maid of honor speech samples for best friend

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

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

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Maid Of Honor Speech Examples

Best friend maid of honor speech.

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

We’ve made a research and after surveying over 50,000 brides, the maid of honor choice was crystal clear: more than 51% of them chose their best friend as their maid of honor. This role isn’t just about tradition—it’s about an unbreakable bond. A best friend’s speech resonates deeply, filled with shared memories and heartfelt wishes.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Sister maid of honor speech.

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

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

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

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

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

How to write a maid of honor speech for sister?

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

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Funny Maid Of Honor Speech

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

“Well, for those of you who I haven’t had the chance to meet yet, my name is [NAME]. [BRIDE] and I have been best friends for around the last 10 years. We first met at work one day, when she stole my carrot cake out of the fridge in the lunchroom and I threw away her pineapple yogurt cartons in revenge. I never had a sister, but [BRIDE] has been my stand-in sister for all these years. You could say we are even closer than sisters. We don’t fight like sisters, but we do wear each other’s clothes. Somehow she can still fit into my clothes but I can’t fit into hers anymore. I’m sure that is just because her dryer must be shrinking them. I knew [BRIDE] had found the one when [GROOM] walked into her life. Sure, she dated a few guys…after I was done torturing them. But [GROOM] was different. Unlike those jerks, he was kind and thoughtful. And he had a job. You could see that it was love at first, second, and third sight. Clearly [GROOM] is charming and it seems to me he offers her what she needs – a strong arm, a kind ear, and an American Express Black Card. I trust [BRIDE] and [GROOM] completely. I remember the time I asked them to watch my dog Benji when I went skiing in Europe. They were so nice to help out. I got back and Benji was so happy to see me. He was 40 pounds lighter and now he sees a therapist twice a week. Of course, we are having fun today. The test of this relationship will be over the long term. Will she still love [GROOM] when he leaves his underwear on the floor and cuts his toenails at the dinner table? The answer is no. God, please, disgusting. No, seriously, I know they will have challenges as all relationships do. And [GROOM] will learn what all men learn eventually. Keep your wife happy! Happy wife, happy life. No, really, what’s great about love and relationships and marriage is learning to grow together. The communication it takes to keep a marriage going is massive. But half the fun is working things out, talking, communicating, and launching kitchen appliances at each other – real love. Today has been a great day. Family and friends are here, the sun is shining and the champagne is flowing. And we’ll need it to get through this chicken dinner.”

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

Funny Lines For Maid Of Honor Speech

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

Bridesmaid Wedding Speech

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

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

“Hi everyone, I am one of the bridesmaids at this wedding and I just wanted to say how happy and lucky I am to be here to celebrate [bride] and [groom’s] wedding with everyone. Today, everything looks effortless. From the beautiful wedding ceremony to the food, music, and decorations at this venue, every little detail was planned by [bride] and [groom.] And lots of time was spent shopping for dresses and doing fittings. When you get to peek behind the scenes, you see how much work really gets put into planning a wedding. There were a lot of late nights and hours spent working on this wedding and I have to say that it all turned out quite beautifully. Let’s all give a round of applause for [bride] and [groom.] [Bride] and [groom,] thank you for such a wonderful day. I raise my glass to the two of you and wish you nothing but the best in your life together. May each day be full of love and laughter between the two of you.”

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

Short Maid Of Honor Speech Examples

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to write a short wedding speech?

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

Maid Of Honor Toasts

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

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

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

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

The Maid Of Honor Speech Template

Infographic.

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

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

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

How To Write The Best Maid Of Honor Speech Ever

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

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

Don’t

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

How to Get Started Maid of Honor Wedding Speech

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

Examples of How to Get Started:

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

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

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

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

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

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

How To End A Maid Of Honor Speech

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

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

10 Maid Of Honor Speech Tips

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

Planning Your Speech

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

Speech Structure

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

Edit Your Speech

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

Choosing Quotes for a Memorable Maid of Honor Speech

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

How to Use Quotes

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

Where to Find Quotes

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the maid of honor have to give a speech.

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

How long should a maid of honor speech be?

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

What should be avoided in a maid of honor speech?

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

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

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

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

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15 Best Examples of Maid of Honor Speeches for Inspiration

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

15 Examples of Maid of Honor Speeches

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

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

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

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

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Maid of Honor Speech Examples

January 3, 2017 By Kate

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

How To Write a Maid of Honor Speech

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Maid Of Honor Speeches For Sister

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You may also enjoy Mother of the Bride Speeches.

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

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

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

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

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

Maid Of Honor Speech For Best Friend

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

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

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

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Maid of honor speech examples

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

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

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

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

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

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

What's on this page

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

A heartfelt Maid of Honor speech example

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mark, that was one you received.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A light hearted Maid of Honor speech example

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

But it is definitely about sharing the same heart space.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

And now a toast. Please raise your glasses.

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

Content suggestions for your own MOH speech

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

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

Focus, for now, on generating ideas.

Maid of Honor speech writing prompts

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

What NOT to put into your speech

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

Remove any:

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

How to get from notes to speech

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

How to end a Maid of Honor speech

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

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

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

Test and rehearse your speech

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

How to test your speech

Testing has two parts.

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

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

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

Rehearse your speech

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

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

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

More resources

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

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

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

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

In this article:

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

Printable Maid of Honor Speech Template

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

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech Outline

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

1. Reflect on your relationship with the couple.

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

2. Celebrate the couple's relationship.

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

3. Avoid taboo topics.

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

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

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

4. Add jokes—but not too many.

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

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

5. Create your maid of honor speech outline.

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

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

Maid of Honor Speech Examples

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

Funny Maid of Honor Speech

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

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

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

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

Find your kind of venue

Maid of honor speech for best friend.

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

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

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

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

Maid of Honor Speech for Sister

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

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

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

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

Maid of Honor Speech for Cousin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Short Maid of Honor Speech

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

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

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

Maid of Honor Speech Tips

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

Don't procrastinate.

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

Add stories, not adjectives.

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

Be true to yourself.

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

Remember to mention the partner.

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

Write it down.

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

Practice in front of an audience.

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

Stay calm, cool and collected.

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

Don't forget to smile.

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

Maid of Honor Speech Frequently Asked Questions

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

Does the maid of honor have to give a speech?

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

How long should a maid of honor speech be?

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

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

How to Start a Maid of Honor Speech

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

How to End a Maid of Honor Speech

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

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

When does the maid of honor give a speech?

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

What to do if there are multiple maids of honor?

