best man speeches ireland examples

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The Ultimate Best Man Speech Example

Now that the big day is approaching, it’s time to perfect your Best Man speech to ensure it’s a memorable and enjoyable moment for everyone. And fret not, because we have just the short best-man speech example you need to deliver a performance that hits all the right notes.

This template is designed to be concise, heartfelt, and infused with just the right humor to elicit those much-desired laughs without going overboard. So, let’s dive in and create a speech that will leave the audience entertained and the couple beaming with joy.

But before we delve into the template, let’s remember the essence of this day – it’s a celebration of love, unity, and the coming together of two incredible souls. As the Best Man, you have the privilege of sharing your unique perspective on the couple’s journey, and your speech should reflect the warmth and genuine affection you have for them.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into Ireland’s short best-man speech example that perfectly balances sentiment and humor, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience for all. After you celebrate your stag weekends, Whether from Galway , Carrick on Shannon , or maybe Kilkenny , be ready to bring the house down with laughter and heartfelt moments!

Speech Details

Typical duration.

The duration of the Best Man speech in Ireland tends to be around 5-7 minutes. While it may be tempting to extend the speech, remember that brevity is key. Keep it concise, engaging, and filled with memorable moments that will have everyone laughing, reflecting, and cheering in support of the couple.

Timing is crucial when delivering your Best Man speech. It is traditionally given after the wedding meal’s main course, once the formalities have settled and the guests are in high spirits. This allows you to set the tone for the remainder of the evening, injecting laughter and heartfelt sentiments into the atmosphere.

Balancing Humor, Sentimentality, and Respect

Crafting an exceptional Best Man speech in Ireland requires skillful navigation of humor, sentimentality, and respect. The Irish have a knack for humor, so embrace it with clever anecdotes, playful jabs, and light-hearted banter.

Alongside humor, infuse your speech with genuine sentimentality. Share stories that touch the heart, emphasizing the deep bond between the couple and the joy they bring to each other’s lives. Express your well wishes and genuine admiration for their love and commitment.

Your Short Best Man Speech Template

Opening and introduce yourself.

When it comes to opening speeches, don’t worry lads because we’ve got you covered! Here are ten examples you can choose from to kick off your best mate’s wedding in a bang-on way.

Wedding Procession Observations and Give Thanks

Before we dive into the anecdotes and heartfelt moments, let me take a moment to soak in the splendor of this remarkable wedding procession. I must say, the beauty and elegance radiating from the bride and groom truly outshine any star in the sky tonight. Let’s raise our glasses and extend our heartfelt thanks to the incredible hosts, [Hosts’ Names], for their unwavering hospitality and for bringing us all together to celebrate this joyous occasion.

A Few Words About the Groom (and You)

Now, let’s turn our attention to the man of the hour—[Groom’s Name]. They say behind every great man is an even greater best friend, and that’s where I come in. Together, we’ve faced countless challenges, laughed until our sides hurt, and shared secrets that will forever remain between us…unless you want to hear them later at the bar!

[Groom’s Name] has always been the life of the party, the one with an infectious smile and unwavering loyalty. Whether we were exploring the untamed landscapes of Ireland or navigating the unpredictable waters of life, he’s been a true brother to me. And seeing him find his soulmate in [Bride’s Name] fills my heart with immense joy.

A Few Words About the Bride

Speaking of soulmates, let’s talk about the radiant star who has captured [Groom’s Name]’s heart—[Bride’s Name]. When I first met her, I knew she was the perfect match for our dear friend. Her grace, intelligence, and irresistible charm have added a new level of happiness to [Groom’s Name]’s life.

[Bride’s Name], you bring out the best in [Groom’s Name], and it’s evident in the way his eyes light up whenever you’re around. Your love and support have already profoundly impacted his life, and I have no doubt that together, you’ll conquer any challenges that may come your way.

The Bride and Groom Together

Now, let’s take a moment to appreciate the extraordinary couple before us. [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], your love is a testament to the power of true connection. It’s a rare gem that deserves to be celebrated and cherished. May your journey together be filled with laughter, endless adventures, and a love that grows stronger with each passing day.

Your Gift and Messages from Well-Wishers

Before we raise our glasses in a toast, let me present the couple with a small token of our affection. We wanted to find something truly special, something that symbolizes the union of two beautiful souls. [Describe the gift briefly and explain its significance].

Now, I’d like to share some messages from those who couldn’t be here with us today. Friends and family near and far have sent their love and warm wishes. They may not be present physically, but their hearts are united with ours as we celebrate this remarkable union.

Final Words and Toast

Now, lads! As the wedding comes to a close, an engaging and heartfelt speech is necessary! Don’t worry, as we’ve got you covered. Here are 10 examples of humorous and engaging final words and toasts for weddings

By following this short Best Man speech template example, you can create a heartfelt and humorous tribute to the couple, incorporating witty humor to make it a truly memorable moment during the wedding celebration.

Remember to personalize the template and add your unique experiences and stories to create a speech that reflects your bond with the groom and captures the essence of the bond between him and her lovely bride. Sláinte to an extraordinary Best Man speech!

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Best man speech ireland

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In the heart of Ireland, where tradition and storytelling are cherished, the Best Man's speech holds a special place in wedding celebrations. This is not just a toast but a moment that encapsulates the camaraderie, jest, and deep bond between the groom and his closest mate. Rooted in centuries-old customs, the Irish Best Man speech is often a delightful blend of humor, heartfelt tales, and, of course, a touch of the famous Irish wit.

But it's not all about making the audience laugh; it's a genuine homage to the groom's journey, acknowledging his past while looking forward to his future with his bride. It’s a moment where legends of the groom's antics are shared, and secrets (well, the not-so-embarrassing ones) are unveiled. Yet, it always circles back to the heart, to genuine sentiments that tug at the heartstrings of every guest present.

Best Man Speech Ireland

Introduction

As the best man at an Irish wedding, delivering a memorable speech is not only a tradition but a responsibility. The best man's speech is an opportunity to honor the couple, entertain the guests, and create a lasting memory of the celebration. In this article, I will guide you through the key aspects of delivering a best man speech in Ireland, including traditions, speech structure, humor, personalization, acknowledgments, and the all-important toast. So let's dive in and make your best man speech an unforgettable moment on this special day.

Traditions and Expectations

Historical significance.

Irish wedding traditions have deep historical roots, dating back centuries. These traditions often involve storytelling, music, and a strong sense of community. The best man's speech serves as a continuation of these customs, providing an opportunity to share stories and celebrate the couple's journey.

Cultural Influences

Ireland's rich culture plays a significant role in shaping the expectations for a best man's speech. Irish weddings are known for their warm and welcoming atmosphere, and speeches are expected to reflect this sense of hospitality. It is important to strike a balance between heartfelt sentiments and lighthearted humor, capturing the essence of Irish celebrations.

Role of the Best Man in Ireland

The best man in Ireland holds a special position in the wedding party. Alongside the maid of honor, the best man is chosen to support and stand by the groom throughout the entire wedding journey. This includes assisting with wedding preparations, offering guidance, and ultimately delivering a memorable speech on the wedding day.

Speech Length and Tone

In Ireland, best man speeches are typically concise and engaging, lasting between five to ten minutes. It is crucial to maintain a friendly and warm tone throughout the speech, ensuring that it resonates with both the couple and the guests. Avoiding lengthy and rambling speeches will ensure that your message hits the mark and keeps the audience captivated.

Dos and Don'ts

Do: start with a greeting and introduce yourself.

Begin your speech by greeting the audience and introducing yourself as the best man. Sharing your relationship with the groom and how you met can help establish a personal connection with the guests.

Do: Share Memories and Stories

One of the highlights of a best man speech is the opportunity to share fond memories and stories about the groom. Select anecdotes that portray the groom's positive qualities and showcase his relationship with the bride.

Do: Compliment the Couple

Take a moment to express heartfelt compliments toward the couple. Highlight their love, compatibility, and qualities that make them a perfect match. This will not only warm the hearts of the newlyweds but also create a positive atmosphere for the rest of your speech.

Do: Include Humor

Irish celebrations are famous for their sense of humor, and a best man's speech is no exception. Incorporate tasteful jokes, humorous anecdotes, and witty observations to keep the audience entertained. However, always remember to keep the humor light-hearted and avoid offensive or embarrassing content.

Do: Keep it Positive

Maintain a positive and optimistic tone throughout your speech. Focus on celebrating the love between the couple and their journey together. This will uplift the energy in the room and leave a lasting impression on the newlyweds and their guests.

Don't: Mention Exes or Past Relationships

While humor is encouraged, it is essential to avoid mentioning exes or past relationships during your speech. Keep the focus solely on the couple and their current journey. Mentioning previous romantic involvements can be uncomfortable for the couple and the audience.

Don't: Offend or Embarrass

Irish weddings are meant to be joyous occasions, so it is crucial to steer clear of offensive or embarrassing content. Avoid sensitive topics, inside jokes that may exclude some guests, or anything that could potentially dampen the celebratory atmosphere.

Don't: Ramble or Go Off Script

To maintain a concise and engaging speech, it is important to stick to your prepared script and avoid rambling. Keep your points clear, concise, and well-structured. This ensures that your speech remains captivating and keeps the audience's attention.

Don't: Forget to Practice

Practice makes perfect! Rehearsing your speech multiple times before the wedding day will help you refine your delivery, timing, and overall confidence. Practice in front of a mirror or with a trusted friend to receive feedback and make any necessary adjustments.

Speech Structure

Capture the attention of the audience from the start with a captivating opening. Begin your speech with a warm greeting, introduce yourself, and express gratitude for being chosen as the best man.

The body of your speech is where you will share memorable anecdotes, stories, and compliments about the couple. Structure your speech with a logical flow, transitioning smoothly from one topic to another. Use this section to highlight the qualities and journey of the newlyweds.

End your speech on a high note. Conclude by offering well wishes to the couple's future together and propose a heartfelt toast. Convey your final thoughts with sincerity, love, and enthusiasm.

Humor and Wit

Using jokes and one-liners.

Humor is an integral part of an Irish best man speech. Incorporate relevant jokes and one-liners that will resonate with the audience and add laughter to the occasion. Ensure your jokes are light-hearted and suitable for all ages and backgrounds.

Poking Fun in a Loving Way

Poking fun at the groom or humorous mishaps during the wedding preparations can add a light-hearted touch to your speech. However, always remember to do it in a loving and respectful manner, ensuring that the humor is well-received and leaves everyone smiling.

Timing and Delivery

Timing and delivery are crucial for effective comedic impact. Be mindful of the pacing and pause for laughter after delivering a humorous line. This allows the audience to fully appreciate the humor and gives you a chance to collect yourself before moving on.

Personalization and Connection

Knowing the couple.

To deliver a meaningful and personalized speech, you must have a deep understanding of the couple and their relationship. Spend time with them leading up to the wedding, ask questions, and listen attentively to their stories. This will help you craft a speech that truly reflects their journey and love.

Highlighting their Qualities

Take the opportunity to highlight the qualities that make the couple unique and special. Share anecdotes that showcase their strengths, shared interests, and how they complement each other. This will create a personal connection with the guests and make your speech more heartfelt.

Sharing Personal Experiences

While it's important to focus on the couple, incorporating personal experiences can add depth to your speech. Share moments where the groom's character has impacted your life or brought joy to others. These personal touches will resonate with the couple and create an emotional connection with the audience.

Expressing Emotions

Don't be afraid to show your emotions during your speech. Express your genuine feelings of love, joy, and happiness for the couple. This will not only touch the hearts of the newlyweds but also create a heartfelt atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression on everyone present.

Anecdotes and Stories

Choosing relevant stories.

When selecting stories and anecdotes, focus on those that are relevant to the couple's relationship and journey together. Highlight moments that showcase their love, milestones, or shared adventures. By choosing stories with meaning, you will create a narrative that resonates with the audience.

Keeping the Tone Light and Engaging

Maintain a light and engaging tone throughout your speech. This will keep the audience entertained and invested in your storytelling. Use descriptive language, vivid details, and relatable moments to captivate their attention and create an enjoyable experience.

