would willingly give their blessing to your union from up above.

As for me, you definitely had my wholehearted approval when you asked one of my “ boyfriends”, (now very much past tense), aside for a man-to-man chat about respect and loyalty. From that time, I knew I have gained a brother.

In Sonja you have a hard-working, forgiving, loving big-hearted woman. As her friend, her sister, I am grateful you see, appreciate and know that.

I searched for a special gift of wisdom to pass on and found this – a recipe for love and marriage. It makes sense to me, and I hope it does to you too.

"As you walk through life together remember even though you both share many qualities that are very much the same, you are each unique, and it is your differences that helped bring you together.

Give your love openly and honestly. Always respect and accept what the other has to say, even when you do not agree. Take time to enjoy everyday and share together, and remember that each day is a new beginning."

Sonja, I am looking forward to all the celebrations we're going to have together down the years because although we no longer live on the same street, our roots are very deep.

Please make a note that I intend to speak at your 50th anniversary!

Cheers to the newly weds! Best wishes! I love you guys!"

A light hearted Maid of Honor speech example

To be successful this maid of honor speech relies heavily on its delivery.

Along with stories establishing the depth and importance of the relationship between the bride and her Maid of Honor it includes a good natured, gentle 'roast' of the groom.

The MOH has taken it upon herself to poll guests and family members on his suitability for the bride. She is now making the results public.

Although the groom is being teased we know he's respected, admired and loved by those who know the couple well, which includes the person delivering the speech, the bride's best friend.

The speech will take between 5-6 minutes to deliver.

Felicity's MOH speech at Sarah & Sam's wedding

Once in a while, in the middle of an ordinary life, love gives us a fairy tale.

That's what we're celebrating today: a story of true love, a dream come true, the union of two people who belong together.

My name is Felicity and it's my privilege to be Sarah’s Maid of Honor.

Sarah is my Best Friend. I know it's a cliché. However clichés become clichés for a very good reason, because they're true. She's my BFF: Best Friend Forever.

For her I would wear the gaudiest, frothiest taffeta maid of honor dress possible and still smile. Fortunately I don't have to.

Through Sarah I've learned that being a best friend isn't a competition between those who have been in your life the longest.

Neither is it about regular daily contact. Or about talking, Or being under the same sky, in the same city. Or even sharing the same tastes.

But it is definitely about sharing the same heart space.

Over the years she's been my touchstone, always encouraging me to be the best of myself: a work still in progress. I look forward to checking off the score card with her when we're much, much older.

We've seen each other through all those milestones of growing up: the ones we want to remember, as well as the ones we'd prefer to forget but don't. Amongst them are memories I'll always cherish: going on a bike tour of Paris in the rain, getting completely soaked and laughing about it, gorging ourselves on gastronomic delights in Greece. And ticking off the typical tourist “when in Rome” items: walking up the Spanish Steps and tossing coins in the Trevi fountain together.

Sarah you know, and see me clearly. Just like I know and see you. And today you've changed the course of your life forever with two words: I do.

Sam, you'll have understood by now just how much this woman is loved, not just by me but by all of us here. Inevitably that means when a suitor comes along they have to pass not just one test, but multiple ones.

There's the initial hurdle, getting her on your side. Once that's safely over there's more and these, as anyone married knows, can be quite formidable.

Friends, mothers, fathers, family, don't share quite the same blinkered infatuation. We stand back. We watch, and yes, we judge.

We have a “not-so-little” check list and we want every point on it passed, with honors.

Now I'd done a comprehensive survey of the interested parties and tallied the scores. They read like this.

On the “always has her back “ index you did extremely well. This one was a very important indicator. Knowledge of what it is “to have someone's back” is paramount. You passed with flying colors on the sub-set, “has spine” too.

Availability. The question behind this point had two parts, both equally weighted. Are you there for Sarah when she needs you? We looked at physically, as well as emotionally, present. Again, top marks.

Positive influence. Does this man extend and enhance the best in Sarah?

Now this one was a little trickier. Separating the vested interests and keeping ourselves honest is a challenge when so much is at stake. Change can be confronting even if it is for the better. But yes, we agreed, that Sam definitely brought Sarah more of all that is good. His presence enables her to grow.

Health. Really? Need we go there? Look at them! They eat so well, exercise so well – we're thinking of setting up a charity to donate the excess health they generate to those who need it. These two are the ultimate King and Queen of eating green. Their example inspires!

Our last was “laughter”.  Does this man make this woman smile, make her laugh with joy and share her humor? Sam, no one makes Sarah laugh the way you do.

In conclusion, you are quite simply, the best. We thank you for understanding, valuing and loving her as we do.

I want to acknowledge someone else in the line up looking out for Sarah, someone very dear to her who, although not physically present, is here in our hearts: Betty, Bette, her grandmother. I'm sure she would approve too.

And now a toast. Please raise your glasses.

To Sarah and Sam, and a lifetime of love! May your happily ever after begin here.

Content suggestions for your own MOH speech

Often the hardest part of preparing a speech is getting started.  These prompts will help you find the right words to say about the bride and her new husband on their special day.

Grab a piece of paper and answer the questions as quickly as you can. Let you mind go. Don't stop to edit, to check your spelling or to write full sentences. You can do all of that later.

Focus, for now, on generating ideas.

Maid of Honor speech writing prompts

• When, and how, did you first meet the bride?
• When did she become a close friend?
• What makes her a good person?
• What 3 or 4 words best describe her character?
• When did you realize (the groom's name) was the love of her life? What was your first impression of him?
• What hobbies or interests do they share as a couple?
• What do you admire about them as a couple? What makes them unique or special?
• What challenges or hardships have they faced and overcome?
• What funny moment or funny stories can you share about them?
• What do you want to say to wish them a happy future together? Is there a quote you'd like to use as a toast? A line from a song? A verse from a poem?  

What NOT to put into your speech

Before you go ahead in the writing process check the content you've generated.

Remove any:

• stories that would embarrass the bride and anyone listening: eg. tales about past relationships, wild nights out, participating in illegal activities of any sort...
• inside jokes or references that only a few people will understand
• comments or stories that make yourself the principal focus of attention. The most important people are the bride and groom.
• references to money or the costs involved in the wedding
• critical comments about the wedding planning, the people involved with that, and any of the lead up activities
• language or crudity (for instance, off-color jokes or sexual innuendo) that may offend the wedding guests
• strings of clichés. For example: she's most beautiful bride in the whole wide world. The groom swept her off her feet. It was true love at first sight and now they will live happily ever after...

How to get from notes to speech

Click the link for: a 5 part maid of honor speech outline, with examples, step-by-step guidelines and a complete maid of honor speech for a sister.

How to end a Maid of Honor speech

If you find yourself stuck, not knowing how to conclude your speech have a look here: how to end a Maid of Honor speech .

There are twenty example endings of varying types. Some are funny. Some use Biblical and other quotations and some are straight from the heart.

Find one you like, and then adapt it for your own use.

Test and rehearse your speech

It's vital to allow enough time to thoroughly test and rehearse your speech before you deliver it: that's about three weeks.

How to test your speech

Testing has two parts.

The first part is making sure the content covers all you think it should and flows easily from one segment to the next. This is where another pair of ears are very useful. Sometimes what we think we're saying and what we actually are is quite different. Get the opinion of someone whose judgment you trust.

The second part is testing your speech for timing. Set a timer and say it out loud at about the pace you would use if you were delivering it for real. Ideally you want it between 3 - 6 minutes long. If it's too long, look for places to cut it.

For more about how many words in a 3 minute, 4 minute, 5 minute, 6 minute...speech and speech rate .

Rehearse your speech

Once you have the words sorted, it's time to work on how you'll deliver them.

Delivery makes all the difference between an average, ordinary performance, and an extraordinary one. Please make the time to rehearse.

Trying to 'wing it' without preparation leaves you wide open for all sorts of unnecessary glitches to suddenly pop up and throw you sideways. Don't tempt it! How to rehearse a speech well: 7 steps to brilliance! ☺

More resources

Classic wedding poems and readings : find a segment of a poem or a quote to use

speaking out loud 

Subscribe for  FREE weekly alerts about what's new For more see  speaking out loud  

Top 10 popular pages

• Welcome speech
• Demonstration speech topics
• Impromptu speech topic cards
• Thank you quotes
• Impromptu public speaking topics
• Farewell speeches
• Phrases for welcome speeches
• Student council speeches
• Free sample eulogies

From fear to fun in 28 ways

A complete one stop resource to scuttle fear in the best of all possible ways - with laughter.

Useful pages

• Search this site
• About me & Contact
• Blogging Aloud
• Free e-course
• Privacy policy

©Copyright 2006-24 www.write-out-loud.com

Designed and built by Clickstream Designs

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech: Wording Examples and Ideas

As a maid of honor, you’ll need to juggle several important duties – from organising an epic bridal shower to going wedding dress shopping and holding the bride’s bouquet.

But the most daunting task of all? Writing and delivering a maid of honor speech at the reception!

We totally get how terrifying this can be, which is why we’re here to help. Keep reading for our ultimate guide on writing the perfect maid of honor speech below, including some brainstorming prompts and wording examples to get you started.

How Long Should a Maid of Honor Speech Be?

Let’s get the good news out of the way first: your maid of honor speech doesn’t have to be long! Remember, you probably won’t be the only one speaking at the reception, so you’ll want to keep your speech short and sweet. We’d say the perfect maid of honor speech should ideally be between 2 to 4 minutes, and definitely no longer than 5.

What Should a Maid of Honor Speech Include?

Simply put, a maid of honor speech should be based around two key things: celebrating your relationship with the bride and celebrating her relationship with her new husband or wife. 

Maid of honor speeches usually includes a mix of personal anecdotes, compliments to the happy couple, and well wishes for the future. Your speech can include your favourite memories with the bride, but it should also strike the right balance by including some sentiments towards her partner and their relationship, too. Usually, you’ll start your speech by talking about the bride and wrap it up by talking about her and her partner as a couple.

So, what does this look like in action? If you’re looking for a helpful framework to follow, consider this tried and tested formula for a winning maid of honor speech below:

• Introduce yourself. It might seem obvious, but introducing yourself is important to give your speech context and explain your relationship with the bride. Don’t forget, there may be guests at the wedding who have no idea who you are!
• Talk about the bride. Begin your speech by complimenting the bride. What do you love about her? What makes her such a good person/best friend/sibling? Be specific with your compliments, too – rather than saying, “She’s such a generous friend”, share a specific moment that demonstrates this.
• Include a favourite anecdote. Do you have a favourite memory that sticks out when you reflect on your relationship with the bride? This is a good time to share one or two short anecdotes. They can be funny stories or more sincere and heartfelt moments.
• Compliment their partner. Now it’s time to bring her partner into the speech. What are your favourite qualities about them? What was your first impression of them? Why are they such a good match for the bride?
• Celebrate the couple. This is where you’ll want to highlight the relationship between the happy couple. Talk about what makes their relationship so special, what you admire about them as a couple, and how their lives have changed for the better.
• Share your well wishes. Tie it all together by offering your best piece of marriage advice, favourite quote, or some warm wishes for the future.
• Share a toast. Finally, raise your glass to toast the happy couple (and reward yourself with a sip of champagne, too!).