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

Creative Wedding Planning Ideas

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

Sample Speech 1

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

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

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

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

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

Sample Speech 2

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

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

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

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

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

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

Short Maid of Honor Speech Examples

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

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

Maid of Honor Speeches for a Best Friend

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

Maid of Honor Speeches for a Sister

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

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How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech—Template Included

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

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

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

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

6 Tips to Prepare for Your Maid of Honor Speech

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

1. Introduce Yourself and Express Thanks

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

2. Talk About the Bride

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

3. Talk About Her Partner

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

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

4. Talk About the Couple

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

5. Share Encouragement or Advice for the Newlyweds’ Future

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

6. Closing Toast

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

How to Nail Your Maid of Honor Speech

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

Set Aside Reflection Time

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

Define Your Objective

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

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

Don’t Go Overboard with Anecdotes

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

Develop Your Story

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

Be Authentic

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

Practice, Don’t Memorize

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

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

Maid of Honor Speech Template

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In this article:

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech

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

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

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

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

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

Begin Early

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

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

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

Try a Quote

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

Tell Stories

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

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

Be Prepared

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

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

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

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

A heartfelt speech is better than a perfect one.

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

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

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

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

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

Maid Of Honor Speech Template

INTRODUCTION

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

THE CEREMONY

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

Do’s And Don’ts

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

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

1. Introduce Yourself

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

2. Thank People

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

3. Tell Stories

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

4. Add a Quote

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

5. Give Heartfelt Emotion

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

6. Finish Strong

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

Sister Maid of Honor Speech

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

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

Best Friend Matron of Honor Speech

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

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

Short Matron of Honor Speech

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

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

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

Maid of Honor Toast

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

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

Matron of Honor Speech

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

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

Funny Maid of Honor Speech

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

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

Roast Speech

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

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

Christian Maid of Honor Speech

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

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

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

Creative Maid of Honor Speech

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

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

Bridesmaid Speech

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

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

Touching Maid of Honor Speech

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

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

Bridesmaid Toast

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

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

Maid of Honor Speech

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How Long Should a Maid of Honor Speech Be?

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

What Should a Maid of Honor Speech Include?

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

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

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

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

Things To Avoid In Your Maid of Honor Speech

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

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

Maid of Honor Speech Writing Prompts

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

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

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

Maid of Honor Speech Examples and Ideas

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

Maid of Honor Speech Example For Sister:

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

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

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

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

Maid of Honor Speech Example for Best Friend:

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

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

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

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

Nailing Your Wedding Speech

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

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

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Crafting the Perfect Maid of Honor Speech for Your Best Friend

Imagine this: the room is full, the lights are dimmed, and all eyes are on you. It’s your moment to give the maid of honor speech for your best friend. No pressure, right?

Fear not, because this article is your roadmap to creating a speech that’s both touching and memorable, weaving together the perfect blend of laughter, tears, and love.

How To Write a Maid of Honor Speech for Your Best Friend

Before going into real-life examples, let’s talk about what and how to write a speech for your best friend.

Step 1: Understanding Your Audience

When you stand up to deliver your maid of honor speech, remember: You’re not just talking to your best friend, the bride. You’re addressing an entire audience , each with their own relationship to the couple.

This audience is a mosaic of generations, backgrounds, and connections.

Your goal? Crafting a speech that resonates with everyone.

#1 Consider the Diversity

• Your audience will include grandparents, parents, friends from different life stages, and perhaps even young children .
• Your words need to bridge these gaps . This doesn’t mean diluting your message, but rather choosing stories and jokes that are relatable.
• Avoid references that only a few will understand. Instead, opt for universal themes – friendship, love, and shared joy .

#2 Think About Tone

• While addressing a varied group, it’s crucial to maintain a balance . You want to be respectful yet not overly formal, personal yet not exclusive.
• It’s like walking a tightrope between casual and considerate . Your goal is to make everyone feel included and appreciated .

#3 Be Mindful of Length

• A captive audience is key, and attention spans vary widely across a diverse group.
• A speech that’s too long can lose its impact. Aim for brevity – a speech that’s succinct yet impactful will resonate more than a lengthy monologue.

#4 Remember the Setting

• A wedding is a joyous occasion . Your speech should reflect this atmosphere.
• It’s okay to be lighthearted , but always keep the sanctity of the event in mind.
• Humor is welcome, but it should be tasteful and fitting for all ears in the room.

Step 2: Starting Strong

The opening lines are your make-or-break moment. They set the tone and capture the audience’s attention. So, how do you start strong?

Consider a Hook

• Start with something memorable : a light-hearted joke or a touching anecdote .
• Your opening should reflect the essence of your relationship with the bride or the couple’s journey.
• Example : “When Sarah first told me about John, she used the word ‘soulmate’ within the first three sentences. I knew then, he was more than just another date.”

Connect to a Broader Theme

• If you start with humor , transition into how this humor has been a cornerstone of your friendship.
• If you begin with sentiment , link it to the depth and significance of the day.
• This transition guides your audience from the initial engagement to the heart of your speech .

Brevity is Your Ally

• A concise, impactful start is more effective than a lengthy introduction.
• A sentence or two is often enough to set the stage .

Ensure Accessibility

• Avoid inside jokes or references that only a few will understand.

Step 3: Incorporating Personal Stories

Diving into personal stories is where your speech truly comes to life . Select anecdotes that shine a light on the bride’s character or your unique bond.

Maybe it’s the time you both got lost on a road trip but ended up having an unforgettable adventure. This story could highlight her adventurous spirit or your enduring friendship.

Balance is key.

Mix humor with heartfelt moments . A funny incident, like how she always mixes up common sayings, can be paired with a touching remark about her unwavering support during tough times.

These stories should paint a picture of the bride, showcasing why she’s so special to you and others.

Step 4: Celebrating the Couple

Now, shift your focus to the couple . It’s important to weave in the groom , celebrating their relationship. Share an observation that encapsulates their bond.

Perhaps it’s the way they always seem to communicate with just a glance or how they support each other’s dreams.

A great example could be recalling the first time you saw them together and the unmistakable spark between them. This isn’t just about telling a story; it’s about illustrating the beautiful partnership they’ve built.

Your words should reflect the joy and hope their union brings to everyone who knows them.

Step 5: Adding Humor

Injecting humor into your speech is like adding spice to a dish – it should enhance, not overpower. Be light-hearted without veering into inappropriate territory.

#1 Choose Relatable Humor

• Share something universally amusing, like the bride’s notorious love for organizing .
• Example : Joke about how her wedding planner is more detailed than a PhD final exam.

#2 Avoid Sensitive Topics

• Steer clear of embarrassing stories or private jokes that might confuse or alienate guests.

#3 Timing is Everything

• A well-placed joke can break the ice and keep the audience engaged.
• Be mindful to read the room .

