Traditionally, brides do not give speeches. Her groom speaks on her behalf, when he delivers his speech. However, that a bride cannot give a speech is not set in stone. When a bride does decide to give a speech, she usually delivers hers last,the final speech and thanksgiving for the night. As the bride, here’s an outline of what you can include in your speech:
- Begin your speech by acknowledging the speaker who came before you. It may be your maid of honor or your husband’s parents.
- Thank your guests for being present during the ceremony and reception as well as for the care they took in choosing their gifts to you. If there are long-lost friends or relatives present, thank them.
- Thank and acknowledge your maid of honor, bridesmaids and flower girl. Share how they helped you have a perfect wedding.
- Thank your parents. This is the perfect time to tell them how much you love them and appreciate everything they’ve done for you. Regard your wedding speech as an opportunity to reassure your parents you’ll always be their daughter.
- Next, thank your new parents, your groom’s parents. Thank them for welcoming you into their family and don’t hesitate to express how happy you are to be part of their family. This is also the perfect time to reassure them that you’ll take care of their son.
- Lastly, thank your husband. Let everyone present know how happy you are to be his wife. Don’t worry if you end up crying by the time you end your speech. Your family, guests and husband will understand any outpouring of emotions you will have!
Copyright 2005, Andrea R Britt. All rights reserved.