Things To Avoid In Your Maid of Honor Speech

Now that you know what to include in a maid of honor speech, is there anything you should strictly avoid? When it comes to correct etiquette, keep the following suggestions in mind to ensure your speech is well-received: 

• Sharing funny stories or gently “roasting” the couple is totally fine if that suits your relationship with them, but steer clear of anything inappropriate, rude, or embarrassing. Remember, there will likely be elderly relatives and important family members in the room, so keep it PG-rated.
• If you’re not comfortable using jokes or humour, then don’t! It’s better to keep your speech genuine and heartfelt, rather than trying to be funny. Of course, it’s completely okay to include some comedy, but don’t force it unless it’s true to who you are.
• While you and your BFF probably have a lifetime of inside jokes between you, try to avoid referencing these in your speech. If the majority of wedding guests won’t understand it, it’s probably not worth including.
• Finally, don’t bring up any old boyfriends or ex-partners! It probably goes without saying, but your maid of honor speech is about celebrating the happy couple – not bringing up unwanted memories from the past.

Maid of Honor Speech Writing Prompts

Still feeling stuck? The best place to start crafting your maid of honor speech is usually with a good brainstorming session. Use these questions and writing prompts to help you get the inspiration flowing:

• How did you meet the bride? 
• What was your first impression of her?
• How has your relationship evolved over the years?
• What’s your favourite memory with the bride?
• What’s your funniest story about the bride?
• What are the bride’s best qualities? How does she demonstrate this?
• How would you describe the bride in 3 words?
• How did you meet her partner?
• What was your first impression of her partner?
• What are her partner’s best qualities? How do they demonstrate this?
• How would you describe her partner in 3 words?
• How did you know her partner was “the one”?
• How did her partner propose?
• What do you admire most about the couple?
• What milestones have the couple celebrated?
• How has their relationship evolved over the years?
• Have they overcome any challenges or hardships together?
• What makes their relationship unique?
• What’s your favourite memory with the couple?
• How have they made an impact on your life?
• What are your hopes for their future together as a married couple?

Once you’ve spent some time answering these prompts, you should have plenty of fantastic material to work with. 

Maid of Honor Speech Examples and Ideas

Now, it’s time to start pulling everything together! Use these maid of honor speech templates and examples below to be inspired:

Maid of Honor Speech Example For Sister:

“Hi everyone. I wanted to start by thanking you all for being here today to celebrate this amazing couple. As most of you know, I’m (Bride’s) little sister, (Name). 

I think we can all agree that (Bride) has a personality like no other. She’s outspoken, feisty, and stubborn – but also the most caring, loyal, and funniest person I’ve ever known. Growing up, we were like two peas in a pod. We were always getting into trouble and causing mischief together – and truthfully, not much has changed! I’ll never forget the time we (insert relevant anecdote), or the time we (insert relevant anecdote). It’s memories like these that make me so thankful to have (Bride) as a sister.

I used to wonder if there would ever be a guy brave enough to handle (Bride). Well, my sister has just tied the knot, and I think she’s found her perfect match in (Partner). (Partner), I couldn’t have chosen anyone better for my big sister. You’re kind, patient, and just the right amount of crazy to fit into our family – as demonstrated by the time you (insert relevant anecdote). Most importantly, you love my sister for who she is – stubbornness and all.

Your commitment to each other inspires me every day, and watching your relationship grow over the years has been so special to witness. I wish you both nothing but the best for the future, and I know you’re going to have some unforgettable adventures together. So, with that, I’d like to invite everyone to raise their glasses for a toast. Here’s to the happy couple!”

Maid of Honor Speech Example for Best Friend:

“Hi everyone. For those who haven’t yet had the chance to meet me, I’m (Name). (Bride) and I have been best friends since college, where we quickly bonded over our shared love for (insert hobbies/interests). 10 years later, and I couldn’t be happier to be standing here today to celebrate the amazing person (Bride) is, and the amazing life she and (Partner) have created together.

There are so many traits that I love about (Bride). First, her wacky sense of humour and ability to find the funny moment in any situation – like the time she (insert relevant anecdote). Secondly, her thoughtfulness and generosity, especially when she (insert relevant anecdote). And finally, her ability to light up any room she walks into. (Bride), you look so beautiful tonight.

Now, onto (Partner). My first impression of (Partner) was that he was incredibly kind, friendly, and humble. All of these things are still true, but as I’ve gotten to know him better, I’ve also seen how hilariously goofy he can be. I’ll never forget when he (insert relevant anecdote). It was then I knew that he was “the one” for my best friend.

(Bride) and (Partner), you complement each other perfectly, and it’s easy to see how crazy you are about each other. I’m so honoured to call you my friends, and I can’t wait to see how you navigate this exciting next chapter together. I’ll leave with you a quote to take with you through marriage: (insert relevant quote). Here’s to (Bride) and (Partner)!”

Nailing Your Wedding Speech

Finally, don’t forget that practice makes perfect. Once you’ve crafted your maid of honor speech, spend some time rehearsing it before the day until you’re comfortable with your delivery. The more prepared you are, the more confident you’ll feel when the big moment comes!

And while the thought of writing a maid of honor speech can definitely be daunting, try not to put too much pressure on yourself. Simply speak authentically from the heart, and you can’t go wrong.

Want to be the best maid of honor ever? Read these 13 important maid of honor duties you can’t forget to do !

10 Creative Ways to Announce Your Engagement

Getting engaged is an incredible moment that both you and your partner will never forget. Here are 10 creative ways to announce your engagement!

How to Use Pinterest for Wedding Planning

How to Create Your Wedding Guest List

Ready to create your wedding guest list? Sit down with your fiancé and use this free worksheet to help you draw up your perfect wedding guest list!

Everything you need to plan a stress-free wedding—in one beautiful place.

One-time payment. Unlimited access.

Create and publish your own unique wedding website.

Send paperless invitations, capture online RSVP’s and manage your guest list.

Get your own personalized wedding planning dashboard to keep track of all your wedding tasks, budget expenses, and more.

See all plans

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech—Template Included

Wondering how to write a maid of honor speech? This guide covers everything you need to know and includes a template to help you get started.

Your best friend is getting married , and she’s asked you to be her maid of honor—one of the most meaningful and important roles in helping your best friend bring her wedding daydreams to life. With this honor comes a number of important duties, and at the top of that list is delivering the maid of honor speech.

The maid of honor speech traditionally takes place at the wedding reception , but it’s possible you might deliver it at the rehearsal dinner. Regardless of when the speech will take place, it’s best to get started writing it at least three weeks before the wedding day. After all, a meaningful maid of honor speech isn’t something you can write up on your phone the morning of the wedding—it requires some thought, preparation, and maybe a round of edits or two.

If the task of giving a moving speech to a room full of people feels a bit nerve-wracking, don’t panic. We’ve broken down everything you need to know to craft the perfect speech from start to finish, along with how to keep your nerves at bay when it comes time to deliver it.

6 Tips to Prepare for Your Maid of Honor Speech

You don’t need to be a professional writer or orator to create a meaningful maid of honor speech. Use the tips below to get an idea of what to include and get an idea of the overall structure of a solid speech.

1. Introduce Yourself and Express Thanks

Begin your speech by introducing yourself and your relationship with the bride. Then, share a word of thanks for those who had a hand in planning the wedding —the bride’s family, the groom’s family, and anyone else who you feel should be mentioned.

2. Talk About the Bride

Now it’s time to get personal about the bride and your history together. You might share an anecdote about how you two met, what her friendship has meant to you over the years, or any other endearing story that illustrates why she’s so special. It’s best to focus this section of the speech on the bride before her partner came into the picture, which you can lead into in the next section.

3. Talk About Her Partner

Now is a good time to discuss the bride’s spouse. While you’re certainly the designated right-hand woman to the bride, remember that the focus of a maid of honor speech should be on celebrating the couple , the beauty of their relationship and their future together as newlyweds.

When thinking about what to say about her partner, you can share any number of special sentiments that you feel illustrate who they are and what they mean to the bride. You also might decide to talk about what you love about her partner, mention their greatest characteristics, or share a story about how much he or she means to the bride.

4. Talk About the Couple

While the last section focuses on the bride’s partner as an individual, use this section to talk about who they are as a couple. If you’re close friends with both partners, you might have some special memories to share looking back on the journey of their relationship. If not, you might talk about the impact the bride’s partner has had on her and how you saw her grow as their bond grew over time. Whatever you choose to speak about, be sure to keep the focus on the beauty of their relationship.

5. Share Encouragement or Advice for the Newlyweds’ Future

As you near the end of your speech, try closing with a word of encouragement or advice for the couple and their future together as newlyweds. After all, the whole point of the maid of honor speech is to celebrate the couple! You might include an inspirational quote or poem if you feel like it fits, but be sure to keep it short and sweet to avoid a long-winded reading.

6. Closing Toast

The closing of your speech should be short and sweet—simply share a closing remark to commemorate the happy couple. Then, invite the guests to raise their glasses in a toast to the newlyweds.

How to Nail Your Maid of Honor Speech

While the steps above are helpful in nailing the structure of your speech, there are a few additional tips to keep in mind that will help you write a compelling and meaningful speech.

Set Aside Reflection Time

Before you even attempt to write your speech, it’s a good idea to carve out some time to simply think and reflect. This can help kick off the creative process and get you into the right headspace as you ideate what you might want to include. Spend this time reflecting on the memories you share with the bride, and try to pinpoint any ideas or emotions that come to mind when you think of her. This way, you come away with a road map of all the major points you want to touch on in your speech.

Define Your Objective

As you’re planning your speech, it’s helpful to define your overall objective before you dive into the nitty gritty details and stories you’ll share. Think about the goal you want your speech to accomplish: is it to make the wedding guests laugh, cry, maybe both? Is the couple known for their sense of humor? Perhaps you add some comedic flair to your speech.

If you’ve been through a lot with the bride or want to touch on some more serious memories, perhaps you craft your speech to be more emotionally moving. In the end, defining your objective will help you find the direction your speech will take.

Don’t Go Overboard with Anecdotes

If you have a ton of history with the bride, you might have a miles-long list of heartwarming stories you want to share. However, one key to a compelling speech is keeping it short and sweet. A standard maid of honor speech should only be three to four minutes long, and you don’t want to risk boring the guests or taking the focus off of the celebration. To avoid this, choose one or two must-have memories or anecdotes that you know you want to include, and nix the rest.

Develop Your Story

Along with keeping things short and sweet, another key to writing a compelling maid of honor speech is to tell it like a story. Any story worth hearing has a defined beginning, middle and end. While you’re in control of the details that fill the story, you want to ensure that every detail aligns with the main point of your speech. Whatever you talk about should clearly tie back to the overall focus of the speech, which is celebrating the bond the couple shares and wishing them well for their new future together.

Be Authentic

The bride chose you as her maid of honor for a reason, so you shouldn’t feel like you have to be anything but yourself when you give your speech. Throw off any pressure you might feel to sound a certain way if it doesn’t ring true to you and your connection with the bride. A great maid of honor speech is about speaking openly and honestly about the bride and her partner—remember to write in the same way you’d speak to avoid sounding stiff or robotic.

Practice, Don’t Memorize

If you feel like you need to memorize your speech word for word, don’t! Instead, focus on practicing your speech in the weeks leading up to the wedding day. This way, the main points will be well committed to your memory and you won’t need to memorize it line by line. However, it’s still helpful to use a bulleted list of the main points when it’s time to give your speech—this way you don’t have to worry about losing track mid-speech.

When you’re practicing your speech, make sure you’re practicing out loud so you can get a feel for the overall flow and rhythm of what you plan to say. It’s also helpful to read it aloud to a friend or the other bridesmaids to get some outside perspective on how your speech sounds and any tweaks that might help it shine.

