Usually the father of the bride writes a speech for the newlywed couple. However, sometimes it is difficult to live up to this tradition. Whether that is because of the great emotional value or the fact that all the guests will be listening to your speech. In this article we explain step by step how to prepare a speech that will amaze your daughter and the other guests.
The elements of a good speech
A good speech, requires a good structure. These fixed elements are helpful while you are writing the text.
Intro
The introduction is the moment where you need an icebreaker. Introduce yourself as the father of the bride and feel free to make a joke. Not much of a joker? You can also compliment the couple or express your feelings and tell them how proud you are.
Welcome
After the introduction, it is time to welcome the guests. Maybe you want to thank a guest in particular such as your wife or the parents of your son-in-law. Tell them how much it means to you that they are part of this wedding. This part of the speech is a good opportunity to thank your daughter and son-in-law for making it to the wedding (little joke #1).
Your daughter
Now you’ve welcomed all the guests and introduced yourself, it is time to share something about your wonderful daughter. What kind of person is she? How about her years as a little girl? This is the right moment to look back at her youth and the past few years. Mention what she means to you and express your hopes for the future.
Your son-in-law
After the story about your daughter it is time to share something about the moment you met your son-in-law. Maybe it has been a long time ago, maybe it is a short time ago. Make clear what he means to you and your daughter. Explain in the speech what you appreciate about your son-in-law.
Wisdoms
As father of the bride you may share some wisdom with the newlywed couple. Are you married yourself? Tell them the secrets of a good marriage. You can also share other wisdoms such as things that your parents have taught you or things that you wish you had known before. Be careful you do not turn it into a lecture. Keep it light-hearted.
The toast
Now you have reached the end of the speech. Cheers to the wedding couple and tell them again you wish them the best. Ask the guests to raise their glass at the bride and groom.
Make it fun
Besides the order of the speech it is also important to make it a fun moment. Not everyone is a natural talent when it comes to humor. Yet you can make everyone in the room smile with these tips.
Keep your emotions under control
The wedding day of your daughter brings up many emotions. Maybe you are afraid that you will lose her. Try to stay happy and keep your emotions under control. When you shed a tear in front of the guests, it becomes difficult to make them laugh. Practice the speech regularly to avoid this.
Timing
Timing is the key when making jokes. Make jokes at unexpected moments because nobody will see it coming. Besides that, try to speak clearly and loudly. You do not want to risk that nobody hears your jokes.
Not too much
Do not push it. Jokes are common in a father of the bride speech, but they should be measured. With too many jokes you run the risk that the real message disappears and makes it seem you are uncomfortable with expressing your true feelings. Also beware of insulting jokes: it could be taken in a bad way by some people.