#4 If a Joke Doesn’t Land

• Gracefully move on. Your goal is to add a touch of levity , not to perform a stand-up routine.

Step 6: Getting Emotional

Now, let’s delve into the heart of your speech . This is where you open up, sharing genuine emotions . It’s not just about making people laugh; it’s about making them feel.

Talk about what the bride means to you, how she’s impacted your life.

For example , you might say, “Sarah has been my rock, always there with a listening ear and a heart full of understanding.” This is just off the top of my head, but you get the idea.

This section is your opportunity to show the depth of your friendship .

However, it’s important to keep the emotions in check. You want to convey sincerity without becoming overly sentimental.

Step 6: The Toast

The toast is the grand finale of your speech . It’s where you encapsulate your feelings and good wishes for the couple. Craft a toast that’s both personal and universal.

You might say, “To Sarah and John, may your love be as endless as your wedding planning seemed to be.” This adds a touch of humor while conveying heartfelt wishes.

Keep it short, sweet, and memorable .

Your toast is the ribbon that ties your speech together, so make it count. Share your feelings, but also keep the focus on celebrating this joyous occasion.

Step 7: Practice Makes Perfect

Practicing your speech is crucial. It’s not just about memorizing words, but about delivering them with confidence and emotion.

Practice in front of a mirror, or better yet, a friend. Pay attention to your pacing and make sure your expressions and gestures feel natural.

The more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll be when the big moment arrives. Remember, a well-rehearsed speech feels effortless and engaging.

Step 8: Final Tips and Reminders

As you finalize your speech, here are some key reminders:

• Speak from the heart. Authenticity resonates more than perfection.
• Keep it concise. Aim for a speech that’s around 2 to 3 minutes to maintain engagement.
• Be prepared for emotions. It’s okay to show vulnerability, but also have a plan to compose yourself if needed.

Examples of Maid of Honor Speeches for Your Best Friend

Alright, now that we’ve covered the basics for a speech for your best friend, let’s move on to some samples that will help you gather ideas and inspiration.

The Light-Hearted Approach

Example 1: “Good evening, everyone! For those who don’t know me, I’m Emily, the proud best friend of our stunning bride. I’ve known Sarah since we were both high enough to ride the rollercoaster – and let me tell you, it’s been an exhilarating ride ever since. Sarah has always been the planner – from our school projects to, well, this beautiful wedding. I always joked that she’d have her wedding planned before she found the groom. And, I wasn’t wrong! John, you are the perfect partner for her – calm, loving, and most importantly, patient during her detailed planning sessions. Here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and yes, lots of lists. Cheers to Sarah and John!”

Example 2: “Hi everyone, I’m Chloe, and I have the joy of being Sarah’s maid of honor. Sarah is the kind of friend who convinces you to go skydiving on a whim because ‘it might be fun!’ With Peter, she’s found her adventure partner for life. Peter, you’ve embraced Sarah’s spontaneous spirit, and together, you’re an unstoppable duo. Here’s to Sarah and Peter – may your life together be an endless adventure, filled with love, laughter, and maybe a few less near-heart-attack experiences for me!”

Example 3: “Hello everyone, I’m Laura, Sarah’s partner-in-crime and maid of honor. Sarah and I have shared countless adventures, from disastrous baking attempts to impromptu karaoke nights. One thing that always stood out is Sarah’s ability to find joy in every moment. And then came Alex, who not only joined our quirky adventures but brought his own sense of fun. Alex, you fit right into our world of laughter. Here’s to Sarah and Alex, the couple who reminds us that life is best lived with a smile and a dash of mischief!”

The Emotional Tribute

Example 1: “Ladies and gentlemen, I’m Anna, the lifelong friend and sidekick of our beautiful bride. When I first met Sarah, I knew she was special. She has this incredible light that draws people to her – a light that’s even brighter today. Sarah, you’ve been my confidante, my shoulder to cry on, and the source of my greatest laughter. Seeing you with John, I realize he doesn’t just share in your light; he amplifies it. Together, you are unstoppable. John, thank you for making my best friend so incredibly happy. To Sarah and John – may your life be filled with the same joy and love you bring to others. Cheers!”

Example 2: “Ladies and gentlemen, I’m Emily, fortunate enough to call myself Sarah’s maid of honor. From the day I met Sarah, her warmth and kindness have been a beacon in my life. She’s the friend who’s always there – with a listening ear, a comforting hug, or a well-timed joke. Watching her with Michael, it’s clear that he not only cherishes her light but adds to it with his own. Michael, thank you for adoring Sarah as we all do. To the incredible journey ahead for Sarah and Michael – may it be as radiant as the love they share. Cheers!”

Example 3: “Good evening, I’m Olivia, honored to stand here as Sarah’s maid of honor. Meeting Sarah was like finding a piece of my soul I didn’t know was missing. Her compassion, laughter, and wisdom have been my guiding stars. Seeing her with David, I see a love that’s deep and genuine. David, you’ve not only won Sarah’s heart, you’ve enriched her soul. Together, you both shine so brightly. Here’s to Sarah and David, a couple whose love is as profound as the ocean and as beautiful as the stars.”

The Balanced Mix

Example 1: “Hello, everyone! I’m Lisa, the maid of honor and partner-in-crime to the most amazing bride. Sarah and I have been through everything – bad haircuts, questionable fashion choices, and now, the biggest day of her life. Sarah, you’ve always been the brave one, ready to face any challenge. It’s no surprise you chose John, someone who matches your strength and passion for life. Together, you’re a power couple in the truest sense. John, take good care of her, but don’t worry – she’s got your back too. To the couple who complements each other perfectly – may your life be as adventurous and joyful as our teenage escapades. To Sarah and John!”

Example 2: “Ladies and gentlemen, I’m Hannah, proudly standing beside Sarah as her maid of honor. Sarah has always been the one we all lean on – strong, caring, and wise beyond her years. With Mark, she’s found her equal, someone who matches her strength and adds to her joy. Mark, your love for Sarah is a beautiful sight to behold. May your life together be a blend of laughter, love, and endless support, just like the incredible bond you both share.”

Example 3: “Good evening, I’m Rachel, the lucky lady who gets to be Sarah’s maid of honor. Sarah, you’ve always been my rock and my inspiration. Your strength and compassion have shaped who I am. With Tom, you’ve found someone who respects and nurtures your incredible qualities. Tom, your love for Sarah is evident in every look and every gesture. Together, you are a testament to what love should be – strong, caring, and full of laughter. To Sarah and Tom, may your life together be as beautiful and fulfilling as the love you share.”