Maid of Honor Speech Template

Your maid of honor speech should be authentic and personal, and there’s a number of directions you might choose to take your speech in. If you’re stuck on where to begin, the template below is a great starting point to give you an idea of the general structure and flow of a maid of honor speech. Fill it in with your own words to personalize it according to you and your unique relationship with the bride!

“Hello everyone, I’m [ name ] and [ bride’s name ] maid of honor. I met [ bride’s name ] X years ago when [ how you met ] . When [ bride ] and I became friends, it was [ personal anecdote about your relationship with the bride ] . I’ll never forget [ personal memory between you and the bride ] .

When [ partner’s name ] came into the picture, [ personal anecdote about how you met their partner ] . [ Partner’s name ] was [ personal anecdote about the partner’s characteristics or favorite memory ] .

Watching their relationship grow over time has been [personal sentiments about the couple’s bond. I’ll always remember how [ personal anecdote about the journey of their relationship ] . Ever since then, I’ve seen [ bride’s name ] .

It’s a privilege to join with you all in honoring the marriage of [ bride ] and [ partner ] , and I know I speak for everyone when I say we’re thrilled to stand by your side today and support you both as you enter your new life together. If there’s one piece of advice I’d share, it’s [ word of advice or encouragement for the newlyweds ] . Thank you both for showing us what it means to love unconditionally. Please raise a glass to [ bride ] and [ partner ] ! May you two never stop loving each other, growing together, and showing up for each other today and every day. Cheers!”

Whether this is your first wedding speech or your 20th, feelings of nervousness are normal! With some dedicated time and practice (and a few deep breaths beforehand) you’ll be more than ready to nail your maid of honor speech. All that really matters is that your words come from the heart. After all, the couple might not remember every single word you share, but they’ll always remember the love and care that went into it.

Even more answers

• Wedding Rehearsal Dinners: 5 Ideas We Love
• Bouquet Tossing 101
• Wedding Ceremony Order & Outline
• 10 Tips on How to Walk Down the Aisle
• Unique Garter Toss Ideas
• How to Package Wedding Favors: A Complete Guide
• Bohemian Wedding Favors for the Carefree Couple
• The Duties of a Ring Bearer
• Tips for Giving a Best Man Speech
• Wedding Ceremony Readings: How to Choose Readings for Every Wedding
• Should You Buy Extra Wedding Favors?
• 56 Unique Wedding Memorial Ideas to Honor Loved Ones

Find even more wedding ideas, inspo, tips, and tricks

We’ve got wedding planning advice on everything from save the dates to wedding cakes.

Getting engaged

Wedding planning 101.

• Real weddings
• Creating a budget
• Wedding websites
• Wedding planning tools
• Wedding planning questions
• Wedding decorations
• Wedding day
• Wedding trends

Venues & vendors

• Wedding venues
• Photos & video
• Food & catering
• Florists & flowers
• Bands, DJs & music
• Cakes & desserts
• Bar & beverages

Invites & paper

• Save the dates
• Invitations
• Day-of paper

Registry & gifts

• Wedding registry basics
• Wedding gifts

Parties & events

• Engagement party
• Wedding shower
• Bachelorette party
• Bachelor party

Fashion & beauty

• Wedding Hair & makeup
• Wedding dresses
• Shoes & accessories
• Wedding attire
• Honeymoon planning
• Honeymoon destinations

Relationship advice

• Newly engaged couples
• Newlywed couples
• Anniversaries
• News & culture

Zola behind the scenes

• Sweepstakes
• Inside Zola

My Speech Class

Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

Maid of Honor Speech [What to Say + Outline + Template]

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.

Giving a maid of honor speech is an honor – and also a responsibility.

If you’re invited to be maid of honor at a family member or friend’s wedding, you have a huge role in the wedding ceremony. Writing the perfect wedding toast or speech can often seem like the hardest part.

Coming up with the perfect toast for this special day is much easier when you have sample speeches to be inspired by. We’ve compiled an essential list of maid of honor speech examples, from roast to religious.

Read on for our step-by-step guide to writing a maid of honor speech, and then watch the examples below. Now you’re ready to prepare a great speech with confidence.

In this article:

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech

Maid of honor speech topics blueprint, maid of honor speech outline, maid of honor speech examples.

Can We Write Your Speech?

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

The Maid of Honor, sometimes also called the Bridesmaid or even the Matron of Honor, speaks after the Best Man. Remember, the audience has to listen to lots of speeches before and after you.

So, my tip number one is: Keep it brief and simple; for your own utility and the convenience of the guests.

Maid of honor speeches can take many different forms. They might be funny or sweet, creative or traditional . Often, the speech will incorporate different elements, like humor and nostalgia, to hit all the right notes. Most speeches are 5 to 10 minutes long, but wedding speeches can also take many shapes, from short toasts to extended performances.

These simple tips will help you write a maid of honor speech that’s a perfect fit for the wedding day.

Begin Early

When you need to write a maid of honor speech, you’ll want to start early.

Begin the brainstorming process as soon as you’re asked to be maid of honor or bridesmaid. This might involve jotting down fun memories or an embarrassing story you’ve shared with the bride. You can also consider talking about the groom, the bride and groom’s relationship, or how they met.

Write down some ideas early on and then take a few days or weeks to let them percolate. When you come back to your ideas, the speech outline will start to become more clear.

Try a Quote

A great way to start or end your speech can be with a beautiful quote that has meaning for the wedding day. It can be funny, emotional, or poignant. Just make sure it’s something that has meaning for the newlyweds and that wedding guests can resonate with as well.

Tell Stories

The best speeches combine quotes or big ideas about love with real stories. Stories are fun for guests to listen to, and give your speech a solid foundation.

Choosing the right stories about the bride, or the bride and groom, is important. Do you want your speech to be funny, inspiring, or touching? The stories you tell will help set the tone. Think about details: the sights, sounds, or sensations you remember will keep the audience’s attention. Just don’t let it get too long – most speeches should be 10 minutes or less.

Be Prepared

Your speech will go much better if you’ve practiced ahead of time – more than once. The more you practice, the more confident you will feel when the big day comes.

Practice reading your speech, and time yourself to make sure it’s the length you want. Keep in mind that at the wedding ceremony or reception there will be pauses for laughter or applause, which will make your speech a few minutes longer.

You might want to videotape yourself practicing, or even practice in front of a friend or family member to get some feedback on your delivery. Just make sure not to give it to the bride ahead of time – your speech should come as a surprise on the wedding day.

Don’t forget to bring notes, too. Even if you never actually look at them, they will help you feel more comfortable when you take the microphone, and can save you if you draw a blank when it’s time to start.

A heartfelt speech is better than a perfect one.

Don’t be afraid that you’re going to stumble over a word or mess up somehow. If you’ve practiced ahead of time and drafted your speech early, you’ve done all the preparation you need.

Take the stage with confidence, knowing that little mistakes and imperfections can sometimes make a speech that much more meaningful because it’s genuine. If you laugh or cry, the wedding guests are probably going to laugh or cry with you. Keep your sense of humor if the mic cuts out or you stumble over a word. Enjoy the moment!

Here are our maid of honor speech tips in a sample template plus the speaking do’s and don’ts in a matrimonial ceremony based on their complimentary life styles. You are invited and do not know what to say?

Use our template for outlining thoughts, ideas and facts about the bridal couple. I will show you what you should mention and what the text should focus on. If you are not an experienced talker: relax, you do not have to say much, less is more is often said and well put!

But always: public speeches should be from the heart! Be enthusiastic and sincere, but do not exaggerate.

Maid Of Honor Speech Template

INTRODUCTION

• Tell who you are for the ones who don’t know.
• Thank your friend for asking you to be in this wedding.
• How long have you known the bride and groom?
• Why were you selected to accept the honor giving the oral?
• Why did you accept the invitation?
• How did the two of them met?
• What did you think when you saw their friendship became more serious? Reflect on their complimentary life styles. Approach this from the female side. Be tasteful. The best man is at the grooms’ side … so his job is to cover that part, not you 🙂
• Can you come up with a funny story that illustrates the personality of the wedding couple? Think about characterizing sweet, inspiring, exciting or just average daily events or moments.
• Can you come up with a hilarious anecdote based on a real life situation?
• Conclude this part of this special wedding address with letting them know that’s why you were so happy when they announced their wedding. As I said before: keep it short. Stick to one funny story. Ask others if they really like it, if it’s funny enough to share.

THE CEREMONY

• Stress the importance of the matrimonial ceremony. Give your personal view.
• Use a famous quote about marriage, love or the future.
• Relate a short poem to the couple. Quotes and poems are a good starting point for inspiration.
• Wish the bride and groom a long and happy life.
• Express your love and best wishes for the future.
• If they have had hard times, then mention it briefly in one poetic sentence. Not more. Focus on this happy day!
• You can thank and toast to the bride and groom on behalf of the bride, but only if she asked you to do so.

Do’s And Don’ts

• Bring notes, know what you want to say. Too much improvisation can lead to babbling, stumbling or a too long maid of honor speech.
• Do not get too personal. Ask others if the stories you want to tell will not embarrass the bride and groom or the guests. Check double check is the motto.
• Do not come up with negative or depressing speech topics. Kee it nice and friendly for all.
• Avoid sexual tinted expressions, political engagement or religion issues and hold back your horses when you want to mention actual news or political stories.
• Read a draft out loud in front of somenone else and ask for opinions. Alter with the recommendations in mind.

Although maid of honor speeches can take many forms, having a classic speech outline will help you get started. If you’re not sure what to write, follow these simple steps and you’ll be able to write a beautiful, traditional speech.

1. Introduce Yourself

You can’t count on all the wedding guests knowing who you are or how you know the bride. Make time early in your speech to mention your name, what your relationship to the bride is, and how long you’ve known each other.

2. Thank People

Weddings can be expensive, stressful, and difficult to plan. It’s good to take a moment in your speech to thank the parents and other notable guests who helped make the wedding day happen.

3. Tell Stories

Next, you can launch into a story of your choice. There are many different directions you can take this part of the speech. An embarrassing story you share with the bride can get guests laughing, while a touching anecdote about the newlywed couple’s relationship might make happy tears flow.

4. Add a Quote

You can add a meaningful quote anywhere in your speech. The quotes you choose should have meaning to both you and the bride (and maybe the groom as well), and also be relatable to the other guests in attendance. If it’s an inside joke or an obscure reference that not many people will get, you may want to leave it out.

5. Give Heartfelt Emotion

Even the funniest roasts of the bride often have a moment when the speech becomes touching. No matter what the tone of your speech is, it doesn’t hurt to take a moment and recognize the beauty of the day. The best speeches often aren’t all funny or all sentimental – they’re a mix of both.

6. Finish Strong

Your ending will be the part of the speech guests are most likely to remember. Give a strong ending, whether it’s a quote, a final story, or proposing a toast to the bride and groom.

Sister Maid of Honor Speech

This sister wedding speech celebrates all of the fun of watching your family get married. The bride’s sister starts out with humor, telling family memories through a funny lens. However, she quickly gets emotional as she recounts how much her sister means to her.

“You’ve been a great mentor. You’ve been a beautiful impact on my life, and you taught me that there’s beauty in everyone no matter what they do.”

Best Friend Matron of Honor Speech

The best friend of the bride for over 10 years, this matron of honor has nothing but praise for the bride. She recounts how she approved right away upon meeting the groom, and how excited she was upon learning of their engagement.

“You have really, truly become like my sister. I knew I’d be telling you how beautiful you looked, but seeing you next to your handsome groom, you really are absolutely breathtaking.”