Adding Humorous Elements

Integrating humor into your stories can make them even more entertaining. Look for amusing aspects or unexpected twists that will bring laughter to the room. Just remember to keep the humor tasteful and appropriate for the audience.

Maintaining Balance

When sharing anecdotes and stories, it is important to strike a balance between humor and sentimental moments. Alternate between funny and heartfelt stories to create a well-rounded speech that uplifts the energy while also touching the hearts of the couple and guests.

Acknowledgments and Thank Yous

Thanking the couple.

Express your gratitude to the couple for including you in their special day. Acknowledge their trust in selecting you as the best man and honor their commitment to each other. Offer heartfelt congratulations on their journey together.

Thanking the Parents

Take a moment to acknowledge and thank the parents of the couple for their love, support, and guidance. Express appreciation for their role in shaping the newlyweds' lives and creating the foundation for their love story.

Acknowledging the Guests

Recognize the presence of all the guests and express gratitude for their attendance. Acknowledge the effort they made to celebrate the couple's union and the significance of their support and well wishes.

Recognizing the Wedding Party

Acknowledge and appreciate the bridesmaids, groomsmen, and other members of the wedding party. Highlight their contributions to the wedding day and the importance of their friendship and support to the newlyweds.

Toast and Cheers

Conclude your best man speech with a heartfelt toast to the couple. Raise your glass and propose a sincere wish for their future together. Encourage the guests to join in the toast, creating a moment of collective celebration and unity.

Practice and Preparation

Rehearsing the speech.

To ensure a confident and smooth delivery, practice your best man speech multiple times. Familiarize yourself with the flow, timing, and transitions. Practice in front of a mirror, or better yet, invite a trusted friend or family member to provide feedback and offer suggestions for improvement.

Timing and Pace

Time your speech to ensure it falls within the recommended five to ten-minute timeframe. Pay attention to the pace of your delivery, ensuring that your words are clear and well-articulated. Allow appropriate pauses for laughter or poignant moments.

Getting Feedback

Seek feedback from others to gather different perspectives on your speech. Consider the opinions of family members, friends, or even the couple themselves. Their insights can help you refine your speech and ensure that it meets the expectations of both the couple and the guests.

Overcoming Nervousness

Feeling nervous is natural, especially when speaking in front of a large audience. Channel that nervous energy into enthusiasm and passion for delivering a memorable speech. Take deep breaths, visualize success, and remind yourself of the love and support surrounding the couple and yourself.

In conclusion, delivering a best man speech in Ireland is a cherished tradition that allows you to celebrate the love and joy of the couple. By following the dos and don'ts, structuring your speech effectively, incorporating humor and personalization, and practicing diligently, you will create a speech that will be remembered fondly by all. Remember, this is your chance to shine, entertain, and honor the newlyweds. So embrace the opportunity with warmth, sincerity, and a touch of Irish charm. Cheers to a remarkable best man speech!

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12 Best Man Speeches To Get Inspired By

Writing a rockstar best man speech that both WOWS the crowd and inspires everyone doesn’t come easy. There has to be a little bit of preparation and practice. Today we’re giving you 12 best man speech examples that can help you get started. These best man samples can be modified to include your own personal stories and memories . They are super easy to deliver and are simple to remember. But if you feel that you need a complete guide to writing and delivering a killer wedding speech, we have you covered too! Click here for your complete guide to speeches.

There is no doubt the biggest fear when delivering a speech is simply the public speaking aspect of it, but there is also a fear of messing up with some helpful tips on avoiding wedding speech mistakes that will have the guests hanging on every word.

Traditional Wedding Speech Order

Before we get into the actual speech examples, it’s essential to know when the best man is scheduled to present his speech. Of course, any couple tying the knot can mix up the wedding speech schedule to suit their own needs, but here is the traditional wedding speech order.

Here’s the ultimate guide to the traditional wedding speech order.

• Father of the Bride

Things To Include In Your Best Man Speech

Knowing how to write a best man speech is equally important to delivering it. Here are a few traditional things that you should include in your best man speech.

Oh! And before you let the anxiety about public speaking set in, experts say it’s best to keep your best man’s speech to under 5 minutes. So, it’s really not that bad after all.

Your Best Man Speech Should Cover

• Share how you know the groom.
• Why they chose you as the best man (great opportunity to throw in some funnies)
• Describe the bride and groom
• Describe the groom before he met the bride. And how he has changed
• Quick story of how they met and how he shared his feelings for her with you
• If you are married, you can share advice you have received or things you have learned

Inspiring Best Man Speech Examples

A best man speech to the ultimate single inspiring couple.

First up, we have an example of a pretty simple, straight-to-the-point best man speech. It’s light in tone, offers excellent praise for both the bride and groom, and has a great closing.

“Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen! 

For those of you who don’t know me, my name is _____ (your name), and I have the honor of being ____’s (groom’s name) best man. I have known him since we were kids, and I have seen him grow into the amazing person he is today. Looking at him getting married today seems surreal because it feels like yesterday when we were kids, doing the most embarrassing things possible; don’t worry, I will not tell anyone about it. ? 

We all know the accomplishments of (groom’s name) but what you guys don’t know is that he is an invaluable friend. He is the kind of person who asks you how your day was and would be a great listener. He is someone you can lean on, who answers the phone when you’re having one of the lowest moments of your life or pick you up at 3 in the morning to drive you back home safely without any questions. Thank you (groom’s name) for being the best friend I could ask for. And I believe that you will excel at your role as a husband as well. 

(Bride’s name), I must say you look beautiful today. Over the time of our friendship, I have never seen (groom’s name) so happy.  You make him a better version of himself, and it is because of you, we always see him with a goofy smile on his face. In marrying this joker, you are getting a kind and passionate, considerate, and fun-loving husband. He is a great friend, and I can’t even imagine how great of a husband he will be. 

Thank you for being the most fantastic couple and being the ultimate inspiration for all of us singles out here! I wish you both prosperity in the years to come. 

Let’s toast to this beautiful couple!”

The Absolute Best Man Speech

Wow! This is the best, best man speech we have ever seen and delivered by the bride’s brother, that also just happens to be the groom’s best friend. It is filled with laughter, praise, memories, and heartfelt sentiments. From beginning to end, it is the BEST! Oh, and if you think you need some tips on “ how to deliver a great best man speech ,” watch this and takes notes. He is a great public speaker.

Heartfelt Best Man Speech With A Touch Of Humor

“Hello everyone! May I have your attention, please! 

As many of you already know me, and those who don’t, I am ___ (your name), the groom’s best friend. Before I begin, here’s a heads up, I asked (groom’s name) before writing this speech if there was anything that I shouldn’t say, and he said no. So if I spill the beans today, it is all his fault. 

(Bride’s name) you look radiant today, the most gorgeous bride I have ever seen, so sad that you have to spend all your life with this guy, after all, I am the best man here today, right? I can’t even imagine the embarrassing moments he will bring into your life. 

Alright, alright, before (groom’s name) kills me, I should stop goofing around! In all seriousness, (bride’s name) by marrying (groom’s name), you are getting a husband who is kind and compassionate, who will not only be a great husband but a best friend who will be there for you at each step of the way. In you, he has found the love of his life, which shouldn’t be a surprise for anyone because you are the most tender-hearted woman I have ever seen. And I know that you will make the best wife for (groom’s name). I can see in (groom’s name)’s eyes how much he loves you, the kind of love that keeps growing every single day. 

(groom’s name) you have always pushed me to be the better person, and seeing you today becoming the man you are and starting a family with this lovely lady is so inspiring to me. In (bride’s name), you have found your ideal match, but I must admit she might be a bit more fun and sensible than you are! Well, jokes apart! I wish you both the best in your new life together.

Let us all raise our glasses to the new Mr. and Mrs. (both of their names) and wish them a long and beautiful married life!”

Killer Best Man Speech Filled With Humor & The Best Toast Ever!!

Wow! This speech is a great one! The groom’s younger brother is the best man, and he delivers a funny speech full of heartfelt feelings and one of the best wedding toasts we’ve ever heard. Watch until the end.

Best Man Is Superman & Groom Is His Kryptonite

“Of course, my name is Joe, and I’d like to thank Ben for finally confirming that I am indeed his best man, after 19 years of best-friendship.

Best friends for 19 years. Just think about what was happening 19 years ago. Lance Armstrong won his first Tour de France. Furbabies were the craze of a nation. Brad Pitt was named the sexiest man alive. 

On behalf of the bridesmaids and groomsmen, I would like to thank Ben and Shannon for including us on their unforgettable day. What a fantastic day it has been so far, and so much of Shannon’s hard work and preparation has gone into it. Ben, you just sit there and enjoy yourself.

Speaking of the bridesmaids, aren’t they looking fantastic? Thank you, girls, for making sure that Shannon looks as beautiful as ever and that she made it here on time. For anyone who knows Shannon, that is an achievement in itself.

A bit about Ben and I, we first met in elementary school and I’m not sure why we initially became friends as he doesn’t really like sport whereas I could watch a ping-pong match on TV. After that, it was probably Pokémon cards, and he had a Charizard I wanted, but over the years, the more I’ve got to know him, the more I’ve realized how much of a businessman he is. I’m expecting an invoice for the food we’ve enjoyed today.

After we moved from elementary school, we got split up and didn’t really speak before finding each other again in college – how romantic! It was here that we’d master the art of plagiarism. Well, at least I would. Ben got caught copying a classmate’s work. What let him down, you ask? He didn’t even change the name on the footer.

Another one of my favorite memories during college was in 2009. We had a riding lawnmower, rope, and horse feed bags to play with. I ended up dressing Ben up in horse feed bags and pulling him around the field for 20 mins, like a budget version of Jackass.

As life progressed, Ben left college to start work, and I stayed on, so again we lost contact through no fault on either part until a few years later where we reconciled and have remained as close as we’ve ever been since. It sounds like a story about how a stray dog kept finding his way home, doesn’t it?

In all honesty, if I’m Superman, Ben is my kryptonite. I’ve got a lot to thank Ben for, mainly for his help building my confidence with other people, specifically women. I know this is something he likes to brag about, but it’s true. As kids who were both a little on the chubby side of life, Ben gave the best piece of advice on girls that anyone has ever given me. “It’s ok to be fat; you’ve just got to be fat and funny. The more they’re laughing, the less time they have their eyes open”. I’ll take this piece of advice to my grave.

Ben. – *face Ben* – I would like to think that in the times when you have called upon me for help, I have always been there for you and not let you down because you have always been there for me. I look back at some of the stuff we have done together, and it makes me proud to have a mate like you. We have had some truly great times and have shared some great experiences together, memories I will never forget. I have been honored to have been your best man and want you to know that I look up to you more than you could imagine. Just remember, love is like a circle; it goes on forever. It’s not like a triangle; triangles have corners. It’s like a circle.

Ladies and gentlemen, it truly has been an honor delivering this speech to you, so please, join me in raising your glasses to the happy couple!”

A Truly Inspirational Best Man Speech, Oh! And it Doesn’t Hurt Shawn Johnson’s The Bride.

Brother of the groom and best man shares many stories of growing up, emergency room visits, and other memories that brothers experience together. But then he shares how much he is proud of the groom and how much he inspires him in life. A great example of a best man speech with few nerves, even though the bride is a celebrity (Shawn Johnson, the Olympic Gymnast).

A Humble Best Man Speech With Witt & Style

When you’re a witty yet humble guy, it can be hard to put together a best man speech that is sentimental and humble but still includes a little humor. This is an excellent example of all those things combined.

“Good evening, ladies, gentlemen, and single ladies. In case you are wondering, I am indeed the footloose and fiancé-free Best Man. Paul, I’m glad to have you ruled out as competition finally. In fact, my feelings are shared in the lyrics of the famous Queen song ‘Another One Bites the Dust.’ But, honestly. I couldn’t be more proud to stand here today with my best friend watching him become a husband and family man. Man, am I honored. 

