relaxed conversation, just with a bit of polish,” explains Gemma. TOO MANY INSIDE JOKES Everyone loves a good laugh, but if your speech is packed with inside jokes only a handful of people will understand, you risk losing the majority of your audience. “Wedding speeches are for everyone at the table, so sprinkle in humour that all guests can enjoy. You can always save the really personal jokes for later on in private chats,” says Gemma. OVERLOADING YOUR SPEECH WITH STORIES In the same vein, making your speech too personal may lose the room if they can’t resonate with anything you’re saying. Gemma adds, “While it’s tempting to share every funny or memorable moment you have with your partner, a speech is not the place for your entire life story. Pick two or three standout stories that highlight your journey or the qualities you love most about your partner. Too many stories can make the speech drag and lose impact. Quality over quantity is the way to go.” NOT KNOWING YOUR ROLE AND YOUR CROWD “Before writing your speech, think about your relationship with the couple. Whether you’re a sibling, best friend or proud parent, your connection will shape the tone of your words. And don’t forget the audience! Weddings bring together people of all ages, so aim to make your speech inclusive, engaging, and enjoyable for everyone in the room,” adds Gemma. Chris shares his slip up, explaining, “I accidentally swore too, and most of the people there were very religious. The adults looked like they were trying hard to look disapproving, while everyone under 20 was trying to stifle a chuckle. I didn’t even realise I’d said anything bad until my wife commented immediately after I sat down.” TELL YOUR STORY, YOUR WAY AI can be great for formatting and organising your thoughts, but Thortful stresses that stories should come from the heart. “This is where your personal memories come to life. Think about moments that show the couple’s character or your bond with them, whether it’s touching, funny or revealing. I’d recommend using a structure with a beginning, middle and end so your story flows naturally.” INTRODUCE YOURSELF BRIEFLY AND WARMLY Don’t assume everyone knows who you are. An expert from Thortful recommends, “Set the scene with a short introduction about who you are and how you know the couple. It adds context and immediately personalises your speech. Keep it simple, as the goal is to help guests understand your place in the couple’s life.” OPEN WITH A HOOK You should grab the attention of guests immediately to get them hooked in, according to thortful. “The start of your speech matters. Use a thoughtful question, a funny anecdote, or a heartfelt observation to draw people in. A well-placed line like, ‘Has anyone not cried yet today?’ or ‘I knew they were meant to be when…’ sets the tone beautifully.” SHINE A LIGHT ON THEIR LOVE STORY Try not to make it too much about you and instead about the relationship you have with the couple. The Thortful team add, “Share your unique perspective on their relationship. Maybe it’s the first time you met their partner or the moment you realised they were perfect for each other. Make it heartfelt, honest, and true to who they are as a couple.” END WITH A HEARTFELT TOAST “No speech is complete without a toast. It’s always best to summarise your message, raise your glass, and invite everyone to join in a final cheer. Whether it’s traditional or playful, it’s your moment to celebrate love, laughter, and the future ahead.” MEET THE EXPERTS: Thortful, thortful.com | Rachael Meyer, rachaelmeyer.com WEDDING SPEECHES 99
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTA0NTE=