Short Matron of Honor Speech

This short speech starts with a funny memory of the bride talking about the groom years before their engagement. In just a minute and a half, the matron of honor brings both laughter and heartfelt emotion to her speech.

“Speaking from experience, marriage is a wild ride. But when you find that right partner, you never want the ride to end.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SRniSDMhWgM

Maid of Honor Toast

In a fun, beautiful toast to the bride, this bride’s sister thanks guests for coming, and then launches into memories of growing up together. She shouts out to both the bride and the groom for being important parts of her life.

“Katie is so much more than a big sister to me  – she’s my best friend, my mentor, and the unfailing reminder that sometimes being a sister is even better than being a princess.”

Matron of Honor Speech

This matron of honor gets guests laughing by pulling out a scroll to read from at the beginning of her speech. She recounts the embarrassing story of how the bride stole her spot on the varsity team when they first met. However, their friendship quickly blossomed, and the matron of honor touches on many of the fun things they did together as kids.

“I had the time of my life growing up with you.”

Funny Maid of Honor Speech

In a funny, lighthearted speech, this maid of honor recounts growing up with the bride, and even planning her wedding as little girls. The maid of honor also turns to the groom and thanks him for being the perfect partner for her friend. She fills the speech with memories, from embarrassing to sweet, and ends with a song for a truly memorable wedding moment.

“You’re all the things I hoped for my best friend and more, and I’m so grateful you found her and that you love her the way she really deserves.”

Roast Speech

This maid of honor kept guests laughing with her deadpan delivery of jokes in this short speech. Her stand-up comedy is perfect for the occasion, and she pokes fun at everyone from the bride to the groom to herself.

“When I first sat down and started thinking about what I want to say here tonight, I kept thinking to myself, ‘I can’t believe Erin’s getting married…in less than an hour. No, I’m kidding, I had it written before breakfast.”

Christian Maid of Honor Speech

A sweet speech from the bride’s best friend hits the right notes in a short amount of time. She compares the couple’s love to being like the love of Christ because it is so strong and so beautiful.

“The love that these two share is so strong, it doesn’t need a thousand stories, it doesn’t need a thousand words; it just radiates from these two.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKKwOBW_8xY

Creative Maid of Honor Speech

This fun maid of honor speech starts with the bride’s sister recalling dancing to pop songs as a kid with her mom, who was pregnant with the bride. Then, she uses a musical interlude to tell the story of the bride’s life from a sister’s perspective. In a mashup of pop music covers, the maid of honor gives a great performance that gets the wedding guests clapping in time.

“[My mom and I] danced around the house to Cyndi Lauper’s ‘Girls Just Wanna Have Fun. And lo and behold, 9:30 am on day 9…DeeDee arrives. Apparently she also just wanted to have fun.”

Bridesmaid Speech

In this genuine, sweet speech, the bridesmaid’s excitement about the happy couple’s new marriage is truly evident. Her fun while holding the microphone is contagious to all the guests.

“I’m just so excited to be here, to witness the true love that is so evident between Taylor and Niko.”

Touching Maid of Honor Speech

This heartfelt, emotional maid of honor speech was given by a college friend of both the bride and the groom. She recounts the story of how she first met the bride, and then tells the bride and groom’s love story as she saw it unfold.

“It was obvious there was something truly amazing between the two of them. Four months of courting and a very, very, very confused Mark later, Mara finally accepted his proposal to be boyfriend and girlfriend – and the rest is history.”

Bridesmaid Toast

These bridesmaids toast the bride in song form. They celebrate the happy couple in their own words, and then shout out to notable wedding guests, keeping everyone entertained the entire time.

“Love is the reason we’re all here – that’s what you toasted for.”

Maid of Honor Speech

The maid of honor speech can be just as hilarious and emotional as the best man speech . Amusing, creative speeches like this one might get a standing ovation. The maid of honor uses a numerical countdown to format her speech, ending with the number one which is, of course, the bride.

“At the end of the day, you’re always gonna have that one person who’s in your corner, who’s your personal cheerleader.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uX9Y6OhkH1s

200+ Good Impromptu Speech Topics

Best Man Speech Outline [Examples + Template]

Leave a Comment

I accept the Privacy Policy

Reach out to us for sponsorship opportunities

Vivamus integer non suscipit taciti mus etiam at primis tempor sagittis euismod libero facilisi.

© 2024 My Speech Class

How to write maid of honor speech for best friend

Being asked to be the maid of honor for your best friend is a tremendous honor, and it comes with the responsibility of delivering a heartfelt and memorable speech on their special day. If you’re wondering how to write the perfect maid of honor speech that will not only make your best friend proud but also leave the guests in awe, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create a speech that reflects your genuine love and admiration for the bride.

Table of Contents

A Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting the Perfect Maid of Honor Speech for Your Best Friend

Step 1: Start with a Warm Introduction

Begin your maid of honor speech with a warm and welcoming introduction. Greet the guests, express your gratitude for being part of this special day, and share a brief story or memory that highlights the deep bond you share with the bride. This will set a positive tone for your speech and captivate the audience’s attention.

Step 2: Express Your Gratitude for Being Chosen

Incorporate the keyword “how to ask to be your maid of honor” into your speech by expressing gratitude for being chosen as the maid of honor. Share the details of how your best friend popped the question, and describe the excitement and joy you felt when asked to play such a significant role in her wedding.

Step 3: Share Personal Anecdotes

Make your speech unique by incorporating personal anecdotes and stories that showcase the bride’s character, quirks, and the special moments you’ve shared together. Whether it’s a funny childhood memory, a heartwarming experience, or a challenging time you both faced together, these stories will add a personal touch to your speech.

Step 4: Compliment the Bride and Groom

Take a moment to compliment both the bride and groom. Highlight their strengths as individuals and as a couple, and express your genuine happiness for their union. Complimenting the groom is a great way to make him feel welcomed into your friend’s circle and convey your support for their partnership.

Step 5: Speak from the Heart

To create an impactful maid of honor speech, speak from the heart. Share your emotions and let your love for your best friend shine through your words. Avoid using clichés or generic phrases, and instead, focus on conveying your authentic feelings. This sincerity will resonate with both the couple and the wedding guests.

Step 6: Conclude with Well-Wishes

Wrap up your speech by offering heartfelt well-wishes to the newlyweds. Express your hopes for a lifetime of love, joy, and happiness. You can also include a toast to celebrate their union, inviting the guests to raise their glasses in honor of the couple.

By following these steps “ how to ask to be your maid of honor ” into your speech, you’ll create a memorable and touching tribute to your friend on her special day.

Final Thought

Writing a maid of honor speech for your best friend is a meaningful and joyous task.Remember to speak from the heart, share personal anecdotes, Deciding where to put your wedding ring is a symbolic choice that marks the beginning of a lifelong journey together. May this simple act be a constant reminder of your commitment and enduring love. Cheers to a beautiful wedding celebration, and may your rings always shine brightly as a testament to the genuine love and support you share.

Similar Posts

10 Tips for a Long and Successful Career

There are specific things that you can do on a daily basis to cultivate a more successful career. Here are some of them from casino francais.

How to Use Toilet Seat Covers? The Ultimate Guide for a Hygienic Bathroom

To use toilet seat covers, simply pull one from the dispenser, unfold it, and place it on the toilet seat, covering the entire seat. Then, dispose of it in the proper receptacle after use. Many people are concerned about hygiene and cleanliness when using public restrooms. Fortunately, toilet seat covers offer a simple solution to…

The most suitable sport according to your child’s personality

Now that the kids are on vacation and have more free time, it’s the perfect time for them to start a new sporting activity. Sometimes it can be difficult to choose the best sport, but there are recommended activities for certain ages, for different personalities, and for the specific needs of each child. Today on…

Why is skateboarding good for you?

Skateboarding is a great sport for kids and adults. It can be a great workout and a fun way to get some exercise. Skateboarding is also a great form of therapy for kids who have been bullied or have issues with their peers. But skateboarding is also great for your health in many other ways….

How to train an outdoor cat to stay home

For many cat owners, the idea of keeping their feline friends indoors can be challenging, especially if their cats are used to the freedom of the great outdoors. However, transitioning an outdoor cat to an indoor lifestyle is not only possible but also essential for their safety and well-being. In this guide, we’ll explore effective…

Top 7 Worst Jobs in 2022 

From unfavorable conditions to gruesome tasks and challenging work environments to low wages, these are the worst jobs in the world curated by users

• Millennials

Crafting the Perfect Maid of Honor Speech: Heartfelt Examples and Tips

Crafting the perfect maid of honor speech is a unique blend of art and heartfelt emotion, encapsulating years of friendship, love, and cherished memories into a few precious minutes. Whether you’re speaking for your sister, your best friend, or a close relative, your speech is a pivotal moment that adds to the joy and significance of the wedding day. Here, we’ll explore various examples and offer a template to help you create a maid of honor speech that’s both memorable and deeply personal.

Short Maid of Honor Speech Examples

For a Best Friend: “Ladies and gentlemen, I stand before you today not just as the maid of honor but as the bride’s lifelong cheerleader, confidante, and partner-in-crime. From our sandbox days to now, [Bride’s Name] has been a constant source of joy, laughter, and unwavering friendship in my life. To [Groom’s Name], I offer my heartfelt thanks for making her so incredibly happy. May your lives together be filled with endless love and laughter. Cheers to my best friend and her new beginning!”

For a Sister: “Good evening, everyone. As [Bride’s Name]’s sister and maid of honor, I’ve had the privilege of watching her grow into the remarkable woman she is today. She’s my anchor, my confidante, and more importantly, my best friend. Today, as she embarks on this beautiful journey with [Groom’s Name], I am filled with pride and joy. To the happy couple, may your love be as boundless as the joy you’ve brought into each other’s lives. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness !”

Maid of Honor Speeches for a Best Friend

“Today, I have the honor of speaking about my best friend , [Bride’s Name]. From our shared adventures and late-night talks to the countless memories we’ve created, she has been my rock. As she and [Groom’s Name] start their journey together, I know she brings the same love, loyalty, and laughter to their marriage. [Groom’s Name], take good care of her; she’s one in a million. Here’s to a future filled with love, happiness, and maybe a few more adventures for us to share.”

Maid of Honor Speeches for a Sister

“As [Bride’s Name]’s sister, I’ve had the joy of knowing her longer than anyone else here. She’s been my confidante, my role model, and the best sister I could ask for. Seeing her marry [Groom’s Name] today fills my heart with happiness. You two are a testament to true love, and I couldn’t be happier for you both. May your marriage be filled with as much love, respect, and joy as you’ve shown each other. Congratulations!”

Related Posts

Unforgettable promposal ideas: creative ways to craft the perfect invite, 40 friday motivational quotes to propel you into the weekend, setting sail with style: how to choose the perfect name for your boat, recent stories, parenting a teenage girl: 4 important things every mom should do, cultivating patience: how to be a more patient mom, mama, this year, show up for yourself, football players stuffed peanuts in allergic teammate’s locker and gear—school district says it isn’t bullying, ‘does anyone want the child’: mom’s viral post reveals the ‘ugly parts’ of foster care.

We made For Every Mom because we wanted a place online where women could experience the essentials of motherhood: Jesus, laughter, community, and really awesome parenting tips. This is a place where we’re all in it together. We may be at different stages of motherhood, but every mom is a full-time mom. And you are ALL welcome here.

Popular Articles

Popular categories.

