Relax - Remember that everyone who's listening to your Father of the Bride speech are out for a great day, and they want things to work for you. They don't care if you're nervous, or you fluff your lines - these things happen so just laugh it off! The main centre of attention on the wedding day is the bride and groom, and during speeches the Best Man – it’s not you! So smile, relax, and enjoy the occasion.
Try and learn your speech - You won’t be expected to know your speech word for word, but if you read it over and over again in the time leading up to the wedding, you’ll become far more familiar with it. Then, when you’re reading it in public, you will feel far more relaxed. You will know what you’re saying, what you are about to say, and will feel a lot more confident of looking up occasionally and talking to your audience. Don’t be afraid to recite it word for word either, and feel free to explain things in your own words. The important thing is that the main idea of the speech remains the same.
Take your time with the speech - If it sounds to you that you're speaking too slow, then congratulations - that's just the right pace. The slower and clearer you deliver your speech, the better received it will be. It’s a medical fact that when you talk, you here yourself more clearly than other people do. So… slow down, and speak loudly and clearly!
Don't be afraid to pause - If you make a joke and people laugh, pause and let them enjoy the joke, before moving on. In the same way, if you say something you want the audience to take in and appreciate, again pause after saying it before moving on. The very best public speakers pause many times when they’re making speeches, and we’d bet a lot of money that they’ve rehearsed those pauses!
Watch your drink - Have one or two drinks to calm the nerves before your Father of the Bride speech, but no more. Have any more than that, and there’s a very high chance that you'll start to forget what's in the speech and how to deliver it. After you’ve finished, you’ll have all night to enjoy your favourite tipple. Remember this point!!!
Talk clearly - As we mentioned earlier, it’s important to talk clearly and make sure that you're loud enough for everyone to hear. You don't need to shout, but talk just above the level you would normally. If you're offered a microphone, please do take it. Your lines will sound best delivered loud and clear.
Smile, be confident - Everything will be fine on the big day, and you’ll enjoy every minute of it, so there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be confident! During your speech, use your hands to explain things if it helps. This will make you feel more relaxed, and more comfortable with talking. Just imagine that you're explaining something to a bunch of your friends, because on the day, that's just what your audience will be.
Have fun! - Remember, this is your moment to be a very proud Father of the Bride - and have a wonderful day. With a great Father of the Bride wedding speech, and a relaxed clear delivery, you will have a great time – so look forward to it!