Paul and I have done many things together during our almost life-long friendship. Over the years, we’ve built go-carts together, rode our bikes together, played football together, bunked school together, tried to chat up girls together – note the word “tried” there – fixed up cars together, occasionally got drunk together, and now we are sharing a top table together.

And like all friends, we’ve certainly had our downs as well as our ups. I remember back to times when a petty argument would arise from nowhere. Then Paul would call me smelly, and I’d call him ‘big ears.’ And then it would spiral out of all proportion, and we’d each end up running home in tears. But sure enough, the next day, Paul would drop me an email from work, and we’d make up. As good mates do, however old.

But it was particularly in our teenage years that these little spats became quite frequent and would often arise over a young lady. They’d generally be of the ‘I saw her first, ‘no, I did’ variety. I’d like to say we worked these disputes out equitably, but Paul was the smooth-talking, early-developer of the two of us, and he genuinely believed he could have any girl he pleased. Unfortunately for him, though, he never managed to please any.

Until that is, he met his lovely bride. Since then, I’ve never known him to be happier. And, considering he’s now spending less time hanging out at bars and less time on the golf course, it’s certainly a testament to the way he feels about Linda.

Now, as Paul’s chief golf partner and drinking buddy, it’s not that great for me. But I’m man enough to stand here today and tell you that I don’t resent it. And how could I when I see how very happy they are together?

And I, as much as all of you, want that happiness for myself. But, uh, sorry, I mean, I want their happiness to last forever. And I do.

Ladies and gentlemen, on a final and serious note, please be upstanding and raise your glasses to my very best friend and his beautiful new wife. To Paul and Linda.”

Best Man Embarrasses Bride In A Friendly Roast

This is how you write, deliver and kill a best man speech in under 5 minutes. The best man and groomsmen had a completely unique idea for a wedding speech, and it is GREAT! This is a must-watch and recreate if you want a funny and memorable best man speech. Oh, and 1.7 million views isn’t half bad.

Heartfelt And Personal

Every best man speech doesn’t have to include funny or embarrassing stories. In this best man speech, we love how he kept it simple and to the point.

“Good afternoon, everyone; I am Mitchell. You may not know me, but Lucas and I go way back, all the way to preschool, in fact. And I must say that we have been brothers from another mother, locked in mischief together since the very start.

But despite some of our best efforts, this beautiful day has gone off without a hitch. A special thanks to everyone who worked hard and came together to make today possible. I have a few loving words to read from well-wishers who could attend today (read off messages sent from people who could not attend).

Well, I must agree! Their kind words are absolutely right. Lucas is a heck of a guy. I guess I first realized that on the day we met. There he was, already in our Pre-K room, doing his best to fit in. 

He always was a little awkward when meeting new people, at least of the female sex. That was until he met Melanie. And thank goodness for that. Lucas, I hate to tell you this, but I have seen a few of your ex-girlfriends over the years, and I can certainly attest that the best woman won out. Or at least the most beautiful and kind, at any rate. Doesn’t Melanie look stunning today? And I must say, the bridesmaids do as well. If you are interested, I am footless & fiance-free. Ask for my number after this is over.

I would like to offer you both a tiny bit of advice today as you start this new adventure in life together. Lucas always treats Melanie like the queen and angel that she is. And Melanie always remembers that Lucas loves you and could not get through life without you. Seriously, I have seen and been with him when he’s without you. And it was a mess.

But, seriously, I wish you both a life full of love, peace, faith, and prosperity. You are both the nearest and dearest friends. Your life together is sure to be an unbelievable and fantastic new chapter that we will all be blessed to witness. So, now, please join me to give a toast to Lucas and Melanie.”

Epic Best Man Speech – Movie Trailer Idea

Another tremendous inspiring best man speech if you’re looking for something absolutely unique. The best man acts like he forgot his speech and has to “run out” to get it. This turns into the funniest and most creative best man speech ever. This is how you go viral with a wedding speech. To date, they have over 13 Million views on YouTube!! Incredible.

Short & Sweet Best Man Speech

Sure! It’s perfectly fine to keep your best man’s speech short & sweet. Here is an example of how to do it.

“Ladies and gentlemen. I met Jose a long time ago. We have been friends for over 15 years. In that time, he has proven himself to be an incredible friend and a truly good & honest man. I value my friendship with Jose and am honored to be here as his best man today. I am also looking forward to building the same great friendship with his beautiful new bride Beckie.

I know one important thing about Beckie. She has made Jose happier than I have ever seen him. So today is a day filled with joy and happiness. But it is not just “A” day… it’s the beginning of a new journey, painting their love story on a canvas of life for us all to watch. So on behalf of everyone here, thank you both for allowing us to be part of your story. I wish you both health and happiness, and may God bless your marriage.”

11 Year Old Best Man Kills His Best Man Speech

Ever thought about asking a child to be your best man? It probably doesn’t happen too often, but this 11-year-old boy absolutely delivers a hilarious speech. And with no notes and in just two minutes!! Watch it now. Who would’ve thought a young boy could be so poised and witty delivering a speech at age 11?

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Quick & Short Best Man Speech Template

• 24th Nov, 2021

Jump to the good bits

Speech details.

Speech duration: 5 – 7 minutes

Speech style: Short, sweet and funny

Note: This short Best Man speech template uses the name ‘Tom’ for the Groom, Sarah for the Bride, ‘Ben’ for the Best Man and other example names. Insert the names for your group as needed.

Your short Best Man speech template

1. opening and introduce yourself .

Good afternoon everyone, I’m sure you’ll all admit this has turned out to be a brilliant wedding celebration, yet every silver-lining does have a cloud, and that is, that you’ve now got to listen to me, unfortunately.  I suppose I should introduce myself properly. I’m Ben, Tom’s best friend, and today his Best Man. I have to admit I am absolutely honoured to be chosen. 

2. Wedding procession observations and give thanks 

Before I undertake the customary duty of giving Tom an uncomfortable few minutes, I would like to say a few thank-yous first. The lovely Bridesmaids, Alison, Niamh, and Nicola. The very glamourous mothers Mary and Jackie. They all look wonderful and have done an excellent job today. Indeed they are only eclipsed by Sarah herself, who, I’m sure you’ll all agree, looks absolutely stunning. Thanks also to the Groomsmen who did an excellent job of standing still and looking pretty. 

3. A few words about the Groom (and you) 

So where do I start with Tom? Well for starters he’s… handsome. witty, intelligent. He’s char… charm…. Sorry… Tom …. I’m having trouble reading your handwriting, what does that say?

What can I say about Tom Smith. When I first met Tom I thought he was very laid back and normal. Boy was I wrong. I heard whispers from his family that he could be very highly strung. No, I thought, you must be exaggerating. That was until we lived together for a few years during college. As the months went on I started noticing little things: 

• the many conspiracy theories
• only being able to eat diagonally cut sandwiches
• the hunger tantrums – his colour coded wardrobe
• his preference for baths instead of showers
• his vast Dolly Parton record collection
• and singing ’Working 9 to 5‘ in the bath
• the night terrors
• the collection of nun-chucks and other weapons
• And last but not least, an unhealthy obsession with Matthew McConaughey

Tom, all joking aside you are an excellent friend and it is truly an honour being your Best Man today. 

4. A few words about the Bride 

It’s not just the groom who gets a mention in the Best Man speech. I also have a few words about the Bride. It’s not often that the Best Man is also close friends with the Bride. Not that close, Tom, don’t worry. Sarah is one of the nicest and kindest people you will ever meet. She is also a bit of a control freak. Luckily, Tom is really lazy so they are a perfect match! 

5. The Bride and Groom together

Tom and Sarah have a lot in common, actually. They are both very hard-working, generous, passionate, quite stubborn, and they both think Tom Smith is the most handsome man in the world. They are both like a fine wine, Sarah gets better every year, and Tom will take a long time to mature. 

6. Your gift and messages from well wishers 

(Read out any messages and/or present your gift). 

7. Final words and toast 

OK, time to wrap this up. I’m sure I speak for everyone in this room when I say we all wish you the happiness that you deserve. We are so glad that you have found one another, and this day is a reminder that the best is yet to come. And on that note, can everyone please raise their glasses in a toast to the newlyweds, Tom and Sarah, Mr and Mrs Smith!

Get the Best Man Speech Guidebook

If you are thinking about your upcoming Best Man duties or need to draft your speech in a hurry you can check out the book the Best Man Speech Guidebook for even more tips and a full list of Best Man speech hacks. It contains the important do’s and don’ts in wedding speech etiquette, some great one-liners, visual gag options, but most importantly a clear speech structure and tried and tested speech templates.

• The Best Man guide

For more advice and ideas for all of your Best Man duties, check out our Ultimate Best Man Guide page.

More Best Man speech advice

• 12 Clever Best Man Speech Hacks
• Best Man Speech: 13 Must Do’s
• Best Man Speech: 10 Absolute Don’ts
• 20 Unique Best Man Speech One Liners
• 3 Ideas For Best Man Speech Visual Gags
• How To Write A Best Man Speech: Part 1
• How To Write A Best Man Speech: Part 2
• Funny Best Man Speech Template

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Best Man Example Wedding Speeches

The best man speech is usually the most eagerly awaited of all the wedding speeches. Traditionally the best man speech comes last and you’ll want to pack it with jokes, embarrassing stories about the groom and some lovely words for the wedding party. We’ve got a huge selection of real best man speeches to use as examples and loads of ideas and advice articles too!

Irish blessing

Displaying 1 to 2 of 42 example lines

Paul and Linda, you’re among friends who want the very best for you both and we wish you all the happiness in the world. So here’s to you, here’s to your future, and here’s to the best thing you ever did! Congratulations, and in the words of the old Irish toast: May your blessings outnumber the shamrocks that grow, And may trouble avoid you wherever you go.

And so with the important questions settled, I would like to end with an old Irish Blessing: May your luck be the capital of Ireland: always Dublin. To the Bride and Groom!

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Making a best man’s speech? Read this first

Avoid jokes about the groom’s sex life and tuck in the shirt, for starters.

“A bad, cringeworthy or embarrassing best man’s speech is possibly the most uncomfortable thing to witness as a guest.”

Summer is here and the wedding invitations are rolling in thick and fast. I seem to get an increasing amount of them as the years go by, an unwanted reminder that I am now closer to 30 than to 20.

That said, I’m not quite the seasoned guest I’d like to be. There seems to be some sort of intrinsic knowledge of wedding etiquette held by the generation above me.

Why is it bad luck to wear black? Why is it rude to wear white? How much should I put in a card? Can I skip the Mass?

Deciding who to invite – or more divisive again, who not to invite – is a thought which would almost put me off the idea of marriage altogether.

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Guests can span past the 300 mark at weddings down the country, and the bride and groom might not even know all their names.

One thing I think I'm pretty good at is recognising a good speech. Or, rather, a horrifically bad one

I’ve always assumed this happens because there is a mammy somewhere rolling out this kind of talk:

“Well ya can’t go down Boherbreen and not include the Tanseys too. And if you’re that far down the road aren’t you as well go up as far as O’Hara’s turn?

“And don’t tell me you haven’t put down the Mitchells? They were very good to your father when he lost those cattle in 2012. I couldn’t look them in the eye if you didn’t ask them.”

It is a rocky road of potential disasters, but one thing I think I’m pretty good at is recognising a good speech. Or, rather, a horrifically bad one – and I’ve seen a few dodgy ones in my time.

He does doughnuts in it outside Knock airport on Friday nights and knows all the words to Marty Mone's Hit the Diff

A bad, cringeworthy or embarrassing best man’s speech is possibly the most uncomfortable thing to witness as a guest. I’d rather see soup spilled on the bride’s gown, or fish handed to a vegan guest. But a bad speech? It doesn’t get worse than that.

My palms get sweaty, my goes mouth dry; my mind screams no-no-no. I am always on edge, anticipating the worst and hoping for the best. It is usually either my favourite part or worst memory from a wedding. Either way, it doesn’t leave my mind for weeks.