• Family & Parenting 1820
• Mom Gold 558
• Motherhood 376
• Society 326
• Marriage 278
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use

Stay in Touch

Creative Wedding Planning Ideas

Maid of Honor – Examples of Wedding Speeches for Your Best Friend

Sample Speech 1

Excuse me, everyone. I’d like to take a few moments to talk to you about my best friend Jennifer and her new husband Mark.

I’ve been Jennifer’s best friend since we were little girls. I remember how we used to play dress-up and dream of the weddings we would have when we were grown up. I’m sure that the wedding that has taken place here today far surpasses the childhood dreams I know Jennifer had about her big day!

Jennifer is one of the most loving, caring and kind people I’ve ever met. She has a fantastic sense of humor and a sharp wit — so look out, Mark! All kidding aside, though, I couldn’t be happier to honor my best friend on her wedding day.

Jennifer and Mark, I wish you all the love and happiness in the world. How blessed you are to celebrate your love on this beautiful day. I know there are many happy years of love and togetherness ahead for you.

Let’s all raise our glasses to Jennifer and Mark, and wish them a lifetime of love and joy!

Sample Speech 2

Good evening, everyone! I’d like to propose a toast to the bride and groom. Jennifer, as your best friend, I couldn’t be happier to celebrate this day with you. You’ve always been there for me throughout the years, and now I am honored to stand by your side today.

When Jennifer began dating Mark, I could tell their relationship would be more than just a casual thing. I could tell right away that there was something special there, something that we all want to find for ourselves — true love.

Mark, I know you will love and care for Jennifer for the rest of her life. I couldn’t wish for a better groom for my best friend!

In the spirit of love and unity, let’s toast the bride and groom and wish them all the happiness they deserve!

• Butterfly Wedding Cake
• Wedding Photography Poses Checklist

You May Also Like

Mother and father of groom – sample wedding speeches & toasts, witty wedding quotes, sister of the bride – sample wedding speeches & toasts.

90 years of expert advice and inspiration, for every couple.

• Engagement Rings
• Wedding Bands
• Celebrity Weddings & News
• Wedding Planning
• Destination Wedding
• Invitations & Stationery
• Wedding Décor
• Flowers & Bouquets
• Food & Drink
• Wedding Cakes
• Photography
• Wedding Dresses
• Bridesmaid Dresses
• Makeup & Hair
• Accessories
• Groom Style
• Wedding Party Attire
• Wedding Guest Attire
• Bridal Fashion Week
• Skincare & Wellness
• Engagement Party
• Bridal Shower
• Bachelorette Party
• Rehearsal Dinner
• Registry Tips
• Anniversary Gifts
• Wedding Favors
• Friends & Family
• Marriage Proposal Ideas
• Married Life
• Love & Dating
• The Brides Team
• Editorial Guidelines
• Editorial Policy
• Terms of Use and Policies
• Privacy Policy
• Wedding Ideas & Advice
• Wedding Reception Ideas
• Who Gives a Speech at a Wedding Reception? How to Write a Wedding Toast Tips for the Father of the Bride Speech How to Write a Best Man Toast Advice for the Maid of Honor Speech What to Know About a Newlywed Toast Public Speaking Experts' Wedding Speech Tips 60 Quotes to Use for Your Wedding Toast

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech

Follow these expert tips to knock your maid of honor speech out of the park.

Photo by Janine Licare

In This Article

You've been asked to play a huge role in your best friend's wedding—maid of honor! But, the job comes with a slew of important tasks , including giving the maid of honor speech. While this is a moment to celebrate your friendship, the idea of getting up in front of a crowd can be nerve-wracking if you're not used to giving speeches.

As staunch advocates of BFF love, we've taken it upon ourselves to create a go-to guide for penning the perfect speech to see your bestie off on their new life with their partner. With a few tips and tricks along with plenty of practice, your maid of honor speech will go off without a hitch.

With expert insight from professional speechwriter Katelyn Peterson—founder of vow- and toast-writing company Wedding Words —and examples of real-life speeches, we have all the details you need. Read on for helpful tips and guidelines to deliver an absolutely unforgettable maid of honor speech .

Meet the Expert

Katelyn Peterson is a speech writer and the founder of vow- and toast-writing company Wedding Words .

Maid of Honor Speech Template

While every maid of honor speech will be different, we've put together an outline to get you started on yours.

Start with the bride; end with the couple.

Of everyone at the wedding, you have the best insight into how much your bestie's partner has changed them for the better. Your maid of honor speech needs to be about the friend you knew long before meeting their soulmate and then pivot to what role they have played in their life. Maybe your friend is even funnier now, or maybe you've simply never seen your BFF so happy. This is also a great way to incorporate their new spouse into the speech if you don't really know them that well; speak to the way that they complement each other or how your BFF's new spouse has made them a better person.

Pepper in anecdotes.

Stories do a better job of getting your point across than blanket statements do. "Each anecdote you share should have an underlying theme that ties all the short stories together," says Peterson. "Reveal that theme near the end of your speech , and you’ll achieve a strong emotional impact."

End with a positive outlook.

The nature of this speech is not so much about your relationship with your friend, but the bond the couple shares. Make sure all of the separate components of your toast draw a positive conclusion, ending in how happy the couple is together and your best wishes for their marriage .

Maid of Honor Speech Tips

Keep in mind these helpful tips from professional speechwriter Katelyn Peterson to ensure you nail your maid-of-honor toast .

Kick-start the creative process by writing down any memories , emotions, or ideas that make you think of your BFF. "I recommend free-writing for 20 minutes," says Peterson. "When you’re done with this exercise, you should have some quality material that you can weave into the form of a speech." This allows you to create a blueprint of all the major points you want to make—more or less creating a roadmap for your ideas—and then fill it in with supporting information.

Ditch Generic Praise

"Use entertaining and engaging stories to show the bride’s personality ," advises Peterson. There's a big difference between simply saying, "She is such a great friend!" versus telling a story that illustrates just that.

Half the guests may not know your BFF all that well, so use this moment to paint a picture of how amazing they are. Bring their character to life with details only you could know.

Remember it isn't about you.

While a lot of the anecdotes should be about your time with your friend, you should not be the focal point. After you briefly introduce yourself (remember: most of the people probably won't know who you are or your relation to the couple), you shouldn't be making any additional references to yourself. You're simply the vehicle to explain why the newlyweds are so fantastic.

Do not mention exes.

No one wants to be reminded of past relationships , particularly in front of their family, friends, and new life partner. Keep the tone of your speech positive, and it will reflect positively on you also. You don't want to come across as though you're trying to roast your friend.

Keep it short.

The longer your speech, the more opportunities you'll have for people to start losing attention. "Keep your speech under five minutes," suggests Peterson. "Anywhere between two to five minutes is great."

Be sure to pause for a few seconds after each joke to let the audience laugh. When you immediately start speaking right afterward, you won't give people a chance to laugh or even understand the next line. Keep in mind that starting the speech on a funny note can help you capture the attention of the audience for a minute or two, but it's the meaningful content that will keep them enthralled until the end. "Your goal should be to have guests laughing and wiping tears away by balancing humor with sincerity," says Peterson.

If you experience public-speaking jitters, try looking just above everyone’s head. This can minimize your anxiety while allowing guests to think you're looking right at them.

Don't use inside jokes.

If the joke or situation is something other wedding guests would have to be there to understand, avoid using it. If people don't understand the context behind it, it will probably go over their heads. It's okay to poke a little bit of fun at your friend, but keep it light. Don't say anything that would be embarrassing or make them feel uncomfortable.

"The more you recite your speech out loud, the more comfortable you’ll become," notes Peterson. Practice your speech twice a day, starting at least a week beforehand, and record yourself a couple of times so you can hear your pacing and tone. Rehearse the speech in front of friends, too, in order to see if your jokes get a laugh, and try practicing in a mirror to nail your physical presence.

How to Get Started

Here are a few questions to ask yourself to start brainstorming ideas for your speech.

• Who will be speaking before or after you, and how will this affect the content of your speech? (You might want to include a reference to their toast in your speech, thank them for an introduction, or introduce the next speaker.)
• What would your friend want their in-laws and newly acquired family to know about them, and how can you attest to those qualities or characteristics from your own experiences with them?
• What's a warm memory of the newlyweds that always makes you smile? (Ask yourself: If their relationship were a Hollywood movie trailer, what key moments would be featured?)
• When you picture the couple's life together in a few years (or from this moment forward), what do you see? Is there any advice you can give them for their lifelong journey ahead?
• Is there something you want to say to your bestie's new spouse? (Perhaps a few lighthearted tips on how to handle more trying situations that you've learned from your own experiences with them.)

Maid of Honor Speech Examples to Make Your Own

If you're feeling stuck, here are three examples of speeches from real bridesmaids to inspire your own.

"Good evening, everyone. I’m Cami, the maid of honor and the bride’s best friend. Over the past 15 years, I’ve witnessed Madison prioritize everyone else’s happiness, but today, we get to honor hers. With Madison being my most fun-loving friend, I knew she’d be down to join me on a two-week adventure traveling throughout Europe. We lived together, but nothing cements a friendship quite like sharing a full-size bed in dingy hostels from the Netherlands to Spain. Madison’s luggage kept breaking, and she went through four suitcases in 14 days! There we were, strolling down a busy street in Madrid and Madison’s clothes were falling out of her over-packed suitcase, painting the path behind us with her sundresses and socks. But she never let her rundown luggage ruin the trip. She just kept rolling with it. Literally. I can always depend on Madison to roll with any situation, to show up for the people that she loves, and to have a good time.

But the truth is everyone in this room is better for knowing you, Madison. You love so deeply, selflessly, and unconditionally. And I know that Pete is the best partner for Madison because I’ve seen him mirror these traits for her. No matter what may come your way, your combined patience, resilience, and love will make you an unstoppable team. And most importantly, I know you two will continue to keep rolling with it . Cheers!" —Cami

"I’m Ashley and welcome! I was introduced to Sarah through a mutual friend to evaluate if she would be a fit as my future roommate. I showed up to that first dinner wearing a casual sundress and flats. Meanwhile, Sarah walked in with voluminous curls, smoky eyes , red lipstick, and a smile that showed me she deserved that Miss Florida title in ’04. I just thought, 'Who is this girl?' Over the next two hours, I learned that this girl was the coolest, funniest person and that I had to live with her. We moved in and it was truly an immediate fit from watching the same shows to downing bottles of the same wine. Despite our homebody nature, we did enjoy our Saturday nights running around the city. One night after several margaritas, Sarah and I found ourselves locked out of our house. So we came up with the best plan we could imagine: Let’s cannonball into our pool. There we were: Two tequila-loving girls cannonballing to see who could create the biggest splash. From that night on, whenever we went out, we’d ask ourselves one key question: 'Is it going to be a cannonball in the pool kind of night?'

And just like she’s always filled the gap in our friend group—we know that John has entered her life to level her out in the best of ways, too. Let’s raise a glass to Sarah and John! May your life together be full of cannonball-in-the-pool kind of nights." —Ashley

"Hi, my name is Makena and I’m the bride’s younger sister and maid of honor . As I look at Winnie and Miles today, I see two people in the most loving, trustworthy, and nurturing relationship I’ve ever witnessed. It shouldn’t come as a surprise to me that even on her wedding day, Winnie is teaching me about life and love. Because the truth is Winnie has been my lifelong teacher. She’s the one who taught me how to read and how to ride a bike, but my most memorable teaching moment was when I was 11 years old.  We had this mutual understanding—or so I thought—that we would not read each other’s journals. But I, of course, read hers and naively assumed she did not read mine. I learned the truth when I opened my journal one day to see an entire page filled with Winnie’s handwriting. There in the middle of my journal was a critique from my sister detailing out how I could improve my writing.