The Funny Approach

Example 1: “Ladies and gents, I’m Zoe, the maid of honor and Sarah’s official partner in crime. Sarah always said she’d know ‘The One’ when they could make her laugh until she cried. Enter Chris. Chris, not only have you passed the ‘making Sarah laugh’ test, but you’ve also survived meeting her crazy family, and her even crazier friends – us! You two are perfect for each other – both with a sense of humor that could light up any room. To Sarah and Chris: may your life be full of laughter, love, and maybe a few less practical jokes on each other!”

Example 2: “Hello, everyone! I’m Megan, Sarah’s maid of honor and official keeper of her most embarrassing stories. Sarah always said she’d marry someone who could out-dance her at parties. Well, along came Jake, who not only out-danced her but did it wearing a chicken costume. Jake, you’ve brought so much laughter into Sarah’s life, and for that, we’re eternally grateful (and endlessly amused). To Sarah and Jake, may your marriage be a dance-off of joy, sprinkled with moments as hilarious as your first dance-off.”

Example 3: “Hi there, I’m Lily, the lucky lady who’s Sarah’s maid of honor. I’ve always known Sarah to be the ‘why walk when you can dance?’ type of person. Then she met Eric, who said, ‘why dance when you can conga line?’ Together, they are the life of every party. Eric, thank you for keeping Sarah’s spirits high and her dance moves even higher. To the couple who reminds us that life is not about the steps you take, but the rhythm you enjoy it with – Sarah and Eric, may your life be an endless conga line of happiness!”

These examples are brief outlines for your maid of honor speech. Typically, aim for a 2-3 minute speech. By adding personal stories and memories, you’ll reach this length while keeping it engaging.

Keep in mind that it’s your unique perspective and heartfelt connection with the bride that will make your speech stand out. Keep it genuine, and it will surely resonate with everyone.

In wrapping up, writing a maid of honor speech for your best friend is a beautiful blend of anecdotes, humor, emotion, and well-wishes. It’s an honor that allows you to share your unique perspective on the bride and her journey.

Keep it genuine, balanced, and heartfelt. With these tips in mind, you’re ready to create a speech that not only honors your best friend but also resonates with every guest in the room.

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• Who Gives a Speech at a Wedding Reception? How to Write a Wedding Toast Tips for the Father of the Bride Speech How to Write a Best Man Toast Advice for the Maid of Honor Speech What to Know About a Newlywed Toast Public Speaking Experts' Wedding Speech Tips 60 Quotes to Use for Your Wedding Toast

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech

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

Photo by Janine Licare

In This Article

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

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

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

Meet the Expert

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

Maid of Honor Speech Template

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

Start with the bride; end with the couple.

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

Pepper in anecdotes.

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

End with a positive outlook.

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

Maid of Honor Speech Tips

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

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

Ditch Generic Praise

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

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

Remember it isn't about you.

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

Do not mention exes.

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

Keep it short.

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

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

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

Don't use inside jokes.

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

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

How to Get Started

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

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

Maid of Honor Speech Examples to Make Your Own

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Guide to Wedding Reception Toasts

Who Gives a Speech at a Wedding Reception?

How to Write a Wedding Toast

Tips for the Father of the Bride Speech

How to Write a Best Man Toast

Advice for the Maid of Honor Speech

What to Know About a Newlywed Toast

Public Speaking Experts' Wedding Speech Tips

60 Quotes to Use for Your Wedding Toast

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The Best Maid-of-Honor Speech Examples

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to write maid of honor speech for best friend

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

Table of Contents

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

Step 1: Start with a Warm Introduction

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

Step 2: Express Your Gratitude for Being Chosen

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

Step 3: Share Personal Anecdotes

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

Step 4: Compliment the Bride and Groom

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

Step 5: Speak from the Heart

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

Step 6: Conclude with Well-Wishes

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

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

Final Thought

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

So James here’s some advice for the future:

No1. She is always right

No.2 She always needs new clothes and shoes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Bridal Shower 101

Inspiration | Events | Relationships

• 25 October 2023
• Advice , Wedding

Your Maid of Honor Speech- Ultimate Guide With Examples!

Well, here we are! This is the moment you’ve been waiting for. It’s time to give an amazing maid of honor speech. We’ll show you how to make it unforgettable.

We are going to make your life so much easier because we have the ultimate guide to writing the perfect maid of honor speech. And we are not just talking about a good game, we WILL deliver!

In this blog post, we will give you a step-by-step guide for writing a fabulous MOH speech that will make the bride and her wedding guests happy to hear.

Get your FREE maid of honor speech outline at the end of this post if you need an extra boost.

Now it is time for your grand (MOH) finale! Let’s begin so you can write a phenomenal piece for the bride’s big day.

What is a maid of honor speech? Why is it so scary?

At the wedding reception, the maid of honor speaks to the couple in front of everyone. It is a major part of the maid of honor duties for the wedding day. She expresses her well wishes during her speech. The maid of honor toast concludes with a declaration and the attendees take a drink.

Giving a maid of honor speech can be nerve-wracking because it includes speaking in front of a crowd. However, with the right tools and preparation, you can overcome this. Out of all of the maid of honor responsibilities, the speech is the most important.

Let’s look at the maid of honor speech by considering types, timing, and content to include.

Types of maid of honor speeches

There are many unique styles for a MOH speech. There, are funny ones, emotional ones, unique ones, and even short maid of honor speeches you could go for.

The speaker determines the type of maid of honor speech. If the maid of honor is the bride’s sister, best friend, or a close relative (like a cousin). It all depends on your relationship with the bride and your personality.

For example, If you are an extrovert, you may be more comfortable speaking a little longer because you are familiar with the bride’s family and friends.

If you are a shy maid of honor and the bride’s college friend, you may consider delivering a unique speech.

Timing of maid of honor speech

Wedding speeches always begin after the meal of the reception. It’s typically the maid of honor’s turn to say her speech after the father of the bride or the best man.

How long should your maid of honor speech be?  Your speech should be about 3-7 minutes long. That time provides sufficient insight, without being too long to distract or encourage side conversations among guests.

What to cover in your speech?

Talk about the bride first. Congratulate her and offer her your sincerest well wishes for a happy union. You should tell a personal story about the bride.

Give characteristics of the bride that tell why she is so amazing. Share a brief history of the happy couple. And end with more well wishes by giving a toast to true love.

Hosting a Bridal Shower? Start Here!

During your talk, be sure to include jokes, and tell fun facts about the bride or the couple. Interact with guests by pausing. This gives time to respond or react you parts of your speech.

Last minute adds to your speech:

Before the wedding, prepare your speech. You may mention the wonderful experience of seeing the bride walk down the aisle and get married. This part will not be in the initial speech you’ve prepared, but it adds a nice touch of originality. Don’t feel limited to only your written speech.