Holding a pint of Heineken

You know him to see, too, a man about to deliver a bad best man's speech. He's holding a pint of Heineken, half of it already slobbered down his waistcoat – the suit jacket is well lost at this point.

He might have an eyebrow ring, and smokes Benson. He probably broke speed limits in several counties while driving the groomsmen to the hotel in his electric blue Subaru Impreza.

He does doughnuts in it outside Knock airport on Friday nights and knows all the words to Marty Mone's Hit the Diff .

That guy? That guy is the worst offender when it comes to speeches. There’ll be dirty jokes about the bride’s sex life; maybe even the mother-of-the-bride too.

The truly great best man speeches balance sentiment with satire almost equally

There’ll be an allusion to past infidelities, and another “joke” about the groom’s sexual prowess – or lack of. It will contain lots of cursing and few compliments. It will make you despair the humanity of our youth.

Some speeches, however, walk the tightrope of humour and offence clumsily, while still managing to stay standing.

I was once at the wedding of a man who bought and sold cars from his home. A real wheeler-dealer. He probably fixed lawnmowers too, and had a few burner phones.

His best man’s speech was good fun, no rude jokes about the bride – you’d be surprised – and no mention of past lovers (again, you’d be surprised).

One of a series of anecdotes the best man told involved a phonecall the groom had with a potential customer in the GAA club changing rooms after training one night.

The groom took a call from someone who was interested in one of the “honest cars” he had advertised on DoneDeal.

“Your man goes, ‘how many miles are on it?’” the best man explained.

“And he [the groom]says, ‘how many do ya want on it?’”

Queue the slightly nervous laughter of a crowd not sure if it was okay to laugh at the fraudulent car-clocking behaviour of a man at his own wedding.

Talk about tightrope walking! It worked, though. Sure who doesn’t clock the odd car themselves anyways? No biggie. Well worth it for the punchline.

The truly great best man speeches balance sentiment with satire almost equally. They are carefully titrated so as to elicit the most laughter as possible without properly offending anyone.

It should be full of embarrassing anecdotes and warm appreciation.

By the end, you shouldn’t know if your tears are from happiness or laughter. Nor should you know anything about anyone’s sex life.

And tuck in the shirt, will ya?

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Best Man Speech Format – Getting it Right!

The best-man speech format might seem like an obvious one but once you are actually put in the role, it can be difficult to nail down the ingredients! 

Depending on your relationship with the groom, a best man’s speech can vary greatly. Whatever your relationship with the groom, be it he’s a friend or sibling, the most important thing is that you deliver on the fundamentals.  It’s important not to put too much pressure on yourself because you’ll end up making yourself nervous and it could impact on your delivery.  Try to be calm about it whilst also making preparations for it. “Winging it” shouldn’t be one of your thoughts.  As the famous saying goes: Fail to Prepare, Prepare to Fail.  So that’s where we come in with this post which hopefully will help you in your speech prep’. In terms of the absolute essential ingredients to a best man speech and its format, below is a basic one: 

The Best Mans Speech Format

• Introduce yourself   because you shouldn’t assume that everyone knows who you are. Say who you are, and how you know the groom.
• Thank the groom   for inviting you to be the best man.
• Read out any cards   and notes from friends/family who couldn’t be there on the day.
• Include some anecdotes   or stories about the groom but keep it clean and try not to include details about ex-girlfriends.
• Offer some   advice about marriage   to the newlyweds, making it serious or humorous to fit in with the tone of your overall speech.
• Say   something nice about the bride   e.g. comment about how pleasant and positive a person she is.
• Compliment the bridesmaids,   for example by saying how well they look.
• Propose a   congratulatory toast   to the newly married couple.
• Once you are finished,   introduce anyone else   that is due to give a speech such as the Father of the Bride.

History of Best Man Speeches – Where the Tradition Began 

The best man was traditionally a friend of the groom which is the same as today but today sometimes men are prone to choosing a sibling for the role. In terms of historically, the groom would ask this “best man” to be the chief guardian of the bride during the lead-up to the wedding date. The appointed best man in turn would appoint mutual friends to help with the protection of the bride including ensuring that she got to the wedding on time and unharmed. The collected group of the best groomsmen were previously known as “The bride’s knights”.

In the Anglo-Saxon days of Britain, it has been said that the best man with the help of his groomsmen would actually kidnap the bride. This would happen if for whatever reason the bride’s parents were against the formation of this specific marriage; they might have not approved of the suitor or groom in question. The best man and his groomsmen would be expected to protect the bride right up to and including the point of the marriage ceremony where the groom would stand to the right of the bride at the altar so his sword could be drawn quickly to defend. In turn, the best man would guard the bride by standing on the bride’s other side until the vows were done.

Good Best Man Speech Examples 

This best man delivered a relaxed speech and it had humour and emotion. He didn’t have it learned off which shows that a successful speech can be delivered using paper prompts if it’s delivered naturally and with glee like this best man.  

This best man delivered a relaxed speech and it had humour and emotion. He didn’t have it learned off which shows that a successful speech can be delivered using paper prompts if it’s delivered naturally and with glee like this best man. 

Even though this best man reads out his speech directly from his notes, he delivers it with a natural and relaxed flair. He reads slowly, clearly and loudly and it is witty throughout. Note how his speech has all the main ingredients: introduction as to who he is, his relationship with the groom, welcoming visitors, and elements of humour. 

How to Write the Best Man Speech 

So to get down to actually writing the piece there are a number of pointers that you can follow. Below is a list of little titbits of information about the couple that you should gather together. Remember that this day and speech should be all about them. Of course focus in on certain cute anecdotes about your friend, the groom.  Your own friendship.  But there needs to be some content about the couple’s relationship which will make it all the more emotive. Of course, the content that includes the couple needs to be appropriate and suitable to be told to the masses. Not some sordid secret about them or anything that has the possibility of embarrassing them in any way.   If in doubt, leave it out! 

> Background Dates. How long have they been together, how long have they known each other?

> The Bride to Be. Although your speech is not about her exclusively, you must give her a paragraph of her own. This might be something about the first time you met her or some positive attribute about her.

> Why They’re a Good Match. It might sound a tad serious but their union is serious so it will hit the right tone.

The next segment will be the harder elements. You need to be careful about the content but not too restrictive in your delivery. Try to find a happy medium but again… if in doubt, leave it out!

> A Funny Story .   This could be your make or break for a successful speech.

Tell it slowly and clearly; you might be excited to tell it but try to keep it clear for those in the whole room to hear. Have a beginning, a middle and an end to the story but don’t let it drag on…brevity is key!

While ex-girlfriends are not out of bounds as a topic, it’s probably best if you can to avoid them. Aim for the story to be between 150 and 300 words otherwise, it could drag on for people. Don’t make any stories up as you run the risk of insulting those that you include. 

The Best Man Speech: The Nervous Moments

Even the most prolific of speakers will have their nervous moments. Sometimes nerves can be a good thing because they cause a person to focus the mind on the challenge at hand.  Adrenaline starts pumping and this can help you to be energised and deliver a speech filled with emotion and energy which is what you want.  So don’t look at nerves as a negative; turn them on their heads and use them to drive you forward! 

This is a useful video to help you calm your nerves when preparing for your best man responsibilities.

Some Tips for Dealing with the Nerves:

• Don’t drink too much in advance of the speech or it will impact your delivery in a bad way. One or two drinks are fine to settle the nerves but no more than that.
• If you feel your delivery is being affected by your nerves, explain that to the audience.  They will understand that you are not a professional speaker, nor is it expected, so go easy on yourself. Explain to the audience that you are a little nervous. Your admission out loud will also help to calm you.
• Start slowly and have your notes to hand but try not to read them without looking out to your audience. Take deep breaths before you stand to take the mic and focus on doing your best.
• Have a glass of water close by that you can use to clear your throat. Taking a drink during the speech will also help to soothe you and allow you to time to relax between segments.
• If you find that your voice is trembling, take a drink of water, take a couple of really deep breaths and try again.
• Speak clearly and loudly. Speaking in a low voice shows your lack of confidence but no matter how nervous you are, be sure to sound like you are confident by raising your volume level.
• Keep your head up and stand up straight. Find a spot on the wall above your audience and focus on that. It will appear that you are looking at them but you won’t actually be distracted by anyone.

So that’s our advice for delivering a well-presented best man speech! The main thing to remember is that you should be honoured to have been asked to be the best man. So savour the moment and try not to put too much pressure on yourself. Enjoy the day, and relax but don’t lose   the diamond ring ! 

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The Ultimate Best Man Speech Guide (Examples And Templates Included)

• Posted by by Lisa Plaitt

Being picked to be the best man is such a great honor. You will feel blessed that the groom has thought of you, and considers you the best man and friend for the job.

But, as the wedding draws nearer, there’s one thing on your mind. No, it’s not the bachelor party… It’s the best man’s speech(see also: Best Ways to End Your Best Man’s Speech ). 

As the best man, you will likely have many responsibilities in the run up towards the wedding. You’ll have to try on suits, organize the bachelor party, but the best man speech is the thing that most look forward to, or dread!

Standing up in front of many guests, some of which you may not have met before can be nerve wracking to say the least. It’s such an important task, and a part of the wedding that many guests look forward to. 

A best man speech needs to hook the audience in, reveal some funny stories about the groom, and even the bride, but also wish the couple well, and spread some laughter amongst the audience.

But, you have to do all of this in one single speech that can’t be too long, and can’t be too short! 

So, how can you nail the best man speech? Well, that’s where we come in handy. We can offer you this ultimate guide to creating a best man speech, including tips, structure and examples you can take inspiration from. 

How To Structure A Best Man Speech

Not everyone is gifted with the ability to speak clearly and confidently to a crowd. It can be very nerve racking, and make you anxious to say the least.

If you’re unsure of how to go about planning your best man speech, then we can help you out with this simple structure to follow and keep yourself on track. 

This structure is a sort of guide, you don’t have to use it, but it’s a good idea to follow the structure so you cover all bases when doing the speech.

It can also help you when actually performing the speech, as you’ll know what needs to come next and in which order to go over your stories and anecdotes.

A good best man speech begins with:

• An Introduction

Use the introduction to introduce yourself to the crowd. Not everyone will know who you are in the wedding, so it’s a nice way to break the ice and get rid of any awkwardness.

Try introducing yourself with a funny one liner about who you are and how you know the happy couple.

• Talk About How You Met/Know The Groom

Next, it’s a good idea to briefly cover how you met the groom, or how long you’ve known each other. You can give a little history of how far back you go, and mention how honored you are to be the best man. 

• Anecdotes About The Groom

Here comes the fun part! Now is the time to start telling a funny story about the groom. The emphasis here is on funny and not too embarrassing or gross. Choose two or three short anecdotes or stories, but don’t overdo it. 

• Balance Poking Fun With Sincerity

After you’ve had your fun, balance this out by saying something meaningful and sincere about the groom, his qualities or your friendship. 

• Briefly Talk About How You Know The Bride

In this section, you can talk about your first meeting with the bride, how she came into the groom’s life, and how great of a match you believe them to be. 

• Wish Them All The Best

Finally, wish the couple all the best for their future together with a sincere, caring comment. Then, toast to the happy couple! 

Best Man Speech Do’s And Don’ts

There are definitely a few do’s and don’ts when it comes to speaking at someone’s wedding. You’ll want to keep it concise, funny, but not too over the top jokey. Here’s our recommendations of what to do, and what not to do. 

First things first, you’ll want to plan ahead, and write a few stories and anecdotes down that you can remember. Do this for a few weeks before the wedding, so it gives you time to come up with the right memories to share. 

Try brainstorming ideas with other members of the family or bridal party to come up with the best things to share about the groom and his bride. Then, you can narrow down the list and find the most impactful or most important things to talk about.

You should also consider who this speech is going to be said around.

If the groom’s very traditional great aunt or grandma is there, it could be a good idea to avoid any crass, rude stories that could make family members uncomfortable. Save those lines for the bachelor party! 

