Tips On The Best Man’s Toast
By: Jennie Crawford
There aren’t many acts of friendship that mean as much as asking someone to be your best man. Asking a friend to stand up for you and next to you on one of the most important days of your life is a very important decision. Many people have several friends they consider to be their “best friend” so for them it is an agonizing decision. Others only have one person they would ever consider asking to stand by them on such an important day. Some pick a family member, others do not.
I do think that something that goes through every groom-to-be’s mind as he is picking out his best man is thoughts of the traditional best man speech or toast. How will they person I choose manage it? Will they speak kindly? Will they crack jokes? Will they be inappropriate? Although a person’s public speaking ability should not be the deciding factor in the choosing of a best man, it is almost always taken into account. I know many people who dread being asked to be a friends best man for that reason alone. Coming up with a speech to give in front of all the people attending the wedding is just too overwhelming for them.
There are some things you should take into consideration when planning your toast. First of all, plan your speech out ahead of time. Don’t think that you will be able to come up with something on the spot! It is too difficult or most of us to convey what we wish without putting thought into it first. And remember, you will be on the wedding video!!
Secondly, jokes are okay, as long as they are in good taste. No dirty jokes and don’t talk about the time you caught your best friend throwing up after the fraternity party. Don’t embarrass the bride or groom. NOTHING sexual in nature. Again, this will be on everyone’s wedding video for years to come!
Telling stories from earlier years or from when the couple met are fine. If you can find a way to give the wedding guests some inspiration, that’s perfect. Lastly, just try to think of what you would want said at your wedding..Keep it tasteful. Funny is good as long as it is not at the bride and groom’s expense. Most of all, speak from your heart, or at least try to.
Jennie Crawford is the stay at home mom of two small children. For more information, go to http://www.jenniecrawford.com/weddingspeeches.