How to write a maid of honor speech for the best wedding toast

Now we will take a closer look at what to cover in your maid of honor speech. Let’s go through each point and elaborate more on how you could use them.

7 Steps For The Perfect MOH Speech

• Talk about the bride. Remember that it is not about you. After you introduce yourself, start talking about the bride and how you know her. How did you meet? What is something you find amazing about her?
• Congratulations and well wishes. Express your happiness at her wedding and how amazing it was to share this amazing journey with her. Wish her and the groom the best.
• A personal story about your relationship. Talk about your friendship, a heartfelt or funny story on why she is your BFF.
• Touch on the bride’s character. Discuss the joy she brings into your life. This is a time to give some fun facts about her that some of the guests may not know.
• Talk about the couple. Say something nice about the two being together and their love story. Like how she is a lot happier or how they are perfect for each other.
• Thank you and more well wishes. Again, wish them the very best with all of your love and your blessing. And thank them for making you a big part of their special day.
• Toast . Now celebrate the couple. Say cheers and take a much-deserved drink!

WHAT NOT TO DO!

• No clichés (they’re corny)
• No long quotes (they’re boring)
• No inside jokes (they’re awkward)

Please know that there is nothing set in stone. If you want a short and sweet maid of honor speech, just subtract some of the sentences or paragraphs from each section.

For example, you could shorten number 3 significantly by reducing the number of paragraphs you write in your speech. Lastly, be sure to recite your speech in front of a small crowd like the bridal party or a relative.

Make sure you practice your speech well in advance to be prepared.

Maid of Honor Speech Examples

We will provide 3 examples for a maid of honor speech. Use these as inspiration for your future speech. Or use them word for word (just change names lol). You will find speech ideas for a best friend, sister, and a funny example.

Maid of honor speech for best friend

“ Hi, I’m Shante, I am Ariana’s maid of honor. I’ve known Ariana since college and since then, my life has changed for the better she is really one of my favorite people and one of the best humans on this planet.

When you asked me to be your maid of honor I was overjoyed. The first thing I thought about was the bachelorette party!

I cannot put into words how much you mean to me. You know that I’m so happy for you and_____. And I will be rooting for your relationship for the rest of my life.

When I met you I was going through such a difficult time you’ve taught me to be strong and always strive to be my best self.

There were times when I would almost lose it, and then a phone call from you would make things so much better.

One of my favorite memories was when we went to the B2K concert and got backstage pass security. And we got to meet Omarion.

We didn’t sneak in nor did we pay for passes. We got in all because you weren’t scared to just walkthrough.

I followed you in, and because of your bravery, audacity, and fearlessness, I got to have one of the best nights of my life.

Groom, this is what you’re dealing with here! She’s a woman who was bold, fearless, and a badass!

My wish if I get to have one is for everyone to have an Ariana in their life. She is the most loving and caring person that I’ve ever met.

Her heart is a reflection of what she does. And all she wants to do is take care of everyone around her. At the end of the day, she just wants everyone to love one another.

When you got engaged, I knew that this would be the best decision you’ve ever made. The smile you both put on each other’s faces are fascinating and I pray that you both remain happy forever .

Thank you so much for letting me be a part of this and I want to wish you all the love and happiness int.

Now let’s toast to the bride and the groom! “

Maid of honor speech for sister

“ Hello, my name is LeCole, Tasha’s little sister. Tash, You have been my backbone. The foundation for our family. I do not know where I would be without you.

I am so happy for you and Kwame and want to tell you both congratulations on your union. I know you guys will have so many wonderful moments together in your marriage.

Tash, when mom died you really showed me, our brother, and your son that nothing would ever break our bond.

As long as we have each other, everything will be okay. Going through such a traumatic thing like that should have made us all statistics.

But because of you taking care of us, we are now successful people. You’ve made us examples of what good could come from a bad situation.

Now that we are adults all we want is for you to be happy and loved. And we know you’ve got that with Kwame. And Kwame, get used to sister tattoos, sister bracelets, and hair emergencies. Welcome to the family!

Now that you’re officially a part of our cult, cheers to you both! “

Funny maid of honor speech

“ Hello my name is Tammy and Carla is my best friend And we’ve known each other since elementary school. She’s my best friend, confidant, and sometimes therapist.

I am so happy that you picked me to be by your side on this marvelous journey. You are an amazing friend and there’s nothing I wouldn’t do for you…. Even this sappy maid of honor speech (LOL).

I will try not to cry because I’m a very ugly crier and I don’t wanna ruin any photos (LOL). I want to wish you and Tony many many years of happiness.

Y ou deserve the best that life has to offer in love and marriage.

If you ask Carla about some of our adventures she’s probably a little hesitant (LOL). There are countless times that she is saving me from making a bad decision.

For the times she’s made me laugh uncontrollably on what I thought was a bad day.

Carla, it’s clear that everyone’s life is just better with you in it. Watching you go after your career and climb the corporate ladder and do wedding planning all in the same year has inspired me to be better and reach for the stars in life.

Because of you, I did manage to wear a real pair of pants this week, so here’s my progress in life’s achievements (LOL).

But in all seriousness, you have such a beautiful soul. She is someone I look up to because she is a positive influence in my life.

You know you’re a good person when someone’s pet prefers you over their owner. My dog absolutely loves Carla and would leave with her every time if she could. I mean seriously she would leave me for Carla any day LOL.

I know you will make a great wife and you two make a wonderful couple.

Umm…I think this is the part where I give relationship advice but I am 28 and single so I’m no help in that department (LOL) .

I want to end this by doing an activity with the couple. Carla put your hand on the table. Tony put your hand over Carla’s………

……..Take a good look Tony, and savor this moment. Because this will be the last time that you will EVER have the upper hand (LOL).

God Bless you both! Raise your glasses for Mr. and Mrs. Davis! “

Here is a Funny Maid of Honor Speech Template HERE

Perfect Maid of Honor Speech Template

Now you have everything you need to draft up the perfect maid of honor speech. If you use this guide, we are pretty sure you will NAIL your MOH speech. And before you go, we’ve got a FREE template for you to use to make writing your maid of honor speech easier. So start writing now!

Short Maid of Honor Speech Template :

And when you’ve completed your maid or matron of honor speech, take a breath of relief and have a good time!

Featured Image Credit: Kenneth Hein

RELATED: WEDDING BIO IDEAS FOR THE WEDDING PARTY

30 Best Maid of Honor Speech Examples in 2024

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

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

Here are the best maid of honor speech

Speech 1: childhood memories.

