KEEP IT SNAPPY The evolution of wedding speeches Wedding traditions are evolving, but some are proving surprisingly resilient. Wedding speeches remain one of the few traditions couples are sticking with – along with the first dance – but they’re shaking them up in a big way. Once upon a time, wedding speeches were predictable, stiff, and about as original as a ‘Live, Laugh, Love’ sign. But times are changing, and modern couples are rewriting the rules. Out go the stale one-liners and cringey clichés, in come speeches that are fresh, funny, and genuinely meaningful. To find out how wedding speeches are evolving (and how to make sure yours doesn’t send guests running for the bar), Heidi EllertMcDermott, founder of Speechy and author of The Modern Couple’s Guide to Wedding Speeches, shares her insights and advice... “Wedding speeches used to be a dull box to tick. Now they’re a highlight of the day – when done right! The secret? Ditch the Google gags and make it personal.” – Heidi WHAT’S CHANGED? Gone are the days when the groom, best man, and father-of-the-bride were the only ones with a microphone: •30% of brides now give speeches, proving once and for all that women are just as capable of cracking wedding jokes as they are at remembering to pack the honeymoon essentials. •20% of couples are opting for non-traditional speakers or delivering joint speeches. •We’re also seeing mothers-of-the-bride, maids-of-honour, and even grannies stepping up. Trust us, if grandma has a story, you want to hear it. •26% of couples getting married already have children, it’s no surprise more youngsters are being invited to share their marriage advice on the mic too! THE DEATH OF COPY-PASTE CLICHÉS If you were considering starting your speech with, ’I had a great speech prepared, but my partner gave me this one instead’ – step away from the script! Wedding guests have sat through enough of these bad gags to write them themselves. The best speeches are bursting with real-life anecdotes, not regurgitated jokes from a 2006 wedding forum. SPEECHES ARE GETTING MORE ENTERTAINING Gone: Rambling monologues that feel longer than the marriage itself. In: Tight, punchy, well-structured speeches that actually keep guests engaged. Think of it like a great TED Talk – the best speeches have rhythm, energy, and personality. And ideally, no PowerPoint slides. Those days are gone. AI IS MAKING AN APPEARANCE (BUT DON’T PANIC YET) •10% of couples now use AI to help with their first draft – because sometimes, inspiration is harder to find than a wedding venue. •9% use AI to assist with vows – but let’s be honest, ChatGPT isn’t going to remember that time your partner got stuck in a onesie for three hours. AI is great for sparking ideas, but real speeches need heart, humour, and those weird little 82
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