I know that if it weren’t for my sister, I would not be the person I am today. I’m inspired daily by the woman she is. Her confidence is unshakable, her excitability is contagious, and her determination is awe-inspiring. Winnie will finally get to experience what I’ve felt like my entire life with her. She’ll be cared for, unconditionally loved, and will learn every day with Miles as her lifelong teacher through love. Please raise a glass to Winnie and Miles! May you two never stop learning from each other as you continue to love each other." —Makena

First things first: Don't overcomplicate it! Stay authentic to yourself and keep it simple by telling a story, sharing why you love the bride, and toasting the newlyweds.

Keep it short and sweet! Having a two to five minute speech that is both sentimental and humorous is the best way to honor the couple in a way that is engaging and memorable .

Close out your speech with a simple, light-hearted joke and a toast to the newlyweds . This will create the perfect opportunity for a combined cheer and chuckle from the crowd .

A Guide to Wedding Reception Toasts

Who Gives a Speech at a Wedding Reception?

How to Write a Wedding Toast

Tips for the Father of the Bride Speech

How to Write a Best Man Toast

Advice for the Maid of Honor Speech

What to Know About a Newlywed Toast

Public Speaking Experts' Wedding Speech Tips

60 Quotes to Use for Your Wedding Toast

Related Stories

How to Write a Father-of-the-Groom Speech

Public Speaking Experts Share Their Top Tips for Giving an Amazing Wedding Speech

How to Write a Rehearsal Dinner Toast

How to Write a Sister-of-the-Groom Speech

How to Write a Wedding Toast: Examples, Tips, and Advice

Mother-of-the-Bride Speech Examples and Writing Tips

Everything to Know About Your Groom Speech: Tips, Advice, and Examples

How to Write the Perfect Best Man Speech

Our Favorite Unique Maid of Honor Speech Ideas

Everything You Need to Know About Wedding Champagne Toasts

How to Write Your Own Wedding Vows, Including 17 Vow Examples

12 Common Mistakes Maids of Honor Make

How to Write an Unforgettable Newlywed Reception Toast

30 Creative Bridesmaid Proposal Ideas

Can I Have Two Maids of Honor in My Bridal Party?

A Complete Guide to Bridesmaid Duties

30 Best Maid of Honor Speech Examples in 2024

Hello and welcome to our blog, where we’ve got a special treat for anyone stepping into the critical role of a maid of honor this year. Crafting the perfect speech isn’t easy, but we’re here to help. In this post, ’30 Best Maid of Honor Speech Examples in 2024,’ we’re bringing diverse speech samples to cater to various styles and preferences.

So, if you’re looking for inspiration to create a memorable speech for your loved one’s big day, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into these examples and get you started on your speech-making journey!”

Here are the best maid of honor speech

Speech 1: childhood memories.

Good evening, everyone! I’m delighted to be here as [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor. We’ve been mates since childhood, and I’ve enjoyed witnessing her incredible journey. We’ve shared countless memories, from building pillow forts in her living room to helping her choose the perfect wedding dress.

One of my favorite childhood memories with [Bride’s Name] was when we tried to bake cookies for the first time. Let’s say we created cookies that could double as hockey pucks! But what that day taught me was [Bride’s Name]’s determination and her ability to turn any mishap into a joyful adventure. I can’t wait to see the incredible adventures she and [Groom’s Name] will embark on together in the coming years.

So, here’s to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], a couple whose love story inspires us all. I wish you a lifetime of love, laughter, and endless adventures! It’s one of the best maid of honor speech examples.

Speech 2: Love Story

Ladies and gentlemen, standing here as [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor on this beautiful day is an honor. As we all know, love stories are unique and magical, and theirs is no exception. [Share how the bride and groom met and fell in love.]

Their love story is a testament to the power of destiny and love, and I do not doubt that their journey together will be filled with even more love, laughter, and beautiful memories. Let’s raise our glasses to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] as they begin this incredible new chapter in their lives. I hope your love continues to blossom and shine as brightly as it does today. It’s one of the best maid of honor speech examples.

Speech 3: Shared Adventures

Hello, everyone! I am grateful to be here today as [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor. It’s been a pleasure to share adventures with youIt’s been a pleasure to share adventures with you over the years. We’ve been there from epic road trips to navigating the peaks and valleys of life.

One unforgettable adventure was when we decided to take a spontaneous road trip. We got lost, ran out of gas, and ended up at the quirkiest diner in the middle of nowhere. But that’s the thing about [Bride’s Name]; she turns any situation into an adventure. I do not doubt that her marriage to [Groom’s Name] will be the most incredible adventure ever. May your journey be filled with love, joy, and countless adventures. Here’s to the newlyweds! It’s one of the best maid of honor speech examples.

Speech 4: Anecdote About the Groom

Ladies and gentlemen, I’m [Your Name] pleased to be [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor today. I’ve had the chance to get to know [Groom’s Name] quite well, and there’s a story I’d like to share about him. [Share a funny or heartwarming anecdote involving the groom.]

This story is just one example of how much [Groom’s Name] has become integral to our lives. His love and dedication to [Bride’s Name] are genuinely inspiring. To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your life together be full of love, laughter, and many more beautiful stories. It’s one of the unique maid of honor speeches.

Speech 5: Wishes for the Future

Hello, everyone! Today, I am honored to stand by [Bride’s Name]’s side as her maid of honor. It’s hard to put into words how special she is to me. Looking at [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] today, I see an inspiring love, a love that’s destined to last a lifetime. I wish you the best of luck, love, happiness, and joy. May your journey be as beautiful as this day, and may you create countless magical memories together. Cheers to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]!

Feel free to adapt and modify these speeches to suit your own experiences and the personalities of the bride and groom. Adding personal anecdotes and inside jokes can make the speech more meaningful and memorable. It’s one of the unique maid of honor speeches.

Speech 6: The Power of Friendship

“Ladies and gentlemen, family and friends, today I stand before you as [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor, and I am deeply honored to have been given this role. Our journey together has been incredible. We’ve laughed, cried, and shared the most amazing moments of our lives.

Seeing [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] together reminds me that love is powerful. It’s the force that brought us together, and it’s the force that has brought them here today. I am joyful, knowing that [Bride’s Name] has found someone who cherishes and loves her just as we all do.

To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], your love inspires us all. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness and shared moments even more incredible than those we’ve experienced together.” It’s one of the unique maid of honor speeches.

Speech 7: A Sister’s Love

“Good evening, everyone. As [Bride’s Name]’s younger sister and maid of honor, I’ve witnessed her growth and transformation throughout our lives. She’s been my mentor, my confidant, and my best friend. And today, I couldn’t be happier for her as she begins this new chapter with [Groom’s Name].

Seeing [Bride’s Name] so radiant today makes my heart swell with pride. She’s not just my sister; she’s my role model. She has shown me what it means to be strong, compassionate, and full of love.

May your love story, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], be as beautiful and enduring as the bond I share with my sister. To love, laughter, and the incredible journey ahead.” It’s a great example of an emotional maid of honor speech.

Speech 8: Unwavering Support

“Dear friends and family, as [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor, it’s an immense honor to speak on behalf of our tight-knit group. We’ve been through thick and thin, and our bond with [Bride’s Name] is unwavering. I’ve seen [Bride’s Name] at her best and her most vulnerable, and it’s during those moments that I’ve come to admire her even more. Her strength, kindness, and ability to love unconditionally have inspired me beyond words.

And today, as we celebrate her love with [Groom’s Name], I can’t help but feel overwhelmed with happiness. You both deserve the world, and I do not doubt that your love will withstand any test that comes your way. Here’s to a love as deep and beautiful as our bond.” It’s a great example of an emotional maid of honor speech.

Speech 9: Cherished Memories

“Good evening, everyone. Today, I am honored to stand by [Bride’s Name]’s side as her maid of honor. It’s a role close to my heart, just like the bride. Over the years, [Bride’s Name] and I have collected a treasure trove of remembrances. From childhood mischief to the challenges of adulthood, we’ve been each other’s unwavering support.

Today, I’m reminded of all those moments that have led us here as we celebrate [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]’s love story. It’s a story intertwined with the best chapters of our lives. And it’s a love that I have no doubt will continue to inspire and bring joy to us all. To the happy couple, may your journey be filled with more beautiful memories than we can count.” It’s a great example of an emotional maid of honor speech.

Speech 10: Gratitude and Love

“Ladies and gentlemen, as [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor, I feel profound gratitude. I am grateful for the friendship that has defined my life and grateful to be here today to witness the love between [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name].

[Bride’s Name] is more than a friend; she’s family. She’s the one who’s laughed with me during good times and held me during the tough times.

And today, as we celebrate this extraordinary love story, I can’t help but be moved by the power of love, support, and friendship. To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your journey be blessed with all the love and happiness in the world. You both deserve nothing less.”

Speech 11: The Traveling Souls

“Good evening, everyone! Today, I stand as [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor, but I also stand here as her travel buddy, her partner in wanderlust. Our adventures have taken us to places that have filled our hearts with memories that last a lifetime.

Just as we’ve explored new destinations together, today marks the beginning of [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]’s journey to explore the boundless adventures of marriage. To the couple about to embark on the greatest journey, may your love story be as thrilling as all the places we’ve been.”

Speech 12: The Music of Love

“Dear friends and family, today, I want to celebrate [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]’s love story in a different way. Just as the harmonious blending of different notes creates a beautiful symphony, their love story has become a masterpiece. [Share anecdotes and memories that parallel musical metaphors.]

To the couple whose love story is the most beautiful composition we’ve ever witnessed, may your life together be filled with sweet, harmonious melodies.” It’s the best maid of honor speech.

Speech 13: The Book of Love

“Ladies and gentlemen, imagine life as a book and every day as a new page. [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]’s love story is like a captivating novel, each chapter more riveting than the last.

Today, they start a new chapter loaded with love, laughter, and shared dreams. To the couple authoring a love story that belongs on the best-seller list, may each page of your journey together be filled with happiness and adventure.” It’s the best maid of honor speech.

Speech 14: The Starry Night of Love

“Hello, everyone! [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]’s love is like a starry night sky, filled with countless moments that sparkle like stars. [Share stories and experiences related to stargazing or celestial themes.]

Just as the stars have guided them to this moment, may they continue to light each other’s way on this incredible journey of love.” It’s the best maid of honor speech.

Speech 15: The Culinary Connection

“As [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor, I’ve enjoyed sharing countless meals and culinary adventures with her. Just as every dish blends diverse ingredients, her love story with [Groom’s Name] is a beautiful fusion of two unique souls. [Share anecdotes about food-related memories.]

To the couple whose love is a perfect recipe, may your life together be seasoned with love, and may your love be as delicious as the finest cuisine.”

Speech 16: The Art of Love

“Today, we celebrate a beautiful wedding and a masterpiece of love. [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]’s love story is a canvas painted with vibrant emotions, bold strokes of laughter, and intricate understanding details. [Share stories related to art or creative endeavors.]

Just as a great artist meticulously crafts their work, may you continue to create a love story that’s nothing short of a masterpiece.”

Speech 17: The Adventure Awaits

“Good evening, everyone! We all know that life is an adventure, and [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] have already set out on the most incredible journey of all – their journey of love. [Share stories and experiences related to adventure and exploration.]

To the couple who’s already begun their adventure, may your path be filled with joy, excitement, and the thrill of discoveries.”