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

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

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

Speech 2: Love Story

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

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

Speech 3: Shared Adventures

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

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

Speech 4: Anecdote About the Groom

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

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

Speech 5: Wishes for the Future

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

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

Speech 6: The Power of Friendship

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

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

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

Speech 7: A Sister’s Love

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

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

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

Speech 8: Unwavering Support

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

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

Speech 9: Cherished Memories

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

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

Speech 10: Gratitude and Love

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

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

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

Speech 11: The Traveling Souls

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

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

Speech 12: The Music of Love

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

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

Speech 13: The Book of Love

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

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

Speech 14: The Starry Night of Love

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

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

Speech 15: The Culinary Connection

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

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

Speech 16: The Art of Love

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

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

Speech 17: The Adventure Awaits

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

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

Speech 18: The Seasons of Love

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

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

Speech 19: The Puzzle of Love

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

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

Speech 20: The Dance of Love

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

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

Speech 21: The Ocean of Love

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

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

Speech 22: The Garden of Love

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

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

Speech 23: The Cosmic Connection

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

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

Speech 24: The Puzzle Pieces of Life

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

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

Speech 25: The Love Train

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

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

Speech 26: The Musical Harmony

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

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

Speech 27: The Timeless Love Story

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

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

Speech 28: The Culinary Connection

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

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

Speech 29: The Treasure Hunt of Love

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

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

Speech 30: The Literary Love Story

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

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

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

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

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9 Best Examples of Maid of Honor Speeches

By: Author Hiuyan Lam

Posted on Last updated: October 20, 2023

Categories Writing Prompts

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

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

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

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

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

Great examples of maid of honor speeches:

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

  (Propose toast)

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

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

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

Conclusion:

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

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Table of Contents Show

Maid of honor speech outline, 1. be yourself, 2. keep it bride-centric, 3. don’t spill unnecessary dirt, 4. avoid controversial subjects, 5. don’t be scared to get emotional, 6. practice, practice, practice, 7. save the drinks till after the speech, sample 4 , how long should a maid of honor speech be, is the maid of honor speech compulsory, at what part of the wedding does the maid of honor speech come in , final thoughts.

After much anticipation, the day you’ve been eagerly awaiting has arrived.

Your best friend is getting married! And, of course, you’re her maid of honor.

Sure, being maid of honor is a beautiful opportunity, but it also has its fair share of responsibilities.

One of these responsibilities is giving a smashing maid of honor speech. 

It’s okay to find this a little daunting, especially if you’re not good at public speaking or you’ve never done it before. 

That’s what this post is for.

Here, we’ve explored the ins and outs of writing a funny maid of honor speech for best friend that will leave your listeners as entertained as they are moved. 

• Start by introducing yourself to the guests 
• Next, thank them for coming 
• Tell them how you met the bride and throw a little light on how close you are. Don’t be shy to share a story or two.
• Talk about her partner and the quality of their relationship.  How they met, her partner’s good qualities, and how well they work together. 
• If you’d like, you can chip in some advice here.
• Round it off with good wishes and a toast to them. 

Tips For Giving A Killer Maid Of Honor Speech

A maid of honor speech can take different tones. It can be heartfelt, dramatic, funny, or all three.

What’s important is that you be yourself. If you’re the shy type, you could stick to funny stories rather than outright jokes.

If you’re very outgoing and extroverted, then, by all means, work up the crowd. What’s most important is that you’re comfortable while giving the speech. 

Whatever you do, don’t forget it’s the bride’s day. Quickly introduce yourself and move on to the bride.

Tell the guests how you met the bride, talk about her best qualities, and throw some light on the bond you share.

You should put a lot of thought into what you intend to say in your speech. Stay away from jokes or stories that the bride may find offensive.

If there’s an embarrassing but funny memory you’d like to share, you should seek permission from the bride or stay away from it entirely. 

To avoid awkward moments, stay away from politically dicey concepts and socially awkward topics.

Keep your speech light and entertaining. 

The bride is your best friend, and she’s about to get married; of course, you should be emotional.

Don’t be scared to portray the depth of your relationship via the speech. 

You should start practicing your speech at least a week before the wedding. The more you practice, the better you’ll get at delivering it.

Record yourself and play it back so you can hear how you sound. You could also have a group of friends listen to you to see if they’ll laugh at your jokes. 

Whatever you do, ensure you stay sober until after your speech by limiting your drinks to a glass or two.

Contrary to popular opinion, alcohol won’t make you less nervous. And honestly,  there are few things worse than a drunk maid of honor giving a speech.

Funny Maid of Honor speech For Best Friend Samples

Hi everyone. I hope you’re having a swell time tonight.  My name is Kayla. I’m Bela’s best friend, and today, I get the privilege of being her maid of honor.

Before going any further, can we rise to our feet? Please take a step backward, two steps to the right, another to the left. Please have your seats.

So I was told that the secret to a banging speech is to move the audience, but I seem to be missing something. Any pointers?

Bela and I met while in college.

I was a freshman trying to figure out the ins and outs of NYU., and even though Bela was a freshman too, she had already figured her way around the school.

But, of course, that’s not a surprise to anyone who knows Bela. She’s a master planner who is rarely caught off guard. 

I recall walking up to you to ask for directions because, unlike most freshers, you looked like you knew what you were doing. 

Little did I know that the girl I was walking up to was going to be an integral part of the rest of my life. 

Bela, you’re as tenacious as you are kind. You literally light up the room when you walk in.

You don’t know how often I’ve been inspired to keep pushing simply by watching you. 

I remember when my mum was in the hospital, Bela was there with me all the way. She’d visit the hospital every day after class, bring me coffee and a change of clothes.

She’d even watch my mum for me while I went home to freshen up. All for a woman she’d never met before. 

You’ve got a giant heart Belz, and you deserve to be with someone with a heart just as massive.

You can’t imagine how excited I was when you told me about Jerry—the guy you met while staying over at your aunt’s place.

I must admit, listening to you gush and fawn over him made me extra protective and maybe a little jealous.

However, the moment I met him, I understood why you felt the way you did. 

And you were right; you guys click in a way not many people discover in this lifetime. If there really is such a thing as soulmates, then I can boldly say you guys are “it.”

Is it how you finish each other’s sentences or how you’re both so intentional about making your relationship work?

You guys are like something straight out of a Hollywood movie, and I’m so grateful I’ve got front-row tickets. 

As you embark on this next phase of life together, I’ve two pieces of advice for you: 

• Number one: Talk about everything. When you’re overwhelmed, talk about it. When you’re overjoyed, talk about it. When you’re annoyed, rather than fight or hold it in, talk about it.
• Number 2 : This one is the most important. Don’t you dare forget to name me godmother of your kids!