Do pause for reactions. You don’t want to talk too fast or fly through the speech as those who have laughed at the last line may miss the next one. Always leave small gaps or pauses for reactions, applause or responses. 

Finally, make sure you focus on the couple, not just the groom.

This day is about the two of them. While you are doing a speech because you are the best man to the groom, it is important that you bring in the bride/partner in your speech so that overall you are wishing both of them well on their new adventure. 

What Not To Do

Don’t wing it! You may have some liquid courage on the night, but you need this speech to be a crowd pleaser, so be sure to take your notes and go over the speech in your head just before you have to do it. 

Don’t use foul language, or inflammatory language. You don’t want to cause a dark cloud over the event by offending anyone or causing a scene.

The same goes for mentioning exes (who could well be at the wedding) or bringing up sore subjects during the speech. Keep it fun, lighthearted, and hilarious. 

Don’t use cliches like The groom is like a brother to me. Instead, demonstrate your close bond by telling a story or giving an example of when he treated you like family, and made you feel welcome.

This is far more impactful and will really get the audience involved in your speech. 

Finally, and this is an important one- don’t make it about you. This is not your shining moment, your time will come.

Ensure you’re not talking about yourself too much, and always bringing it back to the bride and groom, because that’s what the audience really wants to hear about.

It’s a chance for them to see the couple in a different light, from your perspective, not learn everything about you. 

Tips For Writing A Best Man Speech

We’ve also got some brief tips for writing and performing your best man speech!

• Practice before the actual speech
• Don’t include inside jokes- they will fall on deaf ears
• Keep it short and sweet – don’t go over the top with long stories/memories
• Don’t use cringey cliches
• Don’t mention exes- even as a joke
• Use clean language
• Don’t say anything political/inflammatory
• Tell a story about the groom and the couple as a pair
• Don’t just focus on the groom
• Always end on a high – make a nice toast and comment about the couple

Qualities To Talk About In The Best Man Speech

Throughout your speech, it is important to keep a running theme. If the joke you are telling is unrelated, it won’t have as much drive and impact.

For instance, if you’re talking about the groom’s thoughtfulness, use funny anecdotes that relate to this, and bring it back to that whenever possible.

Here are some other qualities that are worth mentioning:

• Sense of humor: If the groom is known for his quick wit and humor, be sure to incorporate this into your speech. Share a funny story or two that showcases his sense of humor and make the guests laugh.
• Generosity: If the groom is known for his kindness and generosity, talk about a specific instance where he went out of his way to help someone in need. This will show the guests the type of person he truly is.
• Loyalty: Mention the groom’s unwavering loyalty to his friends and family. Talk about how he has been there for you and others in the past and how this trait is so important in a relationship.
• Intelligence: If the groom is intelligent and knowledgeable, highlight this in your speech. Talk about his impressive achievements or interests that show his intelligence and passion.
• Adventure: If the groom is someone who is always up for a new adventure, talk about his love for travel or exploring new things. This will show the guests his spontaneous and adventurous side.

For example, you could say:

Where do I begin with the groom’s sharp sense of humor? He’s a true master of wit, who can leave even the most experienced comedian in awe. A particularly memorable instance was when him and his bride went on a picnic; after he inadvertently dropped their sandwiches into a nearby pond, he remarked ‘Well, it looks like we’re having fish sandwiches today!’. The bride couldn’t help but laugh out loud at how quickly he turned an unfortunate situation into something humorous – that is simply the type of person this groom is. 

Groom has always had a very caring, loving nature. He would do anything for anyone. Except that one time I asked him to water my plants while I was on vacation. He brought all of the guys over to ‘water my plants’! Thanks for that, Groom. Just kidding, Groom is incredibly thoughtful and compassionate towards all who meet him, which is a quality I believe brought him closer to Bride. 

You want to talk about his great qualities, poke a little fun, or share a funny story, but then talk about how these qualities have translated into his relationship with his partner, or how they have brought them closer together. 

Best Man Speech Examples

Good evening everyone. For those of you who don’t know me, I’m Tom, younger brother and best man of the groom. For those of you that do know me…heeeeeeey! 

I have known Jack for…X years now (your age) and have always looked up to him. He had it all, the career, the intelligence, the sense of humor, and now the girl. Then again, I got the good looks. 

In all seriousness, I have always looked up to my big brother. He’s always had a flair for sports, and genuinely has a heart of gold.

Being the youngest of the two of us, Jack has made me a better man, mainly because of the character building he put me through as a child. Jack would love taunting me by stealing my favorite stuffed animals. 

I cherished my favorite, Mr. Snuggles, until one day Jack told me to come downstairs and see the new toy that our Rottweiler had been given.

I was so excited to see our little furry boy happy and playing with his toy until I realized that Jack had offered up Mr. Snuggles in sacrifice with a huge grin on his face. It was a day I won’t forget. 

Despite the taunting and the terrorizing, Jack has been the man that I’ve always aspired to be. In all of the years I’ve been around Jack, he’s always been tenacious and worked hard for what he wants. And he’s always gotten it.

After asking Jenny out the first time, and she said no , he didn’t give up. He knew she was the one for him! It’s a good thing he has the patience of a saint, as it took another 3 attempts to get the first date! 

With Jack being the older, but not often the wiser brother, he managed to get himself into some mishaps in the past.

When he did finally get a chance to take Jenny out on a date, he turned up at the wrong house, and managed to slip and break his shoulder all in one fantastic, first meeting with the parents.

Smoooth, brother. At least he made it an unforgettable start to their journey together. 

With Jenny at his side, Jack’s clumsy mishaps are less and less. You truly bring out the best in him, Jen. I would say welcome to the family, but you’ve been a part of our lives for some time already, and I am truly blessed to be able to call you my new sister. 

From day one, you’ve fit right in, as you too have taken on the role of teasing Jack just as I wanted. Let me tell you guys, there have been many pranks that Jenny and I have pulled off on Jack.

One time, we hid all of his left shoes, until the confusion nearly drove him to madness…and he had to deliver his board meeting like some kind of two right footed lunatic. 

Other times, we’ve hidden around the house just when Jack is coming home from a long day at the office, to ambush him with Nerf guns until he pleads for mercy! Let’s just say justice has been served for Mr. Snuggles. 

I quickly realized that Jenny and Jack were cut from the same mold. You two are a real example of what it means to marry your best friend, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for the two of you.

So everyone, if you could raise your glass…and toast- to the bride and groom! 

Hi everyone! For those of you who don’t know me already, I am Zach, the best man of James! When James asked me to be the best man I felt like it was such an honor.

Then he reminded me that it’s not just about organizing the bachelor party and I have to actually come to the wedding so…here I am. 

I’ve known James for so many years now, having met him at high school. In those years, it’s become clear what a fantastic friend he is. He’s handsome, kind, brilliant, funny…and sorry (looks at Groom) mate I can’t read your handwriting here. I’ll just wing it. 

Just kidding. Me and James have been through thick and thin. I’ve watched him go from a weedy, awkward teenager to a less weedy, awkward adult!

Britney would probably argue with me over the adult part! James has always had that boyish sense of humor that’s often gotten us into trouble over the years. 

I remember James would always be the class clown in high school. But for some reason, it was always me getting in trouble. One day, I glanced over in class to see James scribbling away on his desk.

He’s probably carving out some obscenity in the wood I thought.

This is why it came as such a shock when later that day it was I who was called into the principal’s office, and as I walked with my head hung in shame to my fate, James smiled wide and proudly.

Little did I know it was my name he had carved into the wood, so I could sit in detention after class!   

Ever since that day, James and I have been at war with one another to get the other one back! But deep down, I know that James would do anything for me. If I needed someone at 4am, James is that friend.

Despite our differences, I know he’s as good as family to me, and all of the Henderson’s have welcomed me into their home on many occasions, and now Britney gets to have that same privilege. 

Britney brings out the absolute best in James, and has given us an incredible gift in bringing two wonderful boys into our lives. With Britney, James gets someone who is beautiful, smart, caring, and Britney…well, you get James. 

In all seriousness, if Britney gets half as much joy in being married to James, that I have had in being his friend over the years, then she will be incredibly lucky indeed. 

On behalf of all the groomsmen, bridesmaids and myself, I would like to thank James and Britney for having us be a part of their special day. I know how hard you’ve worked to make this a day to remember, and you’ve definitely succeeded. 

I wish you both all of the happiness, joy and good luck in the world, as you take these steps towards your future together. To the bride and groom, everyone! (Cheers). 

Hello everyone. My name is Joe and I’d just like to thank John for finally confirming that I am in fact – the best man, after 20 years of friendship. 20 years is a long time.

Just think, back then…Low rise jeans were in fashion, Spiderman was the favorite superhero, and Ben Affleck and J-Lo were together. So really, nothing has changed in 20 years, and the same goes for our friendship. 

If I ever needed building up, or bringing back down to earth, John was the man to do it. He’s always been there for me, through thick and thin. And let’s face it…during the college years, we were more thick than thin!

But, we had each other’s backs no matter what.

I remember one time in college, we decided that reading books and writing our own essays just wasn’t for us anymore. We decided to pay someone to write us an essay, and we would switch it up to pass the class.

From that day on a keen businessman was born- be careful everyone- you’ll probably get a bill for your food! 

It all would have gone swimmingly if John hadn’t forgotten to change the name on the essay, but he never took me down with him!

Since then, I’ve realized what a tenacious person, good friend and loyal individual John was, and it’s an absolute blessing to be up here with you tonight as your best man. 

There is one very important person who is not sitting on this top table with us today, and that is John’s mother, Cathy, who sadly passed away just last year.

I’ve joked a lot about John tonight, but I know that Cathy would be incredibly proud to see the man that you have become, and over the moon of how happy you are today with Mia.

So, if you wouldn’t mind joining me in raising a glass to John’s mom, who can’t be with us today, but is with us in spirit. Cheers. 

On behalf of the wedding party, I would just like to say a huge thank you to John and Mia, for including us in their special day.

It’s been a wonderful day so far, and all Mia’s hard work planning and prepping has truly paid off. John, you just sit there and look pretty. 

In addition, I’d like to thank both Mia’s parents, and John’s dad who have helped make this day extra special for the happy couple, which I’m sure they are eternally grateful for. 

I’d also like to say that the bridesmaids have done an incredible job helping Mia plan the perfect wedding, and for making sure that Mia looks every bit as beautiful as she does today.

They also had the difficult task of getting Mia to the church on time, which if you know Mia is a very big achievement, indeed. 

Finally, I’d like to thank the groomsmen for organizing and completing the best bachelor party Miami has ever seen. I only hope it was the send off John was hoping for before he begins the next stage of his life with Mia. (But I highly doubt it) 

John, I’ve loved being your best friend, and I thank you for bringing Mia into our lives. She’s a beautiful person, intelligent, and brings out the best in everyone she meets. Her only downfall is her taste in men! Just kidding. 

Seriously, I think everyone will join me in saying that we wish you only the best for your future together, and that we all can share one day in a love like yours. Cheers to the bride and groom! 

Ladies and Gentleman, I have an announcement to make. If there is anyone here tonight that is feeling nervous, apprehensive, or maybe even a little nauseous at what lies ahead…then it’s probably because you’ve just married Adam. 

For those of you who don’t know who I am, I am the best man, James. There are few words to describe Adam. Handsome, funny, but smart isn’t one of them. You see, Adam was my best man, at my wedding, and boy he did not hold back!

So, as we stand here today, know that my time has come for me to get you back!

Before I start the character assassination that is my best man’s speech, let me just thank Adam and Olivia for having us be a part of this very special day.

I know how much work has gone into making today as great as it has been, so thank you both for pulling it off! To be honest, I never thought Adam would find someone to marry, let alone someone as beautiful and amazing as Olivia!

I’ve known Adam for a very long time, all the way back to when he still had hair! We first met during our studies at X University. At first I thought we had nothing in common, but I quickly found out that we did. We would both likely fail our first year!

Our time at University was one of the best in my life, and I’ve far too many stories to tell you about our lovely Adam here. 