Speech 18: The Seasons of Love

“Dear friends and family, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] have weathered the seasons of life, and now they stand at the precipice of a new season – a season of love. [Share stories and metaphors related to seasons and transitions.]

Just as the seasons change and bring new beauty to the world, may your love continue to evolve and flourish with each passing season.”

Speech 19: The Puzzle of Love

“Ladies and gentlemen, love is often described as a puzzle, and I believe [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] have found the missing pieces to complete each other’s hearts. [Share stories and metaphors related to puzzles or games.]

To the couple whose love is a perfect fit, may your life together be a beautiful, intricate puzzle filled with shared experiences and love that completes each other.”

Speech 20: The Dance of Love

“Hello, everyone! Just as [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] have embarked on the beautiful dance of life together, their love story is a dance of its own. [Share stories and experiences related to dancing or movement.]

To the couple whose love is a graceful waltz, may your journey be filled with elegant steps, perfect harmony, and an endless dance of love.”

Speech 21: The Ocean of Love

“Dear guests, we often say love is like the vast, endless ocean, and today we celebrate [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]’s love that’s as deep and boundless as the sea. [Share stories and experiences related to the ocean or beach.]

To the couple whose love flows like the tides, may your life together be a beautiful voyage, with love as your compass and happiness as your destination.”

Speech 22: The Garden of Love

“Good evening, everyone! Love is often compared to a garden, where we plant the seeds of affection and nurture them as they grow. [Share stories and experiences related to gardens or flowers.]

Just as a beautiful garden requires care, may your love blossom, bloom, and thrive with each passing day.”

Speech 23: The Cosmic Connection

“Ladies and gentlemen, let’s think of love as a cosmic connection where two souls align in the vast universe of emotions. [Share stories and experiences related to space or astronomy.]

To the couple whose love is written in the stars, may your connection be as enduring as the galaxies and your love as infinite as the cosmos.”

Speech 24: The Puzzle Pieces of Life

“Hello, everyone! Life is often seen as a puzzle, where each piece contributes to the bigger picture. [Share stories and experiences related to puzzles or games.]

Just as every piece has a role in completing the puzzle, may your life be an intricate yet beautiful mosaic where every moment, every challenge, and every joy comes together to form your love story.”

Speech 25: The Love Train

“Dear friends and family, love can be compared to a journey on a never-ending train ride, with surprises at every station. [Share stories and experiences related to trains or travel.]

Just as a train ride takes you on an exciting journey, may your love journey be filled with adventure, excitement, and beautiful destinations.”

Speech 26: The Musical Harmony

“Good evening, everyone! Love is often likened to a symphony, where different notes combine to create a harmonious composition. [Share stories and experiences related to music or musical instruments.]

To the couple whose love is a beautiful melody, may your life together be filled with perfect harmonies and sweet, sweet music.”

Speech 27: The Timeless Love Story

“Ladies and gentlemen, love has a way of transcending time, and today, we celebrate a love story that feels both timeless and modern. [Share stories and experiences related to history or time.]

To the couple whose love knows no bounds, may your story be written in the annals of time, and may your love be an everlasting tale.”

Speech 28: The Culinary Connection

“Hello, everyone! Love is a beautiful blend of flavors and ingredients, like a well-crafted dish. [Share stories and experiences related to food or cooking.]

Just as a chef creates a perfect recipe, may your love be a delicious mix of laughter, trust, and the sweetness of shared moments.”

Speech 29: The Treasure Hunt of Love

“Dear friends and family, think of love as an exciting treasure hunt, with each moment bringing you closer to something precious. [Share stories and experiences related to treasure hunts or adventures.]

To the couple who has found the most priceless treasure, may your life together be filled with the joy of discovery and the thrill of adventure.”

Speech 30: The Literary Love Story

“Good evening, everyone! Love is like a beautifully written book; today, we celebrate a love story that’s like an enchanting chapter in the grand novel of life. [Share stories and experiences related to books or literature.]

To the couple whose love story is a page-turner, may your life be a narrative filled with suspense, romance, and happy endings.”

In conclusion , exploring these 30 unique maid of honor speech in 2024 reminded us that love is a boundless, ever-evolving journey. Each speech is a testament to our deep and enduring connections with the bride and groom. Whether celebrating adventures, embracing traditions, or embracing the quirks that make each love story unique, one thing is clear: love is the thread that weaves these stories together.

As you craft your speech, remember that your words can touch hearts, evoke laughter, and bring tears of joy. May your speech, like the love it celebrates, be truly unforgettable, leaving a lasting impression on the hearts of those who hear it.

Related Posts

“I am honoured to call her my best friend” – Maid of Honour Speech by Sarah

"At every wedding I go to, I can't wait for the speeches and I'm usually the one filming and sobbing with the tissue. Hopefully not on this occasion."

We have included third party products to help you navigate and enjoy life’s biggest moments. Purchases made through links on this page may earn us a commission.

Speech Type:  Maid of Honour Time to Read Aloud: 12 minutes Our Favourite Line:  “I’m pretty sure the reason why I’m so bad at maths is because I sat next to Vikki. All we would do is sit and write notes to each other in the backs of our exercise books, who needs algebra anyways!”

Good evening ladies and gentlemen. Thank you for all being here to celebrate Vikki and James’ very special day! For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Sarah. I’m the maid of honour and the best friend of the bride.

Firstly, before I say anything, I have to say how absolutely stunning Vikki looks today. She’s the most beautiful bride I have ever seen and James is one very lucky man. Of course, James is looking very dapper himself – go on JimBob.

My two favourite things at a wedding have to be watching the groom’ face as his wife-to-be walks down the aisle and I am a MASSIVE sucker for speeches! At every wedding I go to, I can’t wait for the speeches and I’m usually the one filming and sobbing with the tissue. Hopefully not on this occasion.

My two favourite things at a wedding have to be watching the groom' face as his wife-to-be walks down the aisle and I am a MASSIVE sucker for speeches!

When Vikki asked me to be her maid of honour, I knew it meant I was giving a speech, mainly because I made her do it at mine and she probably wanted payback, but mostly because I knew how much it would mean to her. I have to say I am completely humbled and honoured to be a part of their special day but most of all to tell you what an amazing person and couple Vikki and James are.

I’ll set the scene for you guys, so the story begins, every once in a while two people meet and you know it’s meant to be. You know instantly that the stars have aligned and their paths would bring them together regardless of what the world may throw their way. This was clearly the case 16 years ago when Vikki and I first met!

You know instantly that the stars have aligned and their paths would bring them together regardless of what the world may throw their way. This was clearly the case 16 years ago when Vikki and I first met!

I bet you thought I was going to say James then… no Vikki and I met in year 10 science class whilst we were running away from Mark trying to slap us with rulers. School was definitely a learning curve for Vikki and me. We had some amazing times and holidays when we weren’t getting ourselves into trouble.

Vikki and I were actually having a chat about a month ago about what I could and couldn’t put in this speech… I think the words she used were ‘Munchkin, I hope you use your own personal judgement’ to which I laughed and then I think she realized that was a mistake. We ended up reminiscing about a couple of moments in our lives. From getting chucked out of judo at school cause she would constantly knee me in the boob, even to this day she’ll scream ‘Karate chop’ and give me a dead leg and I still don’t know how she does it!

If you knew Vikki when she was younger, then you’d know she had a proper monobrow.  Sorry Munchkin but you did. I had the privilege of plucking that bad boy before attempting to get in an over 18’s club at the age of 15! God only knows how we managed it because we still get ID’d now!

If you knew Vikki when she was younger, then you'd know she had a proper monobrow. Sorry Munchkin but you did.

My favourite time from school was when Vikki came back from Canada on an exchange trip. I don’t know what possessed her but she let her Canadian exchange student cut her a fringe… When she turned up to class looking like something out of dumb and dumber, I took one look and said what did you do?! I honestly think I fell off my chair laughing. Poor Vick, bad times, wish I had a photo. I’m pretty sure the reason why I’m so bad at maths is because I sat next to Vikki. All we would do is sit and write notes to each other in the backs of our exercise books, who needs algebra anyways!

We did end up getting ourselves into a little bit of trouble… especially when Vikki’s 15th birthday party got a teeny tiny bit out of control. I’m pretty sure it took Gil and Jackie a couple of years to grow the grass back in their garden (I’ve written on my notes don’t look Gil in the eye, he may still be angry!) But the good news is Sam survived the foaming from the mouth. How long did you get grounded for again Vikki? And we’re moving on.

Things Jackie and Gil probably didn’t know about were the times we used to climb over the park gates in our PJs to eat Ben and Jerry in the park around the corner from her house. We really did love that Phish Food.

Vikki and I have had some very interesting holidays. The first holiday we went on was to Benidorm at 18 and I think that’s all I have to say about that holiday, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. Our more recent holidays together have been slightly more civilized with James and Mirko, we tend to meet up in random places around the world, Bangkok and Vietnam. Funnily enough, we always manage to leave with a massive hangover. But at least we were never mugged or robbed, eh?

Vikki and I have had some very interesting holidays. The first holiday we went on was to Benidorm at 18 and I think that's all I have to say about that holiday.

When Vikki told me she was going travelling, I felt like I was losing my right arm and my left leg. We would have our crazy nights-in playing scrabble, Wii and Rummikub with a good old cuppa and that was soon to be no more.

I have to say, Vikki has made me cry in some really random places and I’m sure she can probably say the same. It would be amazing when she came home having my best mate back and having adventures but then when she left it would result in tears and a hell of lot of them. Some of the places, to name a few, are Goodmayes station, Bond Street station, a Vietnam sleeper bus and, my favourite, the central line underground train with no tissues. She had to get off at Oxford street to go shopping and I stayed on the train to get home. Nice one Vikki, wow did I get some strange looks!

Seriously though Vikki, we probably know more about each other than we probably care to. We’ve laughed together, cried together, laughed until we’ve cried and have inside jokes that only we probably find funny. We’ve been there for each other through some of the hardest times in our lives and have been grateful to experience some of the best years of our lives together. I’ve had the opportunity to watch her grow, change and evolve into the magnificent woman that sits before us today. I am honoured to call her my best friend. She is a beautiful person inside and out and I’ve had the pleasure of being Vikki’s friend for many years. Vikki, I want you to know that you’re like a sister to me and I love you very much. I’m so happy that you’ve found your ‘nashing out’ partner, Jim-bob.

I've had the opportunity to watch her grow, change and evolve into the magnificent woman that sits before us today.

I think on numerous occasions I would tell Jimbob, ‘If you ever hurt Vikki, I will hunt you down and I will hurt you. I think, at some points, he was slightly scared because he would go and tell her. I stopped threatening him when I knew his intentions were good. I could see then and even more now how much he dotes on Vikki and would do absolutely anything for her. He did run a half marathon for her after all, that’s commitment right there!

I can honestly say that Vikki and James are soulmates. They fit like two peas in a pod, they even came up with their own terms. One of them being ‘nashing out’.  I just need to say, this isn’t a real term and I would definitely not google this either. I can only describe ‘nashing out’ as when you have a massive burst of energy, go a bit crazy, get a bit weird and dance like a loon. I remember Vikki telling me that, after a Halloween night out, her and James came home pissed, put the TV on and the Thriller song came on. They broke into dance and did the whole thriller routine in their front room. Her crazy definitely matches his crazy.

So James here’s some advice for the future:

No1. She is always right

No.2 She always needs new clothes and shoes

No.3 Follow these rules and, for happily married life, check advice no.1

I was doing a little search on the internet for perfect marriage quotes and I came along this one which I feel summed it up perfectly: “Love is a partnership of two unique people who bring out the very best in each other and who know that, even though they are wonderful as individuals, they are even better together.”