That’s it for my speech guys. I hope I didn’t bore y’all too much. 

To Jerry and Bela everyone!

Hello everyone. I’m Elise, the maid of honor for this beautiful occasion.

To be fair, when Jane asked me to be her maid of honor, I wasn’t the least surprised. I mean, we’ve been best friends since we met in sixth grade.

But after the initial excitement came the nerves. I was actually going to give this speech. So erm, here goes nothing.

Jane, you became my best friend before I even knew what friendship was. You’re hands down the fiercest and most loyal person I’ve ever met.

You’re genuinely kind and so incredibly beautiful. The past twenty years spent as your best friend have been the best years of my life.

Jake, I couldn’t think of anyone more deserving of true love and happiness than you both. I’ve seen how you care for Jane and support her dreams and ambitions.

I’ve also seen how you look at Jane like the sun rises and sets at her command. It’s obvious to everyone who meets you that you’re head over heels in love with each other. 

I honestly can’t wait to see what the future holds for you two. 

On this great day, I’d like us to raise a toast to Jane and Jake.

May your days be long, your love stay strong, and your years be filled with laughter and good cheer.

I love you both so much. Congratulations again!

Hi all, I’m Clarisa, Izzy’s best friend and the maid of honor.

I hope you’re having a swell time. Thank you so much for coming from far and wide to honor the beautiful couple.

I was 12 years old when Izzy and I met. My parents and I had just moved to Brooklyn, and I was still trying to figure my way around my new school.

It was my first day of school, and I was standing in the hallway, probably looking like a lost puppy, when Izzy walked up to me and offered to show me around.

From that day, Izzy and I became inseparable.

Anyone who knows Izzy knows she has the largest heart around. She’s warm, kind, intelligent, and very determined.

I can’t count the times Izzy defended me from some bully or helped me with my class assignments.

Or is it how she never hesitated to run over whenever I needed a shoulder to cry on? To be honest, everyone needs an Izzy in their life.

I remember the first time you met Tony. You sent me a text saying you’d met the man you would marry.

I remember asking you to calm down while laughing so hard that I spilled my drink. But fast forward to today, and look who you walked down the aisle with.

So today, I’m officially handing you over to Tony (with lots of mixed feelings).

Tony with kind eyes and a warm smile. Tony, who today became my best friend’s husband. 

Anyone can see how much Tony loves you from a mile away. With him, I’m sure you’re in good hands.

Thank you, Tony, for being so sure and reliable. Thank you for being so good to my Izzy.

Happy married life guys. I can’t wait to have little Izzys and Tonies running around the house. 

I love you both so much.

Hi everyone, I’m Becky, the maid of honor. 

Thank you so much for making out time to be here today. I hope you are thoroughly enjoying yourselves.

I was more than a little nervous when Christy asked me to be her maid of honor.

Yes, I might be a professional singer, but public speeches have always scared me to pieces. Honestly, I don’t think I’d do this for anyone else.

The first time I ever saw Christy was during the freshers’ orientation week in college. I remember seeing her with her brother and thinking, “wow, that girl is so beautiful.”

I never knew that “that girl” would be a solid part of my life in the shortest possible time. 

I’ve always said that Christy is a better friend than I am, and that’s the honest truth. Christy taught me to be a better person simply by watching how she lives.

She taught me to love, be selfless, put others before myself, and welcome people with an open heart.

I was so delighted when she called to inform me that she was getting married to Andrew, of all people.

Andrew, you’ve been in our circle for the longest time. Many times you’ve doubled as a friend and big brother.

I can’t count the number of times you showed up for Christy and me. And yeah, I wasn’t shocked when Christy informed me you two were dating.

Even a blind man could see your feelings for her from a  mile away.

Still, seeing the both of you together, growing more in love by the day, gladdens my heart in no small way.

You guys are a perfect example of how true love can indeed conquer all.

As you start this phase of the journey together, I’d like you to know that there’s someone here rooting and praying for you. That’s how much you both mean to me.

Congratulations again, my dear friends. Welcome to the best phase of your life.

Good day everyone. I must say you all look splendid. I hope you’re having a great time.

My name is Sylvia, and most of you know me as the groom’s sister (yeah, I know, the resemblance is almost impossible to miss).

But I’m also the bride’s best friend and maid of honor.

Hey Laura, it’s here, the day we’ve been planning since we stumbled on your mom’s wedding dress in the attic when we were six years old. 

Laura and I have been friends since we were in diapers.

Our mothers met at a nursing mother’s event; according to them, we’ve been inseparable from the moment we laid eyes on each other. 

Honestly, I can’t remember a time in my life when we weren’t friends. All the major milestones I’ve achieved had her in them, one way or the other. 

We had our first day in school together (please never show anyone those pictures), experienced our first crush together, rode the sinusoidal wave that is teenagehood as a team.

And even though we attended different colleges, we still managed to navigate college and our twenties together. 

From sleepovers to summer camps, to wild parties and business lunches, there’s almost no adventure we’ve not faced as a unit.

I’ve three biological brothers and no sister, but with you by my side, I never had to wonder what it feels like to have one. You’re literally the sister I never had. 

You can’t imagine how psyched I was when you and Larry FINALLY (rolls eyes for dramatic effect) started dating. 

I mean, I always knew Larry had the hots for you (I first noticed it the summer Larry came home from his first year in college), and I knew you liked him too (even though you refused to admit it). 

My brother Larry is as kind as he’s handsome, as warm as he’s driven. Yeah, he can be pretty annoying, but aren’t all big brothers?  

I know he loves Laura; I think he even loves her more than me. And honestly? I don’t mind.

Laura deserves to be loved with a man’s entire being. She deserves to be put first, to be loved loudly and expressively, because that’s exactly how she loves.  

You guys deserve each other. I can’t think of a more perfect pair. And I’m so grateful that I 

get to share this wonderful day with you both. 

Here’s to a lifetime of love and fruitfulness. Congratulations on your wedding guys. 

Good evening all, I’m Ale, and I’m sure you can tell I’m a bridesmaid from my outfit.

Well, here’s what you don’t know, I’m the maid of honor and Stella’s best friend of over ten years. 

Drats, my outfit probably gave the maid of honor part away too.

Just so you know, I’m pretty nervous. My hands are all shaky. Let’s just pray I don’t spill this drink on my gown. 

Stella and I met when we were in high school.

And no, we didn’t hit it off right away. On the contrary, we were both representing our respective schools at a math competition.

Haha, funny yeah, we were what some would call nerds back then.

I remember facing her in the competition and thinking, “this girl doesn’t look like a nerd; she’s way too pretty to be in the math club.” And believe me, she was.