But, as the BEST man, I won’t do to him what he did to me. Instead, I’ll talk about his lovely qualities over the years. First up, is his beautiful singing voice. I can’t tell you how many times I heard the works of Marvin Gaye after he met Olivia.

We quickly banned singing in the shower at our dorm because of all the love songs he would belt out after going on a date with Olivia. To say he was smitten from the start is an understatement. 

And why wouldn’t he be? All those who know Olivia know what a lovely, and caring person she is. She deserves a good husband. Thank god Adam got there first before she could find one! 

Another defining quality that drew Olivia to Adam is his caring nature. We’re incredibly proud of Adam for working as an EMT and helping people every day.

I’ll never forget the time a few years back during a friendly soccer game where I slipped and fell over on my side, snapping and breaking my ankle.

Adam was at my side within SECONDS…to let me know he caught my fall on video. Emergency Medical Services *Scoff*. Only when he saw the angle of my ankle did his medical training kick in.

All jokes aside, Adam and Olivia have always been there for me, and I them. I’d like to think of them as family rather than friends, and can only hope that continues going forward.

Adam and Olivia…I’ve never met two people more perfect for one another. You are both kind, old souls, and you make each other incredibly happy. So, if you all could raise your glasses with me, and toast to this amazing couple…to the bride and groom!  

Hello everyone. My name is Kane, and I am the best man, and longtime friend of Rob. I was, however, somewhat surprised to be asked to be the best man, as Rob has never been able to admit this over the years.

At first, I thought this was great. I get to plan a bachelor party for Rob, but then he reminds me I have to write a killer speech that would likely make everyone laugh. 

I had no idea where to start, so I decided to trawl the internet for inspiration. After a few hours, I found some really….really…great stuff. But then I remembered I needed to write a speech, so I got off YouTube. 

I asked friends and family for advice, and according to tradition, I am supposed to sing Rob’s praises and tell you all about his fantastic qualities. Well, sorry to tell you, but I can’t sing and I don’t lie. So that’s out of the window. 

But, Sophia told me I can’t say anything too rude or controversial about Rob. Instead, I can only say nice funny things, so with that in mind, thank you and goodnight all. 

Just kidding. Seriously, Rob is one of the most kind, funny, caring and compassionate people I have ever met. This is a quality that I think brought Sophia closer to him.

His willingness to do anything for anyone, without accepting anything in return is what makes Rob extra special, and a joy to be around. 

In turn, Sophia is one of the sweetest, and funnest ladies I have ever met! We’ve shared many great memories together, with my partner included, as Sophia and Rob are actually our children’s godparents. 

I’ve known Rob for years. We grew up only a few doors apart on our street. I thought there was no kid cooler than Rob. He had all of the best hot wheels, Pokemon cards, and I had a huge crush on his big sister, Natalie *winks at groom’s sister*.

Looking back, I was probably a big nuisance always wanting to go play over his house, but I had some of the best time of my life growing up with Rob by my side. We’ve been there for every big moment of each other’s lives.

Graduation, getting our first jobs, our first cars, and now I get to be here for the biggest day of his life, where he gets to marry the beautiful Sophia. 

Sophia and Rob, your love for each other shines through you. Sophia, I’m happy to step down as I can see that you two are truly best friends, and meant to be.

I can’t think of anyone better to look after my Rob here, and I know he will do everything he can to look after you for the rest of his days. 

Thank you both so much for a fantastic day. If the rest of your lives is half as good as today has been, then you are in for a joyful marriage indeed. Please join me everyone in raising a glass to the newly weds, Rob and Sophia. Cheers! 

Best Man Speech Frequentl Asked Questions

Does the best man have to do a speech.

The best man does not have to give a speech if he really does not want to, or if there isn’t enough time because there are other people doing speeches, but it is tradition and expected of the best man to do a speech. 

When Does The Best Man’S Speech Happen?

The best man speech will typically happen after the groom has said a few words. However, every wedding is different, and the bride and groom may organize the day differently depending on how they think the speeches should flow. 

How Long Should A Best Man Speech Be?

A best man speech should be short and sweet, but not too short, and not too long. A happy medium is about 5-6 minutes in length. You don’t want it to be shorter than 3 minutes as it may seem too brief.

The point is to keep the audience engaged, and deliver a few anecdotes, thank the bride and groom, and raise a toast. 

What Should You Include In A Best Man Speech?

There are a few things that you should include in the best man speech. This is who you are, and how you know the bride and groom.

In addition, you need a fun story about the groom and you, and why you think the bride and groom are an excellent match, followed by your best wishes for the couple and a toast to their future together. 

Who Should You Thank In A Best Man Speech?

In the best man speech, you should thank the bride and groom of course, but you can also thank the bridesmaids or groomsmen for their efforts, or say thank you to the parents of the bride and groom, especially if they have contributed a lot to the wedding.

To summarize, writing a best man speech is not all as bad as it seems.

With this ultimate guide, you’ve got all of the tools you need to succeed, and successfully deliver a hilarious, fun, lighthearted speech that is sure to wish the couple all of the best for the future.

Whether you are looking for examples, tips, what to do, or what not to do, we’ve covered it all in this handy guide.

Now, instead of stressing out about what you are going to say, how you are going to say it, you can look forward to the wedding planning process in the run up to the big day, and most importantly…the bachelor party!

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Lisa Plaitt

Hello, I’m Lisa Plaitt and I have been married to my wonderful husband for almost five years. We met almost a decade ago now and I love him more everyday. But on my wedding day - the day that was supposed to be about celebrating us - I was far too stressed to enjoy it. My husband proposed to me in spring and it was a very lowkey setting, in our backyard without anyone else around to see it. It was a perfect proposal. But then everything got real, and I was suddenly thrust into planning mode.

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• The Ultimate Best Man’s Speech Checklist

That wonderful feeling of being asked to be your friend’s best man at his wedding can quickly be replaced by a sudden feeling of dread when you realise you’ll have to give a best man’s speech in front of loads of people.

Such speeches are meant to charming, funny and witty, and it can be difficult to know where to even start. To help you get started, here are a few do’s and don’ts to help guide you towards crafting a truly memorable best man’s speech.

What To Do:

Introduce yourself.

It is a good idea to remember that a large portion of the guests in attendance at the wedding have never met you before, so introduce yourself confidently and establish how long you have been friends with the groom or why you are so close. This is a great way to ease yourself into the speech with something simple that you shouldn’t even need to script too much.

Another good option when introducing yourself at the beginning of the speech is to reassure the guests that you will be keeping it fairly brief. By doing this you will keep their attention from wandering and they will be more likely to respond positively to any jokes you make.

Follow the structure, but also improvise

To ‘ improvise ’ in this instance doesn’t mean to go off a rambling tangent, but to simply include an off-the-cuff comment about how the day has been playing out so far. There may have been a funny or moving moment to reference, or just some other observation which gives the impression you are relaxed and enjoying the day. Other than that, follow a structure which moves you smoothly through each part of the speech at a moderate pace.

This is not the time for long-winded stories, but be careful not to speed through the whole thing at a hundred miles per hour either.

Establish humour early on

By including an obvious joke early on in the speech, you reassure the audience that your speech will be one of the fun ones and not another boring snooze-fest. Just make sure it is a family friendly joke that you have sanity-checked with more than one person.

The first joke also doesn’t have to be about the groom or the wedding either. It might actually be more beneficial to establish your humour with a self-deprecating joke which endears you to the crowd.

Praise the bride and bride’s family

Obviously you should say something about  how beautiful the bride looks as respectfully and politely as possible (keep it generic), but also be sure to add something about what a great person she is as well. Add a detail or two here about why she is a great person or why you think her and the groom make such a good couple to ensure you sound authentic, rather than like you are just ticking boxes off of your speech structure.

Also win yourself some extra goodwill by including praise for her family, especially if they contributed to the wedding organisation. If they contributed a lot then they have probably received plenty of praise already from the previous more serious speeches, but it won’t hurt to touch upon it briefly again.

Describe the groom positively (in a playful way)

A big part of the best man’s speech is his description of the groom, which the bride’s family are no doubt looking forward to hearing more of. All great best man’s speeches comprise of a fond teasing of the groom and some affectionate jokes in the groom’s behalf are likely to be well received and show your longstanding, firm friendship with the groom.

Typically, playful jibes and jokes are the home stretch of the speech, leading into the toasts, so be sure to wrap up with something a little philosophical about love in general and why you believe the marriage of your friend and his bride will be a truly wonderful one.

What Not To Do:

Don’t drink too much.

Do not get drunk before your speech. This might actually be a little more difficult than it seems, especially if you are feeling the nerves. Have a glass or two to ease those nerves or to join in a toast but keep it to an absolute minimum until after the speech. You don’t want to be slurring your words or forgetting what you want to say halfway through.

Don’t read straight off the paper

Make sure you have memorised enough of the speech or kept it loose enough for you to speak naturally without reading directly from your notes. Speaking more openly while looking around at the guests and at the groom and bride will appear much more natural and entertaining. There are lots of  techniques for memorising speeches you can try.

The best way to structure your speech notes is with bullet points that you can glance over for a cue. Always practice the speech in front of other people before the wedding (friends and family that aren’t attending are your best bet), as practicing it on your own doesn’t prepare you for the nervousness of speaking in front of others.

Don’t mumble

For an effective best man’s speech, everyone must be able to hear you and understand you. Luckily your speech traditionally comes after the other speeches so you will have the opportunity to gauge the room and see how well everyone else making speeches is making themselves heard. Make sure you don’t mumble!

Don’t be crude or insulting

It can be tempting to go down the crude route in search of a joke, but your speech will be received much better if you keep it clean. It’s okay to have a bit of fun at the groom’s expense, but always keep the  jokes family friendly . Also, in-jokes between friends might be funny but they will not translate to the wider audience so keep that kind of thing for when it is just you and the groom and your friends and you can banter to your heart’s content.

Don’t mention ex-girlfriends or ‘the incident’

You may well get a few laughs from reminding the groom of some of his previous relationships that didn’t turn out so well, but this is neither the time nor place for it. This is a celebration of the one relationship that has turned out well, so forget all his previous encounters because references to them will not be welcomed under any circumstances.

Also don’t bring up any seriously embarrassing or shameful incidents from the groom’s past as he has entrusted you with this special moment in his life, so don’t let him down.

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Best Man Speech Examples

The best man speech is usually the most eagerly awaited of all the wedding speeches. Traditionally the best man speech comes last and you’ll want to pack it with jokes, embarrassing stories about the groom and some lovely words for the wedding party. We’ve got a huge selection of real best man speeches to use as examples and loads of ideas and advice articles too!

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Your Complete Guide to the Wedding Speech

Writing a wedding speech can be one of the most daunting and stressful tasks for the members of a modern day wedding party. Whether you're the father of the bride, the best man, a bridesmaid or the groom and have never had a problem cracking a few jokes or giving a decent presentation in work, the idea of the 'wedding speech' can leave you numb with panic. But before you throw your laptop out the window and pray for some cosmic intervention to save you from this nightmare, we're here to tell you that writing a decent wedding speech isn't as difficult as it seems. Remember wedding guests are positive listeners; they will be supportive, they don't expect much, they want to laugh, and will, even if you're not funny, so don't put too much pressure on yourself. Groomsmen, the main thing you've to remember is that it's a toast not a roast, keep that in mind and everyone will be happy it went smoothly. To help you on the right track to speech success we've put together these wedding speech tips...

The New Wedding Speech

Traditionally the father of the bride, best man and groom were the only people who formally toasted at a wedding, but nowadays we're seeing the bride, maid of honour and bridesmaid say a few words, and in some occasions the 'Toast Time' opening up to the floor. Truth is, nothing is set in stone when it comes to weddings any more, and if you know your dad or best man will have their day ruined worrying about public speaking, you can let them off the hook and ask a friend or relative to say a few words instead. Your bridesmaid might sing a song or a wedding guest might have written a poem to celebrate your marriage - tailor your speeches to your day, and don't let tradition dictate who gets their say on your Big Day.