Love is a partnership of two unique people who bring out the very best in each other and who know that, even though they are wonderful as individuals, they are even better together.

This is utterly true in Vikki and James. They complete each other, best friends, soulmates, and the perfect partners in crime. You are one lucky man Jim-Bob. Thank you for making Vikki so incredibly happy. I’m so happy to know she has a man who’s caring, loving, spontaneous and supportive by her side.

I’ll leave you two with a little advice. Love isn’t perfect. It isn’t always a fairy-tale and it doesn’t always come easy. Love is overcoming obstacles, facing challenges, fighting to be together, holding on and never letting go, so as you embark on this new journey together, I wish you all the happiness in the world.

Everyone please be upstanding and raise your glass to the fabulous and unstoppable couple.

• “May you guys share everything in life together equally, including the housework” – Maid of Honour Speech by Rachael
• “Suzie goes on holiday so often she got a job that enables her to go abroad and be paid for it!” Maid of Honour Speech by Helen
• “You have made me who I am today” – Maid of Honour Speech by Evie

Related Hitched articles

• Search Search Please fill out this field.
• Martha's Blog
• Sweepstakes
• Wedding Planning & Advice
• Wedding Party
• Bridesmaids

The Best Maid-of-Honor Speech Examples

From song covers to mashups, get inspired by these amazing maid of honor speech examples.

Whether it's your sister or your best friend, your maid of honor will be there for you during some of the best—and also the toughest— wedding-planning moments . From the moment you tell her you're engaged to the day she helps you calm down when your future mother-in-law gets a little too involved, the maid of honor is responsible for doing a lot . But one of the most important tasks is giving the maid of honor speech. Here, find examples of some of the best ones we've ever heard, and let these great toasts inspire your own.

This epic six-minute mashup from two sisters featuring songs like "Backstreet's Back" by the Backstreet Boys, "Back In Your Heart" by the Jackson Five, and "Oh Happy Day," stole our hearts and made us laugh. The girls rapped and sang, going all-out with their performance for their sister.

This bride's younger sister re-wrote the lyrics to "Without Me" by Eminem and rapped her maid-of-honor toast for a full five minutes. Not only does that take confidence, but also some serious lung capacity. Naturally, she got a standing ovation.

This bride's best friend and maid of honor sang a new version of "Love Story" by Taylor Swift, recounting their friendship and watching her fall in love with her now husband. Cue the "awws!"

The bride's younger sister flawlessly rapped her toast to Chris Brown's "Look at Me Now." If you know the song, then you know how fast Busta Rhymes raps his verses, and this MOH did the song justice.

Taylor Swift's "Love Story" makes an appearance again here, with a bride's twin sister and younger sister singing their speech . Both sisters served as MOHs, proving you can have more than one!

How To Write A Maid Of Honor Speech (Examples And Advice)

Some of the best speeches at weddings are the maid of honor speeches. You’ve been chosen for this special role because you know things about the bride that her parents don’t (and maybe some that should stay that way..ahem). You’ve also probably been through thick and thin together. 

You may want to share some kind words about the groom, but it’s what you say to the bride during your speech that will matter the most at this time of transition in her life.

She needs to know you’re her Girl Friday, and you’ve got her back through every milestone. Your maid of honor speech is one of the best ways to deliver that message. 

So, bearing all of the above in mind, you might be feeling apprehensive about your speech. After all, she chose YOU to be her best bestie on her big day and everyone’s going to be waiting with bated breath for your words of wisdom and hilarious anecdotes from the times you’ve spent together.

Well, we’re to tell you there’s zero reason to worry about your speech. It’s your best friend’s wedding day and all she wants is to have you by her side. No one is expecting you to deliver a Shakespearean soliloquy or do a stand-up comedy act. Just deliver heartfelt words and you’ll be golden. We promise. To help you put together a great speech, we’ve put together this handy guide. Keep reading for useful advice, a template for your speech, and some inspiring examples of maid of honour speeches.

Rules and Etiquette

Before you get started on your cue cards, there are a few things to get out of the way in terms of etiquette.

Keep it clean

We put this one first because sometimes it’s soooo hard to keep it PG when we’ve got so much hilarious dirt on our best girl (especially after a few drinks at the open bar). 

Try to refrain, though. Obviously, her parents are there, his parents are there, and who knows how many other family members with ears on you. 

It could make it super awkward if everyone heard about what happened at the bachelorette party. Let the best man commit that faux pas; it’s entirely possible that he will. 

Do your homework

You probably already know who is on the guest list, but you may not know some of the guests’ plus ones. If you can, find out about who’s coming that you don’t know. You don’t want to run the risk of offending someone or making them uncomfortable if the subject matter steers toward one of the big four topics to avoid. Keep reading for more on those.

Watch out for touchy topics

Best to steer clear of money issues unless they flatter the bride and groom. Definitely best to steer clear of politics. And definitely, definitely leave family dirt in the ground. 

There’s nothing more awkward than accidentally (or purposefully) calling someone on the carpet for family strife. Everyone there probably already knows that her dad’s new wife threw a tantrum and made a scene at Thanksgiving. But leave it unsaid. No matter how funny it was.

Suppose the wedding had a religious ceremony, and the bride/groom’s families are religious. In that case, that may be something to mention if it is relevant to you, too. Just be sensitive and keep it as inclusive as possible. 

So to recap. Money, politics, religion, and family drama – the BIG FOUR no-go topics. 

IF YOU REMEMBER NOTHING ELSE, REMEMBER THIS:

NO jokes about divorce.

NO jokes about exes. 

All righty, beyond that…

Keep the comedy coming

Everyone loves a funny wedding speech, and you’re among the top three who have the best opportunity to give one. If you’ve had any fun together at all (which obviously you have, or you wouldn’t be the maid of honor), you’ll have a virtual goldmine of funny stories about the bride. Again, as long as they’re PG, serve ’em up.

If comedy isn’t your strong suit, no biggie. A moving tribute to her, her new husband, and how great they are together is just as entertaining when it’s well-spoken. 

Watch your time

Unfortunately, no matter how many great stories you could tell, you’ve only got a short time to speak. Time yourself after you’ve written out your speech to make sure it’s no longer than seven minutes. An ideal speech will be five minutes or less. 

Don’t get too emotional- you’ve got mascara to think about!

Oh jeez, this one will probably be harder than keeping it PG. Keep some hankies tucked away, but try to laugh through the tears of joy. Some people get awkward and just don’t know how to deal with it when other people cry. 

Make An Outline

Right. Standard etiquette out of the way. Time to start writing it all down. Start with an outline, then round out the details after you’ve got the bones to your speech figured out. 

Introduce yourself

This is an important opener, as not everyone may know you yet. Superfast: who you are, and how you are related to the bride and groom.

If there’s a person or two you feel deserves special recognition and would like to thank, go ahead, but make it quick. Usually, it’s up to the parentals and groom to thank everyone for coming. 

Include a little bit about how you met. Were you friends right out of the gate? Is there a funny story about how you didn’t gel at first?

Talk about what makes you so tight close and what you bond over. Tell stories about some of the adventures you’ve shared. 

Talk about the groom

Make sure you take some time to talk about her new husband! Share a recollection of your first time meeting and your impressions of him. This is an excellent time for funny stories too, and it’s also the perfect time to outline what you love about the groom and how happy you are that he makes her happy. 

Talk about the bride

Now is when the waterworks will probably begin. Try to keep it together as you talk about all of the things that make her extraordinary. Let her know how much you appreciate her. Tell everyone what she means to you and what a great friend she is. 

If there are things you’re particularly proud of her for, things like accomplishments, acts of selflessness, all those great things, now is the time to let her know. 

Share some thoughts about them as a couple

Why are you so glad they’re together? What makes them so great for each other? What is your wish for them in the future? 

If you’re already married, you can talk about all the things you love about marriage and impart those wishes on her. 

Raise a toast

Here’s an excellent opportunity to let her know (briefly) how honored you are to be chosen as maid of honor and invite everyone to raise a toast to the newlyweds. If you’ve got a closer for this one, leave it with the toast, or you could say something simple like “To happily ever afters. Thanks for sharing yours with us.” 

Maid Of Honor Speech Examples

You’ve got your outline done and now you just need to put the final touches on your speech and master the delivery. Easy peasy! Hey, you’ve got this sista, we know it and you should too. But if you need some extra confidence-boosting inspiration, we strongly suggest you check out these awesome maid of honour speeches. If these gals can do it, we know you can too! 

Sisterly Love and Laughs 

Love this sister’s speech. It’s so funny and heartfelt, it was fantastic. And it was all a smidge over four minutes. Masterful. 

Hilarious and So Well Delivered! 

This speech is nothing short of awesome. Not to mention entertaining. 

An Epic…Performance

Somehow this fabulous maid of honor has managed to get by breaking the divorce rule (kind of, in a way) like a BOSS. She’s hilarious and fun, and someone better recognize that daring karaoke remix for the glorious thing it is. 

Parting Advice

You’re gonna have a blast writing your maid of honor speech, particularly if you had a bachelorette party for her where everyone reminisced over your years together. 

When your best friend gets married, you inherit with her all the good times (and sometimes bad) she’ll experience in married life. Let her know you can’t wait to be there for the next part of her life’s journey. 

Wedding Planning

Elena & Daniel: husband and wife team behind Love and Lavender. Read Our Story

9 Best Examples of Maid of Honor Speeches

By: Author Hiuyan Lam

Posted on Last updated: October 20, 2023

Categories Writing Prompts

Being asked to be a maid of honor is a huge privilege that comes with some significant responsibilities. In addition to organizing the bachelorette party, the maid of honor must also hold the bride’s bouquet and keep her dress looking on pointe.

So, you’d think that by the time the reception rolls around, her duties for the day would be complete and she could let her hair down a bit. Wrong. Maids of honor have one final responsibility – the biggest one of the day: the maid of honor speeches.

The content of maid of honor speeches is largely related to the personality of the bride and her relationship with her maid of honor, as well as the setting of the wedding (formal or informal).  

You May Also Like:

50+ Best Wedding Wishes for Couples, Whether You Know Them Well or Not

Here are some guidelines of what to include in maid of honor speeches:

There are some Do’s and Don’ts that should be noted when writing a maid of honor speech. First thing would be to make it brief ; we don’t want to take the excitement away with prolonged explanations and stories.   Do not use any curse words or profanity , unless you are absolutely sure the bride and groom would not mind.   Do not talk about embarrassing moments , even if it is a touching piece of history, those moments should be left out, at least for that day. Do not talk about past relationships, and do not spill secrets .

Great examples of maid of honor speeches:

“Celebrate and commemorate each day together as a treasured gift from heaven.”

  (Propose toast)

“Being happily and successfully married is generally not so much a matter of marrying the right person as it is being the right person.”

50 Questions to Get to Know Someone Who You’Ve Newly Met

For Real Friends: 50 Sweet Notes to say Thank You for Being My Friend

“A happy marriage is about three things: memories of togetherness, forgiveness of mistakes and a promise to never give up on each other.”

  Thank you so much for letting me be your maid of honor. (Propose toast)

Conclusion:

After going through this, writing up maid of honor speeches should be a breeze. You might not be a comic or a clown but adding a bit of humor or a funny quote adds an air of relaxation for everyone. It is obviously tough being a maid of honor but trust yourself to have everything under control. Good luck!!!