Where I was all limbs, frizzy hair, and oversize glasses, Stella was long legs, straight hair, and acne-free face.

I was so jealous. And then and there, I decided my team would beat hers just to spite her.

I know, I know, teenage girl problems.

If you must know, both our teams lost to some other nerdy-looking girl. 

Fast-forward to the summer of that year; I ran into Stella again. It turned out that my neighbor was her grandmother, and Stella was spending the summer with her.

Somehow, someway, our paths kept crossing, and so our tentative friendship began.

As we grew closer, I saw Stella for who she was, a friend who sticks closer than a sister. 

Hubert H. Humphrey once said that the greatest gift of life is friendship, and honestly, I couldn’t agree more. 

Stella, you remain one of the greatest gifts life has given me. Your friendship,  companionship, and support.

Your advice, both the great and the crappy ones. Your crazy ideas. They’ve made the past ten years nothing short of amazing.

For me, the best part of our friendship is that we do not agree on many things.

Even though our tastes and tendencies are poles apart, even though we are very different people, I’ve never had to wonder if you get me.

It’s funny how we’ve grown into our own people but are still so dependent on each other. 

Like I always say, Stella, you’ll forever be the salt to my pepper, the peanut butter to my jelly.

And while I know that it’s always been you and I against the world, I’m glad you’ve found someone else to fight for and with you. I’m glad you’ve found Jace. 

I must admit, when you first told me about him, I had my suspicions. 

I mean, you’re my best girl, and we’ve always been protective of each other. But those reservations quickly disappeared into thin air when I met him in person. 

Jace, you’re an all-around nice guy. And more importantly, you make Stella so happy. You should see how her face lights up when she talks about you. 

In the past three years, you’ve spent as a couple, I’ve watched you gently but firmly encourage Stella to reach for her dreams.

I’ve seen you rub her feet when she’s stressed, bring her meals when she’s knee-deep in work and forgets to eat, and stay up all night with her when she’s working a hard case.

I’ve seen you care for her like I trust very few people to do.

And this is how I know this marriage is a match made in heaven.

Not only because you love each other but because you look out for each other, respect each other, and are committed to one other.

Watching you together shows us that true love does exist, and we shouldn’t settle for anything less.

I’m so glad you both have each other. And I’m super excited that I get to watch this love blossom into so much more. 

And I’m going to round off with this piece of advice.

Stella, I know you’re a hotshot surgeon, and Jace, I know your job as the district attorney can be pretty stressful.

But, no matter how busy life gets, don’t forget to deliberately make time for each other.

Remember, marriage is not a ritual or an end. It’s a long and intimate dance together. 

Please join me in raising a glass in honor of the bride and groom. I wish you both a blissful journey together. 

Good Evening everyone. I want to start my speech by introducing myself. My name is Janet, and I’m here for the food.

Okay, just kidding. I’m Lisa’s best friend and, as you can probably tell, her maid of honor. 

I thought giving this speech would be the most challenging part of the wedding, considering I’m pretty shy. B

ut, believe me, managing Lisa’s train was an experience. My hands are still shaky!

And to think I voted this gown over the mermaid dress. Not my finest moment, I think. Just kidding!

I met Lisa when she joined the accounting firm I was working with. I had just been promoted, and she was one of the new intakes assigned to work under me. 

Lisa was a hard worker and a great team player. Her willingness to learn and unbreakable optimism were the first things I noticed about her.

With time, I also discovered her sincere care and concern for others.

Add that to the mountain of things we had in common, and it did not take long for us to become best of friends. 

Lisa, truth be told, it’s almost impossible not to love you. Everyone who meets you is immediately drawn in by the warmth and kindness you emanate.

One morning Lisa walked into my office whining about how her parents had set her up on a blind date with “some guy”.

In fact, she’d already told them she wouldn’t be able to make it. Thankfully, I was able to convince her to try. 

That “some guy” was Jake. I guess she was pretty blown away on the first date because, I mean… (gestures at the bride and groom).

Long story short, that was the first of many, many, many dates to come. And two years later, here we are, celebrating their love.

Jake, I love how you bring out the best in Lisa and set her up to succeed. If there was ever an example of commitment and loyalty, it’s these two.

Yes, the past two years haven’t been easy. You’ve had to adjust and readjust for each other.

You’ve loved and lost, won and been defeated. But whatever life threw at you, you’ve always faced it together. 

Lisa has always been a strong woman, and I don’t doubt that Jake makes her stronger.  Both of you, together, make an unbeatable duo. You are such a great team.  

And so, on this day, I’ve three pieces of advice for you. Lessons I’ve learned in my four years of marriage. 

One, don’t ever go to bed angry. Jake, I know Lisa can be more than a little hot-headed. Lisa, I know Jake will get on your nerves sometimes.

But whatever happens, no matter how bad it gets, don’t let the sun go down on your anger. Instead, sort it out as soon as possible. 

Two, talk about everything.  It’s good to be tolerant but don’t sweep things under the carpet. Be vocal about how you want to be loved.

Be vocal about the things that matter to you. If you never say it, your partner may never know. 

If you don’t talk about everything, the little things may fester and eventually blow up in your faces.

Three, love is not a feeling; it’s a choice. It is intentional. Intentionally love one another,  especially now that you’re married. 

You see, marriage is not a destination; marriage is a journey. And it’s those who love Intentionally that succeed on this journey. 

I’ve watched this relationship blossom, and I have complete faith in the power of your love.

Shall we raise our glasses in a toast to this beautiful couple? 

Frequently Asked Questions 

A maid of honor speech should be about 3 to 5 minutes.

You don’t want it to be too long and bore the guests. But you don’t want it to be too short either.

You need enough time to express how you feel about the bride and her partner. 

Well, yes and no. The maid of honor speech is a popular wedding tradition.

However, whether you have to deliver it or not ultimately falls on the bride-to-be.

If the bride would love for you too,  then the least you could do is make her day by trying.

The maid of honor speech is traditionally given during the reception. But, sometimes the bride can ask that it be given at the rehearsal dinner instead.

Speeches given at the wedding reception usually come in after the guests have eaten, just before the party side of the event kicks off.

Finally, try to maintain eye contact with the guests while giving your speech. 

You can focus on a familiar face in the crowd if you’re on the shy side. But don’t forget to turn to the bride and groom when you’re addressing them.

Secondly, try to pause in between points. Pausing between points will make your speech easier to follow and more engaging. 

Lastly, don’t forget to have fun up there. A maid of honor speech should be sentimental yet funny.

Above all, it should keep the guests entertained while conveying just how much the bride means to you.