Father of the Bride Speech

• Keep it short - You can let guests know you'll be brief to take the pressure off you and them! 
• Tell your daughter how beautiful she looks, how talented and wonderful she is and how proud you are of her.  
• Keep jokes to a minimum - You don't have to be a comedian. A short quip is fine but keep it polite and relevant! 
• Say something (nice) about marriage and thank your wife [if relevant] - (now is not the time to take pot shots at her cooking by the way). 
• Thank the guests for coming - If there's one or two who have come from afar to be there, or some elderly guests you'd like to mention, thank them here.
• Finish by welcoming your son or daughter-in-law into the family and tell everyone to enjoy their night. Simple!

Photo by  DKPhoto

Best Man Wedding Speech

• Introduce yourself - Tell guests your name and how you know the couple. 
• Thank/Berate the groom for choosing you as Best Man - This can be a jokey part, how you were chosen over the others etc...
• Praise the bride/couple, say what a great day it's been so far.
• Talk about your relationship with the groom, add in some anecdotes but remember it's a family affair, so keep the jokes clean and don't mention anything untoward (or, God forbid, vaguely criminal) the groom might have got up to as a young fella. Remember - toast not roast .
• Don't mention anyone's ex, even if you think the bride or groom come out on top, just DON'T.
• Keep the in-jokes to a minimum - You guys might get a good laugh out of screaming Wubbalubbadubdub! but your guests will be lost.
• Tell everyone how incredible the couple are, or even better, tell them. Say how they've changed each other, how good they are to each other and how happy they make each other, and the people around them. 
• Propose a toast, and find out who won the speechstake!

Groom Wedding Speech

• Thank guests, tell them how overwhelmed you are to have so many friends come to support you and your new partner.
• Tell your partner how beautiful he or she looks. This will be incredibly easy.
• Mention the groomsmen, bridesmaids, and how fantastic they've been helping you to plan the Big Day.
• Thank both sets of parents, say how welcomed you've felt by your partner's family, and how much your family loves your partner.
• Tell everyone about how you first met, or how you first knew he/she was the one.
• Tell the story of the engagement, the ring, how you proposed...
• Thank the staff at the venue for an amazing day.
• Tell your partner how happy he or she makes you and how much you're looking forward to growing old with them. Mention the little things he/she does that you love, the things you want to learn together, the places you want to go... 

Bride Wedding Speech

• Welcome your guests and special guests and thank everyone for coming. 
• Mention the ceremony, how you felt walking up the aisle, or reference anything funny that's happened so far in the day.
• Thank the Best Man and groomsmen for being awesome. Tell them how good they look.
• Thank your girls - and mention other special friends who didn't make the cut! Thank them for wearing matching dresses. 
• Tell the story of how you met, or your first date, how you knew he/she was the one for you, or how you felt when you got engaged.
• Thank your mother, mother-in-law and the dads. Similar to the groom's speech, mention how welcome you feel to the new family. Tell your parents how much you've learned from them, and from their marriage. And how you know you'll keep learning from them still.
• Mention any marriage advice you've been given since you got engaged, funny or otherwise.
• Mention anyone who is missed on the day, or anyone who has passed away. Your speech can be completely heartfelt if you feel that way, just take the chance to say what you want to say. 
• Talk to your new husband/wife and tell him/her what he/she means to you (and anything you couldn't fit in the vows!), how supportive and great they are, how they make you a better person, and how you can't wait to grow with them.

Maid of Honour Wedding Speech/Bridesmaid Wedding Speech

• Introduce yourself
• Thank the bride for choosing you as a bridesmaid/maid of honour, and tell everyone how you felt being asked.
• Talk about the bride, you can have a little bit of fun with this - say how she never/always wanted to get married, how she planned her wedding years ago and how glad you are she's been taken off your hands. Mention how she has coped with wedding planning - but make it positive in the end, because she created an amazing day.
• Tell the bride/groom how happy they've made your friend. How great they are together and how happy you are for them both.
• Thank the parents for doing such a good job on two amazing people.
• Mention anyone who is missed, and who you think the bride/groom would like to be acknowledged. Read any telegrams that have been sent.
• Toast the happy couple and tell the guests you'll see them on the dancefloor!

Main photo by  DKPhoto

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Watch: This Irish man's epic best man speech will be hard to beat

The 23-year-old spread the news of his brother's marriage across the globe in a special video for the lucky couple

• 18:18, 2 JAN 2019

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An Irish man set a new level for best man speeches with this hilarious yet emotional video for his older brother's wedding.

Offaly native, Podge Henry, 23, gave the speech during his brother Paul's wedding in the Hudson Bay Hotel, Athlone, Co Westmeath, in early December.

Podge, a video creator, begins the speech like most others with some heartfelt stories about the couple from over the years but the video takes a twist when he tells the bride and groom: "I don't think enough people know that you're getting married."

A video is played to the crowd showing Podge's epic quest to tell the world about Paul, 32, and Sinead's (28) marriage.

It goes from hilarious to heartwarming in a wonderful flow ending with an emotional message to the bride and groom.

Sinead, 28, and Paul have been together for 14 years and co-own two creches in Clara, Co Offaly.

Podge told the IrishMirror: "The whole film and editing process took three weeks to do, I was up until 7am the night before the wedding still finishing it off.

"However, I had it in my head for over four months of what I was going to do and, like all ideas, it manifested into something a little different to what I first imagined.

"It was pretty much the exact same concept from day one."

The speech received a huge reaction from the wedding party with some people in tears.

Podge said: "The reaction was amazing, I was so happy to see how much everyone enjoyed it.

"When I came back into the room at the end I could see a good few tears, cheers and all smiles which was great because it meant it was received the exact way I meant it to be.

"I wanted to have humour but also be really meaningful cause at the end of the day, the wedding itself is one of their most important days together.

"I was a little worried it would have gone on too long but thankfully no one has said that to me... yet."

The video was published online and has gathered hundreds of thousands of views with a huge reaction online.

The Clara native said: "I didn't put it up initially but then loads wanted to see it so I said, 'sure', and threw it up.

"It got a lot of views from people at home at first and then that seemed to be it until it was on one or two sites and then it took off which was mad.

"I think we all just find it kind of funny and mad how many have seen it but delighted that so many like it too.

"I just hope that what people take from it is that you don't always have to do things the same way as everyone else and just once you give it 110% it shouldn't matter."

If you would like to see more of Podge's content you can subscribe to his YouTube channel here .

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• 14 Unforgettable Best Man Speech Examples To Inspire You
• Wedding Speeches
• 7 June 2023

14 Amazing Best Man Speech Examples

Many wedding venues will have microphones and speakers. If it is a large space then these will be necessary. But make sure you are comfortable with a microphone and if possible have a practice beforehand. There is nothing worse than delivering your killer punchline just as you turn your head away from the mic and nobody hears it! In the following best man speech examples you must talk clearly into the microphone.

If there is no microphone or you prefer not to use one, make sure you talk loud enough so those at the back of the room can hear.

1. Best Man Speech Examples: The Humorous Opener

“Ladies and gentlemen, if you’re wondering why I’m here, it’s because the groom needed at least one person to make him look good. And since his parents couldn’t make it, I’m here instead!”

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The best best man speech examples have a humorous and self-deprecating opener that instantly grabs the audience’s attention and sets a light-hearted tone for the rest of the speech.

2. The Childhood Anecdote

“I remember when [Groom’s Name] and I were kids, we used to play superheroes together. He always insisted on being the hero, and I was his trusty sidekick. Little did I know that years later, he would find his real-life superhero in [Bride’s Name].”

3. The Love Story Narration

“Once upon a time, in a land not so far away, a charming prince named [Groom’s Name] met his beautiful princess, [Bride’s Name]. Their love story began with stolen glances, blossomed through countless dates, and today, culminates in this magical wedding celebration.”

These best man speech examples take the audience on a journey, narrating the couple’s love story from the beginning and building up to the present day. It adds a touch of enchantment to the speech.

4. The Supportive Brother

“As [Groom’s Name]’s older brother, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing his growth and evolution. From scraped knees and muddy soccer fields to this momentous occasion, I couldn’t be prouder of the man he has become. [Bride’s Name], thank you for bringing out the best in my brother and making him the happiest man on earth.”

This example showcases the brotherly bond and expresses heartfelt gratitude to the bride for positively influencing the groom’s life.

5. The Unexpected Talent

“As it turns out, [Groom’s Name] isn’t just a master of wit and charm; he’s also a secret dance maestro. Who knew those moves on the dance floor were carefully choreographed by him? [Bride’s Name], get ready for a lifetime of dancing to his unique rhythm!”

This example adds an element of surprise by highlighting a hidden talent of the groom. It injects humour into the speech and celebrates the couple’s future together.

6. The Toast to Family

“Let’s raise our glasses and toast to the families that brought [Groom’s Name] and [Bride’s Name] together. May their love and support continue to strengthen this bond, and may the union of these two families bring nothing but joy and harmony.”

This example emphasises the importance of family, inviting everyone to join in a toast that celebrates the union of not only the couple but also their families.

7. The Lessons in Love

“In all the years I’ve known [Groom’s Name], he’s taught me many things. But the most important lesson he has taught me is that love is worth fighting for. [Bride’s Name], you’ve proven that true love exists, and together, you are an inspiration to all of us.”

This example acknowledges the valuable lessons the groom has taught the speaker and expresses admiration for the couple’s love, positioning them as a source of inspiration.

8. The Quirky Comparison

“If [Groom’s Name] was a movie, he would be a romantic comedy – full of laughter, unexpected twists, and a heart-warming ending. And today, he has found his leading lady in [Bride’s Name], turning his real-life rom-com into a happily ever after.”

This example uses a fun and relatable comparison to describe the groom’s personality and likens his journey with the bride to a romantic comedy film.

9. The Thank You to the Guests

“On behalf of the newlyweds, I want to express our gratitude to all of you for being here to celebrate this joyous occasion. Your presence today fills our hearts with happiness and makes this day even more special.”

This example takes a moment to acknowledge and thank the guests for their presence, emphasising the significance of their support and participation in the couple’s big day.

10. The Promise of Friendship

“As the best man, it is my duty to ensure that [Groom’s Name] never faces a challenge alone. I promise to be there through thick and thin, just as he has been there for me. Together, we will navigate the waters of marriage and continue to create lifelong memories.”

This example emphasises the best man’s commitment to friendship and offers a heartfelt promise of ongoing support and companionship.

11. The Romantic Quote

“In the words of the great poet, Robert Browning, ‘Grow old along with me, the best is yet to be.’ [Groom’s Name] and [Bride’s Name], may your journey together be filled with endless love, cherished moments, and a future that surpasses all expectations.”

This example incorporates a romantic quote to convey well wishes for the couple’s future, evoking a sense of timelessness and eternal love.

12. Best Man Speech Examples: The Wedding Advice

“As someone who has already embarked on this wonderful journey called marriage, I offer you this advice: always communicate openly, support each other’s dreams, and never forget to keep the spark alive. Cheers to a lifetime of happiness, love, and unforgettable adventures!”

This example adds a personal touch by offering marriage advice based on the speaker’s own experience, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared wisdom.

13. The Appreciation for the Bride

“I want to take a moment to acknowledge the incredible woman who stole [Groom’s Name]’s heart. [Bride’s Name], your love for him is evident in every glance, every touch, and every smile. Thank you for bringing so much joy and love into his life.”

Best man speech examples that express appreciation and admiration for the bride always go down well, recognising her impact on the groom’s life and highlighting the depth of their love.

14. The Final Toast

“To [Groom’s Name] and [Bride’s Name], may your marriage be filled with endless laughter, unwavering support, and a love that grows stronger with each passing day. Cheers to a lifetime of shared adventures and unforgettable memories!”

