If you're lucky you'll have the honor at least once in your life of being the best man in a wedding. This esteemed vocation comes with a variety of responsibilities, not least of which is the duty of giving a tribute toast during the reception.
But for some guys, especially those not adept at public speaking, the idea of a best man speech can be a terrifying prospect. Luckily you're not the first man who has had to give one of these, and with a little research you can easily learn from the wisdom of experience. To that point we decided to compile a simple tip sheet of ten items you should consider if you're a best man to be. And while our list isn't exhaustive it will certainly get you going in the right direction when you sit down to write your toast. Hope it helps.
1. Don't wing it
If you think that you're just going to step up to the microphone and magic is going to pour out of you in the moment, you are sadly mistaken. But if you did a google search and stumbled upon this article that's a good start. Make the effort to write out your speech and give yourself plenty of practice time in front of friends or a mirror. If you're really struggling to figure out what to say there are even sites out there which are dedicated solely to the art of giving a best man speech. Use them as well as Youtube and any other resources you can find to augment the speech writing process. As John Wooden used to say, failing to prepare is preparing to fail. Don't be that guy.
2. Be respectful
Contrary to what you might see in the movies, being a flaming jackass does not go over well at a wedding reception. The last thing you won't to do is steal the spotlight, especially in a negative way. Take time to consider not just how you will look, but how your speech might reflect on the bride, groom and everyone else who put in work to make the wedding happen.
3. Don't give a drunk speech
Yes, it's tempting to head straight for the open bar after you're done doing the post ceremony photo shoot and start pounding redbull and vodkas like they're going out of style. But if you want to give a great best man speech you need to be on your A-game. That means being (mostly) sober.
4. Know your audience
Generally playing it safe isn't a bad idea but if you do want to incorporate lots of jokes into your speech and create more of a roasting atmosphere, it can be acceptable in certain circles, but you need to consider your audience, the setting and the overall tone of the affair. Is this a twenty person gathering of old college friends in Vegas or a hundred person gala at a mega church in the South? Moreover, what's the personality of the bridge and groom? Will they appreciate a good roasting or simply be pissed at you for ruining their special day? Take these factors into account as you prepare to write your speech.
5. Thank all the right people
This is best man speech 101. It took a number of people to pull off this magical affair and making sure they get their due is always at the top of toast priorities. Thank the bride and groom, the parents, the officiant, the wedding party, and and anyone else who vaguely deserves your gratitude. In this way, a best man speech is sort of like winning an Academy Award. Just try not to ramble as much as the Oscar winners do.
Next: Five More Best Man Speech Tips
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