Writing the Best Man Speech

July 23, 2019

First things first, writing the best best man speech should be done in advance, so unless you have been writing for SNL for years, try not to fly by the seat of your pants with this one. You have been chosen for a reason, don’t disappoint and don’t embarrass yourself or the couple…too much. 

Begin with the thank you's and a genuine display of gratitude. A wedding doesn’t happen without a few helping hands and they should be acknowledged. Begin your speech by offering a cheers to the parents and the couple themselves. Then you can easily segue into a bit of the bad behavior a best man can be known for.

It is always best to share the love, don’t focus on how dorky the groom was in high school the entire time, you were probably there and just as goofy, remember? Be sure to get those laughs in but remember that they can be at your expense as well. A self-effacing best man is a beloved best man. Be inclusive of the couple, but try not to take any stinging digs at the bride or partner. Instead focus on how the groom has changed, for the better, because of their partner. In what ways have you seen them become a better person, grow as a human, and hasn’t that made you yourself believe in love again? If not, just say that it has because that is a lovely sentiment.

Be sure to write this epic speech down. Being prepared will put you at ease for when your big moment comes, and if you have had a tad too much champagne at this point, at least you have easy access to your jokes and tales. Variation is also a necessity in any solid speech, making sure you hit all of these keenly documented emotions will keep the crowd engaged and remembering your depth of character long after the last dance. Keeping the speech short, no more than five minutes, will help to keep it jam-packed as well. No time for overly-flowery language, just straight to the goods, giggles, and garage bands started in 7th grade.

It is always smart to run the speech by a few friends prior to the big day as well. A pre-audience can help to edit crass and graphic levels, keep it on the cleaner side, and ensure a well-deserved round of applause. Like the speech should be, this guidance is short and sweet. Make ‘em laugh, make ‘em feel the love the couple exudes, and if any quote is quoted, make it remarkable and poignant. 

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