This example concludes the speech with a final toast, encapsulating heartfelt well wishes for the couple’s future and leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

These 14 amazing best man speech examples provide a range of ideas and styles to inspire your own speech. Remember, the key is to add your personal touch, tailor the content to the couple, and deliver it with sincerity and confidence. With these examples as your guide, you’re sure to create a speech that will leave a lasting impression on the newlyweds and their guests. Good luck!

See Also…

10 Tips for an Unforgettable Father of the Bride Speech

[…] 14 Amazing Best Man Speech Examples […]

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• Your Inspiration

The Most Hilarious Best Mans Speech Jokes

Author: Hollie Bond

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Best Man Speech Opening Jokes

Jokes about the newlyweds, self-deprecating best man jokes, jokes to end the best man's speech.

Feeling the pressure to deliver a best man’s speech that will make every guest in the room laugh? Keep guests young and old entertained for the whole speech with these funny best man’s speech jokes.

It’s such an honour to be asked to be a best man and this VIP role comes with many fun and important tasks (if you’re not sure what they are check out our guide to being a brilliant best man here). One of the tasks many best men dread though is writing and delivering the best man speech on the wedding day. Unless you’re a natural public speaker or have spent time on stage, it can be a pretty daunting prospect, especially when you consider that the best man speech is traditionally known to be the funniest and most looked forward to of all the speeches.

The good news is, you’re not alone and thousands of other best men before you have sat and stared at a blank piece of paper for hours before finally getting the inspiration to write an awesome best man speech.

We’ve got a comprehensive guide on how to write a brilliant groom’s speech here to help you with the structure, format, and length. But, once you have the general gist and bare bones of the best man speech jotted down, it’s time to insert some funny jokes into each section, to keep all the guests chuckling with laughter from start to finish.

Remember you’re not expected to be a professional stand-up comedian, Michael McIntyre style, and a wedding is often an emotional day, so it’s absolutely fine to make jokes that are unique to the couple or situation and also to include a heartfelt sentiment or two in between all the gags. To help you on your way to going down in history as the best best man ever, we’ve rounded up some of the greatest tried-and-tested best man speech jokes and one-liners that’ll easily fit into most wedding speeches. Feel free to tailor them to fit the newlyweds you’re talking about. Good luck!

What shouldn’t the best man joke about?

When it comes to writing your best man speech, there are certain topics that are strictly off-limits. It’s important to spend time thinking about things that will come across badly or offend any guests and really consider every sentence carefully before it makes the final edit.

Mentioning the groom’s ex-girlfriends or a previous wife is a definite no-go, as is talking about the groom’s sex life in any way. So that means no mention of the impending wedding night too. Anecdotes about the groom can be best man speech gold, but you need to get to the punch line within a few sentences otherwise you’ll lose the audience and always make sure any anecdotes will amuse all types of guests.

The best man should always avoid joking about the bride too. Unless you’re really good mates with her and know her well enough to have a giggle with her, then it’s best to just say something heartfelt and lovely about her.

Jokes containing swear words should also be avoided. While the younger generation of guests might not flinch when you swear, older members of the audience could be extremely offended. Finally, it’s best to steer clear of making a joke about how long it took for the groom to propose if that was the case. Not only does it make the bride look like all she wanted was a ring on her finge, it also might be an area of contention between the couple so won’t come across as funny to them.

And remember, you’re not the next Al Murray or Michael McIntyre so you don’t need to pepper your speech with one-liners worthy of a stand-up routine. Only joke about things that are genuinely amusing and specific to the groom at the wedding you’re attending rather than anything too generic that you’ve found on the internet.

Starting the best man’s speech is the most difficult part. Once you’ve said a few words, shaken off those nerves, and realised the crowd isn’t full of people about to throw tomatoes at you, you’ll get into your stride, but those first few sentences can be pretty scary.

The trick is to get the audience on your side from the off with a short and easy-to-understand joke that sets the tone for the speech to follow. Here are some great opener ideas for best man speeches.

1) If there’s anybody here today who’s feeling nervous, apprehensive and queasy at the thought of what lies ahead, it’s probably because you’ve just married [NAME OF THE GROOM].

2) Good evening. I’m so happy to preside over the only five minutes that the bride didn’t plan. Of course, I’m only joking. She went over the speech with me half an hour ago in the bar.

3) Everyone here who knows Sophie will know that she is a wonderful and kind person, who deserves a good husband. Thank god Theo married her before she found one.

4) We’ve now reached the point in the proceedings when we all get to see the Groom shift uncomfortably in his seat and grip the tablecloth in nervous anticipation. That’s right, I’ve been asked to give him the drinks bill.

5) It’s been an emotional day, even the cake is in tiers.

6) I just heard there was a competitive sweepstake on the length of the Best Man’s speech. I put my money on 45 minutes, so settle in…

7) My name is James and I am the Best Man. Many of you would beg to differ, but you’d do well to keep quiet – I know your secrets.

8) I’d like to congratulate the Groom on a truly magnificent speech. I always knew it would be hard to follow and I was right – I could hardly follow a word of it.

9) Being asked to be someone’s best man is like being called up for jury duty. You don’t really want to do it, but know you have to. You’re made to dress in a suit and pretend to be an upstanding member of the community. The only difference is I didn’t have a say if the life sentence passed earlier today.

10) I did ask for a microphone but was told one wasn’t available. So if you can’t hear me at the back, the silence from the people at the front should reassure you that you’re not missing out on anything.

11) I’ve been told I can’t get away with a few thank yous and a quick toast in this speech. Apparently, as Best Man, I’m supposed to sing the Groom’s praises and talk about his good qualities. Unfortunately, I can’t sing and I won’t lie.

12) Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Before I came here today one of my good friends gave me some advice on giving this speech. He said think of it like walking through a nudist camp, it’s only hard for the first minute.

13) You’ve got no idea how much I’ve been looking forward to today. After all the time I’ve been friends with the Groom, he has at long last admitted that I am in fact the best man.

14) Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Before I begin, I just want to apologise for not being an experienced public speaker. I’m probably going to spend most of the time looking at this piece of paper in my hands. Oh, it’s not my notes – it’s a picture of the triple vodka I’m going to down as soon as this is over.

15) Firstly I’d like to say I’m very nervous about making this speech. In fact this must be the third time today that I’ve stood up from a warm seat with pieces of paper in my hand.

16) I don’t believe in roasting the groom on his special day. Therefore this speech won’t contain anything embarrassing or controversial about Matt. Instead I’ll refer only to the kind, funny side of his character. Thank you and goodnight.

17) It’s strange to be giving a speech like this one, because my parents always told me that if I had nothing good to say about someone, I should just be quiet.

18) Loyal, caring, sincere, honest, a great man… but that’s enough about me, I’m here to give a speech about Arthur!

19) For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Sam and for those of those who do know me…I apologise. My full name is actually ‘Sam-would-you-like-a-drink’. For those of you who I chat to in the bar later, I’d appreciate it if you could use my full name.

20) Please keep clapping and cheering to a minimum. I’m terribly hungover. I know, you shouldn’t drink the night before a wedding, but I couldn’t very well let the groom drink alone, could I?

21) Now, before I start, the venue manger has asked me to request that, for reasons of health and safety, none of you get up on top of the chairs and tables during my standing ovation.

22) I have no problem admitting to you all that I’m extremely nervous right now. And, as the people sitting near the front of the room can attest, it is actually possible to smell fear.

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Once you’ve opened the best man’s speech and given the guests an idea of the tone and also helped them relax, knowing that you’re not about to deliver a complete car crash of a speech, it’s time to get personal.

Remember, the best man’s speech is mostly intended as an ode to the groom and your friendship and to give the guests an idea of what the main man at the wedding is really like behind closed doors!

You can also include some jokes about the bride (or another groom at a same-sex wedding), although keep these minimal as the father of the bride will have spent a large part of his speech talking about his daughter. As well as these tried-and-tested quips, try to include a few jokes that are specific and personal to your friend, to ensure the groom and his guests feel like you do actually know and love him!

23) So where do I start about Ben? Well, for starters he’s handsome, witty, intelligent, he’s charm…sorry… Ben, I’m having trouble reading you handwriting. You can tell me the rest later.

24) The bride and groom have asked that I don’t talk about Mike’s mishaps, mistakes, embarrassing moments or ex-girlfriends. So thanks for listening everyone, that’s it from me!

25) I do have to say though Rowan just how lucky you are. You will leave here today with a wife who is warm, loving and caring. And Margot, how lucky you are as well. You leave here today having gained a lovely dress and a wonderful bouquet of flowers.

26) Helen please put your left hand flat on the table. Paul please place your hand on top of hers. Enjoy this moment Paul because it’s the first and last time in your marriage that you’ll have the upper hand.

27) We all know the bride is a wonderful lady who deserves the perfect guy. Too bad you don’t always get what you deserve.

28) Well, I do hope that Meghan and Harry enjoy their honeymoon in Wales. I assume that’s where they’re going anyway… When I asked Harry what he was doing after the wedding, he said he was going to Bangor for a fortnight.

29) I’ve been instructed by the bride and groom to keep this speech smut-free, so if I come across any innuendo, I’ll whip it out immediately.

30) Harry is the kindest friend anyone could ask for; a man whose philanthropy knows no bounds. ‘Generosity’ should be his middle name. He would do anything for me; like helping write a section of the best man speech because I forgot about it until late last night at the bar!

30) Seeing the happy couple walking down the aisle earlier today, I’m sure we all agree that the bride looked simply stunning. The groom, on the other hand, simply looked stunned.

31) I’ll try to keep my speech short, because every extra minute I speak is an extra minute’s delay in witnessing how the Groom’s dance lessons worked out.

If the groom is known to be a bit of a tech geek or a gamer…

32) Now he’s getting a bit older he’s turning his attention more and more to gadgets, constantly buying stuff online. I swear he didn’t have an interest in women until I told him the secret to women was knowing what buttons to press.

33) Being asked to be the best man is about five minutes of glowing pride, followed by an eternity of panic and misery. Jane, I expect you had a similar experience when David asked you to be his wife.

34) Someone once said that marriage is a 50/50 partnership, but anyone who believes that clearly knows nothing about women or fractions!

35) When I saw Kate heading up the aisle with her father, I thought “At last she’s seen sense, and got herself a man with looks and money.”

36) Before proposing, William went to ask Kate’s father for her hand in marriage. He said that it was fine by him, providing William took the hand that had spent 25 years fishing into his wallet.

37) I’ve been asked by many how I’m going to cope with my best friend being married and spending all of his time loved up at home. I’m thrilled! I’ll finally be able to talk to women without him cramping my style.

It’s a classic and winning tool in British humour – the self-deprecating joke, where you take the mick out of yourself in order to make the crowd both laugh and also get them on your side straight away. Here are some of the best ways to put yourself down in hilarious fashion.

38) I would like to start by saying what a pleasure it is to be Best Man at Charles and Camilla’s wedding. Charles made me compete for this honour today, but I was able to beat the barman over there in rock-paper-scissors, so here I am!

39) The trouble with being the best man at a wedding is that you never get to prove it.

40) I’ve been worried about giving this speech for a while now. Fortunately last night I slept like a baby. Waking up every two hours and bawling my eyes out.

You’ll probably want to end the speech on more of a heartfelt note or with some sort of thanks and advice for the newlyweds, but there’s always time to get a couple of more jokes in at the groom’s expense beforehand…

41) Ryan was telling me that the amazing meal this evening was charged on a cost-per-head basis, so, on the bride and groom’s behalf, I’d like to thank the following people for not coming…

42) I’ve just got some last messages here to read out: one from Greg’s football team to Jacqui: “Apologies we couldn’t all be there today, good luck with Greg, we found him to be useless in most positions, but wishing you all the best for tonight.”

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Hollie Bond

Hollie is a lifestyle journalist with over ten years’ experience working in the wedding industry as Lifestyle Editor for You & Your Wedding magazine Also a Regional Editor for Muddy Stilettos, Hollie has written for Square Meal magazine, Family History Monthly, BBC History magazine and Homes & Antiques. In her spare time you can find Hollie in a dance studio practising ballet…

Learn more about Hollie Bond

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